S3, E12: Behind the Curtain: Crafting Our Best New Hotels List

The finest hotels offer an experience of their own. This week on Unpacked, Dinogo’s senior deputy editor, Jennifer Flowers, shares the 31 standout properties on our 2024 Best New Hotels list, emphasizing why selecting the right hotel is crucial for your journey.

Transcript

I’m Aislyn Greene, and you’re listening to Unpacked, the podcast that explores a challenging travel topic each week. Today, we’re diving into the realm of hotels. I apologize for the pun! But that’s it for the hotel jokes. In today’s episode, I chat with Jennifer Flowers, our senior deputy editor at Dinogo and a true hotel enthusiast. She manages all our hotel content and, as you’ll soon discover, Jenn has an unexpected and fascinating background with hotels. It’s an amazing tale! Each year, she compiles our Best New Hotels list, showcasing hotels we've personally vetted. This year, we’ve identified 31 hotels notable for their stunning design, sustainability efforts, and rich histories, making them true destinations in their own right.

Aislyn: Hey, Jenn! How’s it going?

Jennifer Flowers, senior deputy editor: Hi, Aislyn! I’m doing well. How about you?

Aislyn: Great! Welcome back to Unpacked! Are you back home in the Pacific Northwest? Where are you currently located?

Jenn: Yes, I’m back in the Pacific Northwest, residing on Orcas Island, Washington, part of the beautiful San Juan Islands Archipelago. It’s truly my favorite place on Earth, and I feel fortunate to spend so much time here when I’m not in New York.

Aislyn: You’re living the dream! As our resident hotel expert, I adore your unique connection to hotels. Could you share your journey of how you grew up and what led you into the hotel industry?

Jenn: Absolutely! Hotels hold a special place in my heart. I entered the travel publishing realm fueled by wanderlust, like many of us do. Looking back, I can’t help but feel that this path was meant for me and that I was destined for this role.

My father was a hotelier, and I literally grew up in the hospitality industry. My first home was a hotel, the Manila in the Philippines, where my dad served as the general manager. He also managed the Plaza Hotel, a well-known establishment in New York City. This meant my childhood was spent straddling both Asia and the United States, following my dad’s career while living in hotels and experiencing luxury hospitality from both a guest’s and an insider’s perspective.

Many people joke that I was like a little Eloise from [Eloise at the] Plaza [book], and it’s true—I actually lived in the Plaza Hotel. Looking back, it was incredible! At eight years old, I had a sauna in my bathroom and didn’t appreciate it at all.

I often wonder why such an amazing feature was wasted on an eight-year-old! If I had that now, I would have used it constantly.

Aislyn: Perhaps one day you can return to live in the Plaza, and then you’ll truly take advantage of that sauna in your bathroom. A few years back, you wrote an article about growing up in hotels, mentioning that your mom had a rice cooker in your hotel room.

Jenn: Yes, I did write a lot about how to cultivate a sense of home in places that aren't really home, especially when you move every two to three years. My mom’s rice cooker was a key element for us; she never allowed us to order room service or indulge in hotel luxuries. That rice cooker symbolized our commitment to making dinner like a normal family, even when gourmet options were just an elevator ride away.

Aislyn: It’s truly impressive how she was able to maintain that sense of consistency for you and your siblings as you were growing up.

Jenn: Absolutely, it was quite remarkable.

Aislyn: As Dinogo’s hotel expert, you have a unique perspective. What is it that you love about hotels and this industry? What fuels your passion?

Jenn: Consider this—when you travel, think about the total amount of money you invest in your trip. Sure, there’s the airfare, which can vary greatly depending on when you book, but a significant portion of your budget goes towards your hotel stay.

And when you reflect on the influence that choice has on your travel experience and the local community, it’s substantial. The hotel you select shapes how you enjoy the destination and affects the people there as well. Think about the staff, local suppliers, and whether the hotel operates sustainably, as well as the atmosphere it fosters for both guests and locals.

For example, if you prioritize local ownership and sustainability, the way a hotel operates is a crucial factor in your decision. This makes it a significant aspect of A) your financial commitment, B) the experiences you’ll have during your trip, and C) the effect you’ll have on the destination.

