Four NY hotels make Esquire's 2025 list of world's best new hotels
Four new New York hotels have been named some of the best in the world in 2025, according to Esquire. Esquire editors and contributors compiled the list by visiting the places themselves, handpicking 23 U.S. spots, including one hotel in the Catskills, two in the heart of New York City and one in the Hamptons.
"Great hotels don't just cater to your daily needs. They're oases of comfort in foreign lands and gateways to dazzling new cultures," the magazine said. "The very best hotels won't just make your vacation. They can change the way you see the world."
Here's which new hotels in the Empire State made the list and why.
Food was a major highlight for the Esquire reviewer of this Greene County hotel tucked within the Catskill Mountains as breakfast at The Henson consists of homemade pop tarts and local butter and a meal or two at the establishment's restaurant, Matilda, is a must, according to the review.
"There is really no need to venture into the outside world once you're in the Henson's cocoon," according to Esquire. "Grab a cocktail and your book, kick your shoes off and park yourself on the couch, just like you would in your own living room."
The hotel was also featured on Conde Nast Traveler's The Best New Hotels in the United States: 2025 Hot List.
Where: 39 Goshen Road, Hensonville
Cost (according to Esquire): Rooms from $279
More information: thehenson.com/
You can get the "best chicken nuggets in town" at Sloane's or relax like you're in your own living room inside the Apartment, The Manner's guest-only lounge, if you choose to book a stay at the "Studio 54 stylish, yet comfortable" hotel, as noted by Esquire.
"An understated façade on Thompson street hides the sexiest hotel in SoHo," Esquire says. "There's no better center of operations for your next New York trip."
The hotel was also featured on Conde Nast Traveler's The Best New Hotels in the United States: 2025 Hot List and Travel + Leisure's The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year list.
Where: 58 Thompson St., New York City
Cost (according to Esquire): Rooms from $799
More information: themanner.com/
There's a lot to love about The Surrey, according to Esquire's review. Originally built in the 1920's, the "art deco gem" at 76th and Madison recently reopened after a multiyear renovation and now features 70 rooms, 30 suites, a small spa and "one of the hardest-to-get tables in town" by way of its lobby bar and restaurant Casa Tua.
"Don't let yourself get swept away by the history," an Esquire editor or contributor said. "Muted terra-cotta-colored walls, crisp linens and walk-in marble showers make for plush surroundings ... Movie stars, politicians, famous divorcees, influencers — everyone here is someone. Including you."
The hotel was also featured on Conde Nast Traveler's The Best New Hotels in the United States: 2025 Hot List and Travel + Leisure's The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year list.
Where: 20 East 76th St., New York City
Cost (according to Esquire): Rooms from $1,000
More information: corinthia.com/en-gb/new-york/
A 16-room inn located between the inlets of Moneybogue and Quantuck Bay in the Hamptons, Seven Beach Lane is the ideal spot for breathtaking sunsets, fresh breakfasts and locally-sourced dinners, Esquire's review reveals.
"Staying at Seven Beach Lane in welcoming Westhampton Beach feels like visiting a friend's coastal mansion - the one that's been in his family since the Gilded Age," says an Esquire editor or contributor. "This is the Hamptons without the hassle."
