Hotels & Accommodations
I stayed in one of Europe’s grandest hotels — a time warp of Old World glamour
Sitting on the narrow bench of a funicular, backpack perched on my knees, my stomach churns with anxiety I hadn’t felt since my first day of school.
Will I embarrass myself? Will I fit in?
Today, there are no GCSEs ahead of me, but a turreted fairytale castle of a hotel, overlooking Switzerland’s largest city.
I’ve been invited to spend a night at the Dolder Grand, a lavish time warp of Old World glamour where Europe’s well-heeled elites have lived the high life since 1899, deep in the forest on the Adlisberg mountain.
Affectionately known as the grand dame of Zurich, this place rolls out the red carpet for its A-list guests. I mean this literally: a red carpet leads to the hotel’s front entrance. Elton John has laid his head here, as has King Charles III, back when he was still a bachelor prince.
Now, the Lionesses have checked in as they defend their title at the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euros in the semi-final tonight.
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England has stepped up its game for Sarina Wiegman’s squad this year in a major way.
The trappings of the Dolder are a far cry from the four-star Lensbury in Teddington, which was their base when England hosted the tournament in 2022.
Having travelled relatively extensively only by filtering for the cheapest accommodation (friends will remember the pod hostel in Tel Aviv and the hut with a hole in the ground in the Philippines), the idea of staying somewhere so ultra-luxurious is strange, even a little uncomfortable.
But after just a few hours floating above Zurich, soaking up Swiss Alpine views from the spa’s infinity jacuzzi, I realise I could get used to the lifestyle of the rich and famous much faster than I thought.
Good thing I’ll never be able to afford it.
What’s the vibe? Paint us a picture
The Dolder Grand is not somewhere you walk to. On a hill that boasts the best view in Zurich, guests arrive to this imposing palace by car (typically the Maserati or Rolls Royce variety), hotel shuttle or funicular.
Even if you’re slumming it like I was, using my trusty Zurich travel card on Switzerland’s well-oiled public transport network instead of a £100,000 supercar, the journey from the centre of the city takes less than 20 minutes.
Somehow, the hotel still manages to feel remote, like you’re entering another stratosphere. In many ways, you are.
I had steeled myself for airs, graces and a gaggle of influencers, but in the grandiose lobby, complete with a crystal chandelier and double wraparound staircase, I found a young American family, middle-aged couples and business travellers checking in with friendly staff, most of them locals from Zurich and the surrounding canton.
The atmosphere is relaxed and, while I clock at least two Hermès bags that cost more than what I have saved for a house deposit, it’s clear that here, every guest is treated like a VIP.
On the go since 1899, the Dolder has seen some things. You can feel it, as you move between the original castle building (extensively renovated in 2008) and the modern, sleek wings that carry it into the 21st century.
I close my eyes as I climb one flight to my room, imagining the people who went before me wearing drop-waist dresses in the 1920s, fur coats and miniskirts in the ’60s.
What about the facilities?
Anyone who comes to the Dolder Grand without visiting the spa has not really been to the Dolder Grand.
Sprawled over 4,000sqm, this cavernous space is more of a wellness centre, with everything you can imagine to help you live a longer and healthier life. It’s also the perfect place to rest and reset after a tough time on the pitch.
The Lionesses will have use of the saunas and steam baths, plunge pools and whirlpools, hot tubs and aroma baths, plus a menu of beauty treatments I never knew existed.
I could have spent half a day lounging on the sun terrace, taking in the view. The only thing that raised an eyebrow was the solarium I spotted in an alcove in the relaxation area. Hasn’t science ruled that sunbeds are bad for us?
The hotel also offers yoga, Pilates (including reformer) and even ballet lessons in the belly of the wellness centre.
It may be of little interest to the England team, but in certain circles, the Dolder is best known for its multimillion-dollar art collection.
Scattered throughout the corridors is a unique kind of gallery, containing 100-plus pieces by 90 artists from different eras.
All are disruptive creations that challenge our perception of culture and the status quo, and most are displayed in public spaces. (There is a Dali on-site, but that’s locked away in the private dining room. I did ask.)
I came away thinking about the work of Jani Leinonen, a 47-year-old Finnish visual artist who subverts logos and corporate branding to criticise capitalism.
Metro checks in…
The Metro Travel team has been all around the world this year, reviewing everything from budget all-inclusive resorts in Greece to five-star skyscrapers in Japan.
You can find our top picks here:
Ok, so what are the rooms like?
Everything you’d expect from a five-star establishment where Di Caprio and the Rolling Stones have stayed.