Aislyn: I really appreciate how Dinogo emphasizes the impact of a hotel on the local community and how they engage with it during your stay.

Jenn: Absolutely, this is a vital consideration when we evaluate hotels for our Best New Hotels list.

Aislyn: Yes, and that's exactly what we're discussing today. How did you go about creating that list? How did local impact influence your decision-making process?

Jenn: Nowadays, there’s an abundance of hotel options available. It seems like a new luxury hotel opens every day. For travelers, especially those who choose Dinogo, we seek enriching experiences that also benefit the destinations we visit, contributing positively to the local communities.

We truly explore the globe for hotels that are genuine game changers in their respective locations. Take London, for instance, where hotel options are plentiful. We assess the existing offerings and evaluate what this new hotel adds to the scene, whether it’s enhancing experiences, adopting more sustainable practices, or improving hiring standards. We consider it all.

Our goal is to uncover the most remarkable experiences in destinations worldwide. For example, if you’re traveling to Nepal, we want your hotel to introduce you to a new aspect of the country. Similarly, when you’re in New York, we aim for that hotel to reveal something fresh about the city that you hadn’t encountered before.

We specifically seek out that unique experiential quality. All these factors contribute to the carefully curated list we create. We meticulously narrow it down to a select few hotels, which we hope will inspire travelers to visit those destinations. We believe these hotels are compelling reasons to explore those locations.

Aislyn: I love the notion that a hotel can serve as a key to unlocking a destination, magnifying its impact. There are 31 hotels on this year’s list, which is double the amount from last year. What drove that increase?

Jenn: While this list has expanded, it’s still relatively compact. Many publications offer lists of up to 100 hotels. We opted for 31 this year—twice the previous count—but it remains a small selection in the larger context.

We keep the list intentionally small to accurately identify the hotels that are true game changers in their locales, setting new benchmarks for excellence. With 31 hotels, we can showcase a diverse range of luxury experiences, from a tented camp in Africa to a beautifully restored war office building in London, where Winston Churchill once made crucial wartime decisions.

Aislyn: That’s incredible! One thing I admire about Dinogo is our commitment to vetting these places in person. We have people on-site who can convey why each location is significant. I believe you’ve visited several of these hotels—could you share which ones you experienced?

Jenn: Of course! A few of them stand out—Aislyn, you know how much I adore Africa; I mention it all the time! Last year, I had the opportunity to take a hard-hat tour of Loapi [Tented Camp] in South Africa, situated in the Kalahari Desert.

Aislyn: Oh my gosh!

Jenn: It’s truly breathtaking! The landscape is stunning and has been rewilded, transforming former farmland into a private reserve. Here, you can see rhinos, lions, and even pangolins—it's actually one of the best spots to see pangolins in their natural habitat.

Aislyn: That sounds incredible!

Jenn: It truly is! They currently offer just two types of accommodations, but they’re adding a third, very exclusive option that comes with your own vehicle. This way, you can enjoy a family-friendly getaway or a group-focused experience. The environmental impact is minimal; while you're there, you’ll hardly encounter any other vehicles, maybe just one from a different lodge. It feels like your own private retreat.

The conservation efforts in that area are remarkable. I absolutely love hard-hat tours—I always visit these hotels before they officially open.

Aislyn: Really?

Jenn: Yes! When I see a hotel in its early stages, I feel a sense of ownership in its success. I think, “Oh, I remember when you didn’t even have bathtubs in the rooms!” It’s the backstory that really excites me about a place. It also highlights the immense effort that goes into these projects. Building a hotel is a lengthy, costly endeavor with no quick return on investment. An owner must be fully committed to the values that the hotel embodies. It’s a fascinating behind-the-scenes journey.

I also had the pleasure of staying at the Carlton Cannes in France, the very place where the Cannes Film Festival takes place. The Carlton is an iconic hotel, boasting a stunningly ornate exterior. Many celebrities have graced its halls, and it has undergone an astonishing transformation. It perfectly blends historical charm with modern luxury, making you feel both connected to the past and pampered in the present.

