Discovering The Edge List 2025
In a celebration of extraordinary travel experiences, Forbes Travel Guide (FTG), the authoritative voice in luxury hospitality, has revealed The Edge List 2025. This prestigious list honors 20 distinct hotels, resorts, and cruises worldwide, showcasing venues that push the envelope of travel and hospitality. With an emphasis on captivating destinations off the beaten path, these selections ensure that guests not only enjoy elite comforts but also engage with nature and culture in unforgettable ways.
Categories Reflecting Unique Experiences
The Edge List 2025 features an array of categories, including:
- - Animal Encounters: Dive into immersive wildlife experiences.
- - Beach Adventures: Relax in remote, picturesque beachside paradises.
- - Cultural Immersion: Engage deeply with local traditions and heritage.
- - Natural Wonders: Explore breathtaking natural landscapes.
- - Ocean Expeditions: Discover the mysteries of the ocean on small, specialized cruise ships.
- - Wilderness Retreats: Reconnect with nature in serene, isolated retreats.
Among the honored properties is the
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve located in Krabi, Thailand. This tranquil 54-room resort is enveloped by majestic limestone cliffs, lush rainforests, and the stunning emerald waters of the Andaman Sea, exemplifying luxury intertwined with natural beauty. Another noteworthy recipient is the
Hotel das Cataratas, a Belmond property situated inside the heart of Brazil's Iguacu National Park. This breathtaking hotel offers guests unparalleled access to one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
The list also includes
Silversea's Silver Origin, a cutting-edge cruise ship designed specifically for navigating the remarkable Galapagos Islands. This entry highlights the trend of travel that prioritizes remote, awe-inspiring experiences.
Ritz-Carlton’s Dominance
The Ritz-Carlton brand stands out with three properties boasting spots on The Edge List:
Nujuma in the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, and
Mandapa in Bali join Phulay Bay, reinforcing the brand's focus on exclusive, immersive travel experiences set in stunning, secluded locations. Each Ritz-Carlton property underscores a unique philosophy centered on creating a sense of discovery, inviting discerning travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path locales, thus enriching their travel narrative.
The Significance of 'Edge'
The term 'Edge' within the list stands for Exceptional Access to unreachable destinations, Daring Innovation in crafting adventurous experiences, Global Stewardship aimed at conservation and community care, and Elevated Experience dedicated to providing excellence in service and comfort. This multifaceted approach clearly illustrates the evolving definition of luxury travel, where experiential quality meets environmental awareness and community engagement.
Hermann Elger, the CEO of Forbes Travel Guide, expressed that "The Edge List celebrates the spirit of discovery that characterizes compelling travel. These honorees merge extraordinary access to unique locations with the outstanding comfort and services that travelers expect in high-end hospitality."
Selection Process
The selection of honorees is no small feat. Candidates are evaluated based on in-person visits conducted by FTG's incognito inspectors along with comprehensive research and inspection data, ensuring an unbiased and thorough review process. This rigorous assessment recognizes properties that genuinely excel in delivering unique, memorable experiences for their guests.
Among the honorees, one will be crowned the overall winner of the year during The Summit 2026, an annual event hosted by FTG that unites the elite of the travel and luxury sectors in Monaco this coming February.
For a complete look at the 2025 Edge List honorees, head over to
ForbesTravelGuide.com.
About Forbes Travel Guide
Forbes Travel Guide operates as the sole global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. Their anonymous inspectors evaluate each property according to hundreds of precise standards, accentuating exceptional service to assist discerning travelers in finding the world’s finest experiences. To achieve a Five-Star, Four-Star, or Recommended rating, properties must earn their recognition through an independent inspection process, ensuring high levels of service quality and luxury.
Conclusion
FTG's Edge List 2025 highlights a transforming landscape within luxury travel, revealing how travelers increasingly seek out authentic engagements with nature, culture, and innovative hospitality. The selected properties not only provide comfort and high-end services but are also instrumental in promoting conservation and awareness, offering travel experiences that respect and cherish the environments they inhabit.