Divided between the historic castle and the modern wings, all of the suites (and most of the standard rooms) come with sunken whirlpool bathtubs, rainfall showers and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the bedroom with morning sunlight.
If you’re lucky enough to get a room at the front of the hotel, the main event is the south-facing balcony, which captures views of Lake Zurich and the sugar-dusted Alps in the distance.
My favourite touch of how the other half live was the TV subtly embedded in the bathroom mirror.
Food and drink?
Much has been made of the Dolder’s location and art collection, but it’s culinary offerings deserve more attention than they get.
The hotel’s four restaurants have two Michelin stars and 65 Gault & Millau points between them, and the breakfast – best enjoyed on the terrace – is the most preposterously lavish spread I’ve ever seen.
Frequent pop-ups keep things fresh; during my stay, guests were treated to a Lebanese mezze feast of fattoush, falalfel and Riz ‘a Djej.
The Lionesses will be travelling with two chefs and a nutritionist, who will work with the hotel’s catering team to create meals of champions. I hope they can indulge in the Dolder’s usual fare after the final.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on rooms and season. In summer, standard rooms start at £750 (CHF 819) per night, including breakfast.
Luxury suites will set you back a whole lot more. The Golf Suite, for example, runs from £3,753 (CHF 4,100).
For that, you’ll get a sprawling living room and bedroom, and a terrace with a 270-degree panoramic view that surrounds the entire thing. Oh, and a private butler.
Everything you need to know: at a glance
Time: Switzerland is one hour ahead of the UK.
Weather: The average daily maximum temperature in July is around 25°C.
Adaptors: UK to EU travel adapter.
Currency: The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
Visas: You do not need a visa to visit any part of Switzerland, and can stay for periods of up to 90 days.
Check in/check out: You can check in from 3pm, and you’ll need to check out before 12pm, but you can enjoy the spa until you need to leave.
Disability access? Yes. The hotel has a wheelchair-accessible spa, restaurants and check-in desk.
Standout feature: The location, the spa and the breakfast.
Perfect for: Couples and business travellers.
Not right for: Anyone on a budget.
This article was originally published on 2 July 2025 and has been updated.
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The Wyndham-Cygnett deal is the latest in a series of development agreements to meet rising travel demand in India, Wyndham said in a statement.
“This partnership is the next chapter in Wyndham’s Eurasia growth story, with India as a key strategic market that we’ve grown alongside for decades,” said Dimitris Manikis, Wyndham’s president for EMEA. “Cygnett shares our commitment to sustainable, long-term growth while meeting demand from travelers seeking experiences that blend comfort, authenticity, and excellence. We’re introducing stays across the full spectrum—from quality hotels to luxury escapes—bringing Wyndham brands to more destinations across the region.”
With domestic travel spending reaching $186 billion last year and leisure travel projected to grow 12 percent annually, Wyndham is targeting a fast-evolving market driven by infrastructure investment, a growing middle class, and rising tourism.
India, Gurgaon-based Cygnett, founded in 2014, is led by Founder and Managing Director Sarbendra Sarkar. He said partnering with Wyndham provides the scale, global recognition, and brand strength to expand quickly and deliver value to owners and guests.
“We are proud to help grow La Quinta and Registry Collection Hotels—two global brands that complement our portfolio and align with demand in the region for high-quality hotel and guest experiences,” Sarkar said. “Our regional network and commitment to brand integrity position us to lead the rollout of these brands across South Asia.”
As part of the deal, Wyndham and Cygnett signed an exclusive agreement to develop La Quinta across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, with plans for more than 50 hotels. The rollout, a mix of new builds and conversions, is expected to begin by late 2026. At present, the brand has a presence in more than 900 locations globally and targets upper-midscale business and leisure travelers.
Wyndham and Cygnett will also introduce Registry Collection Hotels in India under a nonexclusive 10-year agreement to develop 10 properties. The hotels will be co-branded with Anamore, Cygnett’s new 5-star brand, with the first opening expected in 2026. Registry Collection Hotels also operate in more than 30 global locations and focus on boutique and luxury stays.
In June, Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, announced several initiatives at the company’s 2025 Global Conference at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, including expansion plans in India.
Hotels & Accommodations
Thailand’s Hotel Industry Thrives in 2025 as Pattaya Leads Hotel Demand Surge with Strong Growth, Rising Occupancy Rates, and Enhanced Investments in Tourism Infrastructure
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Hotel demand in Thailand is shooting through the roof in 2025, with Pattaya leading the way. This growth is underpinned by rising occupancy rates, from both inbound and domestic visitors, and supported by continued infrastructure and hotel developments. The growing popularity of Pattaya as a leading leisure destination and constantly changing traveler demands for luxury and wellness moments has lured numerous investments, maintaining the vibrancy of the city’s hotel market. Increased support from the government and infrastructure developments also continue to place Pattaya at the heart of Thailand’s tourism recovery, while solidifying its role as a leader in the growth of the nation’s burgeoning tourism and hospitality sector.
