New year, new travel dreams. We asked our Luxury Gold travel experiences team for their recommendations for luxury hotel stays in 2025. This is what they had to say.  

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland 

This 800-year-old castle sits on a 350-acre estate of landscaped gardens, ancient woodland and an emerald lake. This grand estate is the former home of the Guinness family. It has hosted esteemed guests including The Prince of Wales and President Ronald Reagan. On your tour of Ireland, you’ll feel like royalty yourself, relaxing in the decadent suites boasting antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features. You’ll dine like royalty in Ashford Castle hotel’s George V Dining Room, built especially for King George V in 1905. And yet, the restored castle maintains a modern feel without losing its historic charm. The exceptional hospitality and vast grounds make Ashford a place that is difficult to leave.  

Learn more about the castle, what it’s like at Christmastime and meet the castle’s resident beekeeper. 

Lions Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa  

If your travels in South Africa take you on a safari, what better bonus than the chance to see the Big 5 from the private plunge pool in your room? Lions Sands Tinga Lodge in South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park sits on the banks of the Sabi River. Surrounded by nature in your treehouse-style room or grand suite with private deck and plunge pool, you’ll experience the height of luxury hotel stays. Watch elephants walk through the distant mist at sunrise as you sip your coffee. When you return from your safari, relax in the hotel’s Africology Spa before dining on South African cuisine on the candle-lit terrace. After the sun has left behind its orange glow, drift to sleep listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. 

The Leela Palace, Udaipur, India 

We journey to India for decadence in the grand style of a Maharaja’s palace at The Leela Palace. Arriving by boat, you’ll be welcomed with music, a shower of rose petals falling and a refreshing drink. In your lake-facing room, take in the beauty of a bygone era from the regal service to the décor celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. After a day cruising Lake Pichol or exploring Udaipur’s colorful bazaar, dine overlooking the lake and the Palace’s elegant courtyard.  

Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel, Zimbabwe  

Should you extend your South Africa travels with a visit to Victoria Falls, the Stanley & Livingstone hotel is the ideal jumping off point for exploration. Tucked within the serenity of Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, you’re just 15 minutes from the Falls. This hotel truly offers the best of both worlds; from its blend of colonial and contemporary design to the quiet feel of this retreat just minutes from the popular falls.  

@stanleyandlivingstone

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef, New Zealand 

For another nature-embracing accommodation, head to New Zealand’s Te Waonui Forest Retreat. After exploring the nearby Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk, return to this quiet haven that brings together a luxury escape with environmental awareness. This 5-star retreat lets you unwind in its luxurious rooms featuring plush bed linens and a private balcony or courtyard.  

Visit New Zealand on our 19-, 12- or 8-day tours. 

@tewaonui_forest_retreat

The Langham Sydney, Sydney, Australia 

From a natural retreat to a striking urban setting, jet off to Australia for our next top accommodation. Take in Sydney’s history and modern style at this boutique hotel in the heart of The Rocks district. Just outside the Langham, stroll along cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and take in dazzling views of the skyline and iconic Sydney Harbour. Back in your urban oasis’ Observatory Bar, sip on a creative cocktail from the Zodiac Gin Collection – a gin concoction infused with aromatics and garnishes and inspired by your star sign.   

@langhamsydney

The Belmond Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

On your luxury tour of South America, lovers of sand and sun should look no further than The Belmond Copacabana Palace on Rio’s iconic Copacabana beach for one of the finest luxury hotel stays. This gorgeous stretch of sand framed by green forested hills invites you to cool off within its waves or with a cool drink in hand. Or, get in on the action by joining one of the many beach parties, somewhat legendary at this hotel that celebrates its 100 anniversary in 2025. Having hosted guests including Bridget Bardot and Stevie Wonder, The Belmond Copacabana Palace is the place to be. 

@belmondcopacabanapalace

The Peabody Hotel, Memphis, The United States 

Take in a different slice of history on your tour of the American South at the “South’s Grand Hotel,” The Peabody Memphis. Known for its charm, elegance and rich history, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Peabody has hosted many esteemed guests since it opened in 1869. The most notable are perhaps its five resident Mallard ducks who march daily through the lobby at 11am and 5pm. Watch this charming parade before heading out to take in the culture and bustling music scene of nearby Beale Street. 

@leblogusadedom

 Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Canada  

Enjoy another historic stay in Canada at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Perched at the edge of Upper Old Quebec, this grand estate is in the style of a Renaissance French château. It has even hosted Grace Kelly and Sir Winton Churchill. You’ll feel like royalty yourself as you drink views of the St. Lawrence River and the Old fortified City. Explore the hotel’s paneled lobby of vaulted ceilings, oil portraits, baronial chandeliers and gold statues. It was even recognized as the 2022 Global Hotel of the Year. 

@fairmontfrontenac

Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada  

We head to western Canada for our final of our favorite luxury hotel stays at Canada’s ” Castle in the Rockies.” In Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a landmark and majestic natural setting. After exploring the Rocky Mountains by day, you’ll be treated to a progressive dinner feasting on a variety of courses, each served in different restaurants of this towering hotel. 

