Expedia has released its 2014 Insiders’ Select list with the best hotels in the world
An oasis in the desert, Dar Al Masyaf Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. Source: Supplied
WITH so many hotels on offer around the world, choosing the right one for your trip can be an overwhelming decision. Do you go for the ultimate in five-star luxury, or would you prefer an intimate hideaway with rustic charm?
And what happens when the hotel suite claiming beach front views turns out to be a tired looking building set blocks back from the water?
To help you find the perfect hotel, travel booking site Expedia has released its 2014 Insiders’ Select list where more than two million verified guest reviews and in-house experts choose the best hotels around the world.
Now in its eighth year, the 2014 list features 650 hotels from more than 290,000 properties on the website.
With honest reviews from travellers and a tough criteria, these are the top five hotels you will want to put on your travel wish list this year.
1. Lakehouse Hotel and Resort, San Marcos, California
This four star hotel sits right on the banks of Lake San Marcos, just 50 kilometres from San Diego. Dating back to the 1960s, the hotel was renovated last year with a retro chic design. Stay in one of its cottages or relax in a deckchair in a suite overlooking the lake.
With a golf course, marina and salt water pools, this hotel took the gong as the number one hotel for 2014.
Have a swing at the private golf course. Source: Supplied
Retro chic at the Lakehouse. Source: Supplied
2. Blue Karma Resort, Seminyak, Bali
Bali is a favourite destination for Australian and New Zealand travellers, and with accommodation on every corner it’s handy to have a few recommendations on where to stay.
This five star boutique villa in Seminyak is the top pick of the judges. With your own private plunge pools, yoga classes and a luxury spa, this is where you should head for the ultimate in relaxation.
Have a drink by the pool. Source: Supplied
3. Dar Al Masyaf Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
So Dubai may be a city in a desert, but this hotel is the ultimate oasis. Dar Al Masyaf is a five star resort that plays on the theme of Arabian summer houses of the past with villas built around waterways and gardens.
Located in the shadow of the Burj al Arab, this resort takes decadence in the desert to a new level — think studded leather arm chairs, plush Arabian carpets and deep stone bath tubs.
With its own private beach, you’ll feel like royalty at this find.
Like an Arabian summer palace. Source: Supplied
Your own private plunge pool. Source: Supplied
4. Homestead Cottages, Ahwahnee, California
Sitting at the entrance to Yosemite National Park, these homestead cottages sit on 160 acres of land full of hiking trails. Fireplaces, timber furniture and country American charm make it a great base for exploring the surrounding park.
Country charm in California. Picture: Homestead Cottages. Source: Supplied
5. Apache Casino Hotel, Lawton Oklahoma
Opening in 2012 after a multi-million dollar development to the existing Apache Casino, this hotel has 132 rooms to help service the 24 hour casino for those looking to throw some money on the table. It’s also close to Oklahoma’s outdoor attractions including the Comanche Nation Waterpark.
Sydney’s Sheraton on the park made the list at number 108. Source: Supplied
