Out of 15 hotels this year, these are the few I'd plan a return trip around
How I booked them, who they are best for, and the details that earned a return stay
This is From the Window Seat, a series of deeply researched, design-forward dispatches for people who believe in the art of traveling well. From immersive itineraries to standout hotel reviews, each one offers everything you need to experience a place—or a property—with intention and great taste.
Becoming a full-time travel writer this year meant it also was a banner year for hotel stays.
Between New York staycations, hosted trips, and longer journeys through Menorca, Amsterdam, and Portugal, I checked into more than 15 hotels throughout the year. But this is not a complete ledger of every stay. Instead, it’s a considered edit of the properties that stayed with me long after check-out, and the ones I’d plan a return trip around without hesitation.
Below, I’m highlighting just five hotels that best represent the range of stays I experienced this year, from intimate boutique hotels and farmhouse-style retreats to estate stays and heritage luxury brands. Each one offers something distinct, whether it’s a sense of place, exceptional service, or a small detail that elevates the entire affair.
For each, I share who it’s best for, how I booked it, and the specific can’t-miss elements that made it stand out.