The Thai hotel sector is booming in 2025 heading into a sunlit hospitality future on the back of domestic and international visitor growth. Increasing occupancy and surging average room prices are pointing to a strong recovery for the sector. While eastern CAR has a long way to recover from the impact of the global pandemic, the tourism industry is bouncing back on its feet—with spate of demand in hotel, investment, and the changing needs of travelers.
The popular Thailand tourist destination, sex city Pattaya, is perhaps one of the most vivid examples. A dynamic center for local and international” travelers, the hotel industry has leveraged the boom of tourists for changes in travel patterns, enhancements in the infrastructure and continuous growing demand.
Thailand’s Hotel Market Rebounds with Rising Occupancy Rates
According to data from the SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC), Thailand’s overall hotel occupancy rate is projected to reach approximately 75% in 2025. This represents a significant improvement over the previous years and marks a steady recovery as both domestic and international travel rebounds. The surge in domestic travelers is largely attributed to government initiatives aimed at stimulating the tourism sector, such as the “Thai Tourism Co-Payment” scheme, which runs from July to October 2025. This program encourages local travel by offering subsidies to Thai citizens, further boosting hotel demand across the country.
The increase in international tourist arrivals is also driving occupancy growth. Notably, markets like Russia are contributing to Thailand’s recovery, with tourists from these regions taking advantage of extended 90-day visa stays. This has translated into greater demand, particularly in key tourist cities such as Pattaya, where hotels are seeing both high occupancy and an increase in average booking rates.
Rising Room Rates Reflect Quality Upgrades and Market Dynamics
As the hotel market rebounds, average room prices across Thailand are expected to increase by 5% in 2025 compared to the previous year. The rise in room rates can be attributed to a variety of factors, including enhanced service offerings, renovations, and a general uplift in the quality of hotel accommodations. Hotels across the country, especially those in the four-star and above categories, are aligning with the latest travel trends such as wellness tourism, luxury experiences, and workations (work + vacation). These trends have prompted hotels to invest in upgrading their facilities and services, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of travelers seeking both relaxation and productivity.
Pattaya is no exception to this trend, where luxury properties are pushing the average room rates above 4,000 baht per night. The city’s hotel market continues to cater to a wide spectrum of tourists, from budget travelers to those seeking high-end experiences. Hotels in the city have also been introducing exclusive packages, wellness offerings, and premium experiences to attract more affluent travelers and diversify their customer base.
Pattaya: A Hotspot for Investment and Development
Pattaya’s hotel industry is seeing significant investment and expansion, as the city’s vibrant tourism scene continues to thrive. The total hotel supply in Thailand is expected to reach around 80,000 rooms in 2025, with a 7% increase from the previous year. This growth is driven by the influx of new luxury hotels and resorts entering the market, catering to both international tourists and affluent domestic travelers. Notable investments in Pattaya’s hospitality sector reflect confidence in the city’s tourism potential, with high-end properties and boutique hotels now offering more sophisticated and diversified options for visitors.
Real estate consultancy JLL forecasts that the hotel transaction volume in Thailand will exceed 13 billion baht in 2025, with Bangkok remaining the most attractive location for investors. However, Pattaya is positioning itself as a strong contender, with its ongoing infrastructure improvements, increased foreign investments, and a growing demand for diverse hotel offerings. This expansion is not only limited to luxury properties but also includes mid-range and budget hotels that are increasingly reflecting the preferences of a new generation of travelers who seek quality and affordability.
Government Policies and Infrastructure Boost Pattaya’s Potential
As Thailand continues to push forward with its tourism recovery, the government is playing a crucial role in driving further growth in cities like Pattaya. Various policy measures, including visa relaxations and promotions aimed at encouraging longer stays, are set to benefit the hotel and property sectors. These initiatives are expected to foster higher spending and greater length-of-stay, which will directly impact hotel revenues across the country.
In addition, Pattaya’s city infrastructure continues to evolve, with substantial investments in improving transport connectivity, leisure facilities, and cultural attractions. The expansion of local amenities, including dining, shopping, and entertainment options, makes Pattaya an even more attractive destination for tourists. This growing demand from international and domestic tourists, paired with strong government support, is set to propel Pattaya’s hotel market even further in the second half of 2025.
