Dinogo’s Own Eloise Shares Insights on What Defines a Great Hotel

From 1984 to 1988, I was a real-life Eloise. My father was the managing director of the Plaza Hotel in New York City. Much like the character from Kay Thompson's beloved children’s book series, I lived there with my family. I soaked up the daily rhythms of life at this iconic hotel while notable figures like Yoko Ono, Barbara Walters, and Liberace strolled its halls. I often trailed behind my friend Louise, the housekeeper who looked after me, as she moved from room to room, teaching me how to tuck in bed corners while sharing stories of her homeland in Jamaica.

One memorable day, my mom, brother, and I shared an elevator ride with actor Anthony Perkins, known for his role in Psycho. When we reached his floor, my brother exclaimed, “Scat!” prompting a warm smile from Perkins, giggles from me, and a look of horror from my mom.

Putting childhood shenanigans aside, I witnessed guests tying the knot, celebrating birthdays, and engaging in gossip over tea at the Plaza. (The hotel also hosted extravagant parties. Long before my time, Truman Capote threw his renowned Black and White Ball in the Grand Ballroom in 1966.)

I learned early on that the finest hotels make guests feel at home—not by coincidence, but because the dedicated staff behind the scenes foster this atmosphere through exceptional service and a genuine love for their workplace. In more remote areas than Manhattan, a hotel can significantly enhance a traveler's experience by making a destination accessible.

For these reasons and many more, I am thrilled to present our 2023 Stay List, Dinogo’s annual roundup of the finest new hotels around the globe. This list highlights properties committed to being environmentally conscious by minimizing energy use, waste, and water consumption. Some entries promote cultural exchange between travelers and local residents, while others embrace biophilic design to enhance our connection with nature.

While I may no longer be Eloise, I still feel exhilarated by that unique sense of community that only a truly exceptional hotel can cultivate. I hope you experience that, too.