Curiosity, culture, connection… There are many reasons why we choose to travel. Whether your wanderlust is ignited by culinary exploration, design inspiration, or simply chasing the perfect golden hour, discover The Set’s award-winning stays that will feel made for you.
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For the Foodie
Hotel Café Royal, London
With its historic farmers’ markets and diverse restaurants offering everything from casual pop ups to fine dining, London will always beckon gastronomes. An experience that feels both relaxed and exceptional is Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal. Within six months of opening his eponymous restaurant at the iconic hotel, Dilling’s studied yet adventurous approach to classic French cooking won two Michelin stars. Three years on – a shining testament to his enduring culinary mastery – his Regent Street restaurant retains them.
The Temple House, Chengdu
China’s culinary capital is globally renowned for its flavourful Sichuan cuisine. Set within the restored Qing Dynasty courtyard of The Temple House, the Michelin-starred Mi Xun Teahouse offers a sophisticated afternoon tea experience. The restaurant’s seasonal, plant-based dishes are made with hand-picked local ingredients – one of many sustainable practices that led to the Teahouse being recognised with Chengdu’s first ever Michelin Green Star. Try the Black Tofu with Matsutake and Pumpkin Sauce.
For the Design Lover
The Upper House, Hong Kong
André Fu’s architecture, integrating organic materials with harmoniously proportioned spaces, is a feat of relaxed luxury at The Upper House. Beyond the hotel’s striking ‘Stone Curtains’ façade, guests are taken on a free-flowing upward journey above Admiralty’s Pacific Place, through impeccably-designed rooms featuring monolithic sculptures and artwork. The overall aesthetic, at once low-key and mesmerising, is one of the outstanding details earning The Upper House its top five place in The World’s 50 Best Hotels.
The Siam, Bangkok
Owned by a family of musicians and hoteliers, The Siam centres comfort and character in both design and service. Its monochrome architecture, along a peaceful stretch of the Chao Phraya River, is a dance of old and new. Guests are transported back to Bangkok’s Art Deco era through vintage touches, complemented with nostalgic experiences like playing tapes on a Walkman. Yet this luxury boutique feels fresh and cosmopolitan, with walls adorned in modern art. A timeless beauty deserving of its top 30 spot in The World’s 50 Best Hotels.
Conservatorium, Amsterdam
If Dutch design is characterised by minimalism and a sense of humour, Conservatorium – voted the best hotel in Amsterdam in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards – does both exceedingly well. In the heart of the city’s museum district, its Neo-Gothic façade belies eclectic interiors within. The tree-lined lobby, dubbed the living room of Amsterdam, is all space and light. Moving through the hotel, a blend of styles incorporating brick, glass, steel, and industrial beams honours the building’s former lives as a bank and a music school – a design lover’s dream.
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For the Sunset Seeker
Hotel Esencia, Xpu-Ha
‘A day spent with dreaming and sunsets and refreshing breezes cannot be bettered’ – Nicholas Sparks’ quote from The Notebook fits the experience at Hotel Esencia. Effortlessly earning its place on the World’s 50 Best list, alongside its coveted Three Michelin Keys, this tropical hideaway on the Mayan Riviera is ideal for enjoying a sundowner to the gentle lapping of turquoise waves. After a day spent snorkelling beneath crystal clear waters or unwinding in the organic spa, watch the Quintana Roo sunset dipping behind Xpu-Ha Bay.
Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao
The Philippines is admired for its sunsets, and Siargao offers some of the most breathtaking. As well as being a surfer’s paradise, the island is a haven of unhurried beauty. Unique resort Nay Palad Hideaway blends intuitively with its surroundings, inviting guests to connect with nature and embrace carefree island living. This model of ‘barefoot luxury’ – Tatler Asia’s Best Resort in the Philippines – features on the 50 Best Discovery list for its extraordinary guest experience. Enjoy golden hour from a teardrop-shaped cabana, or with a sunset swim.
