The 10 Best New Hotels of 2014

As 2015 steadily approaches, we here at HotelsCombined have once more looked back at the world’s most incredible hotel openings over the last 12 months. With hundreds of exciting new properties added to our database this year, it was certainly a tough job limiting our favourites to a list of ten. To help with our decision, we based our selection on factors such as location, uniqueness of amenities and quality of service. The end result is a phenomenal group of castles, beach retreats and architectural wonders that we hope you’ll agree are truly one-of-a-kind:

Shangri-La at the Shard, London

The stunning Shangri La Hotel at the Shard

The Shangri-La’s first UK property, this highly-anticipated hotel has been greeted by nothing but rave reviews since its May opening.  Housed within the 34th to 52nd floors of London’s iconic Shard skyscraper, the hotel naturally offers spectacular city views (the Shard is the tallest building in Europe). It also delivers an acclaimed onsite restaurant, a champagne bar, an infinity sky pool on the 52nd floor and an enviable location in the heart of the London Bridge Quarter.

citizenM Times Square, New York City

citizenM Times Square

Trendy and colourful, this U.S. debut of the citizenM hotel chain is perfectly situated within walking distance of many famous New York sites, including Rockefeller Centre, the theatre district and Central Park. Other perks: The rooftop bar offers panoramic city views, the latest movies are available in-room (for free!) and the onsite café is open 24 hours a day. Above all, the boutique-style luxury here is budget-friendly – rooms start at $199 USD a night, a real bargain for Midtown Manhattan.

Pikaia Lodge, Galapagos Islands

Amazing view from the Pikaia Lodge

Located on Santa Cruz Island, in the centre of the Galapagos archipelago, Pikaia Lodge is a sustainable, eco-friendly retreat that enjoys a picturesque setting on top of an extinct volcano crater. Close to a number of major wildlife sites and pristine beaches, the property offers a range of guided excursions and even boasts its own private Tortoise Reserve. And the facilities ain’t too shabby either – a gourmet restaurant, spa, infinity pool and cosy lounge all await weary travellers after a long day of exploration.

Cromlix House, Scotland

Bath with a view at Cromlix House

Owned by tennis superstar Andy Murray, this elegant Victorian mansion provides a peaceful, high-end countryside escape. Evoking the grand estates of yesteryear, the manor is tastefully furnished in Scottish antiques and onsite activities along the sprawling grounds include tennis (naturally), clay pigeon shooting, fishing, falconry and archery. The world-renowned golf courses of Gleneagles and St. Andrews are also only a short drive away, as are a handful of other premier courses.

Sofitel So Singapore

Stay in glamour at the Sofitel So in Singapore

Housed in a heritage building near Raffles Place, the Sofitel So’s décor – which includes elements designed by Karl Lagerfield himself – features a traditional 19th Century French style with a contemporary twist. Special touches here include in-room iPad minis, a gold-tiled rooftop infinity pool and complimentary mini bar drinks.

The Castle Hotel, Dalian, China

The Castle Hotel, Dailan China

Perched atop Lianhua Mountain and overlooking the Yellow Sea, this imposing chateau appears at first glance to be something straight out of a fairy tale. The enormous structure contains 292 guest rooms, spa, fitness centre, indoor pool, several restaurants and a “royal cellar” with a micro-brewery. For those really looking to splash out, the 6,674 square foot Presidential Suite has a marble entrance, dining room for 10, a full-service pantry and a waterfront balcony.

Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman

A hotel with a view, Alila Jabal Akhdar

Nestled within the Al Hajar mountain range, this serene retreat is surrounded by a stunning natural landscape teeming with caves, valleys, flowers, fruit trees and heritage sites (including the UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort). Guests can take a dip in the heated outdoor infinity pool overlooking the breathtaking gorge below or, for those who prefer, the villas have private terraces with plunge pools.

Ace Hotel, Los Angeles

The funky Ace Hotel, LA

A hipster’s paradise, this funky new L.A. abode plays an important part in the city’s cultural legend – housed within the historic United Artists building, the tower was once a movie studio and theatre hub for independent artists. Today, it’s a stylishly renovated getaway where an in-room extra perk might include an acoustic guitar. Best of all, the stunning 1920s theatre still houses a number of regular events and can be booked out for private functions.

