Little Palm Island, Florida(01 of17)
Open Image ModalPart of the fun of your hotel stay is actually getting to the hotel. For those staying at the tranquil and private Little Palm Island, located just 15 minutes offshore of Mile Marker 28.5 in the Lower Florida Keys. Called "Florida's most secluded and romantic retreat" by Travel + Leisure Magazine, the magic starts before you even get to the resort. Your boat ride to LPI lands you on this East Dock, which is your entry into complete seclusion for stay on Little Palm Island.
Bovey Castle, England(02 of17)
Open Image ModalBovey Castle, located in Dartmoor National Park, England, is everything a castle should be: majestic, regal, mysterious and of course, stunning to look at, even as you're driving up the to the estate. Your first impression of this ëgrande dameí is seen from the fairytale landscape of Dartmoor National Park. Once you're through the gates, the windy road takes you past the golf course and up to the grand mansion, where no doubt you'll be treated like a king (or queen).
St. Regis, Punta Mita(03 of17)
Open Image ModalWho said lobbies need to be enclosed? The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort shows off its check-in area with an open-air lobby complete with ocean view images. Guests who arrive during whale migration season can sometimes see the whiles from the lobby. The hotel is perched at the resortís highest point, Altamira (which is also the name of the lobby entrance and bar) and offers spectacular views of the water any time of day.
Çiragan Palace, Kempinski, Istanbul(04 of17)
Open Image ModalWhen hotels meet history, the options are limitless. Case in point: the Çiragan Palace, which dates back to the beginning of the 17th century. From the marble floors to the grand staircases to the countless chandeliers, the lobby is a feast for the eyes.
Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta(05 of17)
Open Image ModalSpeaking of chandeliers... A little closer to home, the Ritz-Carlton Atlanta welcomes guests to a sexy little soiree when they enter the hotel for the first time. At first sight: the red chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Talk about setting the mood and making a first impression.
Viceroy, Anguilla(06 of17)
Open Image ModalThe design is so simple and yet, you don't know where to look first when you step into the Viceroy Antigua's lobby. The wooden art set against steel structures and crawling chandeliers are just a few of the things that take your breath away.
George V, Paris(07 of17)
Open Image ModalFew hotels can truly capture old-world elegance, but the lobby at George V in Paris it's a tribute to the exquisite art of the past centuries. The dark furniture against the white walls provides an excellent backdrop to the fresh flowers and grand sculptures in the entry way.
The Fairmont, Beijing(08 of17)
Open Image ModalWhen you think Asian design, you likely think of deep reds and golds, but the Fairmont Beijing added a little twist to the typical, which makes this lobby one of our favorites. Still adorning the red and golds we're used to seeing in Asia hotels, the Fairmont Beijing couples it with growing green vines and drop-ceiling sculptures. Very cool and chic!
The Liberty Hotel, Boston(09 of17)
Open Image ModalThe one-time-prison-turned-hotel is a sight for even the sorest eyes. The first floor escalator takes guests up the stairs to the main lobby area, where all the floors can be seen, as well as their decor. The Liberty used cherry tree paintings and warm brown accents to make this cell look inviting. Prison never looked so good.
Kameha Grand, Bonn, Germany(10 of17)
Open Image ModalThis modern hotel in Bonn was designed to mimic a vibrant and lively atmosphere. In the Stage Bar & Lounge, which is part of the Lobby, the cool vibe shines through glass and crystals used to decorate the area. It's a small area, but with the use of mirrors and floating objects hanging from the ceiling, the space seems to expand as soon as you sit down.
Molori Safari Lodge, South Africa(11 of17)
Open Image ModalIf you stay at a South Africa gaming lodge, it's likely the best part of the lodge comes from the outside where the animals roam. That's exactly what the Main Lodge at Molori Safari Lodge had in mind when it created its reception area for guests. Along with the usual sofas and sitting areas, the space features a pool, a pizza oven, two dining rooms, an upper deck, and a bar. Nothing like sipping a cocktail while watching a lion walk by.
La Mamounia, Marrakech(12 of17)
Open Image ModalLa Mamounia lobby is a combination of Oriental palace decor and Moorish architecture. Created by world-renowned interior designer Jacques Garcia, the lobby smells of cedar and dates, Baccarat crystal chandeliers hang from a wooden ceiling and traditional Moroccan lanterns illuminate the room.
The PuLi Hotel and Spa, Shanghai(13 of17)
Open Image ModalLike the city itself, the PuLi is a juxtaposition of authentic Chinese heritgae and modern world amenities. The lobby is meant to evoke an East-meets-West feeling, with a sleek space accented by Mandarin touches and overlooking the tranquil views of Jingían Park.
Dream, New York City(14 of17)
Open Image ModalOne purpose of the Dream Hotel is to make guests feel at peace, the other purpose is to provide a totally surreal experience. Before you even reach the check-in desks your senses will be heightened. The whimsical and contemporary designs create a sleepy, dream-like environment (appropriately, we might add). The grand column that runs from the first floor to the second was converted into an aquarium, adding a sense of tranquility to the overall mood.
Hotel le Meurice, Paris(15 of17)
Open Image ModalOne of Paris's gems tops things off with one of the most interesting pieces of lobby art you'll find anywhere. Le Meurice's Frozen Mirror serves as a piece of art and a magic show for those who enter. The unique mirror is set in a stainless steel frame and features a built in refrigeration system. Each night it is frozen and throughout the day, guests leave their mark by drawing in the ice. It continues to melt throughout the day and is frozen again each evening ensuring each morning starts with a fresh canvas.
Barcelo Maya Palace, Riviera Maya, Mexico(16 of17)
Open Image ModalHistoric The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, CO(17 of17)
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