The Best Hotels to Open in 2021
If there was ever any doubt whether the world would bounce back, the bang-up year for new hotels has to be proof of resilience. And it’s not just any hotels; it’s luxury raising standards to a new high. These are the destinations you’ll want to visit now — France, St. Barths, Mexico and beyond. And guess what? 2022 looks like it’ll get even better. So the roaring ’20s are officially here, and these are the best new hotels in 2021 that put their locations on your list.
The Hotel: Rosewood Le Guanahani
The Location: St. Barths
Overview:
The reopening of Le Guanahani was one of the most anticipated new hotels that opened in 2021 after it was destroyed by a hurricane in 2017. The resort has long been a symbol of the classic St. Barths Caribbean. Unlike hotels on the isle though, the Le Guanahani has always been only full larger-scale resort on St Barths. As with the original, rooms are stand-alone villas and suites. Under the Rosewood though, accommodations are brand-spanking new, fresh and contemporary. Rosewood also put in a proper new Sense spa and wellness offerings. This is also the only hotel on isle that has a true kids club and comprehensive program so Mom and Dad can sneak off to Nikki Beach for the day.
The Hotel: Le Tropical
The Location: St. Barths
Overview:
After covid, you deserve a some light-hearted good fun. Le Tropical is the affordable new boutique hotel made for an easy getaway, that is to the party at Nikki Beach a stone’s throw away. Nikki Beach is actually their beach access, as it’s right across the street. Le Tropical is one of the best new hotels in 2021 by the original team of Bonito. Of course, they also have a pool to lounge, and multiple wellness offerings from fitness classes, to spa treatments. As you would expect from the founders of Bonito, the restaurant and lounge are top notch.
Le Barriere Carl Gustav
The Location: St. Barths
Overview:
St Barths roared into 2021, Covid be damned. But that just means hotels have to be really good to stand out. Le Barriere Carl Gustav is no doubt one of the best new hotels in 2021 on design alone. Fresh linen interiors and textures complement make the hotel a serene oasis. The small French boutique hotel has just 21 rooms overlooking the port town of Gustavia. While this isn’t a beach front hotel, their beach is a short walk away on Shell Beach. You could come with your partner for an intimate escape as it won’t break the bank, or overload your senses. Chic guests also pop in from London or Beirut just for a cocktail and catchup on the terrace, which has one of the best views in St. Barths.
Etereo, an Auberge Hotel
The Location: Mexico
Overview:
When news of Etereo opened in November, it immediately came on the radar because it’s part of Auberge. Already that distinction makes it one of the best new hotels in 2021 to open. The hotel in Mexico is ethereal, just as the meaning of its name suggests. As part of the Auberge collection, the hotel has ensured that no corner is cut. Residences and suites have bay views with private pools and terraces. And the wellness offerings are almost literally endless with everything from massages to shamanic rituals.
One&Only Mandarina
The Location: Mexico
Overview:
There’s a very specific craving for super luxurious lush and tropical that One&Only Mandarina fills to a T. Located in the forest of Puerto Vallarta, the hotel yields to the steamy natural environment. The free standing tree houses are also somewhat mysterious as they nestle in not disturbing of the 200 year old trees below.
Cheval Blanc Paris
The Location: Paris
Overview:
Bottom line, if given the opportunity, you want to be on the Seine at Cheval Blanc in Paris. One of the best new hotels in 2021, and maybe the best new hotel, Cheval Blanc takes luxury next level. Maybe it’s the art collection Or their use of holographic effects in the pool and elevator, that go from black to simulated views of Paris. (Trust us, you’ll want to visit just to ride that elevator.) Or it could be the elegantly lavish rooms with steam showers and body products that were meant to pillage. There’s even a refrigerator in the bathroom to refrigerate your beauty products, which is 100% LVMH detail. It’s hard to be the most luxurious hotel in Paris, but Cheval Blanc might take the prize.
Soho House Paris
The Location: Paris
Overview:
The Soho brand is notoriously elite, with its 30,000+ person wait lists. The Parisian outpost lives up to the reputation. But in the city famous for its distinguished identity, Soho house has upped the anti in an undeniably French way. The hotel features 39 rooms in the former home of Jean Cocteau designed in Art Deco style. Guests and members can bask in famous art works by Balincourt and Provost while ordering small bites of escargot. But in line with Soho House, the club is a hub for members-only and guests to mingle.
Bulgari Paris
The Location: Paris
Overview:
You can imagine the aesthetic of a hotel born of an Italian jewelry brand. The 59 suites and newly famous penthouse are threaded through with small nods to the luxurious jewelry and handbags. Embroidered snakes, and black velvet permeate the spaces. As to be expected, the luxury has also carried over, and no detail is spared in the spacious rooms. If you’re looking for a place that makes you feel as though you are royalty, Bulgari is it.
Rosewood Villa Magna
The Location: Madrid
Overview:
Spain is one of the hottest places in the world right now, and Villa Magna will do a trip to Madrid justice. Paseo de Castellana is just around the corner, so guests are right in the middle of the pomp and city life. But, the refined and demure interiors of Villa Magna bring out a more subdued and sophisticated Spanish flare. Interiors are warm and accented in gold, and afternoon tea draws soft spoken and worldly guests to the lobby for elevated conversation. The new addition to Madrid is a handsome respite for those looking for a distinguished experience.
Four Seasons Madrid
The Location: Madrid
Overview:
Like we said, Madrid should be on your travel list, for hotels alone. And despite stiff competition, the Four Seasons is a new hotel you will want to check out. In Puerto del Sol, you’re in the midst of the liveliness. But indoors, the Four Seasons has a soft, mature vibe with the characteristic high end touches of a Four Seasons experience. And the interiors give a nod to classic Spanish style, so the experience is not only familiar, but authentic and cultural.
Dubai EDITION
The Location: Dubai
The Overview:
In Dubai, you go big or go home. That is definitely the case with the new Edition hotel that is right across from the central mall. If you come to Dubai, you’re in for an immersion of culture and an overload of people watching. The Edition lobby is already a hub for the mixing and mingling of the Dubai elite. And characteristic of the city, the 275 rooms have a skyscraper feel with broad city views.
White Elephant
The Location: Palm Beach
Overview:
As is the way of the New England based boutique hotel group, White Elephant is a contradiction of sorts; an approachable locale of luxury in the midst of an elite environment. The 32 suites are colorful and bright, and are furnished with practical offerings like big, comfy couches. The restaurant, Lola 41, is also a must visit, as both the food and people-watching are high on the experience.
Four Seasons New Orleans
The Location: New Orleans
Overview:
New Orleans has some pretty top of the line hotels, but the Four Seasons is a new force too recon with. The 34 story building is anything but boutique, which comes with distinct advantages. Of course, there’s the Four Seasons level of luxury inside. But, the real draws are the two new restaurants and bar which have already become the places to be if you’re in Nola. They also have some of the most notable Presidential Suites in the city with two bedrooms, a gym, and spectacular views all from the comfort of a single suite.
