{"id":24940,"date":"2024-12-06T10:51:36","date_gmt":"2024-12-06T10:51:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/?p=24940"},"modified":"2025-06-06T09:57:04","modified_gmt":"2025-06-06T08:57:04","slug":"etg-hotel-hotlist-2024-favourites","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/etg-hotel-hotlist-2024-favourites\/","title":{"rendered":"ETG Hotel Hotlist: 2024 Favourites"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” equal_height=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1733481334487{padding-top: 60% !important;background-image: url(https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/2024-scaled.jpg?id=24979) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”2\/3″][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_column_text css=””]Here at ETG, we live by the mantra: always exploring.<\/em> We’re curious about the world and are constantly uncovering new spots or revisiting familiar favourites to make sure every hand-picked hotel in our collection adds something special to your travels. From fabulous forts to beautiful boutique hotels and authentic homestays, these are all places where luxury meets adventure \u2014 whatever luxury means to you: a gorgeous pool? Spot-on service? Soul-stirring views?<\/p>\n

One of the biggest perks of our job is staying at these gems ourselves (we know, we know, it\u2019s a tough life…). As we creep closer to the end of the year, we\u2019re reflecting back our 2024 research trips and have rounded up Team ETG’s favourite hotels:[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Handpicked by ETG’s Co-Founders & Product Gurus<\/h2>\n

Our visionaries and <\/span>those most in<\/span>–<\/span>the<\/span>–<\/span>know<\/span> about hot hotels<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24943″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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Qunci Villas, Indonesia<\/h2>\n

I\u2019d<\/span> have to say <\/span>Qunci<\/span> Villas<\/span>.<\/span> I loved<\/span> seeing <\/span>surfers <\/span>catch waves right in<\/span> front of me <\/span>whil<\/span>e<\/span> eating breakfast and <\/span>ending t<\/span>he<\/span> day <\/span>watching amazing sunsets over a Balinese volcano in the distance<\/span>.<\/span> Bliss.<\/span> I’d<\/span> recommend it in a heartbeat. Melissa<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Stay here while delving into ‘The Spirit of Indonesia’<\/a><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24944″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Nine Furlongs, India<\/h2>\n

The view! Waking up to the Nanda Devi range of the Himalayas \u2013 180 degrees around \u2013 from my beautiful wooden and stone cottage was spectacular… and surprisingly emotional<\/a>. The atmosphere and energy there are indescribable. Sam<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Spend time here while travelling around India’s ‘Golden Triangle & The Himlayas’<\/a><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24995″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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Rock Villa, Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n

T<\/span>he food was simply incredible<\/span> \u2013 <\/span>worth going just for that. Every meal was different, every course full of surprises <\/span>\u2013<\/span>\u00a0always infused with love and imagination. I<\/span> don\u2019t<\/span> think <\/span>I\u2019ve<\/span> ever <\/span>enjoyed food as much as I did <\/span>on my two days <\/span>there<\/span>!<\/span> And then <\/span>there are <\/span>th<\/span>e gardens, the discreet <\/span>service<\/span> and <\/span>the<\/span>\u00a0pickleball court and beach tennis kit <\/span>to play with<\/span>. Also<\/span>, over a few days, <\/span>you get to slowly appreciate the use of tone and <\/span>colour<\/span> throughout the property and how <\/span>there<\/span>\u2019s<\/span> a theme running through everything.<\/span> It\u2019s<\/span> a<\/span>n enchanted place. Tom<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Settle in for a few days yourself on a\u00a0Sri Lanka holiday<\/a>, exploring the island’s south-west coast.<\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24946″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

The Mudhouse, Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n

The Mudhouse blew me away! It’s totally intertwined with nature and has <\/span>huge grounds, little luxury touches<\/span> and<\/span> super friendly staff… <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> unlike any other ‘hotel’ <\/span>I’ve<\/span> ever been to<\/span>. Jamie<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Switch off at this absolute gem of an eco-lodge on a\u00a0‘Digital Detox in Sri Lanka’<\/a><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Handpicked by ETG’s Travel Team<\/h2>\n