One small change in a room layout can make all the difference. The Carlton Cannes features breathtaking views of the sea from its wrought iron balconies. They’ve added a chaise lounge positioned right in front of that view, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the experience. I loved witnessing that firsthand—it truly is the perfect way to enjoy Cannes.

Aislyn: While I haven’t stayed at any of these hotels, there are a few that I’m currently obsessed with. One example is Kona Village on the Island of Hawai‘i. They have an amazing sustainability story, which I know resonates with you as well as me. It beautifully intertwines cultural and environmental elements.

Jenn: I’ll actually be checking into Kona Village, a Rosewood resort, in early April, so I’ll gain firsthand insights! A reviewer recently visited and fell in love with it. This place has been on my radar for quite some time. My mother is from Hawai‘i, and she knows this hotel well—it’s been an icon since the 1960s; everyone recognizes Kona Village.

It’s set against a backdrop of swaying palms right by the stunning blue waters of the bay—it’s simply magical. There are even ancient petroglyph fields nearby. Tragically, the resort was devastated by a tsunami in 2011. The loss was profound, but Rosewood Hotels stepped in to reimagine and renovate the property, bringing it back to life.

What I love about their approach is how they engaged a cultural community made up of local Hawai‘i Island residents and respected elders. These individuals were integral in shaping the hospitality experience and defining how the hotel interacts with its surroundings. It was truly remarkable to see Rosewood commit to creating an experience that resonates positively with both locals and visitors, rather than just slapping on some new features.

Much of this commitment will be evident in the guest experiences. There are numerous preservation-focused organizations involved that will allow guests to visit monk seal rehabilitation centers and gain a deeper understanding of the landscape, history, and culture. This collaboration emphasizes co-authorship, which is vital in areas rich in Indigenous heritage and storytelling. It’s clear that Kona Village aims to ensure Native Hawaiians are the ones sharing these important narratives, which is fantastic. I’m excited to witness it firsthand.

Aislyn: I’m also curious if you’re noticing a growing trend of hotels engaging in these discussions and involving local communities, particularly marginalized or Indigenous groups. Is that becoming more common?

Jenn: Absolutely. For a hotel to resonate with a Dinogo audience, it must demonstrate engagement with the local communities or cultures in its area. Kona Village is a prime example of this. Many of our readers care deeply about where their money goes and what it supports, so local involvement is essential nowadays.

Aislyn: It’s encouraging to see that hotels are moving away from imposing their vision and instead fostering a dialogue. Speaking of which, you mentioned Nepal earlier, and I’m really captivated by the new Shinta Mani Mustang. What makes it so special?

Jenn: There’s so much to say about this hotel! The mastermind behind it is Bill Bensley, a designer and architect based in Bangkok. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him a few times—he’s quite the colorful character. He’s a prolific hotel designer and has created some of my favorite hotels worldwide.

For example, there's the Siam in Bangkok and Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia, which has an incredible backstory. Bill and a business partner once pretended to be loggers at a logging auction for forest land in Cambodia, and they ended up transforming a 500-acre plot that was slated for logging into a conservation area with a tented camp.

This tented camp in Cambodia allows wildlife to roam freely, and numerous conservation initiatives are in place. They even brought in a general manager from South Africa to ensure a strong conservation ethos. Bill is also opening a place in the Republic of Congo next year. He’s incredibly attuned to conservation, culture, and the preservation of land and biodiversity. I admire everything he does; his designs are both sustainable and enchanting. When I learned he was opening a location in Mustang, Nepal—a less-visited area with limited luxury options—I was captivated and eager to find out more. A few writers have visited, and our reviewer raved about it. The hotel sits at 9,200 feet on a rocky mountainside, with suites that feature stunning Himalayan-inspired interiors and architecture.

Everything about this place reflects Bill Bensley’s vision, focusing on responsible and sustainable practices, along with strong ties to local communities, which I absolutely appreciate. It’s set to introduce a new level of luxury to an area that hasn’t seen much foot traffic yet, potentially attracting a fresh audience.

Aislyn: That sounds amazing! Is this on your list for a personal visit?

