If one of the core tenets of true luxury is invisibility, how can you know if a hotel is actually deserving of the title?
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It’s a complicated game. As a travel writer, I’ve continuously been surprised by luxury hotels because most of them don’t end up on my radar. That’s by design—those with truly deep pockets aren’t interested in rubbing elbows with commoners.
Even in places like Dubai, renowned for their long list of upscale experiences, are hiding a few gilded secrets. In short, five-star stays aren’t the end-all of luxury. They’re just a game of amenities, in many cases, in which properties tick off the appropriate boxes—from pools to spas to suite counts.
So, how do you know if a hotel is actually luxury and worthy of your hard-earned money? Here’s what I look for before I book a property that promises a luxury experience.
6 factors of hotels that are actually luxury
#1: Ambiance and service come first
The most important factor behind invisible luxury is creating a calm atmosphere. True luxury isn’t just invisible, in my experience; it’s also very quiet. Luxury properties go above and beyond to create an ambiance and atmosphere that speak for themselves, and they employ staff who provide next-level service.
Staff take great pride in what they do, meaning you might notice a range of employees standing nearby but not in your way, ready to assist you before you’ve lifted a hand.
In other words, hotels that are actually luxury don’t go for showy, flashy displays (in most cases). They’re focused on creating a Zen-like state of calm in which you’re ready to fully embrace the finer things in life.
#2: Personalization and attention to detail come next
A truly luxury property looks into its guests. They might submit a questionnaire when you visit for the first time so that the concierge knows what to expect, whether avoiding things you hate or adding something special for your birthday. Behind the scenes, a team of pros is working to put together an experience that will bring you back to the property.
And, assuming you do visit again, they’ll remember you. There’s a keen attention to detail at play, from remembering the wine you raved about at dinner to making sure they have your favorite pillow fragrance on hand. But you won’t notice all this work—instead, you’ll be treated to a keen attention to detail from check-in to check-out.
#3: Quality perks, like kids’ clubs and a range of menus
When you book hotels that are actually luxury, you’ll be treated to perks and amenities that you haven’t seen before. Maybe that’s a kids’ club that avoids the use of any plastics or a pillow menu that lets you choose between pillow firmness, pillow fragrances, and even nighttime stories.
This is one of my key pieces of advice: If you’re seeing amenities that you’ve never heard of before, you’re probably looking at a luxury, bespoke experience. Similarly, look for amenities that are specific to the property, like access to on-site thermal springs or private access to neighboring palaces.
#4: Droolworthy design that builds on natural surroundings
This builds on the first luxury factor of ambiance and atmosphere. Every truly luxury hotel that I’ve stayed in has its own design focus, which has always built on natural surroundings. (Or, in the case of urban luxury hotels, the immediate neighborhood.) If you’re wondering whether or not a hotel is truly luxurious, look into its design.
You should see some type of reference to the property’s design, from inspiration to the actual interior design teams who developed it. In some cases, you’ll also see information about the architects who built the property or its additions. These are two fantastic signs that you’re going to get your money’s worth.
#5: Residencies, programming, and memorable experiences
Over the last five years, I’ve seen many hotels roll out social programs, residencies, and other experiences to give guests a truly memorable visit. These are always a good sign—it shows that staff are working hard to create a sense of community and continuity, allowing guests to make friends, pursue their interests, or explore something new.
But luxury hotels go above and beyond in this department. If there’s an on-site restaurant, you can often expect live music performances, special menus from visiting chefs, and cocktails that were created just for the property. In short, before you book a hotel that claims to be luxury, look into the extracurricular activities available, so to speak.
#6: Exclusivity
Let’s loop back to where we started—how do you know if a hotel is actually luxury when true luxury seeks to be quiet, if not hidden?
There should be a sense of exclusivity. I’ve noticed that the most upscale hotels don’t always list the amenities and perks that I’ve listed out here. You’ll find a sleek website that conveys ambiance, and not too much else.
Instead, they encourage you to reach out to them via email or over the phone. These options are usually the best way to know what to expect from your stay, including how to take advantage of on-site amenities, programs, and special offers. It’s also a great way for you to gauge whether the property is worth your time and money.
If you call and receive anything less than gracious, helpful, and warm information from the concierge, think again.