Spending a weekend in Auckland? 48 hours in Auckland is just the right amount of time to take in the city’s many splendid sites, tempting flavors and rich history. Our New Zealand tours include the very best Auckland activities with a sprinkling of decadence. 

Your stay at QT Auckland invites you to soak in the energy of the water. Rooms draw inspiration from the shapes and curves of oysters with natural hues and soothing tones. At this 5-Star Design Hotel’s rooftop bar, take in sweeping views of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour paired with Mediterranean snacks and classic cocktails. Continue your culinary tour at the hotel’s Restaurant Esther where head chef Sean Connolly presents flavors of the French Riviera, Sicily and Morocco. 

@qtauckland

 Another dining highlight of your tour will surely be dinner with one of New Zealand’s famous former All Black rugby players. Rub shoulders with a former member of the All Blacks as you learn about the world’s leading rugby team, his personal victories and how passionate Kiwis are about their national sport. 

Fine dining for a weekend in Auckland   

When it comes to fine dining in Auckland, why not go all out at the famous Sugar Club? Located in the Sky Tower, The Sugar Club sits 53 floors above Auckland boasting views of the city and the Hauraki Gulf. In addition to the impressive views, the impressive Chef’s menu showcases sustainably sourced produce. You’ll be in good hands of Chef Peter Gordon who has been called “the ‘Godfather’ of fusion cuisine.” From sashimi to beef fillet and a plant-based tasting menu, a decadent evening is always in store at The Sugar Club. 

@thesugarclubakl

Another option to pair fine dining with fabulous views is Sidart Restaurant. This New Zealand-Indian fusion restaurant offers imaginative cuisine including black truffle paneer, market fish tikka and crayfish and moilee sauce. Select a tasting menu from the five- or nine-course options with wine pairings. You may also opt for The Chef’s Table Experience to go behind the scenes and watch dishes being prepared in the kitchen and let the chef guide you through the menu. This exclusive dining experience, from Champagne on arrival to the final seventh course, is a memorable way to try the finest flavors.  

@sidart_auckland

Queen Street 

With one or two decadent dining experiences ticked off your bucket list, you’ll be ready to explore. You don’t have to venture far from the centrally located QT Auckland to find things to do in Auckland. Legendary and lively Queen Street in the Central Business District boasts high-end shops of international and local brands. Treat yourself to a designer bag and take a break in a café and watch the world go by. Extend your exploration with a visit to the nearby Auckland Art Gallery’s collection of international and New Zealand art on the edge of elegant Albert Park. On the other side of the park is Princes Street. Here, historic merchant’s houses from the late 1800s, now a heritage site, line the boulevard.  

@lex.moskov

Parnell  

Continue your discovery of what to do in Auckland exploring nearby Parnell, one of Auckland’s affluent and oldest neighborhoods. Stroll the tree-lined streets past Edwardian townhouses, restored Victorian shops, boutiques, and cafes. If you’re in Parnell over a weekend, don’t miss La Cigale French Market. Voted Auckland’s ‘Best Food Market’ by Metro Magazine, the market invites you to take your time browsing fresh produce, pâtés, terrines and pastries. You’ll feel like you’re in Paris as you absorb the sights and heavenly aromas. Take a rest at one of the market’s communal tables to enjoy a latte and croissant. The nearby Parnell Rose Gardens with over 5,000 roses enhances your decadent discovery. 

Parnell’s Auckland War Memorial Museum is another recommendation of what to see in Auckland. View the historic exhibits including an 80-foot Māori war canoe dating from 1836. Current and upcoming special exhibits include Secrets of Stonehenge and Egypt: In the Time of Pharaohs. 

Waitemata Harbor Cruise  

After soaking in the city sites on your weekend in Auckland, take to the water. A Waitemata Harbor cocktail or dinner cruise will show you the city from a different vantage point. Cruises also conveniently depart from near the city center. You’ll soon realize why Waitemata means “sparkling waters” in the Māori language. Onboard, take in the skyline framed against volcanic peaks. Sail under the Harbor Bridge sipping on cocktails and nibbling canapes. Glide past the North Head, Bean Rock Lighthouse and Devonport’s historic naval base. 

Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands  

If you have time for a daytime cruise on your weekend in Auckland, why not set sail to the picturesque Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands? The volcanic Rangitoto Island is covered in native forests and lava caves and displays 360-degree views of Auckland harbor.  

Heading further east, a 40-minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island, the “Hamptons of New Zealand,” will delight you with pastoral splendor. Visit one of the more than 40 vineyards and olive groves. Sample the local products and take home a bottle or two. Waiheke also offers many trails ideal for a jaunt up to the cliff tops or down to the beaches. Art lovers take note: every two years, Sculpture on the Gulf is held on the Matiatia Coastal Walkway for you to bask in works of contemporary art surrounded by bucolic scenery.  

