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You voted; we listened. These are the best resorts in the world, from safari lodges in South Africa to remote lodges in Chile, all winners of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Situated on coral-reefed Tetiaroa, surrounding a lagoon 30 miles north of Tahiti, this luxe eco-resort is the vision of late actor Marlon Brando, consisting of 35 thatch-roofed villas with plunge pools, a floating restaurant and organic garden, and a locally inspired spa — all powered through solar energy or coconut oil and air conditioned via seawater. A conservation and research center looks after native flora and fauna.
Seventy-eight freestanding beach or overwater villas, each with its own infinity pool, on a private island of soft white sand. Recently named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the atoll is 35 minutes by seaplane from Male. Thatched-roof luxury, with the lagoon at center stage.
One of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition collection of retreats, this private game reserve has 21 rooms and suites spread over two lodges. At the Rock Lodge, enjoy a post-game drive cocktail with panoramic views of the Drakensberg Mountains. Just 500 meters away at the Safari Lodge, walk between treehouse-style rooms on swinging rope bridges or just watch the zebras and impala stroll by on their way to the nearby watering hole.
Fronting one of the prettiest beaches in the world, just 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, El Dorado Maroma is the kind of adults-only all-inclusive we’d happily visit (and re-visit). Suites are spacious and romantic — choose from overwater bungalows, beachfront villas with Jacuzzis, or our pick, the Royal Swim-Up Suites with direct access to the main pool via a lazy river.
Consistently rated the best resort in the U.S. by our readers, The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch — set on 30,000 acres amid the Sierra Madres — executes the luxury dude ranch concept with skill and style. Think spotted cowhide chairs in the lounge, fur throws at the edge of knotty wooden king-sized beds, and yurts decked out with antler chandeliers and leather couches. For an upscale group getaway, book the seven cabins that make up the Magee Homestead — it comes with its own concierge service.
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