Two Aussie hotels named among world’s top 50 for 2024

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The results for The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024 have just been announced and Australia has made its mark.

Hotels have become a major influence on travel decisions in recent years, often holding equal importance as the destination itself. Accommodations with opulent amenities, unique experiences, and arresting design hold significant appeal for discerning travellers. And The World’s 50 Best Hotels list serves as an annual benchmark for the best hotels and luxury hospitality experiences worth travelling for. 

The results for 2024 have just been announced in London featuring hotels from 36 destinations across six continents, including two Aussie hotels: The Calile, Brisbane and The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. This reflects the growing recognition and quality of Australian hospitality on a global scale and underscores the unique offerings of Australian hotels. 

The winners

Urban oasis Capella Bangkok claimed the number one spot with its sleek design, lush landscaping, and panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River. The World’s 50 Best highlighted the calming nature of the hotel in one of the world’s most lively cities noting “The Capella is a masterclass in serenity and calm, from the neutral-toned, clean-lined, Japan-esque design to the brilliant and seemingly semi-psychic service that anticipates your every waking need." The recently opened Singapore outpost also featured on the list at no. 33. 

 

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Last year’s winner, luxury boutique hotel Passalacqua, Lake Como, was named no. 2. The palatial lakefront accommodation sits within an 18th-century villa once owned by Pope Innocent XI, and features immaculate terraced gardens and ornate Baroque design.

Passalacqua, Lake Como
Experience la dolce vita at Passalacqua. (Image: Edwina Hart)

The Aussie hotels that made the list

For the second consecutive year, The Calile Hotel is featured on the list. In 2023, it was awarded no.12 and this year it has come in at no. 25 as well as receiving the accolade for The Best Hotel in Oceania 2024. Located in the hip precinct of James Street in Brisbane, The Calile has elevated the city’s design landscape and become a hotspot for stylish Aussies since it opened in 2018.

The Calile Brisbane
The urban resort boasts a retro cool design.

Taking cues from modernist Miami and Palm Springs aesthetics combined with elements of 1960s Australia, the tropical oasis is swathed in a sophisticated palette of rich-veined rose marble, smooth concrete, and blonde timber. 

The Calile Brisbane
The sleek rooms exude calm.

The Tasman Hobart claimed no.49 this year, putting the port city on the map for international travellers. An elegant heritage reconstruction of former state government offices, The Tasman is a study in sensitively bringing a historic building into the 21st century.

The Tasman Hotel Hobart
Rooms and suites boast soaring ceilings. (Image: Adam Gibson)

Sitting pretty on the waterfront, guestrooms feature original Georgian details, exposed sandstone walls, sweeping water views, and custom furnishings. 

The Tasman Hotel Hobart
Old meets new at The Tasman Hotel Hobart. (Image: Sean Fennessy)

Bali-loving Aussies planning on visiting The Island of the Gods in the near future should turn their attention to Seminyak beauty Desa Potato Head which came in at no. 21.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024 list

  1. Capella Bangkok, Bangkok
  2. Passalacqua, Lake Como
  3. Rosewood Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  4. Cheval Blanc, Paris
  5. The Upper House, Hong Kong
  6. Raffles Singapore, Singapore
  7. Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
  8. Soneva Fushi, Maldives
  9. Atlantis The Royal, Dubai
  10. Nihi Sumba, Sumba Island
  11. Claridge’s, London
  12. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Bangkok
  13. Raffles London at the OWO, London
  14. Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Bangkok
  15. Hôtel de Crillon, Paris
  16. Chablé Yucatán, Chocholá
  17. Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes
  18. Maroma, Riviera Maya
  19. Four Seasons Firenze, Florence
  20. Borgo Santandrea, Amalfi
  21. Desa Potato Head, Bali
  22. Bulgari Tokyo, Tokyo
  23. The Lana, Dubai
  24. Rosewood São Paulo, São Paulo
  25. The Calile, Brisbane
  26. The Siam, Bangkok
  27. Park Hyatt Kyoto, Kyoto
  28. Mount Nelson, Cape Town
  29. One&Only Mandarina, Riviera Nayarit
  30. The Carlyle, New York
  31. La Mamounia, Marrakechch
  32. Four Seasons Madrid, Madrid
  33. Capella Singapore, Singapore
  34. Four Seasons at The Surf Club, Surfside
  35. Hotel Bel-Air, Los Angeles
  36. Eden Rock, St. Barths
  37. Aman New York, New York
  38. Royal Mansour, Marrakech
  39. Amangalla, Gaelle
  40. Le Bristol, Paris
  41. Gleneagles, Auchterarder
  42. Castello di Reschio, Lisciano Niccone
  43. Suján Jawai, Rajasthan
  44. Singita – Kruger National Park, Kruger National Park
  45. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Zaghi
  46. The Connaught, London
  47. The Brando, Tetiaroa
  48. Hotel Esencia, Tulum
  49. The Tasman, Hobart
  50. Kokomo Private Island, Yaukuve Levu Island

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Rachael Thompson
Rachael Thompson is a freelance travel journalist. With a background in design and travel media, Rachael is dedicated to curating content that is as much informational as it is beautiful. She began her career at Belle magazine, before taking up editorial roles at Homes to Love, Bed Threads and Australian Traveller/International Traveller. When she's not writing, editing or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list is Lord Howe Island.
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This Tasmania cruise offers the perfect long weekend escape

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
    Discover the delights of Tasmania with Norwegian Cruise Line on a long weekend escape.

