Welcome to your 2025 Butterfly List—an anthology of travel experiences involving some of the most unique stays across the globe, designed to inspire and transform, not just check off boxes. Unlike the traditional Bucket List, that’s all about ticking things off, a Butterfly List is about growth, inspiration, and meaningful encounters. It’s rooted in the belief that travel, much like a butterfly’s metamorphosis, has the power to reshape you, leaving an imprint far beyond the journey itself. Think of it as a living travel diary, with each experience adding a chapter full of wonder, indulgence, and a touch of magic.
This year’s picks take luxury to thrilling new heights and depths. From futuristic treehouses to underwater escapes, these blend creativity, sustainability, and technology to redefine the art of hospitality. Ready to spread your wings and add to your being? Let’s dive into the most awe-inspiring stays of the quarter century.
1. The Muraka at Conrad Maldives: One With The Marine Life
If the ocean calls to you, The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island delivers a dream-like escape. Situated 16 feet below the surface, this two-level residence offers an all-glass underwater bedroom, allowing guests to sleep among the oceanic wildlife. Above water, the villa includes a sun deck, infinity pool, and butler service.
Your travel flex: It’s the world’s first underwater hotel suite, blending cutting-edge technology with breathtaking design.
Signature experience: Savor gourmet meals at Ithaa Undersea Restaurant or snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs just steps from your villa.
2. Hôtel de Glace, Canada: Winter Wonderland in Quebec
Located just outside Quebec City, Hôtel de Glace is an annual winter hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Every year, the hotel is rebuilt with unique, intricate ice sculptures and themed rooms, offering a magical, frosty experience. Guests stay in rooms adorned with ice chandeliers and can enjoy ice bars, hot tubs, and igloos.
Your travel flex: The hotel is entirely sculpted from ice, changing its design each year and offering a wintery wonderland experience.
Signature experience: Sip cocktails at the Ice Bar or relax in the ice hot tubs surrounded by frozen art.
3. Longitude 131°, Australia: A Front-Row Seat to Uluru
At this luxury wilderness camp, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Uluru, Australia’s iconic rock formation, from tented pavilions. This desert escape blends comfort and sustainability, offering an immersive experience in the heart of the Australian Outback.
Your travel flex: The resort offers exclusive access to Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park, with guided walks and cultural experiences led by local indigenous guides.
Signature experience: Watch the sunrise over Uluru from your private balcony while indulging in a gourmet breakfast.
4. Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman: Between the Desert and the Sea
For a truly exotic experience, Six Senses Zighy Bay is tucked between the rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf. This secluded resort offers private villas, infinity pools, and personal butlers, with activities ranging from paragliding to dolphin watching.
Your travel flex: The resort offers a dramatic setting with a perfect blend of desert and coastal experiences.
Signature experience: Arrive by paraglider or take a sunset cruise to see the coast, complete with a traditional Omani feast.
5. The Treetop Haven, Costa Rica: In the Lap of the Jungle Canopy
For an immersive experience in the heart of the rainforest, The Treetop Haven in Costa Rica offers luxury treehouses set high in the jungle canopy. With panoramic views of the rainforest and the Pacific Ocean, this eco-luxury retreat allows guests to wake up to the sounds of tropical wildlife and explore pristine, untouched nature.
Your travel flex: The property is designed with sustainability at its core, with solar-powered energy and rainwater collection systems.
Signature experience: Take a guided tour of the surrounding forest, where you can spot sloths, toucans, and monkeys in their natural habitat.
6. Skylodge Adventure Suites, Peru: Live the Cliff
Perched 1,200 feet above Peru’s Sacred Valley, Skylodge Adventure Suites offers transparent capsule suites anchored to a cliff. Guests reach these gravity-defying accommodations by scaling the mountain via zip lines and climbing paths.
Your travel flex: The thrill of staying in these pods is matched only by the panoramic views of the valley and the sense of accomplishment from reaching them.
Signature experience: Wake up to the sunrise over the Andes and enjoy a gourmet breakfast delivered to your pod.