Our destination specialists who really know their stuff<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24947″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal<\/h2>\n

We both loved <\/span>Shinta Mani Mustang for so many reasons! The Bill <\/span>Bensley<\/span>-designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows <\/span>that <\/span>let in the epic, <\/span>ever<\/span>–<\/span>changing <\/span>mountain views<\/span> are even cooler in person<\/span>. <\/span>There are lots of<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>opportunities to<\/span> explore Mustang and<\/span> \u2018stumble across\u2019 monasteries <\/span>(where we were<\/span> invited in to meet monks and sit in on atmospheric chanting<\/span>)<\/span>. <\/span>The<\/span> staff are so sweet and really want to show you the best of their country and t<\/span>he<\/span> spa is also a real treat<\/span> \u2013 <\/span>there’s<\/span> even <\/span>a resident <\/span><\/span>amchi<\/span> <\/span><\/em>(traditional healer)<\/span>. Sara & Holly<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Experience the joy of staying here on an ETG Nepal holiday<\/a><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24949″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Nirjhara, Indonesia<\/h2>\n

I couldn’t fault this hotel in Bali at all \u2013 everything was excellent: from the service and food to the phenomenal pool and complimentary bike tour to Tanah Lot in the early morning (when there are no tourists in sight).<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Stay at this gorgeous hotel on an adventure in Bali & Lombok<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24956″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

A luxury boat in Raja Ampat, Indonesia<\/h2>\n

My favourite hotel of 2024 is actually a boat. A highlight of my honeymoon was exploring Raja Ampat on a luxury yacht, which was even more amazing than it sounds. Think sailing the bluest of sea between far-flung islands and snorkelling with incredible marine life like blacktip (friendly) sharks, dolphins, turtles and nemo. Just fabulous. Lola<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Set off on your own Indonesian Extravaganza<\/a> to sail around this pristine part of the world.<\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_single_image image=”24960″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Amba Estate, Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n

My favourite hotel from my travels this year has to be Amba Estate, which I loved for its ethos, views, and brews (I tried so many on their fantastic tea tour). It\u2019s run by lovely people and feels wonderfully homely \u2013 I just wish I could’ve stayed longer! Chione<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Weave in some time here during this classic ETG Sri Lanka holiday.<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24952″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Raya Heritage, Thailand<\/h2>\n

I absolutely <\/span>ador<\/span>ed this hotel in Chiang Mai. Right on the edge of the Ping River, <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> a sanctuary of calm <\/span>am<\/span>id<\/span> the <\/span>city\u2019s <\/span>h<\/span>ustle and bustle<\/span>. The beautiful rooms are spacious and<\/span> sleek<\/span> with <\/span>Thai<\/span> touches<\/span> \u2013<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>like handwoven textiles and woodwork<\/span> \u2013 \u00a0<\/span>so<\/span> it feels authentic<\/span>.<\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Our classic ETG Thailand holiday<\/a> includes three nights here.<\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24958″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Canvas & Orchids, Cambodia<\/h2>\n

I really felt like I was on an adventure here, but with all the creature comforts. The staff are so warm and welcoming and come from the local area \u2013 you can feel their enthusiasm for their home! I thought it was great that the hotel educates and trains them in different hospitality roles, too. Heading out with my guide to meet local families and craftspeople was really fun and interesting, not forced or contrived at all. Ella<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Stay at this atmospheric tented lodge while discovering the ‘Hidden Gems of Cambodia’<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24959″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Thotalagala, Sri Lanka<\/span><\/h2>\n

Thotalagala was hands-down my favourite hotel \u2013 it\u2019s the little touches that make it so special. From the moment I arrived, the lovely staff had thought of everything: a welcome of spiced hot chocolate and banana bread with a steaming towel, a hot water bottle discreetly tucked into my bed in the evening, and a flask of tea ready and waiting when I woke up. And don\u2019t get me started on the private afternoon tea! Lynsey<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Experience the joy of staying here on our ‘Slow-Paced Luxury Holiday in Sri Lanka’<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Handpicked by ETG’s Marketing Team<\/h2>\n