    The ultimate weekend away is right in your own backyard. This summer, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) launches a new, four-day Tassie Taster cruise onboard Norwegian Spirit®, introducing curious travellers to the delights of Tasmania.

    The rugged landscapes, rich history and delicious fresh produce make Tasmania a world-class destination in its own right, but the stunning coastlines of the island are even more beautiful when viewed from your private balcony. Departing from Sydney, this unique long weekend at sea is the perfect opportunity to completely unwind, sample the diverse dining options onboard, or take in live entertainment.

    For adults seeking a premium cruise experience, here’s why a few days onboard Norwegian Spirit might just be the weekend escape you’re looking for.

    Cruising on Norwegian Spirit

    Norwegian Spirit sailing near Phillip Island
    Sail to Tasmania’s beautiful shores on Norwegian Spirit..

    Norwegian Spirit is designed for refined cruising. After undergoing an extensive revitalisation from bow to stern, it represents the best of NCL’s fleet by blending contemporary elegance and serene comfort.

    Featuring upgraded staterooms, stylish lounges and elevated specialty dining, Norwegian Spirit is a calm oasis for couples, solo travellers and mature explorers seeking a premium cruise experience on a smaller ship, without sacrificing amenities or entertainment.

    Whether you’re seeking an introduction to cruising or are an experienced cruiser, NCL offers the flexibility and freedom to do as much (or as little) as you like, helping you curate your perfect holiday.

    Norwegian Spirit returns to the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour in December 2026 for its biggest Australian season to date. Australian travellers can enjoy ten Sydney departures, including two Tassie sailings, departing on the sixth and 21st of January 2027. With five round-trip summer sailings, there are plenty of opportunities to explore Australia and the South Pacific in premium comfort.

    Here’s what your long weekend sailing to Tasmania might look like.

    DAY 1: Depart Sydney in style

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania leaving from sydney
    Depart from Sydney for the ultimate long weekend.

    As you embark on Norwegian Spirit, get excited for the ultimate weekend away. A Champagne toast to kickstart your voyage at Magnum’s Champagne & Wine Bar is always a good idea, but you may be surprised to learn that there is unrivalled variety for a ship of this size, featuring 14 dining options and nine bars, including the adults-only Spice H2O.

    Be sure to head out on deck to take in the magnificent views as you sail out of Sydney, then the rest of the night is yours to enjoy. After dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse, a swanky specialty dining option featuring mood lighting, Premium Black Angus beef and seafood dishes, you can catch a show and enjoy some laughs at the Social Comedy & Night Club, enjoy the fresh night air from one of the decks, or head to your spacious stateroom early for a good night’s sleep.

    DAY 2: Relaxation at sea

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania Spice H2O
    Chill out in a hot tub at Spice H2O.

    As you wake up refreshed on your first full sea day, you have ample opportunities to soak up the best of the ship. After a delicious buffet breakfast at the Garden Cafe, today is the ideal time to experience the award-winning Mandara Spa & Salon – whether you want to book a massage, disconnect in the thermal suite, or simply relax in the warm saunas. Or, bring a book and bask in the sun at the adults-only Spice H2O, featuring day beds, hot tubs and cocktails.

    Later, after a casual pub lunch at The Local, join in on one of the day’s many unique activities, such as arts and crafts classes, dance lessons, or browse the onboard library or shops.

    For an unforgettable dinner, book into Teppanyaki – an unforgettable Hibachi-style meal where you sit at the grill and watch the chef in action. Here, the cuisine is just as fun as watching the cooking itself, an unforgettable Hibachi-style meal where you sit at the grill and watch the chef in action.

    DAY 3: Discover Hobart, your way

    Mt Wellington visitor centre Hobart
    See Hobart from above at Mt Wellington. (Credit: Getty/ Zetter)

    Wake up to Tasmania’s historic capital, Hobart, with a full day in port to enjoy the city at your own pace. Take a relaxed stroll through the cobblestone square of Salamanca Place in Sullivan’s Cove, a delight to the senses with art galleries, eccentric boutique shops, live music and plenty of incredible restaurants where you can sample the fresh produce and cuisine that Tasmania is known for.

    Or, travel to the Tasman Peninsula to discover some of the island’s rugged cliffs, World Heritage-listed convict sites and wildlife, including the famed Tasmanian devil. 

    Your day can be as active or relaxed as you like, but you’ll want to return to your ship by 4pm. Tonight is ideal for dinner at the Windows Main Dining Room, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Hobart as you sail away.

    DAY 4: Indulge and Unwind

    Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Spirit tasmania Onda restaurant
    Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal onboard.

    Your long weekend may be drawing to a close, but there is still another full day at sea to enjoy. Start with a hearty breakfast at The Local before a morning soak in the central Tivoli pool or one of the four outdoor hot tubs. Then make the most of your stateroom with a relaxing room service lunch.

    Later, sit back and enjoy a performance at the Stardust Theatre, or check out the afternoon’s entertainment schedule to see what’s planned.

    Freshen up for your dinner booking at Le Bistro, NCL’s contemporary take on classic French cuisine, featuring an extensive wine list and exceptional white linen service.

    After dining, hit the dance floor at Bliss Ultra Lounge or Spinnaker Lounge. Or enjoy a quiet nightcap before heading back to your stateroom. No matter what the perfect long weekend looks like to you, you can find it on Norwegian Spirit.

    To book a long weekend like no other, contact your travel agent, call 1300 255 200, or visit ncl.com. With only two exclusive departure dates, it’s best to book early to secure your preferred stateroom type and departure date.

    Two Aussie Hotels Named In World's Top 50 For 2024 | Australian Traveller