Hotels sometimes can make or ruin an experience in a new country. Along with my 2015 favorite new countries, I also had some incredible hotel stays that I will remember for years to come.

Here is my pick for the top 10 hotel stays based on my overall personal experience and the hotel’s quality, uniqueness, and memorability.

10. Kempinski Djibouti

Picture a country with a chaotic capital surrounded by desert landscapes. Dominating the city’s calm embassy area is the expansive Kempinski Djibouti, the only luxurious escape for visitors and residents alike.

9. RLJ Kendeja Resort & Villas, Liberia

In a country recently ravaged by ebola, RLJ Kendeja Resort is one example of the perseverance of the human spirit with a well managed team maintaining an oasis of international standard and supporting the country’s recovery.

8. The River Club, Zambia

The River Club feels more like an exclusive country club, than a hotel. Take in the stunning views of the Zambezi River from the rooms or fine dining restaurant. Meet and enjoy the company your fellow guests to become a part of the “club”.

7. Hotel Plaza Grande, Equador

Not only is Hotel Plaza Grande a heritage property in the center of the old city, but it also exudes old world charm and class. Visit for the history, stay for the service, quality, and location.

6. Sugar Reef, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

This resort actually has a page on their site to inform who shouldn’t stay. A laid back property with rooms atop the mountain and by the sea proves that experience and service top luxurious amenities.

5. Majestic Barriere, France

The Majestic Barriere is a landmark in Cannes especially during the film festival. Ultra luxurious rooms and fine concierge service make this central location with a private beach a memorable stay.

4. Mvuu Lodge, Malawi

Where else can you sleep among hippos and warthogs in the middle of Liwonde National Park? This high-end secluded lodge is a safari lover’s dream.

3. Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf, Equatorial Guinea

In a highly restrictive country, the Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf manages to impress guests with its own golf course, outdoor pool, private beach, and a private island all in a tropical location. Add in great service and restaurants, what more could you want?

2. The Domain, Bahrain

Though The Domain is a fairly new additional to Manama’s hotel scene, it is already one of the most popular. With its unique club membership program, guests can mingle with the country’s elite while enjoying the top amenities, restaurants, and services in the city.

1. Constance Ephelia, Seychelles

This massive resort not only occupies two private beaches, but also includes their own rainforest and mountain which is a designated natural reserve. With varied restaurants, a huge spa and many activities (including zip-lining through the forest) it will be hard to drag yourself away from this five-star oasis to see the rest of the country!

Runner Ups

These countries came close to making the list.

Royal Beach Hotel, Madagascar

This upscale resort has all the ingredients of a winning property including, location on the beach, luxurious rooms, a central pool, and some of the best service I’ve experienced in Africa.

Grand Hyatt Muscat, Oman

Opulence is the word to describe the prominent Grand Hyatt in Muscat. With a beautiful lobby and diverse restaurant/bar selection, this property is known to host some of the city’s best events.

Eko Hotels & Suites, Nigeria

Partly due to the government’s stake in the venture, the Eko group of hotels occupies a prime waterfront location with a popular central pool. With grand events, celebrities and a constant buzz of excitement, the Eko Signature Hotel is perhaps the best place to stay in Lagos.

Which hotel is on your must see list?