The 25 Best New Places To Stay In 2025, According To A Travel Advisor

You probably have a pretty good idea of where you want to visit in 2025. But where will you stay?

Embark Beyond, a luxury travel advisor, asked its experts to recommend the hottest new hotels and resorts for 2025.

“With all the incredible luxury hotels opening, 2025 will be the most exciting year in the luxury travel space since the pandemic,” says Jack Ezon, managing partner of Embark Beyond. “It’s clear that the appetite for unusual places with great personalities resonates across the globe as illustrated by the style and locale of the hotels about to swing open their doors.”

The expert tips range from a resort in the Scottish Highlands to a hotel run by a cruise line in Chile. But they all have one thing in common: They focus on uncompromising luxury, according to Embark’s travel experts.

Airelles Venezia (Venice, Italy)

One of the hottest hotel brands of the decade is the Airelles group. It has taken over the former Baur Palladio and Villa F, adjacent to Belmond Cipriani, creating a new Venetian palace. It will feature spectacular views over the Giudecca canal and will have gardens and multi-unit “villas” plus a luxe spa. The 45 rooms are spread out between the original Palladio, the Villa F, and the adjacent Convento, which is surrounded by a sprawling garden. There will also be a three-bedroom stand-alone villa overlooking the Piazza San Marco.

Why it’s so special: Valentina O’Kane, a luxury travel advisor of Embark Beyond, says this will be the first venture outside France for the uber-luxe Airelles hotel company, which is partially owned by LVMH. “The new property also features urban resort amenities such as an expansive spa and an outdoor swimming pool,” she says.

NIHI Rote (West Timor, Indonesia)

NIHI Sumba is opening a new sister property with 25 thatched-roof private pool villas on a secluded corner of Rote Island in West Timor. Set in front of Bo’a beach with world-class surfing waves year-round, it’s one of Indonesia’s most wild and undiscovered locations, offering off-grid experiences and the same adventurous spirit of NIHI Sumba.

Why it’s so special: According to McKenzie Nagle, an Embark Beyond luxury travel advisor, the hotel’s older sister, Nihi Sumba, has established a cult following, especially among the younger, affluent active set, including surfers. “Nihi Rote finally gives Nihi-junkies a new base camp to experience the wild, luxurious, natural vibe with an amazing new surf break rarely accessible to a luxury traveler,” she says.

Bab Samhan (Diriyah, Saudi Arabia)

The “City of Earth” that was once the capital of Saudi Arabia will emerge in 2025 with the first of three phases of this new cultural outpost in this burgeoning Middle Eastern country. The 106 guest rooms are set in what looks like an ancient village at the center of museums, high-fashion shops, and new expansive parks, all within a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Why it’s so special: Laura Worth, art and travel specialist at Embark Beyond, says Bab Shaman is a remarkable new hotel. “This unique cultural attraction fuses ancient and contemporary cultures in one place” she says. What’s most remarkable is the infrastructure underneath it. “Though it looks ancient, it is truly the city of the future. To keep the hotel clean and operating efficiently, a remarkable three-story city has been built underground for all through traffic, deliveries, garbage disposal, and transit.”

The Vineta Hotel (Palm Beach, Fla.)

Oetker Collection’s foray in the United States is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025 in the heart of Palm Beach, just two blocks off Worth Avenue in the former Chesterfield Hotel. The landmark is only three blocks from the beach and will have just 41 rooms. It will revive the famous Leopard Lounge and an “American Bar,” plus a new poolside restaurant inspired by the legendary French resort.

Why it’s so special: Shelby Albo, Embark Beyond fitness specialist and Palm Beach local, notes, “so many of our obsessive Hotel du Cap clients finally have an outpost in the USA for the winter. “

Aman Rosa Alpina (Dolomites, Italy)

This family-run Italian alpine classic reopens with a head-to-toe Aman-style redesign. The hotel will offer a more relaxed gastronomic experience, including informal alfresco fondues. The wellness space has been extended to nearly double the original size and reconfigured to incorporate an outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi.

Why it’s so special: “I’m especially excited to sell a mountain resort fusing sleek Aman style with the soul of a family-run Italian resort under the close eye of the Pizzinini family, who have owned the hotel for six generations,” says Amy Warren, an Embark Beyond ski specialist. “The Dolomites are one of the most stunning and varied destinations, with the ultimate winter sporting adventures and, come summer, the most spectacular base camp for hiking, biking, mountain climbing, rappelling and so much more.”

