City Hotels In Asia: World's Best 2021

This year’s World’s Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three year period. We hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The massive continent of Asia is home to what many T+L readers consider the best cities in the world — including Bangkok, Udaipur, and Tokyo — and within those bustling metropolises are some of the world’s best hotels, according to our readers. How do we know? Because all but two of the hotels on this list made it into the Top 100 Hotels this year, a truly impressive feat.

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

No. 2 Capella Bangkok garnered particularly strong praise from readers. “Fantastic service and facilities with amazing views of the river, large rooms, and extraordinary food and drink,” gushed one voter. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, which came in at No. 8, got high marks for its attentive service. “They have their Thai hospitality down to a science,” wrote one reader. “They literally could be the training grounds for anybody interested in working in the hospitality industry who wants to know what proper service is all about.”

Owen Raggett/Courtesy of Swire Hotels

India’s cities, as well as Singapore, are always well represented, but the No. 5 Peninsula Manila put the Philippine capital back on the list for the first time since 2014. “Great location with large rooms nicely furnished with outstanding common areas,” wrote one respondent. “Food service and presentation is excellent. Outstanding value.”

The No. 1 spot this year went to the Opposite House, a Chinese boutique hotel that nabbed the third spot in the Top 100. Keep reading to see why readers think it’s so special and which other hotels made the list.

1. The Opposite House, Beijing

Michael Weber/Courtesy of Swire Hotels

This hotel, designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is a stunner at every level, beginning with the emerald-glass structure it inhabits in Beijing’s historic Shichahai neighborhood. “Beautiful art everywhere,” wrote one reader, who was also impressed by the guest accommodations and food. Rooms are minimalist with oak soaking tubs, plush beds, and other luxurious touches. The staff is attentive and welcoming, even to four-legged visitors, as one reader noted: “Pet-friendly with special treats and amenities available for guests’ furry companions.”

Score: 99.47
More information: thehousecollective.com