Stay by the Eighth Wonder of the World at These 7 Hotels

There was a time when accommodation options in Japan tended to fall into three categories: glossy international chains, dull homegrown business hotels and basic ryokan (traditional inns), which despite their atmospheric tatami mats and wooden sliding doors were often light on comfort and mod cons. But new options abound, particularly for the cultural traveller. 

As summer holidays come to an end, 50 Best has compiled its list of the World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2023.

Stretching along an island in the St Lawrence River, Montréal has a complicated soul thanks to its blend of French and English heritage. You can explore this dichotomy and much more – art, music, dining – in its diverse neighborhoods. 

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors. It is the largest city in Vietnam and has a rich history, diverse culture, and delicious food. Some of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City include visiting the War Remnants Museum, exploring the city’s French colonial architecture, taking a walk through Ben Thanh Market, and sampling the city’s delicious street food. Ho Chi Minh City is also a relatively affordable city, making it a great value for travelers. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, you’re sure to find something to love. These Ho Chi Minh City hotels put you close to everything.

One of the fruits of getting on a train is that it makes me want to chat. So instead of gazing at Kent as we proceed to Paris from London, I talk to my neighbour. Martha grew up in San Francisco, studied in Oregon, and puts syrup on everything. When we part ways on the concourse of Gare du Nord – she to lunch with a friend from Wisconsin, me to amble around before continuing towards Turkey – she says the best things about the US are Taylor Swift and meatloaf. It’s good to talk.

Swap planes for trains and embark on adventures that are so much more than just a way to reach a destination. Whether it's multi-day journeys catching glimpses of waves crashing into cliffs or quick, scenic bursts of sparkling seas, these coastal train routes will make you appreciate life in the slow lane.

It turns out that luxury London hotels are like buses. You wait ages for one to open, and then two, or in this case several, come at once.

Benjamin Parent has worked at Tesla, on ships, and as a part-time tennis coach.

For most French people, Provence conjures up the sound of the cicadas, the lovely accent of the inhabitants of the region, sunny weather, and olives. To most outsiders, Provence is all about lavender fields. No matter where you’re from and what you think Provence is like, you won’t be disappointed because it’s all the above. The historical region of Provence is an area of simple beauty and unhurried, uncomplicated pleasures, all of which are best enjoyed in the late spring and summer.

Although the mythical “Grand Budapest Hotel” isn’t an option when deciding where to stay in Budapest, there are countless hotels in Hungary’s vibrant capital that earn the Gustave H. stamp of approval. Widely considered one of the coolest cities in Europe, days in Budapest are spent encountering landmarks, meandering along the riverside, and curing all ailments by “taking the waters” at a thermal bathhouse. Evenings start with rooftop sundowners and end in buzzing ruin bars. Fusing golden-age hospitality with bohemian charm, these luxury Budapest hotels give you the grandest experience.

Although it is only the ninth biggest city in France, Bordeaux is certainly one that should be at the very top of your French to-do list. Not only is it the heart of the famed wine-growing region, the entire city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it has more protected historic buildings than any other city in France except Paris (there are 347 listed buildings in Bordeaux). To see the city, its glorious architecture, and its excellent cultural offerings properly, you need to stay in the city center in one (or several) of the best hotels in Bordeaux, France, for every budget.

The conclusion of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 highlights the growing and collective legacy of Qatar Airways and FIFA.