We stayed at some very very large resorts this year, as well as one micro-boutique hotel. I really want to make a massive shift for this blog to cover and review boutique hotels. I love the charm and character of boutique hotels, and the service is almost always impeccable. Especially in Europe, the folks at a boutique hotel really make you feel like you’re family coming home, and they are always excited to show off their city and give you the best insider tips. For now, though, enjoy my list of the best (mega) hotels we stayed at in 2023!

5. The Truitt, Kansas City, Missouri, USA

This gorgeous, tiny gem is an interior design masterclass. More of a fancy AirB&B, this lovely hotel is low on frills and service, but high in comfort and visuals. The Truitt’s location can’t be beat, being a less than 10 minute walk to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, a 15-20 minute walk to the Country Club Plaza shopping area, and a close drive to everything else you would want to see in Kansas City. I loved this darling little hotel, and would highly recommend a stay here. Read all about it in my review here!

4. The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Well, this hotel is the total opposite of The Truitt, literally a giant, being one of the largest hotels in the entire world (it’s number 2!). We stayed here for the first time with our two middle schoolers this summer, and I was impressed with the luxe details throughout the suite and pool area, huge room size, as well as the seemingly endless offerings of restaurants and activities, not to mention the massive Canyon Ranch Spa. This is easily the nicest resort I’ve stayed at in Las Vegas so far, and with the Sphere attached with easy access, this resort is a no-brainer recommendation from ChiLuxe Travel. Read all about The Venetian Resort here!

3. Nayara Gardens, Costa Rica

It’s almost sad for me to put the sprawling and gorgeous Nayara Resort in Costa Rica at number three on my list, especially since our time here was pretty much perfect. However, this is a list and there are rules! We stayed at Nayara Gardens for a week in February, and I absolutely loved our extremely private casita, the numerous restaurant offerings, and endless activities available on and off the property. Service here was excellent and very attentive. This property is green and lush, being completely surrounded by rainforest and expertly planned landscaping. Animals are everywhere, including tons of species of birds, as well as a few sloths hanging out in the trees. This place is three resorts in one, making it pretty sprawling and huge, but wherever you stay, you are going to have a relaxing and restful vacation, guaranteed. Read my overview of the resort here!

1. (TIE) Four Seasons Bali, Jimbaran Bay and Sayan

It was pretty much impossible for me to decide which of these resorts is better. We stayed in Bali for seven nights in May, and I recommend you check out my Bali Seven Day Itinerary with no FOMO if you are heading that way. I chose to split our time between the beach and the jungle, in order to get a full, very luxe experience in both ecosystems.

At Four Seasons, Jimbaran Bay, we had an epic private villa, with a partial view of the water. This was a great place for hanging out and getting over jet lag. Their grounds are stunning, and the infinity pool is huge and perfect for soaking up some rays. The buffet breakfast is outstanding, and probably one of the best I’ve ever experienced at any resort (although Nayara’s breakfast is a very close second). I had the best spa treatment of my life at Jimbaran Bay, and we experienced some great excursions from this resort. The staff here are extremely welcoming, and they really make you feel special, going the extra mile to give you little gifts and surprises throughout your stay. Check out my overview of Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay here!

At Four Seasons, Sayan, the surroundings of this architecturally interesting resort are breathtaking. I arrived in the jungle after a few days on the more frenetic beach, and instantly felt a sense of calm. Our villa here was a garden view villa that was laid out in a very cool way – with a lot of the space being indoor/outdoor, taking advantage of the lovely weather in Bali. This resort is close to Ubud, one of my top cities of the year, and they offer an incredible Chef’s Table dinner which is not to be missed. Read all about Four Seasons Sayan here.

We made lasting memories at these two resorts, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend either one, or both, for your stay in Bali.