Waldorf Astoria (New York)

After an eight-year renovation, the Waldorf Astoria New York will be transformed from a 1,400-room hotel to just 375 rooms and suites, along with 375 private residences. The property will have some of New York City’s largest hotel accommodations, with an extensive 30,000 square-foot spa and cutting-edge fitness center. What won’t go away is the hotel’s storied lobby, with its iconic clock and magnificent ballroom.

Why it’s so special: “I am most excited about returning the iconic grandeur to NYC that only the Waldorf could,” says Embark Advisor Neda Heffron. “It will surely regain its place as a central hub for New York power brokers and celebrations. The recent renovation has breathed new life into this historic hotel, preserving its timeless charm.”

Red Sea Development (Saudi Arabia)

The Red Sea development of Saudi Arabia launched in 2024 with the first of 15 resorts over the course of three years, and up to 50 hotels by 2030. Surrounded by the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef system, spanning over 11,000 square miles, the Red Sea has more than 90 untouched islands, pristine beaches, dormant volcanoes, sweeping desert dunes, mountain canyons and historical cultural sites.

Why it’s so special: “This is going to be the new Maldives – only easier to reach and more preserved,” says Embark’s Lydia Alvita. “Every major luxury hotel will be here flaunting over-water villas and silky beaches, all built with sustainability in mind.”

The Trail Hotel (Bardstown, Ky.)

The Trail Hotel will be the world’s first bourbon-infused luxury hotel, located at the start of the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The restored, historic property will have 95 rooms, eight suites, an elegant restaurant, and three bars, including a speakeasy.

Why it’s so special: “The Trail finally opens up the famed Bourbon Trail to clients who didn’t want to compromise comfort to experience the Bourbon Capital of the World,” says Maddie Yastrow, Embark’s culinary expert. “Bourbon is so hot with our next-gen travelers, which is why I predict that the Bourbon Trail will become the new Napa.”

Masiya’s Camp (Royal Malewane, South Africa)

The first luxury tented camp in South Africa, Masiya’s Camp (named for the first recognized Master Tracker in Kruger) will be designed by the acclaimed Liz Biden, infusing her maximalist-classic colorful and eclectic style.

Why it’s so special: Embark Beyond luxury specialist Limor Decter explains that “there has never been a luxury tented option at the level you would get in Kenya or Botswana, which you don’t even need to take a small plane to reach.” What’s best is that guests get access to Royal Malewane’s award-winning guides and family-run atmosphere, she notes.

Rosewood Miyakojima (Okinawa, Japan)

Located on a small island off the coast of Okinawa, the new Rosewood will be the first luxury island beach resort in Japan, with just 55 private pool villas and unobstructed sea views.

Why it’s so special: “This is the perfect ending to an extensive exploration through Japan,” says Embark Beyond’s Dana Narens Lewis. “Guests will gain access to untouched aquatic life, diving through underwater caverns teeming with marine life; and outstanding deep-sea fishing.” Lewis says people are always asking to end their holiday on a beach, and there were never really many options that were logistically easy. “The Rosewood will be a game changer,” adds Lewis.

Morro Chico (Patagonia, Argentina)

This five-bedroom exploration lodge in Patagonia is built to expose guests to sustainable agriculture, and even allow them to obtain educational certifications like integrated forest and livestock management. With no more than 10 guests at a time, each can join the farming team for a night of local gaucho guitar music on the Gallie family’s 27,000-hectare estate, with its 8,500 merino sheep and 400 Hereford and Aberdeen Angus cattle.

Why it’s so special: According to Embark advisor Pamela Garza, it’s attractive to modern-day city slickers with a focus on sustainability. “Now more than ever, travelers are looking to have more one-of-a-kind experiences, and that’s exactly what Morro Chico offers.” She says during their stay, guests can spend time learning about food sourcing, energy and waste management, and even sheep management activities like herding or riding to visit the nearest flocks.

The Chancery Rosewood (London)

London’s hotel boom shows no signs of slowing down. Rosewood’s second location, on Grosvenor Square in the former American Embassy building, will feature 137 oversized rooms and suites, all designed by Sir David Chipperfield. It includes amenities like a signature spa, six flagship retail spaces, and extensive dining and entertainment spaces, plus a ballroom for up to 1,000.

Why it’s so special: Meghan Donovan, Embark’s UK specialist, says while London has no shortage of luxury hotels — and so many more to come — the Chancery will be the hottest new standout. “Not just because of its enviable location and large room size, but also because of the amazing style and food concepts that the hotel is attracting.”

