Ann Abel

One of the Mediterranean's top luxury hoteliers has acquired the intimate hotel and infused it with new energy, while maintaining its Caribbean authenticity and generosity of spirit.

A close connection with wild nature and Italian culture sets the two hotels of Valle dell'Erica apart from the shinier, newer outposts of luxury in the nearby Costa Smeralda.

Homegrown and international chefs and restaurateurs are continuing to innovate and excel in Portugal's booming capital city, which is now punching far above its weight in gastronomy.

Just shy of its 100th birthday, the classic midtown hotel was reborn as part of the Royal Sonesta brand, with a design inspired by fictional friends, signature suites and a serious sleep program.

Domaine des Etangs, parts of which date from the 13th century, is deeply luxurious but also infused with a spirit of wonder, curiosity and play. It's a winning combination.

A thoughtful renovation of the Bom Bom hotel is the crown jewel of HBD Príncipe's efforts to create a model of small-footprint, high-luxe tourism and agriculture that benefits local communities.

From the deserts of Argentina and Australia to the fjords of Greenland and the tundra of the Yukon—with some comforts of Europe in between—these trips are designed with positive impacts in mind.

Professional eaters weigh in on their favorite recent discoveries, culinary newcomers and gastronomic hidden gems that likely won't stay under the radar for long.

While the big brands continue to grow, a new crop of smaller, independent and soulful hotels are attracting travelers looking for a break from the same old same old.

From a grand estate full of playful details in the deep countryside of France to a tented lodge beside the Indian Ocean on the Wild Coast of Sri Lanka, these outposts of hospitality stood out.