Where: 7 Beach Lane, Westhampton Beach
Cost (according to Esquire): Rooms from $345 (low season) and $749 (summer)
More information: sevenbeachlane.com/
Best places: New York has 3 locations ranked among TIME's world's greatest places of 2025
Populus: Denver, Colorado (named Esquire's hotel of the year)
Casa Loma Beach Hotel: Laguna Beach, California
Thompson Palm Springs, by Hyatt: Palm Springs, California
Regent Santa Monica Beach: Santa Monica, California
Beach Club at the Boca Raton: Boca Raton, Florida
Palm House: Palm Beach, Florida
Forth Hotel: Atlanta, Georgia
Hotel Bardo: Savannah, Georgia
The Longfellow: Portland, Maine
The Nevada: York, Maine
Pendry Nativar: Somerset County, New Jersey
Outpost Inn: Highlands, North Carolina
Tu Tu' Tun Lodge: Gold Beach, Oregon
Grange Estate: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Hotel Anna & Bel: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Dunlin: Johns Island, South Carolina
Hotel Saint Augustine: Houston, Texas
Twin Farms: Barnard, Vermont
Hotel Yellowstone: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network's New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Four NY hotels make Esquire's 2025 list of world's best new hotels.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Forbes
Joanna Czech's Skincare Survival Guide For Frequent Flyers
Joanna Czech products Joanna Czech is the facialist behind some of the most famous faces — think Cate Blanchett, Kim Kardashian, Hailey Bieber, and Anna Wintour, to name a few. Nearly 40 years in the beauty business, with studios in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas, she's built a loyal following, loved for her science-driven, results-focused approach. Joanna Czech portrait Now in time for vacation season, Joanna shares her skincare tips to keep the complexion fresh and glowing on the go. Staying hydrated by drinking water is essential for any flight you take. Many of us dislike using airplane bathrooms and avoid drinking water because of this, but don't trade off water consumption for this, you can carry sanitizers or wipes for this. Your water intake can also depend on the length of the flight; I personally drink a lot of water. Here's a fun fact: you can lose up to 30 percent of your skin's moisture after just a four-hour flight. That's why I make sure to stock up on water as soon as I get to the airport, and even before if possible. A lot of people suffer from dehydration after flying, not just because of their skincare routine, but because they simply aren't drinking enough water during their flight. I keep my in-flight skincare routine simple, primarily because flying can significantly disrupt your skin's balance. The cabin air pressure actually dehydrates skin, which can then mess with your skin's protective barrier, leading to irritation and breakouts. For any flight, I always reach for pH-balancing products, like "The Toner" from my skincare line, or Swiss Perfection's Balancing Water. "The Toner" is a travel-size essential for me now. For a 3-4 hour flight, my routine involves applying a few drops of my C+ Serum (a great antioxidant) after toning, and then sealing it all in with The Balm. My skincare line was designed for practicality, so it's all TSA-friendly. The cold plane temperature can throw off your skin's pH, making a balancing toner crucial. The Toner by Joanna Czech For longer flights, say 12-14 hours, my routine is a bit more involved. After waking up, I use my Cleansing Wipes, followed by "The Toner" to balance my skin's pH. I then apply Swiss Perfection eye patches and a Bioeffect sheet mask. After removing the masks, I apply a few drops of C+ Serum, and then The Balm, especially if I'm heading straight to work and need to look refreshed. My "The Kit" skincare set even includes extra compartments for essentials like a toothbrush and toothpaste. It's tough to beat travel fatigue, but maintaining your routine and prioritizing sleep are key. Try to shift your sleep schedule before you go, and change your watch to your destination's time as soon as you board. Get as much rest as you can on the plane—a silk eye mask really helps—and be mindful of what you eat and drink. Once you land, jump right into the new time zone for meals and sleep, and keep drinking plenty of water. When traveling through airports and on airplanes, we're exposed to a lot of irritants. That's why I always bring an effective hand sanitizer and wipes to clean my immediate area. Look for a hydrating sanitizer to combat dryness, and make sure to wipe down your headrest, screen, and all surrounding surfaces, especially on international flights. I always prefer traveling with clean skin and no makeup to keep my complexion as clear as possible. If you're planning to sleep on a plane, simple essentials like my cleansing wipes, Toner, and The Balm can help maintain your routine as if you were at home. These are an absolute must for me, even if they aren't the most aesthetically pleasing. Compression socks help maintain proper blood flow and reduce any swelling. If you typically can't fit into your shoes or your feet and legs feel uncomfortable upon landing, this hack will save you. Part of sticking to a proper skincare routine while traveling is making sure you have your best and most-effective products with you on-the-go. My skincare line was inspired by my travels because I felt so limited about what I could bring with me on flights. Find travel-friendly sizes and products, as well as chic pouches to house your goods (bonus points if it's water-resistant)! Need antioxidants, soothing ingredients, within these five products you cover it all.