Sustainability and Innovation: A Key Focus for Hotel Operators
As the Thai hotel industry experiences growth, hoteliers are also focusing on innovation, service quality, and sustainability to stay competitive in an increasingly crowded market. New European Union regulations, set to take effect by 2026, will impact hotel operations and market access. These regulations, which emphasize sustainability practices, are already driving change in the industry as hotel operators in Thailand, including those in Pattaya, adjust their operations to align with global standards.
To meet the rising demand for eco-friendly travel options, many hotels are implementing green technologies, reducing their carbon footprints, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This shift towards sustainability not only caters to a growing segment of environmentally conscious travelers but also positions hotels in Pattaya and across Thailand to maintain a competitive edge as the global tourism market evolves.
A Bright Future for Pattaya’s Hotel Industry
The outlook for Pattaya’s hotel industry remains strong as the city continues to recover and diversify its tourism offerings. With an expanding hotel supply, rising occupancy rates, and increasing room prices, Pattaya is on track to capitalize on Thailand’s growing tourism market. The ongoing efforts of hoteliers to enhance service quality, invest in sustainability, and adapt to traveler trends ensure that the city’s hospitality sector will remain dynamic and attractive to both domestic and international visitors.
Hotels in Thailand (2025) Thailand’s hospitality industry has thrived, and Pattaya has become the leader in terms of increased demand and investments. Rising occupancy, a higher number of domestic and international tourists and improved infrastructure has contributed to the growth, placing Pattaya at the forefront of Thailand’s tourism recovery and continued success in the hotel market.
As government policies further support the tourism sector, and infrastructure improvements continue to enhance the overall experience for tourists, Pattaya’s hotel market is poised for continued success. The combination of expanding investments, evolving traveler preferences, and a strong commitment to sustainability positions Pattaya as one of Thailand’s most promising destinations for the years to come.
Pattaya’s Role in Thailand’s Tourism Growth
PATTAYA is one of the main contributors to the Thai hospitality industry in 2025 as it bounces back and prospers following the downturn in the wake of the global economic crisis. With more and more demand creating new hotel properties and constant new tourism inovations, Pattaya is now more appealing than ever to a wide variety of travelers. Through value added services, sustainable development and adapting to the demands of the 21st century tourist, Pattaya is in prime position to do so and to be a positive contributor to Thailand’s continued prosperity. With the tourism industry on the rise, Pattaya is set to keep shaping up Thailand’s hotel industry.
Hotels & Accommodations
These are the most expensive hotels in Spain’s Andalucá region in 2025: where are they and how much do they cost?
Wednesday, 23 July 2025, 17:26
The Andalucía region in the south of the country has some of the most luxurious and expensive hotels in Spain. Towns and cities such as Marbella, Seville, Estepona and Chiclana de la Frontera stand out as premium tourism destinations, with accommodation that can easily exceed 1,000 euros per night, depending on the season.
From exclusive butlered villas to historic palaces transformed into five-star luxury hotels, these establishments go far beyond a simple stay by offering tailor-made experiences. Below, we take a look at the most expensive hotels in Andalucía, their location and how much it costs to enjoy a stay there.
Anantara Villa Padierna Palace
Jacuzzi in one of the rooms of the Hotel Villapadierna.
ABC
This luxury hotel is a ten-minute drive from Puerto Banús in Marbella and features three 18-hole golf courses. It is designed as a Tuscan palace and houses a 2,000-square-metre spa, a Roman amphitheatre and a luxury beach club. Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort offers rooms and villas surrounded by beautiful gardens. All overlook the golf course, pool or gardens and, in some cases, the Mediterranean Sea.
The rooms are equipped with an air conditioner, satellite TV and luxurious bedding. The private bathrooms have a bathtub and shower, hairdryer, slippers and bathrobes. Some villas have a private swimming pool, while all have a private garden and kitchenette.
The thermal spa includes an indoor swimming pool and a gym. There are two saunas, three steam rooms and a Turkish bath. The Medical Wellness Institute offers a range of health and beauty treatments. The five restaurants at the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort have outdoor terraces with magnificent views. There is also an English bar with a fireplace. The rate includes a buffet breakfast served in the restaurant with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. The average price per night is around 750 euros.
Palacio de Sancti Petri
Swimming pool in the Hotel Palacio de Sancti Petri in Chiclana de la Frontera
ABC
Set in an Andalusian palace, this luxury hotel offers direct access to the Barrosa beach, a free spa and a large outdoor pool. All rooms have a furnished balcony. Palacio de Sancti Petri, a Gran Meliá Hotel offers spacious rooms with a living room and a flat-screen satellite TV. They include free Wi-Fi and a minibar.
