Jul 24, 2020
This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.
1. Capella Ubud
Bali, Indonesia
If you’re curious about how slipping in cow poop could possibly be luxurious, see our story on Capella Ubud. The five-star boutique retreat clinging to a rainforested cliffside in Bali’s spiritual heartland is all about personal service, local immersion and finding your Zen among the birdsong. In building the 23 tent-suites with private pools, camp lodge, open-air restaurants, spa and centerpiece psychedelic cistern, green-thumb designer Bill Bensley felled no trees nor allowed any TVs—who needs them when you’re living in a semi-historical fantasy novella, with leather-seated antler-topped toilets?
Courtesy of Capella Ubud.
Score: 99.85
Raised above the forested slopes of the Keliki Valley, 22 dramatic, one-bedroom tents outfitted with antiques, local textiles and private pools immerse guests in a Bill Bensley–designed glam jungle camp.
2. The Ritz-Carlton
Bali, Indonesia
Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.
Score: 98.85
3. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
Score: 98.79
4. Leela Palace
Udaipur, India
Courtesy of Leela Palace.
Score: 97.64
5. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa, Thailand
Courtesy of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa.
Score: 97.57
6. Belmond Jimbaran Puri
Bali, Indonesia
Courtesy of Belmond Jimbaran Puri.
Score: 97.50
7. Oberoi Rajvilas
Jaipur, India
Courtesy of Oberoi Rajvilas.
Score: 97.33
*On the list for the past ten years
8. The Mulia
Bali, Indonesia
Courtesy of The Mulia, Bali.
Score: 96.73
9. Rambagh Palace
Jaipur, India
Courtesy of Rambagh Palace.
Score: 96.50
10. Oberoi Amarvilas
Agra, India
Courtesy of Oberoi Amarvilas.
Score: 96.45
*On the list for the past ten years