 Whether you’re in search of fine dining or photo-ops, history or high-end shops, a weekend in Auckland will leave you satisfied. Let us show you what we love about New Zealand. 

If you find yourself in beautiful Scotland, dinner at one of the Michelin-star restaurants in Edinburgh should be on your must-do list. After all, what better way to end a day of sightseeing, whisky tasting and castle touring than dinner at one of Edinburgh’s top fine dining experiences at a Michelin-star restaurant?   

21212  

We begin with Chef Paul Kitching’s 21212 restaurant. Set in a charming Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s Royal Terrace, this fine dining hotspot has been delighting diners with contemporary French fare since 2009. 21212 actually refers to the number of dishes per course. Within one of the stylishly decorated rooms – each with a dedicated lounge area – you’ll feast on innovative flavor combinations. In fact, the menus change weekly. At the time of writing, we’re tempted by smoked salmon with pineapple and almonds and a warming soup with potato, chives and garlic. 

@21212edinburgh

Aizle  

Meaning a “glowing hot ember or spark” in Scottish, Aizle is a warm gathering space in the heart of the city. Housed in the Garden Room at The Kimpton Charlotte Square, Aizle showcases an ever-evolving menu of house-made dishes. We’re already impressed by the website that showcases seasonal harvest items. “Autumn Harvest” included a bounty from figs, cherries and artichokes, Lanark blue cheese and North Sea crab. The six-course tasting menu heavily centers around what’s local and in season. And we’ve heard the aged kombucha shouldn’t be missed. 

@aizle_edinburgh

Condita 

Venture just outside of Edinburgh’s city center where the Old Town meets Southside on Sailsbury Place to a converted shop where you’ll find Michelin-starred Condita. Inside, an understated modern space of whitewashed walls decorated with banners over the windows, origami blackbirds perched on branches and a large skylight inviting the afternoon sun welcomes you. This intimate space seats just six tables where diners pour over a surprise five- or eight-course tasting menu of modern dishes. A hand-drawn bookmark calls out some of the key ingredients. But should you have any curiosities about the menu, amicable Chef Conor Toomey is happy to chat. Delight in the seasonal, mostly organic dishes impeccably presented, sometimes arriving on pebbles and wooden spoons. Much of the produce is sourced from a walled kitchen garden in Borders. Organic wines complement the meal and malt whiskies finish the occasion. 

@condita_restaurant

The Glenturret Lalique   

Self-described as “an exclusive jewel-box dining room,” the Glenturret Lalique restaurant offers an intimate dining experience within a glass-walled room overlooking distilleries and the River Turret. Michelin-star restaurants in Edinburgh all offer something unique, and this cozy spot’s six tables sit beneath two five-tier Lalique chandeliers. The cosmopolitan, multi-course tasting menu is a decadent experience.  Start with sea buckthorn, liver and cocoa. Feast on the main course including Highland Wagyu, barbeque eggplant and morel. Finish with crème fraîche sherbet, raspberry and woodruff. A vegetarian tasting menu is also available from Chef Mark Donald. Donald started at Noma in Copenhagen before returning to Scotland and later working at Number One restaurant, where he secured a Michelin star before joining Glenturret in 2021.  

@theglenturretlalique

Martin Wishart 

In the port of Leith, Edinburgh, restaurant Martin Wishart has been impressing diners and critics since 1999. The seasonal menu harmonizes Scottish and French brasserie cuisine. In addition, the chef also prepares a six-course tasting menu each evening. You’ll even find a vegetarian, vegan and extensive seafood menu of locally sourced fish and shellfish. From a business lunch to an elegant evening out, the variety at Martin Wishart impresses a range of patrons. The staff are eager to provide wine pairings as well.  

At the heart of the experience is Martin Wishart himself, an Edinburgh-born chef who trained under such renowned chefs as Albert Roux, Michel Roux Jr, Marco Pierre White and John Burton-Race. Wishart has worked in the kitchen since he was 15 and employs classic French cooking techniques to his locally sourced meals. The restaurant has held a Michelin star since 2001 and has been voted The Sunday Times 5th best restaurant in the UK. 

@martin_wishart

Number One 

Among Michelin-star restaurants in Edinburgh, Number One is one of the top-ranking restaurants in the city. Located in the basement of the Balmoral hotel, find a dining room elegantly decorated with red-lacquered walls lined with contemporary art of large triptych prints and upholstered banquettes. The romantic, luxury ambiance is the perfect setting to linger over the seven-course menu. Scottish dishes featuring seasonal produce with international flair are the result of Chef Mathew Sherry’s innovations and expertise. A sample menu may take you from canapes and caviar to Goosnargh duck to artisan cheese.  

@numberoneedin

With so many options, enhance your time in the beautiful Scottish capital by dining in one of the many Michelin-star restaurants.

Still curious about Michelin dining? Learn what to expect when fining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Or, explore the 10 most beautiful villages and small towns in Britain and Ireland.