Yemaya Island Hideaway, Nicaragua

Yemaya Island Hideaway

A spectacular tropical getaway, Yemaya offers up 16 ultra-luxe, eco-friendly cabanas. Lucky visitors to this retreat on Little Corn Island can laze about in a hammock, enjoy a relaxing yoga session at the lush jungle studio, sip on a cocktail at the beachside bar, partake in a variety of water sports, tuck into an organic, locally-sourced meal at the onsite restaurant, or simply enjoy an indulgent spa treatment.

Stracta Hotel, Iceland

Simple elegance at the Stracta Hotel, Iceland

Only an hour and a half drive south of the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík, this warm and inviting haven allows guests to enjoy the region’s rugged natural beauty within the utmost comfort. Visitors can choose from an assortment of unforgettable activities ranging from helicopter rides to guided tours of the Northern Lights. And at the end of the day, two large saunas await just outside the property’s doors, ready to soothe away any aching muscles.

Do you agree/disagree with our picks? Did we miss anything? Let us know!

The Top Cities In The World To Spend NYE

The countdown is nearly here; soon the champagne corks will be popping and the bells will be ringing. So where will you be? Where is your destination of choice to celebrate the transition of 2014 to 2015?

We’ve taken a look at our database of hotels (there are over 800,000 in there!) to see just where our users (over 30 million every month) are headed. So if you are wondering where all the cool kids will be staying on the 31st December 2014, without further ado these are the top destinations:

1. London, UK
2. Taipei City, Taiwan
3. Tokyo, Japan
4. Hong Kong, China
5. Melbourne, Australia
6. Bangkok, Thailand
7. Sydney, Australia
8. Osaka, Japan
9. Seoul, South Korea
10. Paris, France

Tokyo ranks #3 on the list of NYE destinations

It seems that the idea of fireworks over the Thames on December 31 is drawing the crowds and making London the most popular destination in the world for New Years Eve. While it is one of the most expensive destinations listed, at $217 (USD) per night on average; travellers have been getting in early and have been booking their accommodation on average 79 days before New years Eve.

Sydney is the most expensive destination of the top ten

Sydney ranks as the seventh most popular destination for New Years Eve, but it is the most expensive of the ten, with travellers paying an average of $327(USD) per night of accommodation.  Those planning on celebrating the New Year in Sydney this year have been very organised, with most booking their accommodation in a massive 92 days prior to New Years on average. To get the best view for future celebrations, check our selection of Sydney hotels with perfect harbour views.

Bangkok is the most affordable of the popular New Years Eve destinations

In sixth position, Bangkok is the most affordable destination of the ten for New Years celebrations. Travellers are paying an average of $99(USD) per night and are opting, on average, for four-star accommodation. Seoul and Osaka are the next most affordable destinations of the top ten at an average of $137(USD) per night.

Where will you be celebrating this year? Are there any destinations you’d recommend that we check out?

Hotels with Height: The World’s Ten Best Treetop Stays

A treehouse sojourn is a memorable holiday that every avid traveller should add to their bucket list. From the steamy jungles of the Amazon to the snow-capped mountains of New Zealand, we’ve unearthed the planet’s most incredible treetop escapes:

Tongabezi Lodge, Zambia

Could there be a more peaceful place to relax?

Tucked away along the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the famous Victoria Falls, this retreat provides a truly secluded, serene experience. Their treehouse suite, housed amongst the branches of a majestic Ebony tree, provides amazing waterfront views which can be enjoyed either from the canopied king-size bed or whilst taking a soak within the oversized, claw-footed bathtub.

Treehotel, Sweden

A quiet oasis in the leaves

The contemporary forest residences at the Treehotel – which include a floating UFO, reflective mirror cube and branch-covered bird’s nest – have made ‘best of’ lists in travel magazines across the globe. A truly unique Swedish experience, visitors can unwind in the Tree Sauna or sample reindeer meat at the onsite restaurant.