Our curious content creators and those who spread the word<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24962″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Ahilya Fort, India<\/span><\/h2>\n

I’d heard such great things about Ahilya Fort, but it still blew my (high) expectations out of the water. It\u2019s in a magical spot on the banks of the sacred Narmada River, perched high above the ghats. I loved simply taking stock of my surroundings and feeling immersed in the rhythm of local life: from meandering through the morning market to watching spiritual rituals unfold as a pastel sunset turned the sky pink. Also, staying within the fort’s beautifully restored rooms felt like a genuine privilege. Augusta<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Feel the magic of Maheshwar by staying here on our ‘Less is more in Madhya Pradesh’<\/a> holiday<\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24964″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

The Siam, Thailand<\/h2>\n

The Siam for its incredible food with perfect portions, balanced flavors, and a menu that <\/span>wasn\u2019t<\/span> overwhelming. Amazing views from the private pier, where I watched one of my favorite sunsets of the trip while sipping a cocktail. The interior design made me never want to leave<\/span>:<\/span> the hotel and rooms fe<\/span>lt <\/span>like an art gallery yet still manage<\/span>d <\/span>to be warm and welcoming<\/span>, and <\/span>Bill Bensley<\/span>\u2019s signature monochrome<\/span> is<\/span> paired with colourful vintage, one-of-a-kind items from his <\/span>antiques <\/span>collection<\/span>, which adds so much interest<\/span>. Bonus: the black-and-white theme perfectly matched my nails and outfit that d<\/span>ay. B<\/span>onus<\/span> bonu<\/span>s<\/span>: that bathtub! Siobhan<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Spend a night or two here during our ‘Luxury Thailand holiday’<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Handpicked by ETG’s Ops Team<\/h2>\n

Our behind-the-scenes team who make sure all ETG adventures run smoothly<\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”24966″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Villa Rosa, Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n

I\u2019d<\/span> say Villa Rosa in Kandy. It has a great pool with an even greater view. <\/span>It\u2019s<\/span> humble and atmospheric with well-sized rooms, charming staff, and excellent Sri Lankan food.<\/span><\/span>\u00a0James<\/span><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Call this your home away from home while on ETG’s ‘Boutique Sri Lanka’ holiday<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_single_image image=”24997″ img_size=”full” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

Smiling Gecko Farmhouse, Cambodia<\/h2>\n

I have a few favorites, but this luxurious farmhouse-style hotel with an oasis-like pool and spa is up there. Smiling Gecko is an impressive NGO project that’s incredible to experience in person like its fully functioning farm with organic produce. It was hard to tear myself away at the end of my stay… <\/span><\/span><\/span>Jamie<\/span><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Stay at this hidden gem during our ‘Grand Journey around Cambodia’<\/a><\/i>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”chino” css=””][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

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FEELING INSPIRED TO STAY AT ONE OF THESE HOTELS?<\/h2>\n

Please get in touch on 020 7924 7133<\/span>\r\n \t.<\/p>\n

Alternatively, fill out an online enquiry form to start your journey<\/a>.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

We’re an opiniated bunch here at Team ETG. After all, it’s our job to make sure every hotel in our collection adds something special to your trip. Discover our favourites from our 2024 adventures and our personal opinions…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":24979,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1348,11,62,639,76,1394,1444,15,13,1344,1427],"tags":[],"coauthors":[923],"class_list":["post-24940","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-across-asia","category-cambodia","category-india","category-indonesia","category-travel-news","category-luxury-travel","category-nepal","category-sri-lanka","category-thailand","category-the-etg-take-on-travel","category-travel-inspiration"],"aioseo_notices":[],"views":3358,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24940","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=24940"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/24940\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24979"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=24940"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=24940"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=24940"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=24940"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}