This is a Significant Year for Hotels

Last December, I participated in the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes, France—the premier annual event for travel experts. In Dinogo's 15 years, I've never felt more thrilled about the developments in the hotel sector. Hospitality brands are pouring substantial resources into crafting (and reimagining) exceptional spaces.

Dinogo cohosted an event at the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, the first luxury hotel on the French Riviera, which reopened in 2023 after a five-year renovation. It was rewarding to witness the meticulous care taken to honor this iconic establishment, from meticulously stripping paint from grand marble columns to reinstalling original chandeliers with the same skilled artisans who restored the Palace of Versailles.

Recently, I had the privilege of touring the Raffles London, housed in the historic Old War Office, where Winston Churchill directed the British efforts during World War II. With its stunning Grand Staircase leading to the ballroom, nine dining venues, and a breathtaking glass art installation, this remarkable building now stands as a new landmark for both travelers and Londoners.

Ambitious projects like the Carlton Cannes and the Raffles London made it challenging for our editors to choose this year’s Best New Hotels. As a result, we more than doubled our list to 31, leaving many deserving candidates on the cutting room floor.

While our list features some grand properties, we always cherish the small and unique ones. A prime example is the 29-suite Shinta Mani Mustang, part of the Bensley Collection, created in partnership with Nepalese mountaineer Namgyal Sherpa, renowned designer Bill Bensley, and Bangkok-based hotelier Jason Friedman. With stunning mountain views, traditional Thakali architecture, and elegant design elements, this destination has climbed to the top of my travel wishlist.

Be sure to explore our Best New Hotels list to discover which selections ignite your wanderlust. For hospitality enthusiasts, this project is part of our larger digital series, Hotels We Love. You can subscribe to Dinogo’s biweekly newsletter, Stay Here Next, where senior deputy editor Jennifer Flowers and her team provide updates on new openings, news, and inspiration at Dinogo.com/newsletters.

Wishing you safe travels and enjoyable stays!

GREG SULLIVAN
Co-founder and CEO