Krysti Jaims Hotel Awards: My Top 10 Favourite Stays Around the World

Over the past ten years of travel, I’ve stayed in everything from noisy hostels and funky Airbnbs to boutique hideaways and five-star resorts. I’ve always been more of a budget-conscious, best-deal kind of girl, and for many years that meant simple stays with just the basics. But through this blog, I’ve been lucky enough to experience some truly incredible hotels - each one unique, memorable, and a little taste of luxury that I’ve come to really appreciate. Honestly, who doesn’t love a plush bed, a dreamy view, and amazing service?

As I’ve gotten older (and let’s be real - can no longer deal with shared dorms or damp, smelly rooms), I’ve learned the value of investing in where you stay - especially when it comes to those trips where rest, and a few comforting, thoughtful touches make all the difference. A great hotel can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. Sometimes, it can even become the highlight.

So I thought it was time to round up my top 10 favourite hotels I’ve stayed at around the world. From jungle hideaways to overwater bungalows and art-filled city stays, these are the places that left a lasting impression - whether for their views, service, charm, or that feeling of never wanting to leave.

10. Les Suites Orient - China

This Shanghai hotel has one of the most unforgettable views I’ve ever woken up to. Right on The Bund, it overlooks the iconic Shanghai skyline and the Huangpu River. The rooms were spacious and elegant, the international breakfast spread was delicious, and the great location made it so easy to explore. A fantastic stay all around, and one I’d return to in a heartbeat. (It now seems to be going under the new name now of Maxx By Steigenberger, Shanghai On The Bund).

9. QT Wellington - New Zealand

Staying at the QT Wellington in New Zealand's capital city is like stepping into a living, breathing art gallery - and I mean that in the best possible way. It’s bold, quirky, and endlessly creative, with artistic surprises around every corner. The location is unbeatable, right across from Te Papa and the waterfront, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. The Harbourview Gallery King rooms are a real highlight - with each one uniquely designed by a local artist, which adds such a fun and personal touch. It’s a playful mix of luxury and character that captures the spirit of Wellington perfectly. It's a total vibe.

8. Twin Lotus Resort - Thailand

This Koh Lanta adults-only tropical escape felt like a dream. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face the entire stay! Nestled on a quiet, peaceful stretch of beach, this resort has everything you’d want for a relaxing getaway - an incredible infinity pool overlooking the beach, mouthwatering Thai food, and villas that felt private, spacious, and luxurious. I stayed in a beachfront room and absolutely loved falling asleep to the sound of the waves each night. It was the perfect place to slow down, switch off, and completely soak in that tranquil island atmosphere. I travelled solo, and it was the ideal peaceful retreat - quiet, safe, and serene.

7. Al Najada Hotel by Tivoli - Qatar

Located right next to the vibrant Souq Waqif in Doha, this hotel strikes a beautiful balance between modern elegance and traditional Middle Eastern charm. From the moment I arrived, the service was warm and attentive - creating the perfect oasis to retreat to after a hot day of exploring the city. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, the food was delicious, and I especially loved the little date stand in the lobby. As a solo traveller, I felt welcome and safe here, which made my stay all the more enjoyable. An ideal base for soaking up the culture of Doha with a touch of comfort.

6. AthensWas Luxury Hotel - Greece

Ideally located right on the popular pedestrian-only Dionysiou Areopagitou Street in Athens, just steps from the Acropolis entrance, this chic and modern hotel made exploring effortless. The design is sleek and minimalist, with thoughtful touches throughout, and the staff were very friendly. Despite being in the heart of one of the city’s busiest areas, our room was completely soundproof, making for a peaceful and comfortable stay. The absolute highlight - breakfast on the rooftop with a front-row view of the Acropolis - it doesn’t get more iconic than that. 

5. Main Street Hotel - Belgium

This charming little boutique hotel in Ypres completely stole my heart. Out of a six-week trip through Europe, it was hands down my favourite stay. With just a few rooms, each one was uniquely styled with thoughtful touches and loads of personality - it felt more like staying in a beautifully curated home than a hotel. The homemade breakfast was next level (seriously, I still think about it), and the owner’s warmth and hospitality made the whole experience feel extra special. It’s also in a perfect location - just a short walk to the centre of Ypres, making it super easy to explore the town’s rich history and charming streets. A true gem of a stay.

4. Pacific Resort - Cook Islands

This Rarotonga resort holds a special place in our hearts - we actually got married here! We treated ourselves to a stunning beachfront room, and the view from our balcony overlooking the turquoise lagoon was absolutely unforgettable. The resort is the epitome of island bliss, with swaying palm trees, beautiful tropical gardens, crystal-clear water, and that warm, friendly local hospitality that makes you feel at home the moment you arrive. We spent our days snorkelling, sipping cocktails at sunset, and fully embracing that laid back island lifestyle. We can’t wait to go back one day soon - this time with our little ones in tow.

3. Goya Boutique Resort - Indonesia

Tucked into the lush oasis of Ubud, Bali - this boutique gem had our jaws dropping from the moment we arrived. The infinity pool alone - overlooking the lush tropical jungle was the insta-perfect kind of view that makes you stop and soak it all in. Our incredible room was spacious and beautifully styled, complete with a private pool and a dreamy open-air bathtub (filled with rose-petals upon arrival!). The service was lovely, and the food (especially the amazing breakfast) was a total highlight. Peaceful, romantic, and effortlessly luxurious - it was the perfect Bali escape.

2. Vedana Lagoon - Vietnam

Situated between Hue and Da Nang, this dreamy resort in Phu Loc sits on a tranquil lagoon surrounded by mountains - a true hidden sanctuary. It was my first (and so far only!) time staying in an overwater bungalow, and it was such a bucket list moment. The villa was absolutely beautiful, with a glass-bottom floor panel so you could watch fish swim right beneath your feet. The serene infinity pool overlooking the water, paired with incredible Vietnamese food and warm service, made this stay unforgettable. Peaceful, quiet, and breathtakingly beautiful.

1. Paradise Cove Resort - Fiji

This place truly lives up to its name - absolute paradise. Nestled in the breathtaking Yasawa Islands, Paradise Cove stole my heart with its crystal-clear turquoise water, powdery white sand, and the friendliest, most welcoming staff I’ve ever met. The villas are stunning and incredibly comfortable (we even had our own private plunge pool - also see the header photo), and the food was next-level amazing - daily five-course dinners that feel like fine dining in paradise. The whole vibe is pure barefoot luxury. We spent our days swimming, snorkelling, soaking up the sun, and watching sunsets with a cocktail in hand - feeling completely spoiled from start to finish. It was one of those truly magical trips you never want to end - and I’ve been lucky enough to return twice since. It quickly became my favourite place in the world, and still holds that title today.


Looking back on these amazing stays brings back so many wonderfull memories - sunsets in Fiji, street views in Shanghai, rooftop breakfasts in Athens, and jungle serenity in Bali. Each one offered something unique and played a part in shaping the way I travel now - more slowly, more intentionally, and with a deeper appreciation for beautiful spaces that feel like a home away from home. 

I hope this list inspires your next adventure (or dreamy hotel wishlist!) - and I’d love to hear about your favourite stays too. Let me know if any of these are on your bucket list!