Sankru

Perched at the edge of a steep slope above Kenya's Great Rift Valley, this safari lodge has 15 deluxe tented suites, a private airfield, and customized game drives and walking safaris. Stop by the Shamba (garden) to sample fresh produce.

Though closer to Quito than to the Amazon rainforest, Mashpi Lodge is still surrounded by dense jungle, where guests can watch for more than 400 species of birds, trees, frogs, and other wildlife. Ride the hotel's Dragonfly Canopy Gondola or hike to rushing waterfalls and rivers; return to unwind in rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that put the rain forest on full display.

Last summer, the Hamptons welcomed this charming hotel, with airy individual cottages, rooms, and suites. The contemporary design features light wood and tasteful black-and-white photographs. A daily continental breakfast is served on the verdant lawn; guests can ride complimentary bikes to or get a ride in the beach cruiser to the ocean; and in the evening, s'mores are available at the firepit.

Expect high design at this landmark hotel on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The 393 rooms feature Thai-style furnishings and design, and all guests have access to personal butlers. Grounds are meticulously landscaped, and there are two pools, two tennis courts, and an award-winning spa.

A 93-room opulent hotel in Knightsbridge, the Lanesborough is walking distance from such iconic London attractions as Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. Rooms feature Regency-period furnishings and marble bathrooms, and the 18,000-square-foot spa includes a hydrotherapy pool.

The creativity of all-white design is taken to new heights at this seaside Mykonos resort. While the beach and pool beckon, be sure to set aside ample time for getting pampered at the sparkling spa.

Situated on the city's European side, in the posh shopping district of Nişantaşi, the St. Regis Istanbul features 118 rooms with pieces by contemporary Turkish artists and balconies overlooking the city. Guests can dine at an outpost of Wolfgang Puck's Spago or at the St. Regis Brasserie.