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Top Fascinating Hotels Around the World

By Nikita Nielsen · 12. April 2024

Exploring the hotel industry reveals a blend of historic elegance, modern achievements, and exceptional luxury🏙️.

But what facts about the hotel industry are particularly remarkable?

From towering skyscrapers to luxury suites, this article goes beyond the lobby to present you with some insightful revelations about the hotel industry.

Key Takeaways

  • Dubai leads the skyscraper game with establishments such as the Gevora and the upcoming Ciel Tower, but it faces global competition from historical landmarks in New York City.
  • If you’re up for a night of sheer luxury, check out some of the world’s most expensive hotel rooms, where the views alone can cost more than a high-end car per night.
  • From ancient inns in Japan to resort pools that surpass the size of a small town – the hotel sector offers much more than simple lodging and free perks.

Skyscrapers: The World’s Tallest Hotels

Night View of One of The World's Tallest Hotels Night View of One of Burj Al Arab Hotel, Dubai

Dubai’s skyline is filled with towering skyscrapers that kick off our journey into the hotel industry’s high-reaching achievements.

The pinnacle of this is the Gevora Hotel, standing proud at 356 metres with 75 floors, making it the world’s tallest hotel.

Dubai city also hosts the JW Marriott Marquis and the Burj Al Arab, reaching heights of 355 metres and 321 metres, respectively.

But Dubai isn’t the only city playing in the skyscraper game. In Bangkok, the Baiyoke Tower II stretches up to 309 metres with 85 floors. New York City also had its own giant back in 1926—the Ritz Tower, once the tallest hotel at 165 metres.

The hospitality industry is only going to get more impressive. The Ciel Tower is set to break all existing records and become the world’s tallest hotel at 366 metres by 2024.

Surely, the future of the hotel industry is going sky-high!

The Most Expensive Hotel Rooms Globally

Hotel President Wilson in Geneva Switzerland Hotel President Wilson in Geneva Switzerland

The hotel industry doesn’t just reach for the skies, it dives deep into the world of luxury✨.

Imagine spending a night in the Royal Penthouse suite of Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, which is considered the most expensive hotel room in the world, costing approximately $80,000 per night.

This isn’t just a room – it’s an entry into the lifestyle of the ultra-rich and famous.

Then there’s Empathy Suite at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, which offers massage rooms, a salt room, and a private pool, all for $100,000 per night.

There’s also The Mark Penthouse at The Mark Hotel in New York City, which offers panoramic views of Central Park for around $75,000 per night.

The Lover’s Deep Luxury Submarine Hotel in St. Lucia also offers a super unique way to sleep under the sea, marking it as a top choice for adventurous travellers.

Historic Hospitality: The Legacy of the Oldest Hotels

view of Japanese hotel view of Japanese hotel

We now travel back in time to visit the world’s oldest hotels, where it’s not just about the brick and mortar, but the stories these walls could tell if they could talk.

Take the Koshu Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan, the oldest hotel in the world, with a history of over 1300 years and maintained by over 50 generations of the same family.

Imagine the tales of the countless guests it has hosted over the centuries!

But history continues to thrive beyond just Japan. In the UK, The Lygon Arms has been welcoming guests since 1377, serving as a historic site for figures from the royal family and the English Civil War.

The Dorchester in London was built as a private residence in 1792 and is now a protected Grade II-listed building.

The charm of these historical hotel brands is in how they’ve managed to blend their historic allure with modern touches to keep up with today’s hospitality standards.

Properties like Mohonk Mountain House in New York, still operated by the founding family, and Raffles Hotel Singapore, now a national monument, are perfect examples of this.

Giants of Accommodation: The Largest Hotels and Their Offerings

View of The First World Hotel Malaysia View of The First World Hotel Malaysia

Returning from our historical exploration to the present, we delve into the grand scale of the hotel industry.

The First World Hotel Malaysia holds the record as the largest hotel with a total of 7,351 rooms.

These hotels offer more than just a plethora of rooms; they cater to the diverse needs of their guests with amenities including on-site restaurants, fitness centres, and business services.

What’s more, the First World Hotel isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a destination in itself, with nearby attractions including Sky Avenue, Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, and Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park, along with dining options like Mr Dakgalbi At Skyavenue.

And with a multilingual staff fluent in English, Chinese, and Malay, the hotel ensures a comfortable stay for guests from around the globe.

A Snapshot in Fame: The World’s Most Photographed Hotels

Shifting our gaze from the largest to the most visually captivating, we highlight the world’s most photographed hotels.

These hotels stand out not just for their service or luxury, but for their striking beauty and unique features that make them a favourite among photographers.

Some of these hotels include:

  • Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City
  • Marina Bay Sands in Singapore
  • Burj Al Arab in Dubai
  • The Plaza Hotel in New York City
  • The Ritz Paris in Paris

These hotels are not only popular among tourists, but also among photographers who are looking to capture the perfect shot of a photographed hotel.

Some hotels like the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino and The Venetian in Las Vegas stand out with their replicas of famous global landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Venetian canals, attracting those keen on photography.

Voyage by Sea: Exploring the Charm of Cruise Ship Destinations

Let’s embark on an adventure across the open seas. Cruise ship destinations have become an integral part of the hospitality industry, offering unique travel experiences.

Some popular cruise ship destinations include:

  • The Caribbean, with its diverse cruise routes
  • The Bahamas
  • New Zealand
  • The Norwegian Fjords
  • Western Europe

And many more unique spots around the globe, each with their own world records.

Cruises offer great value for money, combining transportation, accommodations, and meals into one package, and allowing visits to multiple destinations without the need for constant repacking.

These cruises aren’t just for adults. Families are particularly drawn to cruises due to child-friendly facilities and age-appropriate activities, ensuring enjoyment for all members of the family.

Summary

This article has taken you on a tour of the hotel industry, from towering skyscraper hotels in Dubai to the world’s most expensive suites.

It also explores the charm of ancient accommodations in Japan, the world’s largest hotels like Malaysia’s First World Hotel, and the most photographed spots such as Marina Bay Sands.

Whether it’s towering heights, stunning sights, or charming old-world sites, there’s a captivating story waiting at every turn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an interesting fact about the hotel industry?

Did you know that the world’s largest hotel is the First World Hotel & Plaza in Genting Highlands, Malaysia, with 7,351 rooms and even an on-site theme park?

What makes the hotel industry unique?

The hotel industry is unique because it combines service and product with an inherently perishable inventory—a truly distinct blend!

What is the biggest hotel chain?

Marriott International takes the crown as the largest hotel chain in the world, with an impressive 31 brands, nearly 8700 hotels, and over one and a half million rooms in 139 countries.

How do you describe a hotel?

A hotel is a place where you can stay, eat, and receive services while travelling, ranging from cosy family-run spots to fancy international chains.

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