What is a 7-Star Hotel? A Look at the Best 7-star Hotels in the World

You must have heard of 7-star hotels that denote opulence and deliver outstanding experiences in hospitality. While Forbes Travel Guide, AAA and the like award stars to categorize hotels and restaurants for exceeding standards in service, there is nobody that officially gives more than 5 stars – considered superior luxury. Unofficially, websites and the media have started this practice of praising certain hotels that truly stand out, which have come to be known as “7-star hotels”. Here is an exclusive list of the most decadent 7-star hotels from around the world.

1. Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Standing on its own private beach, the hotel defines Arabian fantasy. Many of the suites, furnished in gold and marble, are luxurious enough to be favoured by Emirati royalty and dignitaries. The room prices can exceed $980 per night but it’s worth the 1.3 km pristine beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking the bay – perfect for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

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2. Burj Al Arab, Dubai

This landmark structure stands on a man-made island, 280 meters away from Jumeirah Beach and is designed to look like a sail. It contains 202 suites, the most expensive of which is the royal two-bedroom suite, which costs nearly $27,000 per night and comes with an uber sleep technology bed, elevator, cinema room, library, discreet check-in, butler service, Rolls Royce chauffeurs, and views of the Arabian Gulf. Repeatedly voted the world's most luxurious hotel, each suite here comes with 24-carat gold iPads, Egyptian linens, designer toiletries and whirlpool baths. Upgraded suites include snooker tables, libraries, cinemas and private elevators.

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3. Town House Galleria, Milan

Located inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II mall (dating back to 1877), just a few steps away from Duomo square, the hotel has an inconspicuous entrance and allows only residents. There are only 20 luxury suites available, but the personalization in comfort exceeds that of any place on earth. They can cost $505 per night on an average. The hotel is unique in offering a Complimentary Pets Program so your pets get an equally royal treatment, complete with a chenille sofa, lunch-time mat and teacup bowl set (available in different sizes).

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4. Laucala Island, Fiji

This island, a total of 12 square kilometres, privately owned by Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz, has been turned into an unparalleled island resort. Laucala also offers dining by design, which means customised menus in private dining locations – amid the jungle, along a jetty or in the villa. Guests are encouraged to try the traditional Fijian therapies at the Spa Garden and indulge at the Pool Bar besides the 2000 sq mt lagoon-style swimming pool. A one-bedroom plantation villa with private pool and direct beach access can cost $6000 per night whereas the Delana Hilltop Estate residence is occasionally available by prior application for $55,000 per night.

5. The Mark Hotel, New York City

The hotel has been a landmark on Madison Avenue, Manhattan since 1920s and combines the luxury of old-world comfort, avant-garde design, modern day technology and an unprecedented level of personal service. All offerings at the Mark Restaurant & Bar are the impassioned concepts of globally-acclaimed Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten. Its priciest suite at $86,000 a night includes 24-hour access to Bergdorf Goodman tailoring and in-suite hairstyling from Frédéric Fekkai Salon, and is known to have hosted dignitaries like Bill Clinton. Even pets enjoy perks like special menus and custom-designed dog beds.

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6. Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris

This hotel is at the ideal location for the finest shopping that Paris has to offer, and has some of the most magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower. Its 154 rooms and 54 suites are synonymous with Parisian glamour, exhibiting exquisite Louis XVI inspired décor. Guests get to enjoy their very own ice rink, Jazz nights at Le Relais Plaza, Europe’s only Dior Institut offering exclusive spa treatments, and chauffeur-driven limousines to soak up the sights of The Louvre. The Royal Suite comes at $27,000-a-night.

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7. Hotel President Wilson, Geneva

Facing the magnificent panorama of the Mont Blanc on the Leman lake shore, the hotel is one of the most contemporary addresses in Geneva. It offers Michelin-starred cuisine from famous Chef Michel Roth, a luxurious spa suite including a private jacuzzi, steam sauna and signature treatments from Spa La Mer, and an outdoor heated pool overlooking the lake. While a classic room is available for $390, the Royal Penthouse offers 12 bedrooms, executive boardroom, choicest art, private elevator, armoured doors, bulletproof glass, panic room and helipad — all for $59,000 a night.

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How wonderful would it be to stay at these awe-inspiring 7-star hotels, even if it’s for a single night?