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-what-we-pack-to-make-trips-smoothercomfiereasier-tout-3188f54034104b03b67e74e5b9babc86.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
4 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I Travel All Over Europe With My 70-year-old Mom, and We Won't Go Anywhere Without These 12 Essentials
As an adult, I've always found traveling with a parent feels a little backwards. Suddenly, I've become the checker-inner, holder of passports, navigator of security, and hailer of cabs. And I love it! Finally, I can repay my guardians for not misleading me at Orlando or Palma Airports or the service stations of deepest Wales; never did I realize until now how much responsibility comes with the role of leading a group on a trip. Being in full control of the itinerary and preparation, I need to ensure we are packed weather-accordingly and that we have ample safety measures in place. I like to factor in sufficient entertainment for slow afternoons, long delays, or times where we're getting on each other's nerves. With ageing comes a little slowdown; these days, when we travel together, we'll be in our twin beds at 9:30 pm with a face mask on. And after two ankle surgeries, my mom officially qualifies as disabled in many situations, so I have to think ahead and alert airport staff as to any mobility assistance if she's having a bad day on her feet. Both my parents have separately mentioned their anxieties with travel, especially as they get older. Being the self-appointed boss, I make sensible playlists and include travel accessories like a lightweight pop-up stool for sightseeing days, as well as some other comforts to make away from home feel not just luxurious, but safe, too. My mom and I opt for this Sweden luggage brand's popular carry-ons when we fly together. They have a polycarbonate shell with aluminium for durability, plus secure lock clicks and a lightweight design. The strip of color at the top of each bag makes it easier to spot on the luggage belt; I like everything being easier to locate when my mom and I have our objects in tow in a foreign place. I also live in a different part of the U.K. than my mother and like to get to the airport a little later than her. The smooth, 360-degree silent spinner wheels and easy maneuverability let me whip through security and the terminal at lightning speed to meet her at a bar near our gate for our first wine. Plus, the modular interiors include sets of compression straps and a compression pad so you can fit more inside, and the slim zipped interior pockets and washable fabric just add to the bag's functionality. Backpacks are my favorite cabin bag to travel with; they tend to be far more practical and balanced on the shoulders than a weekender, and I can use it during our travels, too, so I can tote everything around and save my mom the chore of carrying things. This Cotopaxi backpack is my top choice, and I adore its washability, durability, and noticeable colors in a crowd (which is important when my mom and I lose each other in the company of discount shoes and handbags, or we're in haggling mode). I love that I can pack in an organized fashion with this backpack, thanks to the zip panels and divided sections; we both usually take extra clothes, toiletries, and medicines in our hand luggage when flying, and this backpack has plenty of room for it all and more. Also, I've found it's good to have my laptop handy to instantly sort out any changes in the schedule, rebook anything last minute, or look up something on a bigger screen than my phone. This bag fits a 15-inch laptop, and overall, it has a large 35-liter capacity. This handy portable stool with padding and a fun cover and carry bag is very sturdy and durable for those times when the queue to the Doge's Palace, another basilica, or that much-lauded secret trattoria requires patiently, sweatily, hungrily waiting for as much as 45 minutes. My mom gets a little tired in the ankle department following two surgeries, so having somewhere to just nicely pop a squat during a busy day of sightseeing is game-changing, and not pushing herself too much avoids later friction