Bangkok Tree House, Thailand

A stunning place to watch the sunrise

A respite from the hustle and bustle of one of Asia’s busiest cities, this environmentally-friendly sanctuary is hidden away on the mangrove-laden island of Bang Krachao (widely referred to as Bangkok’s “green lung”).  While the property offers several treetop “nests,” we particularly love the “View with a Room,” an open outdoor platform perched seven metres above ground.

Ariau Amazon Towers Hotel, Brazil

A different way to experience the Amazon

Widely regarded as the world’s largest treetop hotel, this eco-conscious resort sits high within the lush foliage of the Amazon rainforest. Boasting an impressive five miles of wooden catwalks connecting its 268 rooms and suites, guests here can also enjoy a treetop pool, restaurant, bar and amphitheatre. And there’s no shortage of activities either – unique outings range from swimming with pink dolphins to piranha fishing.

Tsala Treetop Lodge, South Africa

A siimply unbeatable view

Offering 10 private treetop suites and six luxurious villas, Tsala is a five-star refuge nestled within the lush foliage of South Africa’s famed Garden Route.  Guests here can enjoy their own fireplace, secluded deck and infinity plunge pool.

Xinalani Retreat, Mexico

Now that is a view to wake to in the morning

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Xinalani_Retreat_Puerto_Vallarta.htm

A relaxing yoga retreat set in picturesque Puerto Vallarta, the elevated jungle cabins at Xinalani emit a truly tropical treehouse look with their thatched roofs and open-air spaces. All accommodation is ocean front, with some suites providing special rustic touches such as hammocks and outdoor showers.

Tree House Hideaway, India

See a different side of India

An ideal spot for animal-lovers, this intimate hideaway overlooks the acclaimed Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve – home to one of India’s largest tiger populations as well as spotted deer, jackals, wild boar and a number of bird varieties. The property’s five cosy treehouses are spread across 21 acres of dense wilderness, ensuring total privacy and abundant wildlife spotting.

Hapuku Lodge, New Zealand

Ahhh…. unparalleled views

Suspended 30 feet above ground within a grove of native Manuka trees, the treehouse accommodation at Hapuku delivers stunning views of New Zealand’s Kaikoura mountain range. Parents travelling with children will appreciate the family treehouse – a spacious, split-level dwelling with an upper and lower bedroom.

Dominican Treehouse Village, Dominican Republic

Much more impressive than the childhood treehouse you dreamed about!

We can picture Tarzan himself happily bunking in the airy outdoor huts at this lively jungle village. Situated within the dense rainforest of the Dominican’s Samana province, the retreat’s 20 canopy lodgings are within proximity to a cascading waterfall and pristine beach.

Silky Oaks Lodge, Australia

Surround yourself with nature

Guests at this North Queensland bush retreat receive quite a list of perks in addition to their lofty accommodation – all rooms come complete with a gourmet breakfast, use of river canoes, yoga classes, mountain bike rentals and guided rainforest 

Cosy Country Getaways: Australia’s Ten Best Hidden Gems

Australia is about so much more than its major city centres – from beaches to deserts, we lay claim to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet. With over 12,000 diverse Aussie accommodation options on our site, we here at HotelsCombined offer a vast quantity of truly incredible country retreats and that’s why, with the Australia Day long weekend once more upon us, we decided to list our 10 favourites.

Based on features such as location, amenities and guest reviews, these stand-out properties promise a truly unforgettable – and distinctly Australian – experience:

Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat, Tweed Valley, New South Wales

Get back to nature with a dip in the pool at Crystal Creek Rainforest Retreat

Location: A former banana plantation situated on the cusp of the New South Wales and Queensland border.

Highlights: The property’s bungalows are enveloped by lush vegetation and strategically placed far enough apart to ensure complete privacy. In-room perks include a double spa bath and a fully-equipped kitchen, with some lodges even boasting heated plunge pools.

We recommend: The nearby walking trails, which weave through pristine creeks, rockpools and a glow worm colony.

Driftwood Cottages, Huon Valley, Tasmania

A spa with a view overlooking Port Esperance Bay at the Driftwood Cottages

Location: A small, peaceful marine community in Tasmania’s far south.