Jenn: Oh my gosh, the moment I can get to Nepal, that will be my first destination. I’m so eager to experience the region through the eyes of Bill Bensley and all the local partners he’s engaged.

Aislyn: I have tremendous respect for anyone who can go in posing as a logger and then turn it into a conservation project. You definitely want to follow someone like that.

Jenn: Exactly! When I heard that, I thought, “You’ve got my support, Bill Bensley, any time you open a hotel . . .” And keep an eye on that Republic of Congo project; it’s set to be a major game changer for the area.

Aislyn: I was really impressed with the restoration of the Raffles London at the OWO. Is this one of the most historic places on the list? It certainly seemed that way to me.

Jenn: Absolutely! I’m thrilled about it. Last year, I had the chance to take a hard-hat tour of the hotel before it opened, and it lasted three hours.

Aislyn: Is that considered unusual?

Jenn: Yes, it is quite unusual. Typically, during a hard-hat tour, you just glimpse a few rooms and check out the dining areas and spa, but this building is steeped in history. It’s enormous! The OWO stands for Old War Office, where Winston Churchill held court and Lawrence of Arabia was employed. MI5 and MI6 both originated here, and the building has appeared in five James Bond films, which is wild. It boasts 120 guest rooms and residences as well. The owners, the Hinduja family, are among the wealthiest in the U.K., and their vision for this hotel was to create a lasting legacy in London. I can’t think of a better legacy than this incredible location, so close to the Horse Guards and Buckingham Palace.

The craftsmanship of the building is remarkable. You’ll find ornate stone banisters and beautifully carved wooden interiors. I remember stepping into what I thought was a suite closet, only to be told it was just a closet, and it was the size of two of my New York apartments! This place is truly special, not only for its opulence but also for its rich history.

You can easily see why it feels like a movie set. Winston Churchill made significant wartime decisions within its walls, and you feel connected to the Buckingham Palace narrative since it’s so close. The restoration took several years and was executed with great care. Raffles, the luxury hotel group, is managing it and doing a fantastic job.

Our own Anya von Bremzen visited and was utterly charmed. She adored the hotel and everything they accomplished. They also have a restaurant by Mauro Colagreco, which is a major highlight. Anya believes it will transform Whitehall, which she describes as sleepy at night, into a vibrant dining and drinking destination.

Aislyn: Can I just book the closet? It sounds like you might not even need a full room. Is it possible to stay in the closet instead?

Jenn: That sounds perfect. Exactly! "The closet will do just fine."

Aislyn: "Sure, whatever works. I’ll take anything." Have they designated any areas of the hotel for preservation that feel almost like a museum?

Jenn: The concept is to immerse guests in the historic elements of the hotel. That’s what’s so fantastic about truly historic hotels; you become a living part of history. Hotels that restore their heritage effectively allow guests access to these rooms, letting them experience the original spaces—like staying next to an authentic fireplace. It’s less about the museum atmosphere and more about feeling like you have a unique, personal connection to the space, which is something the OWO excels at.

Aislyn: Expanding the conversation to other travel interests, what would you suggest from the list for those passionate about design or architecture, aside from the OWO?

Jenn: This is such a delightful topic! One designer that springs to mind is Martin Brudnizki, a Swedish guru of interior design who is making waves in the hotel industry. He has worked on some truly remarkable projects that have made a significant impression. Notably, the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York, which embodies the Gilded Age glamour of the city, and Le Grand Mazarin in Paris.

Both of these hotels are characterized by vibrant colors and a trend toward maximalism, which is becoming quite prominent in the hotel scene. The era of muted beige spaces is fading; while they still exist, there’s a clear shift towards a sophisticated maximalism that embraces bold colors and intricate patterns. This is also evident in the newly opened Warren Street Hotel in New York, another venue to watch in the coming year. Martin Brudnizki perfectly exemplifies this trend, making both Le Grand Mazarin and the Fifth Avenue Hotel must-visit spots on our list.

