Category: Hospitality

A memorable travel experience often starts with the right place to stay, and Tripadvisor’s latest announcement highlights just how significant a good hotel can be. The travel platform recently unveiled its annual list of the World’s 10 Best Hotels for 2025, offering insight into travelers’ most beloved destinations. Drawing from more than 1.6 million properties listed on their site, Tripadvisor analyzed millions of traveler reviews to determine which hotels were most highly rated across the globe. This year, two standout properties from India—both located in the scenic state of Kerala—have secured coveted spots in the top ten.

Tripadvisor’s 2025 rankings include two hotels from India, both situated in the picturesque coastal and hilly landscapes of Kerala, offering visitors a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. Their inclusion in the list is not only a testament to exceptional hospitality but also showcases Kerala’s growing global appeal as a travel destination.

One of the Indian properties to make the list is the Gokulam Grand Turtle on the Beach. Ranked third globally, this five-star boutique hotel is located near the serene Hawa Beach in Kovalam. The hotel is a fusion of contemporary design and traditional Indian aesthetics, delivering a luxury experience that celebrates local culture. With its breathtaking sea-facing accommodations, it offers four types of rooms: Arabian Sea view rooms, Duplex rooms, Duplex suites, and Signature suites, each providing spectacular views and premium comfort.

The hotel is not just about luxurious rooms. It offers a range of wellness and leisure experiences, making it a complete destination for travelers. Guests can engage in yoga sessions, enjoy spa treatments, or simply relax and take in the stunning ocean scenery. Food enthusiasts are in for a treat as well. Gokulam Grand Turtle on the Beach has three dining options: Catamaran, which serves a mix of international cuisines; Centre Point Cafe, known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries; and WWW, a rooftop bar perfect for sipping cocktails as the sun sets over the Arabian Sea.

Its location is another major plus. The hotel is conveniently situated just 18 kilometers from the nearest airport and the bustling Poovar Market. According to TripAdvisor, room rates at the hotel start at Rs 7,270 for two people, offering a combination of affordability and luxury that appeals to both domestic and international travelers.

The second Indian entry on the list is Chandy’s Windy Woods, which is ranked ninth globally. Nestled on the gentle slopes of a hill in Munnar, this tranquil retreat is surrounded by lush greenery and mist-covered landscapes. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, the resort offers a calm escape from the noise of urban life.

The rooms at Chandy’s Windy Woods are designed to maximize the beauty of their surroundings, with large windows that frame sweeping views of the misty mountains and forests. The resort also features a temperature-controlled swimming pool and an on-site restaurant that serves a delicious mix of Indian and Chinese dishes. It caters to both relaxation seekers and those looking for enriching activities.

A standout feature of this resort is the ‘Enchanting Forest’ walk, a guided experience that winds through a beautifully designed trail. The path passes by waterfalls, arched stone bridges, intricately painted ceilings, and creatively constructed, nature-themed installations. Midway through the walk, visitors can stop at a quaint coffee shop styled like a traditional Kerala eatery, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience.

Located about 15 kilometers from the Munnar Bus Station, Chandy’s Windy Woods is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a secluded and serene getaway. TripAdvisor currently lists the average cost for a night’s stay for two people at around Rs 12,500, making it a premium yet worthwhile destination.

The top hotel in the world, according to Tripadvisor’s 2025 list, is Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya in Mexico. This adults-only resort is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya and offers an expansive luxury experience with 434 suites, several swimming pools, and a wide range of culinary choices. With six specialty restaurants and seven bars, it aims to provide guests with endless dining and entertainment options. Its location, offerings, and service have made it the number one choice for travelers this year.