and arguments. Basically, it's a win-win. We've done a few trips that have had multiple train journeys, and sometimes that means leaving luggage at the far end of a carriage from where we're sitting—which sends a shiver down our paranoid spines. These Bluetooth trackers assure us of the whereabouts of our stuff at all times, and I love seeing how impressed mum is with some light travel tech. Clunky padlocks and lost keys no more—though I do always use the built-in luggage locks, too, for extra protection. We've also found that leaving these trackers in our handbags can be super useful if we're caught up at the market or in a busy resort. My mom basically ironed everything of mine to perfection, from tie to underwear, for a good decade. The least I can do now is not show up at our glam little vacation lunches like a crumpled bag of dusty linen. There's always a need for steam, and I honestly think my mum cares more about this than any other personal upkeep. Ergo this travel steamer, at the ready at the flip of a switch when we unpack at our hotel. One charge carries up to eight minutes of continuous steam, and it's easy to use, small to pack, and comes with a bag. This pretty Owala water bottle is the perfect solution, and its huge 40-ounce capacity might just be enough to one day convert my mom from her bottled Evian habit. So often, there's access to good, clean drinking water at taps around airports and even cities. Saving money and plastic is always incentivized by the idea of having more room in the budget on the other side, and if we do happen to be a rush, we can avoid that heinous duty free queue for water and just go swan through our boarding gate to our seats. This genius product fits cups for both of us, whether it's the aforementioned water or iced coffees at the airport. This travel cup holder helps me get around the airport without ever having to put my beverage down on public surfaces or tables; I like to keep anything I'm putting near my face—phone, headphones, pillow, drink—away from these often unhygenic surfaces. My mom agrees—we like to bond over our attention to hygiene; it's like the beginning of the vacation for us! The Kodak moments of the '90s gave way to some of my favorite family vacation pictures. Mom and I love to cherish the moments we get just us, and this Polaroid SpiceCam lets me get snaps of us instantly. It can also be nice to take pictures of people you make friends with on trips—taverna owners, random families on boats, saucy waiters—and hand them over as a memento. These slick little credit-card size prints are great post-trip memorabilia for the fridge back home. The FujiFilm Mini 12 Camera Lilac Purple is super cute and features a Fujinon 60mm f/12.7 Lens, auto exposure, and flash, plus extra film. My mom insisted I take her to Tivoli in Copenhagen a couple of summers ago, and we still have the cutest pictures of us there. This lightweight, mineral-based, oil, oxybenzone- and octinoxate-free Shiseido sunscreen formula is the best I've ever tried. Maybe I'll never even look sixty in my skin with a lifetime of this gorgeously smooth fluid, which also smells incredible. It's clinically proven to smooth lines and even skin tone within a fortnight, and it includes a protective technological veil that's boosted by heat, water, and sweat. It even regenerates its properties when thinned by movement or chafing for a long-lasting, even coverage. Typically, when away, we have early coffee and a light breakfast, exercise, then apply our sunscreen fifteen minutes before hitting the outdoors. Available in grapefruit, rosemary, and eucalyptus scents, these organic Japanese shampoo bars are ideal for travel and all hair types—which is especially good when you're traveling together with minimum luggage and fluids. We avoid most hotel shampoos and soaps at all times; heavily perfumed soapy goods aggravate our sensitive skin types. This rice shampoo bar is also free from sulfates, parabens, artificial fragrances, and dyes and claims to stimulate hair growth, strengthening each strand from the outside in with the Japanese rice water formula. I've used other liquid rice peptide-based shampoos if that's more your speed—the unscented Phyto is a great choice. It's a classic French pharmacy brand that you can pick up in person at a lot of places, should you be on your travels in France. My mom hasn't taken many trains around Europe, so last summer, I was determined to do take her to her dream city of Venice and catch a few trains north to the lakes. I even asked the cards for advice on where to go. We ended up heading through Verona and up to Garda, and while the heavens gave us mostly thunderstorms, it was a beautiful journey of slow travel. I love to carry a deck on train trips, as it can give rise to some really fruitful realizations and chats. This classic Rider-Waite deck is the one for travel when I can't cart my huge