Highlights: All accommodation options here provide sublime waterfront views over Port Esperance Bay.

We recommend: Splurging on the Beach House for its private outdoor Jacuzzi and indoor wood fire stove.

Stonewell Cottages and Vineyards, Barossa Valley, South Australia

The rustic and beautiful Stonewell Cottages and Vineyards

Location: A sprawling vineyard estate with its own lakefront.

Highlights: From Nespresso machines to candles, all the extra in-room touches here really make this place shine (there’s even a little container of breakfast to feed the property’s resident ducks!). Other perks include complimentary fishing rods and private outdoor courtyards with gas barbeques.

We recommend:  Exploring the estate via row boat (naturally, the use of the property boats is complimentary).

Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat, Atherton Tablelands, Queensland

The perfect deck for an Australia Day BBQ

Location: A tropical sanctuary nestled within the coastal mountain ranges of the Cairns Highlands.

Highlights: We love the hand-crafted treehouses here, all of which come equipped with luxury amenities such as a large spa bath, private balcony, internal laundry and a complimentary breakfast hamper.

We recommend: For a family holiday. The property welcomes guests of all ages – highchairs, children’s backpacks and cots are all available upon request.

Faraway Bay Cabins, the Kimberley, Western Australia

No need to move for the day. This is the perfect place to spend a relaxing public holiday

Location: A remote setting of untouched beaches, freshwater pools and vast coastline.

Highlights: One-of-a-kind features include secluded outdoor showers, nightly campfires under the stars and a clifftop golf course.

We recommend:  Indulging in a scenic helicopter tour.

Cape Otway Cottages, Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Hear that? That’s the serenity of Cape Otway cottages.

Location: Sheltered within 60 acres of native bushland between the forest and the coast.

Highlights: Pet-owners will appreciate that the accommodation here is all pooch-friendly – special canine amenities include beds, towels and natural dog treats.

We recommend: A stay in the Dunes Homestead, a luxury three-bedroom holiday house with amazing views and a gourmet kitchen.

Berenbell Vineyard Retreat, Hunter Valley, New South Wales

The Berenbell Vineyard Retreat is in the heart of wine country in the Hunter Valley

Location: Centrally located in wine country, a mere two minute drive from 17 different cellar doors.

Highlights: A picture-perfect haven with quaint accommodation touches like claw-foot tubs and cedar bay windows.

We recommend:  A visit to the Blue Tongue Brewery, which is just a four minute walk away.

Spring Creek Mountain Café and Cottages, Killarney, Queensland

Stay in bed all day and take in the views from Spring Creek Mountain Café and Cottages

Location: Perched 1,005 metres above sea level, overlooking several famed Scenic Rim sites including the Condamine Gorge and Wilson’s Peak.

Highlights: Spectacular panoramas can be had nearly everywhere on the property and fresh, locally-sourced fare is only a short walk away at the onsite café.

We recommend: A guided bushwalking tour or horseback riding expedition.

Dragonfly Lodge, Rocky Hills, Tasmania

The Dragonfly Lodge overlooks the Tasman Sea

Location: On a clifftop, boasting dramatic panoramas of the Tasman Sea.

Highlights: Offering up three spacious bedrooms each with its own en suite bathroom, the self-catered residence houses an open stone fireplace, reading library, fully-stocked pantry and even an electronic piano (should the need for an impromptu music session arise).

We recommend: For a get-together or special even.

Woodlands Rainforest Retreat, Yarra Valley, Victoria

You’ll love spending a weekend at the Woodlands Rainforest Retreat

Location: Overlooking a quiet lake amidst a thick tangle of fern gullies.

Highlights: The spacious outdoor veranda is a lovely spot to unwind with a glass of wine or to view the resident wildlife (sightings could include kookaburras, wombats, wallabies, echidnas and platypus).

We recommend: Spoiling yourself with an in-room massage or ordering a gourmet picnic basket for an outdoor adventure.

Which one would you pick? Have we missed any that you think should be included on this list?

To book your iconic Australian getaway, visit HotelsCombined for more than 800,000 property options.