Luxury Hotels: Extraordinary Facts You Didn’t Know

When you think of luxury hotels, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the image of pristine white sands stretching out to meet the crystal blue ocean at an exclusive beach resort. It, of course, has the grandeur of a historic palace turned hotel, where every room tells a story. Or it could be the cutting-edge modernity of a skyscraper hotel with views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Whatever your vision, luxury hotels offer experiences that go beyond mere accommodation. 

They offer a glimpse into a world where elegance, luxury, and extraordinary service are the norms.

But beyond the plush pillows, fine dining, and impeccable service, there are fascinating facts about luxury hotels that might surprise you. Here, we uncover some of the most extraordinary facts you didn’t know about luxury hotels.

The World’s Oldest Luxury Hotel

The Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan in Japan holds the title of the world’s oldest luxury hotel. Established in 705 AD, this hotel has been operated by the same family for over 50 generations. Nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture, it offers hot springs enjoyed by samurais, emperors, and travelers alike for over a millennium. This enduring legacy of hospitality is a testament to the timeless appeal of luxury and impeccable service.

A Room with a View – Underwater Luxury Hotel

Imagine waking up to the sight of marine life swimming around you without leaving the comfort of your bed. This dream is a reality at The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, the world’s first underwater hotel residence. Situated 16 feet below sea level, this underwater suite offers a unique view of the Indian Ocean’s vibrant marine life. The suite is designed to blend luxury and innovation, featuring a personal chef, a private boat, and even an on-call fitness trainer.

Hotels Made of Ice and Snow

Luxury can also be found in the most unexpected places, including inside an ice hotel. The ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is rebuilt every winter from the ice and snow of the nearby Torne River. Artists worldwide gather to create stunning ice sculptures and design unique rooms, making each year’s hotel different from the last. Guests sleep on ice beds covered with reindeer skins and enjoy warm beverages to fend off the chill, surrounded by dazzling ice artistry.

The Most Expensive Luxury Hotel Suite

If you want to indulge in the ultimate luxury, the Royal Penthouse Suite at the Hotel President Wilson in Geneva, Switzerland, might be your destination. This suite, covering the entire eighth floor, costs upwards of $80,000 per night. It features 12 bedrooms, 12 marble bathrooms, a Steinway grand piano, and a private terrace with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. The suite also includes bulletproof windows, a panic button, and a private security team for those who require extra protection.

A Private Island Getaway

For those who seek privacy and exclusivity, luxury hotels on private islands offer the perfect escape. One such place is the Brando on Tetiaroa, an atoll in French Polynesia. Once the private retreat of Marlon Brando, this eco-friendly resort features villas with private pools, a lagoon, and a spa that uses traditional Polynesian treatments. The Brando is not just a getaway but a commitment to sustainability powered by renewable energy sources, focusing on preserving the natural environment.

Palatial Stays in Converted Castles

In Europe, many luxury hotels are housed in historic castles and palaces, offering a blend of history and luxury. An example is Ashford Castle in Ireland, built in the 13th century. This majestic castle-turned-hotel features medieval architecture, lavish interiors, and various activities, including falconry, horseback riding, and golf. Staying here is like stepping back in time, with modern amenities ensuring complete comfort.

The Most Haunted Luxury Hotel

Luxury hotels are not just about opulence; some are steeped in intriguing history and legends. The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and its haunted reputation. This hotel inspired Stephen King’s “The Shinin” after he stayed in Room 217. Guests and staff have reported numerous ghost sightings and paranormal activities, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the supernatural.

Floating Luxury – Yacht Hotels

Yacht hotels offer a unique take on luxury accommodation, blending nautical adventure and opulent living. The Sunborn Gibraltar is a floating hotel moored in the Mediterranean. This five-star yacht hotel features luxurious rooms with private balconies, a spa, a casino, and fine-dining restaurants, all while being surrounded by the beautiful waters of Gibraltar. Yacht hotels provide a unique way to experience luxury, combining the elegance of a luxury hotel with the thrill of being on the water.

The Highest Hotel in the World

The world’s highest hotel, the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong, occupies the top floors of the International Commerce Centre, the tallest building in Hong Kong. It is located between the 102nd and 118th floors and offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. The hotel features an indoor infinity pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a rooftop bar that makes you feel like you’re floating above the city.

The Most Exclusive Membership

For those who want a consistently luxurious experience, Aman Resorts offers an exclusive club called the Aman Club. This membership provides access to the brand’s 34 properties worldwide, including remote locations like Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Aman Resorts is known for its minimalist design, exceptional service, and serene environments, providing a haven of tranquillity and luxury.

Eco-Friendly Luxury

Sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive, and many luxury hotels are leading the way in eco-friendly practices. For instance, the Soneva Fushi in the Maldives is a pioneer in sustainable luxury. This resort is powered by solar energy, has its water bottling plant to reduce plastic waste, and operates a zero-waste policy. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations while knowing their stay has minimal environmental impact.

Luxury in the Skies

Luxury hotels are not limited to land and sea; some offer unique experiences in the sky. The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience allows guests to travel the world in a custom-designed private jet, staying in Four Seasons hotels in various exotic locations. This 24-day journey includes destinations like Bora Bora, Sydney, and Marrakech, with personalized itineraries and exclusive experiences at each stop.

Personalized Services Beyond Imagination

Luxury hotels are known for going above and beyond to cater to their guests’’ needs. At the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, each suite has a dedicated butler available 24/7. The hotel offers a pillow menu with 17 options, ranging from eiderdown to memory foam, ensuring guests have the perfect night’s sleep. At the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, guests can enjoy a bath prepared with fresh flowers and aromatic oils by their butler, creating a bespoke relaxation experience.

Culinary Excellence

Fine dining is an integral part of the luxury hotel experience. Many luxury hotels boast Michelin-starred restaurants helmed by world-renowned chefs. The Plaza Athénée in Paris is home to Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, a restaurant that focuses on naturalness, using organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s innovative approach to French cuisine and its elegant setting make dining here an unforgettable experience.

Art and Culture

Luxury hotels often patronize the arts, featuring extensive art collections and hosting cultural events. The St. Regis New York has a renowned art collection, including works by Picasso and Dali. The hotel also hosts jazz performances, continuing a tradition that dates back to its opening in 1904. These hotels offer guests a rich and immersive experience by blending art and culture with luxury.

Conclusion

Luxury hotels are more than just places to stay; they are destinations in their own right, offering unique experiences that blend luxury, history, innovation, and unparalleled service. Whether sleeping in an underwater suite, staying in a historic castle, or enjoying eco-friendly luxury on a private island, these extraordinary facts about luxury hotels reveal a world where the boundaries of hospitality are constantly being pushed. The next time you consider a luxury getaway, remember that beyond the five-star rating lies a wealth of fascinating stories and exceptional experiences waiting to be discovered.