Hotels and more: Where the experts say you should stay

No matter where you travel in the world, you need somewhere to lay your head at the end of a day. And so much of a holiday can rest on where you choose to base yourself. As luck would have it, Independent Travel happens to know a thing or two about incredible places to stay, from a hotel spa fed by thermal springs to hideaways in northern Thailand (and plenty more in between).

If you're staying in the UK, we've got gems across the country, from coastal Cornwall retreats to boutique spots in Edinburgh. Across the Channel, you can go big on a boutique stay in Paris, or we can guide you to hotels that are softer on the budget). Jumping from the City of Love to the Big Apple, we've got family-friendly New York hotels plus an expert look at hotels near Times Square for those keen to stay right in the action. And if you're planning your next winter sun break, consider the best Barbados beach hotels.

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Schengen palace

Europe's passport-free Schengen area is named for a small village on the Moselle river where Luxembourg, France and Germany meet – home to the spectacular Château Schengen, which opened a year ago. Good rates still available: I paid a bargain €125. 

Hotel art

The most exciting US places to stay? 21c Museum Hotels: a chain of solid downtown properties across the Midwest and South, each with an outstanding modern art museum. Staying elsewhere? Call in anyway.

MSC cruise deals from Southampton

Set sail from Southampton to incredible destinations like the Baltic capitals, Norwegian fjords, the Mediterranean and beyond with these MSC cruise deals. Enjoy direct sailings with no airport hassle. Multiple dates available. Learn more.

London chocolate tour, just £35 for two

Treat yourself and someone special to a tasty journey through London's finest chocolatiers, with this great value Red Letter Days deal. The tour runs Sundays from 12:30-3pm, subject to availability. Learn more.

Save up to 50% on holidays at Kuoni

Dreaming of a deluxe escape? Kuoni's latest holiday deals offer amazing savings on unforgettable experiences worldwide. Various dates and departures available. Learn more.

DISCOVER

Family fun in the sun

From waterparks to exciting kids' clubs, here are the best family-friendly hotels in Tenerife. Find out more.

SPOTLIGHT

White Lotus fever

Going all out for a seriously opulent stay in Thailand is more affordable than you might expect. Read more.

Whether it's staying in a revamped palazzo, an outdoorsy retreat in Sri Lanka's rolling tea country, or a lakeside getaway in Sweden, there are plenty of new hotel openings set to make your travels in 2025 even more interesting.

Ianthe Butt

Hotels expert

EXPLORE

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