Thailand, Travel + Leisure’s destination of the year For many travelers, 2025 represents their ideal version of paradise. Of course, there are the beautiful beaches on Phuket and other islands. Koh Samui The third season of HBO’s show was filmed in the latter location. You can also find out more about the following: White Lotus). Chiang Mai is a popular destination in the north, and it’s a region with enduring cultural significance. In each of these locations, you will find resorts that are as beautiful as the surrounding area. Find out which resorts T+L readers loved the most.
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How voting works
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. The 2025 survey was completed by nearly 180,000 T+L subscribers. Over 657,000 votes were cast for over 8,700 different properties (hotels cities cruise lines etc.).).
Based on their location, hotels were classified into resort hotel, city, inn or safari lodges. They were also rated according to the following criteria:
- Rooms/facilities
- Location
- Service
- Food
- Value
Respondents could rate each characteristic as excellent, above the average, average or below average. These responses are averaged to arrive at the final score.
Christopher Wise
What Readers Really Loved
The 137 Pillars House No. A reader described a 3 as “a beautiful, near-the-night bazaar hotel.” The restaurant and terrace had a romantic feel. This hotel, which has 30 guest rooms, is one of the smaller ones in Chiang Mai. However, it still provides a range of amenities such as two restaurants, bar, 25-meter swimming pools, a fitness center, library, spa and gym.
The Kimpton Kitalay Samui is located on Koh Samui. It’s the second largest island in the country. This 138 room oceanfront resort, modeled on a village style, is perfect for families. “My family loved the resort,” said a reader. It is one of the most beautiful Kimptons. The location and size of the rooms are perfect for families with children. The view of the swimming pool and ocean was also amazing.
It just so happens that the winning resort is also located in the most ranked city in Asia. Learn more by reading on.
The Winner
Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Christopher Wise
Why? It’s not hard to understand this year’s winner It is no surprise that the Four Seasons Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, has been voted the best hotel in the world. Situated among 32 acres landscaped gardens with working rice fields, each of the 98 pavilions villas and private residences reflects the regional aesthetic, including polished teakwoods, Siamese arts, and spacious outdoor verandas. The spa is one of the main attractions at this Four Seasons property, just like in many other opulent Four Seasons hotels throughout Asia. The Wara Cheewa Spa, which resembles an idyllic temple and offers holistic treatments in seven suites, is designed to evoke a sense of calm. The culinary experiences range from traditional Thai cuisine served at Khao, to wood-fired BBQ at North by Four Seasons, and craft cocktails in Ratree Bar and lounge. Two infinity pools with views of the rice terraces are available, as well as tennis courts, an ultra-modern health club and the Rim Ta Kitchen cooking academy.
The Complete List
1. Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai
Reader Score: 96.50
2. Amanpuri, Phuket
Reader Score: 95.00
3. 137 Pillars House, Chiang Mai
Reader Score 95.62
4. Kimpton Kitalay Samui, Koh Samui
Reader Score 95.25
5. Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa, Hua Hin
Reader Score: 94.78
