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Andrew Harper's 2025 Editors' Choice Awards

Andrew Harper, renowned as a leading authority in luxury travel since 1979, has made public its prestigious 2025 Editors' Choice Awards, celebrated in the December edition of the Hideaway Report. These awards shine a spotlight on the most remarkable hotels, dining experiences, and travel destinations identified by Andrew Harper's diligent editorial team over the past year.

Unveiling the Awards

This year's highlighted honor, the Hideaway of the Year, goes to OneOnly Portonovi in Montenegro, a stunning resort that boasts breathtaking views of the Adriatic coast and mountains. Its seamless blend of Mediterranean charm and modern sophistication, alongside exceptional wellness offerings, truly captivated our editors.

What differentiates these awards is their rigorous evaluation process. Andrew Harper editors venture anonymously, paying full rates and assessing all elements of the guest experience. The bar is set high, with no room for bias or favoritism; this year, only 46 out of 79 properties received a recommendation, showcasing a select endorsement rate of just 58 percent. Such stringent measures ensure that recommendations reflect authentic excellence, resonating with the sentiment of 86% of affluent travelers who prefer insights from reliable sources over algorithm-driven reviews.

A Year of Discovery

Don Jones, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Andrew Harper, reflects on this year’s extensive travels, which have explored Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline, the majestic palaces of India, New Zealand's beautiful wilderness, and the historic charm of Florence. Each journey unearthed unique hideaways and extraordinary hospitality that leave lasting memories.

Celebrated Hotels of the Year

In addition to OneOnly Portonovi, a prestigious list of winners includes celebrated hotels such as The Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York City, Villa Mabrouka in Tangier, and Flockhill in New Zealand, to name just a few. These accommodations have intrigued editors with their exceptional service and distinct charm, promising rich experiences for discerning travelers.

Noteworthy Re-Visits

Some properties have cemented their status as must-visit gems, including The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra, renowned for its unparalleled views of the Taj Mahal, and the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina. Each property surpassed expectations, reaffirming their place in travelers’ hearts.

Remarkable Comebacks

Several properties exhibited impressive resurrections this year, standing out for their transformative renovations and renewed vibrancy. Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa in Wyoming, the recently reimagined Waldorf Astoria New York, and Rosewood Little Dix Bay in the British Virgin Islands turned heads with their revitalized offerings.

Dining Excellence

From Indonesia to Italy, the Restaurants of the Year category was filled with remarkable culinary discoveries. Eateries like Manga in Salvador, Restaurant De Kas in Amsterdam, and La Verdoyante near Saint-Tropez emerged as top-tier dining experiences.

For hotel dining, participants enjoyed outstanding choices such as La Grande Table Marocaine in Casablanca and Monti at The Alpina Gstaad in Switzerland.

Best in Class and Unique Experiences

Andrew Harper also recognizes its Hospitality Awards, featuring Chef of the Year Taylor Cullen from Flockhill and Staff of the Year from Regent Santa Monica Beach. Here, service excellence and innovative hospitality flourished, paving the way for a memorable guest experience.

Awards are further categorized to honor those with best amenities, with Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui winning for best pool and Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Hotel celebrated for its pristine beach.

A Look Ahead: 2026 Destinations

As the year concludes, Andrew Harper's editors are already eyeing exciting destinations for 2026, including Malta, Puerto Rico, and California's San Juan Islands. Each locale presents new offerings and enticing experiences destined to captivate luxury travelers.

Andrew Harper remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering independent, honest evaluations, ensuring that every recommendation is meaningful and respected within the luxury travel community. With real travel experiences crafted by skilled editors, it's no wonder why traveling enthusiasts turn to Andrew Harper for guidance.