Forbes Travel Guide has released its 56th list of Star Rating recipients worldwide. New additions to the guide's 'Five-Star' category include 15 new hotels, 16 new restaurants and five new spas.
The total number of 'Five-Star' hotels listed in the guide now numbers 97 worldwide, the most in Forbes Travel Guide's history.
This year's list includes newly-opened hotels as well as hotels that recently completed renovations, confirming an uptick in investment in the luxury hotel industry, as well as an increase in interest amongst travellers choosing luxury accommodations worldwide.
"We are delighted to recognise the outstanding commitment to service and guest experience exemplified by our 2014 Star Rating recipients," said Michael Cascone, president of Forbes Travel Guide.
"This year's growing number of Five-Star recipients comes at a time when the outlook for luxury travel remains strong. At the core of what we do is recognising and advocating for properties delivering the best in guest service. We are thrilled to be associated not only with our newest Star Rating recipients, but all of our Star Rated properties worldwide," he added.
Worldwide luxury hotel brands, including Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, made strong showings, with new-build and renovated hotels earning the coveted rating.
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has more than tripled its number of honoured hotels over the past decade, making it the brand with the most Five-Star recipients for 2014 – a total of 18 hotels in 11 destinations.
A number of hotels scored the 'Triple Five-Star' title, earning a 'Five-Star' rating in all three categories recognised by Forbes Travel Guide – hotel, restaurant and spa: Wynn Macau, Encore Macau, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong and Mandarin Oriental hotels in Miami, Las Vegas and Hong Kong.