1. Passalacqua, Lake Como

This beguiling 18th-century villa on Lake Como is everything you'd hope for from the best hotel in the world. It boasts the very best of luxury Italian acccommodation in 24 baroque-style rooms, impeccable terraced gardens, and uninterrupted lake views. Sit poolside with a chilled prosecco in hand or bask in the glorious interiors which feature original Murano glass chandeliers, gilded mirrors, 19th-century portraits, and lacquered antique tables. To take things to a higher level, there are also complimentary daily activities from flower arranging courses to gelato-making classes. You'll be living la dolce vita.

3. Four Seasons, Bangkok at Chao Phraya River

The Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is renowned for its opulent and well-appointed guest rooms and suites, and the contemporary Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River outpost has been positioned as the most impressive offering of them all. Described as a "design-savvy urban retreat", this sleek stay offers riverside luxury with 299 airy rooms and suites swathed in chic neutral tones. There's an abundance of green outdoor spaces and an expansive pool so you can luxuriate outdoors if you're keen for a change of scenery from the amazing skyline views. And if you're looking to completely unwind, the Urban Wellness Centre gives any luxury hotel a run for its money.

5. Aman, Tokyo

Another breathtaking hotel which offers peace and quiet from busy city life is Aman Tokyo. The best of modern Japanese design is showcased here with washi paper sliding doors, tatami rolls, and monochrome calligraphy scrolls adorning the walls. The pared-back rooms are huge, even by Tokyo standards, overlooking the Imperial Palace complex and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji. The most dreamy spot to admire these views is from your own luxurious soaking tub. There's a sleek pool on the 34th level which overlooks the city, yoga and pilates studios, Japanese baths, and steam rooms.

7. Soneva Fushi, Maldives

You’ll bathe in the beauty and serenity of the Maldives from the moment you wake up at Soneva Fushi. Only accessible by a 40-minute seaplane, this is a true oasis away from your 9-5. There is a “no news, no shoes” policy here, to encourage "disconnecting from the stresses of daily life and reconnecting with the earth with the sand between your toes." The 53 villas are either ensconced with tropical vegetation or perched on the turquoise water. The resort grows much of its own produce, so there's fresh food aplenty. The island life is calling!

9. Four Seasons Firenze, Italy

A beautifully restored 15th-century Medici palace. That's all we needed to hear to want to stay at this arresting hotel. Tucked away in the Gherardesca gardens, Four Seasons Firenze take guests back to The Renaissance with period furnishings, statues, and original frescos. And much like the city itself, this Four Seasons hotel is filled with Italian art.