Think back to the hotel you stayed on your last trip. Was it simply a place to rest your head for the night or did it give you a chance to mix with the locals, be one with nature or unleash your creativity. We have whittled down the top extraordinary place to stay this year – pick one that inspires you to travel.

Mihir Garh, Rajasthan, India

Mihir Garh sits in a beautifully isolated stretch of land in Thar Desert.  From the distance, it could be mistaken for a mirage;but there is nothing illusory about this stunning piece of structure. It took 150 masons, craftsmen and artisans 2 years to build what the owner describes as ‘a dream realized’. There are just nine huge uber luxurious suites within the hotel, featuring custom made equestrian-inspired curtain holders and fireplaces fashioned from clay and cow dung. The structure is designed to reflect the Rajasthani countryscape – rounded edges that mimic the huts of the Bishnoi tribe;peacock fanning a bejewelled tail across a frescoed wall and murals of elegant Rajasthani women in bright, block printed saris. Continue Reading…