Brenner’s Park (Baden-Baden, Germany)

This Oetker icon will reopen in spring 2025, following an 18-month renovation that went down to the beams. The resort will emerge as one of the most glamourous wellness and active resorts centering around Brenner’s hot springs, the Villa Stephanie clinical spa, and the Black Forest beyond.

Why it’s so special: Embark wellness specialist Daniel Potter is excited to see this iconic home of well-being emerge after a total transformation. “With climate change, places like the Black Forest are becoming more interesting, as are properties with a rich personality and history, especially for a younger generation of travelers.” Most modern-day spas are stoic and sterile, he adds. “Brenner’s brings a classical warmth with modern facilities that I think will be the perfect balance for young and seasoned alike.”

SIRO Boka Place (Porto Montenegro)

One&Only’s new sister brand will open in the second quarter of 2025, with a focus on active and wellness experiences. The intensive Fitness Lab centers around extensive boot camp workouts, biking and hiking trails in nearby Durmitor National Park, plus sailing courses along the bay.

Why it’s so special: Embark’s Victoria Lawrence sees fitness and active travel as a key driver for her clients. “SIRO Boka Place is the first active lifestyle hotel in the Mediterranean where fitness, wellness, and leisure seamlessly come together.” SIRO’s programming is “super exciting and will certainly be a huge draw for my clients.”

The Lake Estate on Winnisquam (Lake Winnisquam, N.H.)

Located in New Hampshire’s lakes region, The Lake Estate on Winnisquam will be a 114-room luxury resort inspired by New Hampshire’s grand hotels and modeled after a grand private estate of yesteryear. Situated on 36 acres with an extended private shoreline along Lake Winnisquam, the resort will also have access to a 5,000-square-foot luxury spa.

Why it’s so special: “This hotel will be a “home run,” especially for upscale families,” says family specialist Tamara Speid at Embark Beyond. “There are literally no luxury destination resorts of this size, with the amenities and experiences within easy reach of both New York and Boston.” Speid is also excited about the possibilities for multi-gen gatherings and destination weddings.

Casona, Roma (Mexico City)

Set in the residential, tree-lined Roma neighborhood, Casona is a 32-room Art Nouveau gem in a former mansion, with a strong focus on local art. Casona is located in Mexico City’s more trendy “SoHo-esque” neighborhood.

Why it’s so special: Embark Mexican specialist Malley Goodwin says she’s excited about the first luxury hotel opening in Mexico City’s coolest neighborhood. “This will be the place to be in Mexico City today.” With its intimate feel, curated aesthetics, and prime location near top restaurants and bars, “Casona exemplifies why boutique hotels are the go-to choice for travelers seeking an authentic and luxurious stay in Mexico City.”

Faena New York (New York)

Known for high-style and high drama, Faena brings its style to Manhattan’s Chelsea with art-infused design overlooking the High Line. Expect whimsical touches in all of the 120 rooms, a Tierra Santa Healing House spa, and buzzy nightlife scene as per usual in Chelsea.

Why it’s so special: According to Alice Meacham, an Embark luxury advisor, “Faena will reinvent the Chelsea Highline district.” Meacham says art is one of the biggest drivers in travel today. “Its proximity to some of the most legendary galleries and museums in the city, such as Hauser & Worth, Gagosian, David Zwirner, Dia Chelsea, and the Whitney, will establish it as a new creative hub in the contemporary art world.”

La Dolce Vita Orient Express (Italy)

Italy’s first luxury train, La Dolce Vita Orient Express, will launch its first journey in spring of 2025 with just 31 compartments, all with ensuite bathrooms. The new train journey provides eight exclusive round-trip “Made in Italy” itineraries departing from Rome, highlighting destinations like Venice, Matera, Tuscany, Piedmont, Portofino, Abruzzo, and Sicily.  On-board, guests will enjoy dishes created by three-Michelin-starred Chef Heinz Beck, who will oversee cuisine onboard the trains. 

Why it’s so special: Embark’s Marla Fowler predicts that the launch of La Dolce Vita will bring luxury train travel to the forefront of her younger affluent client base. “Its design will be younger and cooler than what exists today, while its itineraries, focusing on fabulous popular and remote areas of Italy, are the perfect combination for success.” Fowler is impressed with the intended itineraries that visit lesser-known areas in Italy such as Matera and Nizza Monferrato, where luxury accommodations are scarce.

Southbank Turks and Caicos (Turks and Caicos)

This new 31-acre development has 92 waterfront homes, ranging from one to seven bedrooms all with individual private butlers and services by acclaimed Grace Bay Club. Amenities include a swimmable lagoon, ideal for children, and a full marina.

