In with the new: 3 must-book boutique hotels from Morocco to Malaysia

Time to scratch your holiday itch, but not sure where to start? Take inspiration from our latest arrivals, which have been handpicked from the world’s hottest new hotel openings. Bed down in the heart of Marrakech’s Golden Triangle, go off-grid in Australia’s rugged Blue Mountains, or slip into seaside life at a beachfront Florida retreat. Your next boutique break is just a few clicks away…

1. Nobu Hotel Marrakech, Marrakech – Morocco

Opened January 2023

Moroccan heritage meets Asian modernity at Nobu Hotel Marrakech, the brand’s first opening in Africa. The all-suite property is just footsteps away from the Red City’s sense-stirring Djemaa el-Fna, where snake charmers and storytellers rub shoulders with some of the finest street food sellers this side of anywhere. Expect Japanese minimalism, Moroccan craftsmanship, and mountain or Koutoubia Mosque views from every stylish suite – but it’s the Nobu Suite with its wrap-around terrace which takes luxury to new heights. Seasoned Nobu guests will know that the restaurant is a must-reserve, and the Marrakech outpost follows suit.

Nobu’s famed style of Asian-influenced dining flows across the menus here – head up to the rooftop garden where starlit drinks and Moroccan-meets-Med plates are served with Atlas Mountain views. By day, the beach club-style venue is a sun-bathing and sushi spot, where chic cabanas circle the striking outdoor pool. In between your rock shrimp and sashimi, you can unwind in The Pearl Spa, dipping into the subterranean mosaic pool, making use of one of the 14 private treatment rooms, and sauntering between the sauna and steam baths.

Nobu Hotel Marrakech | Book Now

2. Chalets at Blackheath, New South Wales – Australia

A cluster of freestanding chalets dotted across untamed bush, Chalets at Blackheath boasts the wildly beautiful backdrop of the Blue Mountains. The chalet’s floor-to-ceiling windows bring the bush to you, so you can wake up to the sounds of nature as the forest comes to life each morning. Design touches from sustainable Australian brands offset the organic interior palette, plus the oversized bathrooms and twin rainfall showers cascade UV-filtered mountain water for alpine fresh bathing at its peak. With national parkland stretching as far as the eye can see, this is the ideal boutique base for outdoor adventures – hike the bush trails, explore the spectacular Jenolan caves, abseil a waterfall, or sip your way through the local vineyard scene. Wild at heart travellers, what are you waiting for?

Chalets at Blackheath | Book Now

3. Else Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia

Housed in the iconic 1930s Lee Rubber building, Else Kuala Lumpur is a masterclass in minimalist, modern interiors with a dash of deco detailing. A focus on conscious living flows from the lobby through to the rooms and suites, where muted tones provide soothing surroundings. Downstairs, restaurants draw on nature, serving ‘comforting classics’ or contemporary rustic options. This modern-meets-rural connection continues outside, with peaceful infinity pools, meditation pods and plenty of space for relaxation and reflection. There is also a sunken living room, dens and meeting rooms – for those in the know.

Strike out from the hotel and you’ll discover an energetic, captivating city starting in Chinatown – the beating heart of Kuala Lumpur’s creative and cultural district. From here, uncover colourful flea market stalls, sample the gastronomic wonders of Central Market (just minutes from the hotel) and stroll along the Klang River.

Else Kuala Lumpur | Book Now