Ok, As budget to mid-range travelers, we usually see accommodation as just a comfortable and safe place to rest so we can spend more on the adventures that make a trip unforgettable.

But every once in a while, we come across hotels/accommodations that are so unique that it becomes the highlight experience of the trip itself.

After traveling to over 40 countries, we’ve stayed in some truly special spots—and these are our top four most memorable stays (and don’t worry, they cost only a fraction of what you’d pay for a basic hotel in Paris)!

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1) Izu Peninsula Ryokans - ♨️ For the Ultimate Relaxation Experience

Imagine soaking in your private onsen, gazing out at the stunning Japanese coastline with Mount Fuji in the distance. Then, slipping into a silky yukata for a one-of-a-kind 14+ course dinner, followed by some serious unwinding in a massage chair, before curling up on a cozy mattress laid out on traditional tatami mats.

Honestly, I can’t think of a more perfect recipe for ultimate relaxation. We spent five days road-tripping through the Izu Peninsula, hopping from one ryokan to the next, and let’s just say… we may have permanently ruined regular hotels for ourselves.

Izu Peninsula To check out what you can experience, where to stay, and how to plan an itinerary in the Izu Peninsula, check out our full Things to do in Izu Peninsula Guide and Izu Peninsula Itinerary!

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Alternatively - A Truly Unique Ryokan Contemporary Art Museum Experience [1 Night]

Japan is filled with countless such unique experiences. If you won't be in Izu but find yourself in the Osaka/Kansai region, consider this truly one-of-a-kind luxury Ryokan stay where you can immerse in the artwork of contemporary Japanese Artists while surrounded by the unparalleled landscapes of Naoshima island. This exclusive experience includes a one-night ryokan stay, an exquisite kaiseki dinner and breakfast, a guided art museum tour, and more!

2) Casa Del Mundo, Guatemala - 🌋 A Hot Tub With Front-Row Seats to Lake Atitlán’s Volcanoes

After tackling the beast that is Volcano Acatenango—hiking up, camping at the summit, and watching live eruptions like it was our own private fireworks show—our legs were absolutely wrecked the next day. The only thing on my mind? Finding the ultimate spot to recover.

Enter Casa Del Mundo at Lake Atitlán, and wow, did it deliver!

The second we arrived, we wasted no time booking their outdoor wood-fired hot tub, perched dramatically on a cliff with insane panoramic views of the lake and its three towering volcanoes.

Hours of soaking later, feeling like brand-new humans, we wandered through the hotel’s ridiculously lush botanical gardens—where every turn came with another jaw-dropping view of the lake.

If you’re looking for the perfect nature-immersion-meets-luxury experience, this is it.

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3) Dead Valley Lodge, Namibia - 🌌 Where Luxury meets the Milky way and a sky full of stars

If there’s one travel experience that had us questioning if we’d accidentally wandered into a dream, it was our stay in Namibia—specifically at Dead Valley Lodge.

Picture this: you’re completely immersed in the vast, fiery dunes of Namibia, yet somehow, you’re also lounging in luxury. There’s a turquoise pool shimmering in the desert heat, Oryxes and foxes casually stopping by the nearby watering hole like they’re checking in for happy hour, and when night falls, the sky erupts into a spectacle of millions of stars, with the Milky Way stretching endlessly across the horizon.

Absolute magic.

Namibia Travel Guide Never heard of Namibia and wondering what amazing experiences you can find there? Check out our Top Experiences in Namibia guide!

4) Cappadocia Cave Hotels – 🏺 Sleeping in Ancient Caves with Modern Luxury

Cappadocia, Turkey, the land of fairy chimneys, ancient underground cities, and cave dwellings that have sheltered civilizations for thousands of years.

And guess what?

​You can actually stay in one! But don’t worry, these aren’t your average dark and dusty caves—these have been transformed into stunning boutique hotels, blending history with luxury for an unforgettable stay.

Then, come sunrise, head up to the rooftop terrace (think colorful Turkish carpets, cozy cushions, and full-on magical vibes) to watch the sky fill with hundreds of hot air balloons.

We’d seen the photos before, but experiencing it in person? Absolutely surreal. Then during the day, you can go explore the incredible underground cities, cave dwellings, and fairy chimneys of Cappadocia!
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Cappadocia Travel Guide Are you wondering if you should visit Cappadocia? Check out our guide on Is Cappadocia Worth it?

Travel Guides

If this has you dreaming about your next adventure, you’re in luck! We’ve put together in-depth guides for each of these destinations to help you plan the perfect getaway!

We’ll be back soon with more amazing tips and inspirations!

Ryan & Nan

WaylessTravelers