Another hotel that offers a unique perspective on design is Violino d’Oro in Venice. This family-run Italian establishment aims to highlight local craftsmanship. Everything from the Rubelli fabrics to the meticulously laid Venetian seminato terrazzo flooring and the stunning Venini chandeliers is sourced locally. Each element you encounter in the hotel tells a story, and you may find yourself wanting to take home some tiles or Murano glass chandeliers. The owners are very knowledgeable about sourcing these treasures, making Violino d’Oro an ideal destination for those looking to renovate their homes—be sure to visit their ateliers!

Aislyn: You might want to pack an extra suitcase or plan to ship items back home. Enjoy your stay and redecorate your space! These sound like fantastic destinations for design enthusiasts. What about those seeking outdoor adventures or a deeper connection with nature?

Jenn: We just discussed Shinta Mani Mustang, which provides an incredible opportunity to explore the Nepalese Himalayas. Mustang, a Himalayan kingdom, only opened to Western visitors in 1992. You can enjoy day trips to ancient mud villages, explore Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and hike to glacier lakes, complete with picnic lunches accompanied by the distant sound of avalanches, as one of our writers beautifully put it. It offers a luxurious experience right next to nature.

In the United States, there's Ulum Moab, a luxurious offshoot of Under Canvas. If you're familiar with Under Canvas, you know they specialize in glamorous camping experiences. Ulum in Moab, Utah, elevates this concept to the next level, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning rust-colored landscapes while enjoying amenities like a king-size bed, a bathroom with a rain shower, and cozy seating areas featuring West Elm slingback chairs. It’s a truly opulent experience, designed with sustainability in mind, all while being surrounded by nature.

Then there's Loapi in South Africa, a remarkable conservation project where you can see endangered rhinos, lions, and nocturnal pangolins. You also have the opportunity to engage with researchers who unveil the hidden stories of nature. During my visit to Loapi, I met a passionate PhD candidate studying puff adders, a highly venomous snake. She tags these snakes with tracking devices and can locate one for you! Typically, I try to steer clear of snakes in the African bush, but she insisted, saying, "No, no, no, I’ll take you to one." I was intrigued!

Aislyn: Do I really want that?

Jenn: So, Aislyn, is that too close to nature for you? It was for me at times, but I appreciate the access to those who can tell such compelling stories about the wildlife.

Aislyn: That sounds amazing! I might just be persuaded by her enthusiasm and think, "I should see a puff adder since I’m here; who knows when I’ll get another chance? And you can keep me safe if it gets wild!"

Jenn: Right? Exactly! It helps us feel a bit more compassion for our slithery friends—our danger noodle companions, so to speak.

Aislyn: [laughs] Danger noodle companions! That certainly softens the edge of the danger noodles. How delightful! Now, what do you think about the wellness trend? It seems to be gaining popularity, and if I were to pursue it, I’d definitely want to visit the Six Senses in India because that sounds absolutely amazing. Is that one of your recommendations?

Jenn: You’re absolutely right about the wellness movement. Six Senses Vana is a prime example of this trend. Interestingly, in the hospitality sector, we’re seeing destination spas emerging as the main attraction, with the hotel experience being secondary. You go there for the wellness journey, not just a hotel room and a spa treatment. Six Senses Vana perfectly embodies this shift.

This place started as a passion project by an owner dedicated to creating a wellness experience that goes beyond just Ayurveda, incorporating global well-being practices like Chinese medicine. After running it for a few years, he teamed up with Six Senses, a brand known for luxury and deeper wellness experiences at resorts. The great thing is, you don’t have to give up everything; you can still enjoy a glass of wine while detoxing. The collaboration blends Six Senses' philosophy with the original owner's exceptional vision.

It truly invites those curious about what well-being means to explore it. There are some elements that feel more like a destination spa than a hotel. For instance, cell phones are prohibited in communal areas, and guests don white pajamas provided by the property. It definitely creates an atmosphere of intention. However, the Six Senses ethos also encourages enjoying the beautiful surroundings in the scenic foothills of the Himalayas. I think this concept is brilliant, and we can expect to see more of it in the future.

Aislyn: You mention that hotels can be destinations in their own right, and I’m curious about why you believe that to be the case. What makes it true for you?