Why it’s so special: Embark’s style specialist, Shinny Bickoff, already has a host of families booked here for 2025, noting that it is the best value in the Caribbean today. The villa layouts provide incredible space and are unique on the island in contrast to the apartment-style accommodations that are more prevalent at other luxury resorts. “The gorgeous lagoon in the middle of the property allows guests to enjoy water views from any villa category and provides a protected area for children to swim and play,” she adds.

Kotona Manor (Finland)

The 11-room resort is designed more like an African safari lodge. Each room is contained in its own private building incorporating local wood and lake-facing windows,nestled along the largest lake area in Europe with over 55,000 of the world’s cleanest lakes. In winter, guests can explore with snowshoes, husky rides, cross-country skis and kick sleds. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, foraging and a host of lake activities.

Why it’s so special: “This new Finnish resort is a game-changing luxury lodge for the Nordics,” predicts active specialist Josh Geller “Travel to Scandinavia has increased in popularity the past few years as travelers are increasingly looking for an escape from the crowds and the heat.”

Kilchoan Estate (Dunton, Scotland)

Dunton Hot Springs’ first international resort has just six villas, ranging from one to five bedrooms. It is situated along the western coast of the Scottish Highlands’ Knoydart Peninsula on a 13,000 acre estate. Dating back to the 12th century, when it was part of the Somerled kingdom, the estate can only be accessed by boat or on foot.

Why it’s so special: “The rugged and remote landscape is one of the area’s primary attractions,” says Embark outdoor specialist Deborah Gellis. She sees Scotland as being a popular destination for at least the next five years. “With its breathtaking landscapes and affordability — compared to Scandinavia or Switzerland — Kilchoan is set to elevate this already spectacular destination, bringing Dunton’s signature blend of privacy, exclusivity, and curated experiences to the Scotland Highlands.”

Chablé, Sea of Cortez (La Paz, Bolivia)

Chablé’s latest wellness resort will be designed as a series of futuristic luxury pods, spread out over nearly 700,000 square feet of desert for just 50 suites. Each of the suites will have its own garden, terrace space, and plunge pool.

Why it’s so special: Embark’s wellness expert Kayla Chance has seen the success of the Chablé wellness resort model on the east coast of Mexico and is most excited about its entry on the west coast, opening a huge market from California to Texas. “Chable will offer a refreshing alternative to the well-known destinations of Cabo and Cancún,” she says.

Casa J.K. (Rome)

J.K. Place’s second property in Rome will actually be the city’s first luxury apartment-style option with full hotel amenities. With just 24 oversized apartments – all with separate living rooms and kitchenettes — it will include a restaurant, lobby bar, full concierge, and more. Done up by J.K.’s designer Michele Bönan, room size will be the largest in the J.K. portfolio and some of the most generous in the city.

Why it’s so special: Kenza Faik, one of Embark’s Italy specialists, explains that despite a deluge of new luxury hotels opening in Rome, Casa J.K. is unique in its space and design. “It is especially amazing for families. Every room is a minimum of a 1 bedroom apartment with the full services of a luxury hotel and incredible location in the middle of the world’s best shopping,” Faik explains. “That doesn’t exist in Rome.”

Silversea Lodge (Puerto Williams, Chile)

When completed, this 150-room hotel will be the southernmost hotel in the world, built by Silversea Cruises to facilitate the unique flyover journey to Antarctica. The hotel will offer an expansive restaurant ideal for group gatherings, a bar and lounge, and a fitness center, all overlooking the Beagle Channel.

Why it’s so special: Embark Cruise advisor Emily Miller thinks this will be a game-changing lodge, especially for people exploring Chile or Antarctica. Miller is most excited to use it as a pre- or post-cruise stop to explore Patagonia, “especially as more and more people want to avoid the hair-raising Drake Passage.”

Ritz Carlton Reserve Nekajui (Nacascola, Costa Rica)

Ritz-Carlton Reserve opens its first resort in Central America on the Peninsula Papagayo, adjacent to the Four Seasons and Andaz. Set on its own 1,400 acre oceanfront site, Nekajui will focus on privacy, with just 107 rooms and 36 residences.

Why it’s so special: “We’re most excited about the three safari-style luxury tents overlooking the sea,” says Embark Beyond’s Leo Sorcher. “There is a clear space for a privacy-focused resort in Costa Rica.” The resort will also feature a private beach club and expansive 27,000 square-foot spa. “It is the perfect romantic getaway for couples who also want to be active,” he adds.