Dali deck and book around. As I mentioned before, my mother and I both suffer from different sensitive skin conditions. One thing that can affect a flare-up is the strong and starchy detergent used by hotels, and complimentary robes can cause quite an issue for us (bedding doesn't seem to be much of an issue while wearing pajamas and towels are used too briefly). If I'm on a trip where there's a lot of lounging or spa-ing, I've taken to bringing my own linen robe. This Danish brand is superior in my opinion; it has all organic materials and is entirely sustainable and environmentally-conscious. I love the distinctly Japandi vibe with a 'One-of-a-Kind' concept that reimagines and mends damaged or unsellable pieces from production and shops into truly unique Aiayu pieces. Their pieces are excellent investments that significantly enhance any trip. Some people reserve space in their luggage for copious pairs of shoes or bikinis; I just need to ensure my rolled-up robe in its linen bag is coming with—and one for my mom, of course. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-viral-tiktok-comment-section-led-me-to-the-best-comfy-sandals-for-summer-travel-tout-d1dcbde9bb114f97a159e7640ba26896.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
5 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I Struck Gold With This Viral Tiktok Video Where Travelers Reveal the Comfiest Walking Sandals—From $54
While scrolling TikTok searching for European itinerary inspiration (as one does before a big summer trip), I landed on a post that instantly caught my attention: 'Ladies. Advice needed. I'm going to Europe for three weeks and need trusted recommendations for a cute sandal.' Her criteria? The shoes 'can't make my feet bleed, have a minimal heel, must have a backing, and are tried and tested.' Naturally, I dove straight into the comment section— found a gold mine of real traveler recommendations from people who've clocked thousands of steps across cobblestoned cities, coastal towns, and bustling markets in everything from Italy to Japan. These aren't just sandals that look cute on camera; they've been vetted by people who've put them through airport security, long-haul flights, museum marathons, and uphill walks. From cushy Reef sandals to sleek Steve Madden picks with tons of arch support, I rounded up the most-hyped pairs, complete with firsthand reviews and tips. Prices start at just $54—keep scrolling for the TikTok comment section-approved sandals that deserve a spot in your suitcase. Best overall : Croc Brooklyn Sandals, $65 : Croc Brooklyn Sandals, $65 Arch support hero: Steve Madden Mona Sandals, $54 (originally $90) Steve Madden Mona Sandals, $54 (originally $90) Comfy for long walking days: Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals, $80 Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals, $80 Day-to-night comfort: Cole Haan Cloudfeel Tilden Sandals, $91 (originally $130) Cole Haan Cloudfeel Tilden Sandals, $91 (originally $130) Best gladiators: Dr. Martens Gryphon Gladiator Sandals, $90 Dr. Martens Gryphon Gladiator Sandals, $90 Podiatrist-approved brand : Vionic Reese Slingback Sandals, $110 (originally $115) : Vionic Reese Slingback Sandals, $110 (originally $115) Best waterproof: Reef Vista Sandals, $65 Reef Vista Sandals, $65 Lasts forever: Naturalizer Soul Cindi Sandals, $57 (originally $90) Naturalizer Soul Cindi Sandals, $57 (originally $90) Goes with everything: Birkenstock Glenda Sandals, $145 Birkenstock Glenda Sandals, $145 No break-in needed: Clarks Giselle Wedge Sandals, $57 (originally $90) The top-voted comment in the TikTok thread pointed directly to the Crocs Brooklyn Sandals—and the replies only reinforced their reputation. One traveler said, 'I just wore them for two weeks in Italy with no problems.' She also called them 'her favorite summer shoe.' More than 1,000 people liked the comment and echoed similar experiences. Another chimed in, 'I just got back from a trip to Japan and wore these almost every day,' while a third added, 'Crocs Brooklyn sandals have been the only thing I can wear with plantar fasciitis.' Despite the 3-inch heel, the lightweight foam footbed keeps your feet cushioned all day. Style-wise, they work just as well with a floaty maxi dress for dinner as they do with jeans and a tee for a casual walking tour. It's rare to find a sandal that balances height, comfort, and style this well. I'll admit it: these Steven Madden sandals are sitting in my Amazon cart right now. Between their sleek design, luxe gold accents, and the glowing TikTok reviews, it was impossible to resist. One user wrote, 'I saw a girl doing a Europe trip on TikTok wearing them, so I bought them for a trip I'm on now, and they are the best money ever spent. I swear by them.' Another shopper shared, 'I wore mine on my two-week trip to Europe, where I averaged 20,000 steps a day, and I agree these are great.' The hook-and-loop front strap adds adjustability for swollen travel feet, and the versatile silhouette means you can dress them up for dinner in Paris or down for exploring an open-air market in Mexico City. Teva has long been a travel staple, and the Hurricane XLT2 version is the TikTok crowd's latest obsession. 