Jenn: We often perceive hotels as spaces for outsiders, but the finest hotels are actually the ultimate insiders. They tell the stories of their surroundings and the people within them. For instance, at Violino d’Oro in Venice, you’re enveloped in the craftsmanship of local artisans. Meanwhile, staying at the Riad Rosemary in Marrakech lets you fully immerse yourself in the beautiful riad culture right in the heart of the Medina.

I truly believe that checking into a hotel can turn it into a destination. Consider the hotel's location—can you even access that area without it? A remarkable example from our list is Southern Ocean Lodge, which was devastated by wildfires in Australia a few years back.

After undergoing a meticulous renovation, they’ve reopened with a stronger focus on sustainability and remarkable ways for guests to engage with their stunning landscapes. It’s one of the few high-end accommodations available on Kangaroo Island in Australia. This place is genuinely unique, complete with wild kangaroos and breathtaking views. It’s definitely at the top of my travel list!

Aislyn: So I’m wondering, you must be traveling constantly because how could you resist visiting every single one of these amazing spots?

Jenn: Yes, I’m often traveling, and it’s definitely a balancing act. Fortunately, we can work from just about anywhere. One of my favorite things to do is check into a hotel and fully embrace the hospitality there. Like many of us, I often spend a few hours working from a hotel while WFH.

Aislyn: I really want to work from hotels more often.

Jenn: We definitely should!

Aislyn: Absolutely. Looking ahead, what hotel openings can we anticipate in 2024? You mentioned a few—are there any that particularly excite you right now?

Jenn: Oh my goodness! I just published an article featuring my spring picks, but the list was so extensive that I had to narrow it down to 10, which was quite a challenge. A couple of highlights include a fantastic new Mandarin Oriental opening in Mayfair, London, which I’m really looking forward to. It’s a smaller, more intimate hotel, and I adore that concept.

Also in London, there's the Emory hotel, part of the renowned Maybourne Group, which boasts some of the city's most prestigious properties, including Claridges, Berkeley, and Connaught. Their collection is well-respected, historic, and admired, and I’m eagerly anticipating the Emory's opening. It’s expected to connect via a skybridge to the Berkeley Hotel, a familiar name for many London visitors, and it promises to cater to those seeking a more discreet, off-the-beaten-path experience. I can hardly wait!

There’s also a new Soneva Secret launching in the Maldives. Founded by the visionary Sonu Shivdasani, Soneva is dedicated to well-being and sustainability. With existing properties in the Maldives, this hotel aims to be a bit more secluded, family-friendly, and a place to truly immerse yourself in nature.

Aislyn: It seems like 2025 will be just as tough when it comes to narrowing down this list and choosing the finest new hotels.

Jenn: Aislyn, I think about hotels every day. I promise you, this list constantly occupies my mind, and I often lose sleep over the stories I haven’t been able to share. It’s definitely a labor of love, and we dedicate a lot of time and passion to it. We’re all hotel enthusiasts here at Dinogo!

Aislyn: Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm and insights with us. I truly appreciate it.

Jenn: Thanks, Aislyn! It's always a delight to chat with you.

Aislyn: Do you have a new hotel that you’re eager to visit? I definitely have a few in mind. I’ll include the complete list on Dinogo.com in the show notes. And for those who prefer a tactile experience, you can find the full list in Dinogo’s hospitality issue, which hits newsstands today, April 4th. To follow Jenn’s adventures as she explores the hotels we just discussed, check her out on Instagram @jenniferleeflowers. I’ll link all her social media in the show notes. See you next week!

Ready for more insights? Head over to Dinogo.com and make sure to follow us on Instagram and X at @Dinogomedia. If you enjoyed today’s journey, I hope you’ll return for more captivating stories. Subscribing makes it easy! Please rate and review the show on your favorite podcast platforms; it helps fellow travelers discover us. If you have any questions or suggestions for topics we should cover, feel free to reach out at Dinogo.com/feedback or email us at unpacked@Dinogo.com.

This has been Unpacked, a production of Dinogo Media. The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with music composed by Chris Colin. And remember: The world can be complex, but we’re here to help you navigate it.