This Is the Best Hotel in the World

By Jess McHugh
August 03, 2017
Jason Wolcott

It's difficult to find a destination that feels completely secluded while still offering great amenities, but — according to Travel + Lesiure's readers — Nihi Sumba has struck just the right balance. And that has earned it the distinction of being the best hotel in the world.

Each year, T+L surveys its readers on everything from hotels to spas to airlines for World's Best. Hotels are evaluated based on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Nihi Sumba, in Indonesia, ranked the highest with a score of 99.12 out of a possible 100.

Related: The World's Best Awards 2017

With just 33 villas on 560 acres, guests can enjoy complete privacy while also partaking in any and all beachfront activities the hotel offers like surfing, snorkeling, spearfishing, yoga, horseback riding, and hiking.

An hour’s plane from Bali, “it is the epitome of escape, adventure, and luxury,” wrote one reader.

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Swimming Pool

Jason Wolcott
An aerial view shows the hotel’s beachside swimming pool.
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Horseback Riding

Alexandre Ribeiro dos Santos
Nihi Sumba offers a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding at sunset.

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Your Own Private Island

Tânia Araújo
The island’s secluded location offers the perfect getaway.
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Watersports

Tânia Araújo
The shores of this island are perfect for aquatic activities, such as snorkeling.

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Private Bungalows

John Laurie
Nihi Sumba has just 33 bungalows on its 560 acres.

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Pristine Beaches

Tânia Araújo
Enjoy some time in the sun in the island’s clear blue waters.
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Welcoming Community

Jason Wolcott
Readers have lauded the hotel for its strong sense of community.

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Accessibility

Tânia Araújo
The island is just a one-hour plane ride from Bali.

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View From the Exterior

Tânia Araújo
The bungalows can be seen upon arrival to paradise.
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Beach Sports

John Laurie
Enjoy sports on the beach.

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Lush Vegetation

John Laurie
The abundance of trees on the island give the sense of a Robinson Crusoe type of escape.

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Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Tânia Araújo
Visitors can hike around the island to see even more of its beautiful views.
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Beautiful Sunsets

Tânia Araújo
Sunset on Nihi Sumba is picture perfect.

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Outdoor Cocktails

Agusm Photography
Guests can enjoy a cocktail on the hotel’s deck.

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Organic Food

John Laurie
Dining at the hotel features fresh produce from their organic garden as well as local fish.
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Basking in the Sun

Jason Wolcott
Beach or pool? You choose.

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Waterfalls and Trekking

John Laurie
If guests ever get tired of sitting by the seaside or indulging in spa experiences, try trekking to a nearby waterfall.

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View From Above

Tânia Araújo
An aerial shot shows a bungalow amid an abundance of trees.
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