National Geographic Traveller (UK)
CITY SLICKER
THE HOXTON, ROME
It’s no exaggeration to say the lines between work and home life have been well and truly blurred over the past year, but there are some hotels that have the concept down to an art. With lobbies that feels like the neighbourhood’s living room and classy cocktails to end the day, The Hoxton’s formula has always been a winner wherever it’s put down roots, and it’s never felt more successful than now, with the launch of its latest property in the Eternal City. The group’s 10th edition — adding to its roster of hotels in cities such as Amsterdam, Paris and New York, not least its trio of London pads — has transformed a modernist building in the Parioli neighbourhood into a 192-bed urban retreat, with a dusty pink facade and a decor inspired by 1970s furniture and classic Italian cinema, with some salvaged Murano glass chandeliers to boot. The allday Cugino is a bar-bistro in which you’ll be as comfortable for breakfast as you will for aperitivo hour. You don’t get that working from your bedroom. From €169 (£144). thehoxton.com
RUNNERS- UP
CAPELLA BANGKOK, BANGKOK
One of the most talked-about openings of the past year, Capella Bangkok has landed a prime spot on the iconic Chao Phraya River. It provides a pocket of tranquillity within the city: unwind in the shady Auriga Wellness spa. Capella Culturalists, meanwhile, curate local experiences for visitors. From THB12,900 (£279), B&B. capellahotels.com
THE SOCIAL HOUSE, NAIROBI
This is no ordinary African city boutique hotel, expertly dodging both colonial tropes and the corporate feel of many regional options. Instead, locals pack out four fabulous bars and restaurants, with menus ranging from Scandinavian to Peruvian-Japanese. Bed down in one of 83 rooms with smartphone controls, and contemporary decor. From $129 (£93). thesocialhouse.ke