Here is the full list of Tripadvisor’s World’s 10 Best Hotels for 2025:

1. Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Mexico
2. Grandvrio Ocean Resort Danang, Vietnam
3. Gokulam Grand Turtle on the Beach, India
4. Romance Istanbul Hotel, Turkiye
5. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba, Caribbean
6. Ermin’s Hotel, Autograph Collection, United Kingdom
7. Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Caribbean
8. French Quarter Inn, United States
9. Chandy’s Windy Woods, India
10. Siyam World Maldives, Maldives

The presence of two Indian properties in the global top ten highlights the increasing recognition of India’s hospitality industry. It also reflects the growing popularity of Kerala as a global travel destination known for its serene beaches, misty hills, and welcoming atmosphere.

Both Gokulam Grand Turtle on the Beach and Chandy’s Windy Woods offer travelers more than just a place to sleep. They provide immersive experiences that combine natural beauty, local culture, and high-end service. From wellness and adventure to gourmet dining and peaceful retreats, these hotels cater to a wide range of preferences and make a strong case for India’s place on the global travel map.

According to Tripadvisor, these rankings are based entirely on traveler reviews and ratings from the past year. “Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best is our highest honor,” the site states. “The award takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings, and ranks the very best accommodations, destinations, beaches, restaurants, and experiences in specific categories and geographic areas, as rated and reviewed by travelers.”

This acknowledgment from Tripadvisor is not only a win for the hotels themselves but also a proud moment for India’s tourism sector. As more international travelers seek unique and authentic experiences, the inclusion of these two Kerala properties on a globally respected platform sets a high benchmark and paves the way for continued growth in luxury and eco-tourism across the country.

With over a million hotels reviewed and only ten making the final cut, the fact that two of them are from India speaks volumes about the quality, service, and experience offered by these establishments. Their success serves as a reminder that when it comes to hospitality, India can compete with the best in the world—offering not only stunning settings and rich culture but also unparalleled warmth and service.

Patel officially assumed the role at the conclusion of AAHOACON25, the association’s annual Convention & Trade Show, which took place April 15-17 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.

A second-generation hotelier from Santa Cruz, California, Patel grew up immersed in the hospitality business, working alongside his family and now managing properties with his wife, Krishna. He follows in the footsteps of his father, Suresh (SP) Patel, a respected industry leader and former AAHOA Board Member and North Pacific Regional Director.

“It’s an incredible honor to serve as Chairman of AAHOA,” said Patel. “This association has been the backbone of support for hotel owners like myself. As we navigate an ever-changing industry, I’m committed to strengthening our foundation, empowering membership, and ensuring AAHOA continues to be the voice, the resource, and the community that hotel owners rely on.”

Prior to his appointment, Patel served as AAHOA’s North Pacific Regional Director and was a Premier Ambassador for several years. He was elected Secretary in 2022, beginning a leadership journey that now culminates with his Chairmanship.

Patel’s platform centers on the theme of “Strengthening AAHOA Through Member Empowerment.” His vision includes eight key priorities:

1. Profitability First: Prioritizing member ROI in every initiative
2. Stronger Advocacy: Amplifying our voice at every level of government
3. Member Engagement: Creating more ways for you to get involved
4. Open Dialogue: Tackling tough conversations with brands and policymakers
5. One Team, One Vision: Driving unity across AAHOA leadership
6. Investing in the Future: Elevating next-gen and leadership programs
7. Transparency & Accountability: Keeping members informed and empowered
8. Giving Back: Mobilizing through the AAHOA Charitable Foundation

“AAHOA isn’t just an association – it’s a family,” Patel added. “This community shaped my career, and now, it’s my turn to serve. If AAHOA isn’t delivering value, creating opportunities, and strengthening this industry, then we’re not doing our job. I want every member to know their voice matters and that this association belongs to them.”

“On behalf of AAHOA, we congratulate KP on his new role as Chairman,” said AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake. He brings a deep commitment to our mission and a clear vision for the future. We are excited to work together to advance AAHOA’s advocacy, expand our impact, and continue building an association that reflects the strength and spirit of America’s hotel owners.”

About AAHOA

AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the nation, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA’s 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.4% of the nation’s GDP. More than 1 million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $51.3 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA’s mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.