2017's Best Hotels

I've had the privilege of discovering several new hotels in North America and Europe throughout the past year, and it was difficult to whittle that list down to a round ten for this year's FabuList, but here they are-the 10 properties that were most noteworthy during the year.

A full listing of 2017's hotel reviews can be found here, or full photo spreads of each property can be found on Instagram.

LondonHouse Chicago

This swingin' establishment on the Chicago River was once an insurance company and also housed a hot nightspot during the '60s. Today, as part of Hilton's Curio collection, it's a chic independent property that pays homage to the spirit of the previous tenants, with comfortable, apartment-style lodgings and commanding views.

Four Seasons Resort O'ahu at Ko Olina

Those who haven't yet discovered the Ko Olina resort complex on O'ahu's west side are missing out.

From secret beaches to tranquil lagoons and gracious service, the Four Seasons Resort is a don't-miss stop on that sunny shore. Guests can indulge in oversized guest rooms, sumptuous Italian meals, pampering spa treatments and one of the island's most popular brunch buffets.

Sheraton Maui

This charming resort in Ka'anapali may have been around for 50 years, but 2017 still proved to be a big year. The resort made a commitment to get rid of plastic drinking straws in support of the world's oceans while also going through an evolution of its resort menus in the fall.

What's more, the hotel remains a popular, evocative stop for first-time or repeat visitors to Maui.

Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe

Memories abound at this gorgeous Ritz-Carlton Resort-with extras that will appeal to young and old alike-from the melt-the-slopes-away spa to après ski à gogo with Moët bars with shrimp and crab claws, to daily s'mores with house-made flavored marshmallows, delectable al fresco barbecue and an impressive selection of boozy coffees.

A lake house extension opened this year for summer guests.

The Hollywood Roosevelt

Old Hollywood fans can sip cocktails in the restored lobby and dream of Oscars past-the ballroom was the site of the first Academy Awards ceremony-or keep a watch for ghosts in the recently redecorated guest rooms, which offer views of several Tinseltown landmarks, from the Chinese Theatre to the Hollywood sign.

Come hungry, because the in-house 24-hour diner serves some of the best burgers in town.

JW Marriott Los Cabos

Situated in the up-and-coming Puerto Los Cabos development and perched above a strip of virgin beach, this tranquil, sophisticated new hotel is a departure from the more frenzied resorts that have so far punctuated the area. Guest rooms effortlessly blend modern design with a midcentury sensibility. Plus, the hotel's restaurants are some of the best in the region.

Days can easily be filled with sunbathing at multiple infinity pools with gracious poolside service.

That's all for 2017, with best wishes for a happy and prosperous 2018 filled with new travel adventures, and of course, new lovely hotels to discover and treasure.

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