'I got the Teva Hurricanes for my trip this summer and have been testing them out. I really like them so far,' one person shared, while another commented, 'I use these for beach, mountain hiking, and wear them with dresses.' One especially compelling review said, 'I wore these for two weeks walking around and climbing stairs in cathedrals in Europe. I got no blisters and my feet felt great.' With durable traction, adjustable straps, and water-friendly construction, they're ideal for everything from city sightseeing to coastal hikes. Bonus: the muted green shade pairs easily with linen sets or floral skirts. For travelers seeking style that doesn't sacrifice support, Cole Haan's Tilden Sandals are a smart pick. Their elegant stitching and gold buckle dress up any outfit—think romantic dinners in Santorini or a sunset cocktail on a rooftop in Barcelona. One person wrote, 'I wore Cole Haan sandals to walk up Pompeii and was shocked at how comfortable I was.' Another added, 'I have walked many miles in those sandals.' The brand's Cloudfeel cushioning offers sneaker-level softness, and their polished leather finish makes them an easy swap for heels in your vacation wardrobe. If your travel style leans edgy or you simply love a sandal that lasts, Dr. Martens' Gryphon Sandals are for you. 'They're my Disneyland shoe, and saved me while walking 20,000 steps a day in Europe,' one TikTok user said. She added a tip: 'Wear them for a week before you go just to loosen up the leather a bit, but I honestly haven't had a huge problem with blisters.' With thick straps, durable soles, and signature silver hardware, these sandals can be worn from day to night. Style them with a black midi dress in Berlin or denim shorts in Tokyo for a bold, grounded look. Designed with podiatrist-approved arch support and orthotic cushioning, these Vionic slingback sandals are tailor-made for travelers who prioritize foot health. One person living in Rome shared, 'There are lots of cobblestones, and I walk 5,000 to 15,000 steps a day. These are my favorites.' Another shopper recovering from a botched bunion surgery wore them in Greece and said, 'They make walking bearable, since they're really light.' Available in several shades, they're stylish enough to wear with wide-leg trousers and a linen top while still supportive enough for long museum days or uphill walks. Designed with water-friendly materials and beachy inspiration, the Reef Vista Sandals are a smart pick for coastal getaways. 'They're cute enough to wear to dinner and can also be worn at the beach and in the water,' one user said about their trip to Greece. Another reviewer noted, 'If it happens to rain at all, your foot won't slide around.' Whether you're walking through Positano's winding streets or hopping on a boat tour, these can easily handle the shift from sand to city. They're simple, supportive, and designed with a grippy insole that keeps your foot stable, wet or dry. Comfort and longevity go hand in hand with these Naturalizer Soul Cindi sandals, according to TikTokers. 'I wore a pair around Italy for three weeks. Five years later, they're going strong,' one user shared. Another noted, 'I've worn my Naturalizers heavily for eight years.' With cork soles, vintage-inspired leather straps, and a classic silhouette, these sandals scream 'European summer.' They're perfect for walking tours, lazy afternoons sipping wine, or browsing markets in Provence. Plus, they mold to your foot over time, so they only get better with each trip. Known for their orthopedic-level support and minimalist styling, the Birkenstock Glenda Sandals are a beachy yet elevated option. 'I wore mine for the first time walking miles in New York City and no discomfort whatsoever,' one reviewer wrote. The contoured cork footbed adapts to your arch over time, while the subtle wedge gives a flattering lift. The monochromatic leather strap design makes them incredibly easy to style, whether you're wearing a linen dress in Ibiza or cropped trousers in the Amalfi Coast. You might not expect a 3-inch wedge to win comfort points on TikTok, but Clarks' Giselle Sandals did just that. One traveler said, 'Honestly, the most comfortable shoes I own are a pair of Clarks wedge sandals. The first day I opened them, I walked 8 miles with no pain.' They're versatile enough to wear from sightseeing to dinner without needing to change shoes. The cushioned sole offers surprising support, and right now, they're 40 percent off, making them a budget-friendly splurge just in time for your next trip. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