The hotel is located next to the Novo Sancti Petri golf course on the Costa de la Luz. Jerez Airport and the beautiful city of Cadiz are about 45 minutes away by car. Some of the hotel’s superior rooms enjoy The Level personalised service, which includes access to a private adults-only swimming pool, free use of deluxe amenities, à la carte breakfast service in the room, private breakfast and an open bar area.
The Palacio de Sancti Petri, A Gran Meliá Hotel features a beautiful marble courtyard with arches and fountains. There are several restaurants in the courtyard and in the gardens, with buffet and à la carte options. The hotel spa has a Roman bath, footbath and water jets. Rooms are available from 550 euros.
Marbella Club Hotel
One of the rooms of the Marbella Club Hotel.
ABC
This luxury beachfront hotel is located between Marbella and Puerto Banús. It features two luxury swimming pools and five restaurants. Surrounded by lush gardens with direct access to the beach and with rooms with private terraces and sea or garden views, the Marbella Club Hotel was originally the private residence of Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe – the hotel’s founder.
There are five restaurants serving international and traditional Spanish cuisine. In Puerto Banús, there is a wide variety of designer shops, bars and restaurants. The hotel offers a shuttle service to the Marbella Club Golf Resort. The 18-hole golf course was designed by Dave Thomas and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and Africa.
The establishment also has a thalassotherapy spa overlooking the sea, which offers a wide range of treatments, such as sauna and water beds. This spacious complex also has a children’s club. It includes a dance studio, a music room and an enchanted forest, among other educational and leisure facilities. Bookings start from 1,200 euros.
Gran Hotel Miramar
One of the rooms of the Gran Hotel Miramar in Malaga.
ABC
The luxurious Gran Hotel Miramar GL is located in Malaga, ten metres from La Malagueta Beach. This beachfront hotel features a spa centre and a seasonal swimming pool.
The hotel’s rooms are elegant, with views of the beach, the garden or the city. They are equipped with an air conditioner and a flat-screen satellite TV, a media library, a Bluetooth sound system and USB and HDMI ports. They also have a private bathroom with a bathtub, Bulgari toiletries and a mirror with a thermometer and a clock.
The hotel’s Príncipe de Asturias restaurant serves international dishes with a Mediterranean touch. There is also a café bar with a casual atmosphere and a rooftop terrace bar. A buffet breakfast is served by the pool, offering a variety of fruit, cold meats, cheese and pastries.
It has a children’s pool, kids club depending on the season and a wide variety of meeting and conference rooms. Prices start from 600 euros.
Hotel Alfonso XIII
One of the courtyards of the Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville.
ABC
Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is located in Seville, next to the Real Alcazar. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a traditional courtyard garden with a fountain. Rooms are individually decorated, equipped with an air conditioner, a minibar, bathrobes and slippers.
There is an outdoor poolside restaurant, which serves snacks, beer and wine. The San Fernando restaurant serves traditional local dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The hotel also houses the Americano cocktail bar. The Ena Sevilla restaurant serves tapas and has an outdoor terrace, with views of the Puerta de Jerez. The hotel is located next to the historic Santa Cruz district, about 300 metres from the Giralda and Seville’s Cathedral. Rooms start from 300 euros.
Nobu Hotel Marbella
Pool at Nobu Hotel Marbella.
ABC
Nobu Hotel Marbella is surrounded by gardens and fountains. All rooms at this five-star hotel overlook the resort square. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and La Suite nightclub. The hotel is located approximately 3.6 kilometres from Plaza de los Naranjos and 500 metres from the nearest beach.
All rooms include a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, a terrace and a living room.
A buffet breakfast is served in the morning. The hotel’s exclusive restaurant specialises in Peruvian-Japanese cuisine. The reception is open 24 hours a day and offers the option of pre-arrival check-in. Rooms start from 600 euros.
Kempinski Hotel Bahia Beach Resort & Spa
One of the pools at Kempinski Hotel Bahía Beach Resort & Spa.
ABC
Kempinski Hotel Bahía Beach Resort & Spa in Estepona is located on the beachfront, just a 15-minute drive from Puerto Banús. It features a spa, gardens and three outdoor pools. Rooms feature a balcony, a flat-screen satellite TV and a marble bathroom with a hairdryer.
Kempinski Hotel Bahia Beach Resort & Spa includes a gym with free fitness activities and tennis courts. The hotel’s spa features a sauna, a steam bath, an indoor relaxation pool and six treatment rooms. There is also a children’s club open during the high season.
The Kempinski serves a buffet breakfast and has two other restaurants offering a variety of Mediterranean and Spanish dishes. Guests can enjoy a drink while looking at the garden, the sea or the pool. Prices start from 500 euros per night.
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