The Inaugural Edition of "The World's 50 Best Hotels" Brings Together Old Favourites and Soulful Newcomers

There is a wide consensus as to what makes a good hotel – convenient or picturesque location, quality of service, range of amenities, comfort – but what makes a hotel truly exceptional? With no universal standard for hotel ratings, travellers rely instead on reviews, national and international classification systems, and, ever more increasingly, best-of lists. In fact, the internet is inundated with best-of lists, both general and specific, from the best luxury and beach hotels, to the best hotels for families and pets, to the best hotels in specific regions and cities.