If you want to indulge in true extravagance in 2018, the world’s most luxurious hotels offer experiences that match the price. Below is a curated selection of top-tier properties around the globe, each known for exceptional service, striking design, and unforgettable settings. While money can’t buy happiness, it can create memories that last a lifetime.
Hotel Plaza Athénée, Paris, France
Located in the heart of Paris, Hotel Plaza Athénée captures the city’s elegance and refinement. The hotel’s classic façade is adorned with seasonal blooms, and many rooms open onto private terraces that overlook the city or the hotel’s intimate gardens. Interiors combine Parisian charm with modern comfort—expect crystal chandeliers, richly appointed fabrics, and attentive service that caters to every need.
Grand Resort Lagonissi Royal Villa, Athens, Greece
Perched on the Athenian Riviera, the Grand Resort Lagonissi delivers a seaside retreat with expansive views of the Saronic Gulf. The Royal Villa represents the pinnacle of the property’s offerings: a sprawling residence with indoor and outdoor pools, a private gym, multiple master suites, and generous living spaces designed for privacy and entertaining. The resort’s combination of coastal vistas and refined amenities makes it a standout for discerning travelers.
Mardan Palace Hotel, Turkey
Renowned as one of the most expensive resorts in Europe and the Mediterranean, Mardan Palace blends grand scale with lavish detail. The property is famous for its opulent public spaces and extensive leisure facilities, including one of the region’s largest swimming pools. The hotel frequently draws an international celebrity clientele and emphasizes high-end dining, bespoke services, and a dramatic beachfront setting.
Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
Jade Mountain provides a serene, immersive Caribbean escape where design and nature meet. Suites are open to the elements with private infinity pools that frame uninterrupted views of the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. Surrounded by tropical gardens and close to pristine beaches and coral reefs, the resort focuses on wellness, romance, and a deeply relaxing atmosphere.
Each of these hotels represents a different interpretation of luxury, from classic European glamour to secluded island tranquility. Whether you seek a glamorous city hideaway, a seaside palace, or a private tropical refuge, these properties offer distinctive experiences that elevate travel into something extraordinary.