Best hotels in the world
A recent study by Onebed has ranked the countries with the best hotel offerings by analyzing star ratings, pricing, and hotel density using data from Google Hotels.
Scores for each country were calculated by weighting hotels according to star rating, evaluating luxury hotel density by area, and assessing affordability through average nightly rates. These metrics were rescaled and combined into a Composite Score, highlighting countries with the most balanced quality and accessibility in accommodations.
The top three
According to the results of the study, the Maldives ranks at the top with an impressive composite score of 59.66, driven by its 141 five-star hotels and an average price of $922.27 (+/- R16 000) per night for high-end stays. With a luxury hotel density score of 0.87 and an affordability score of 33.66, the Maldives achieves a unique balance of accessibility and premium service, making it a leading destination for quality hospitality.
Qatar takes the second position with a composite score of 50.52, boasting a high density of luxury hotels across a total of 280 properties. The country appeals to both luxury and budget travelers, with rates from $43.92 (+/- R800) per night for two-star hotels to $237.67 (+/- R4 300) for five-star options. This range makes Qatar a standout destination for varied budget preferences in the luxury market.
Japan ranks third with a composite score of 49.46, demonstrating its strong appeal for budget-conscious travelLers. Japan offers two-star accommodations averaging $28.42 (+/- R500) per night, with abundant options across star levels. Its affordability score of 100 also reinforces Japan’s accessibility for travellers seeking quality at a reasonable cost.
Where does South Africa rank?
South Africa didn’t fare too badly in the study, placing quite high at number 13 with a composite score of 32.17.
South Africa offers 345 two-star accommodations averaging $25.38 (+/- R460) per night as well as 4 077 three-star hotels averaging at $28.42 (+/- R515) per night.
The country also has 3 398 four-star hotels averaging $134.34 (+/- R2 400) per night and 628 five-star hotels at around $330.67 (+/- R6 000) per night.
The top 10
| Countries | Composite Score | Rank |
| Maldives | 59.66 | 1 |
| Qatar | 50.52 | 2 |
| Japan | 49.46 | 3 |
| Switzerland | 42.12 | 4 |
| Iceland | 41.49 | 5 |
| United Arab Emirates | 40.86 | 6 |
| Austria | 37.91 | 7 |
| Seychelles | 35.53 | 8 |
| Luxembourg | 34.79 | 9 |
| Denmark | 33.61 | 10 |
Which was the best hotel you’ve stayed at?
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