Unique hotels around the world

India | Jordan | Spain | Peru | Sri Lanka

Choose hotels with character

Chain hotels can be reassuringly familiar, but offer a similar experience whether you’re in Delhi or Denver. Staying in characterful, independent hotels is not only a more sustainable way to travel, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, whether that’s hearing stories from the owner or sleeping in a piece of history.

We can help you experience accommodation as unique and characterful as your surroundings. Unwind in one of India’s heritage havelis, Japan’s tatami-matted ryokans, Jordan’s atmospheric desert camps, or another authentic property that captures the true spirit of your destination.

Below, discover a selection of unique hotels around the world. For more inspiration or to begin planning your adventure, press 'Enquire Today' to speak to one of our travel consultants.

Enquire today

Five unique stays

Live like a maharajah in India

Out of India’s sun-baked Thar desert grew Bikaner and its resplendent palaces, forts, temples and havelis. Today, this city is the fourth largest in Rajasthan, and authentic havelis such as Narendra Bhawan – the former home of the Maharajah of Bikaner – now accommodate guests in regal surroundings.

discover more

Camp out under Jordan's desert stars

Vast, echoing and god-like: that’s how Lawrence of Arabia described Wadi Rum. This Mars-like desert in Jordan is punctuated by sandstone massifs, and sprinkled with tented camps such as Saraya Rum that offer you the full nomad experience. At night, recline in comfort beneath a canopy of stars, and in the morning, admire the crimson sunset burning on the cliffs.

discover more

Be charmed by the heritage of Spain's paradors

The paradors of Spain are historic buildings tastefully converted into hotels and given the government stamp of authenticity. They range from palaces to castles to monasteries, but all promise to wrap you up in history. Parador de Mérida was among the very first paradors. It is set within the grounds of a 17th-century Baroque monastery, within walking distance of Mérida’s Roman ruins, and replete with heritage charm.

discover more

Find peace in a Peruvian monastery

Cuzco is the historical capital of Peru, and its blend of Incan and Spanish-colonial heritage has been recognised by UNESCO. While there are sleek, contemporary chain hotels to choose from, why not stay instead in a piece of history? Monasterio was a Jesuit monastery in the 16th century, but now accommodates guests in well-preserved, warmly lit spaces adorned with centuries-old paintings and Baroque décor.

discover more

Unwind in Sri Lanka’s hill country

Sri Lanka is one of the world’s major producers of tea. The crop is grown on the lush plantations of its hill country – arguably the most scenic part of the teardrop-shaped island. Here you can lose yourself in views of emerald slopes swept by delicate mists. Established as a colonial country retreat, Nuwara Eliya retains much of its period character, and converted estates such as the Heritance Tea Factory place you in this most tranquil of settings.

discover more