Two Australian stays have been named in the ‘Best New Hotels of 2024’ by AFAR. 31 properties were listed in this year’s selection, as chosen by a panel of AFAR travel editors, writers and advisors.
Capella Sydney has claimed the 30th spot, recognised for its “understated luxury” in Sydney’s historic Sandstone Precinct. Housed in the heritage-listed former Department of Education building, AFAR says the hotel “feels like an oasis amid the city’s vibrant harbor front, even though it’s just steps from the iconic Opera House”. AFAR’s favoured Capella features include its sunny lobby, indoor courtyard with a 23-foot vertical garden, and attentive service.
Squeezing in at 31 is Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, having reopened in December 2023 following the devastating bushfires of summer 2019-2020. “Southern Ocean Lodge has returned – and is better (and more sustainable) than ever,” says AFAR, noting the considerable upgrades made to the property since its closure. The new lodge has expanded its day spa and gym, added a wet-edge pool to its Great Room deck, and, most notably, has regenerated much of the surrounding bushland destroyed in the fires.
Other properties to make the list include:
Asia, Africa, Middle East & Oceania
- Atlantis, The Royal – Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Shinta Mani Mustang, A Bensley Collection – Nepal
- JW Marriott Jeju Resort & SPA – South Korea
UK, Europe & The Mediterranean
- Raffles London at The OWO – England
- Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel – France
- The Peninsula Istanbul – Turkiye
- Grand Hotel Son Net – Spain
The Americas
- Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo – Costa Rica
- Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort – Hawaii, US
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Feature image: Capella Sydney.
