Two Australian hotels have been named in the top 50 worldwide, but in a surprising twist, neither are from Sydney or Melbourne.

The World’s 50 Best Hotels list, put together by William Reed Business Media, ranked The Calile in Brisbane as the 25th best worldwide, while Hobart’s The Tasman snuck in at 49th.

The list was decided by the reviews of 600 academics, travel writers and experts over the span of 18 months.

The Calile

Featuring 175 rooms in the centre of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley James Street precinct, The Calile was described as “sun-soaked, laid-back Aussie chic meets modernist Miami-esque”.

“The open-air design makes the most of the year-round balmy climate, with its pool deck as an unmissable centrepiece,” 50 Best said.

“Personable service comes courtesy of linen-uniformed staff, with The Calile earning the title of The Best Hotel in Oceania 2024.”

The Calile in Brisbane made its second appearance on the Top 50 list, after finishing 12th in 2023, where its pool was again lauded as a highlight. Photo: Sean Fennessy

It featured and ranked highly in last year’s list, the first to be published, and its owner Catherine Malouf said she was proud to represent the hotel at a significant celebration.

“This is a win for our team, our collaborators, our loyal guests and a win for Brisbane as a destination,” she said.

“We are humbled to again represent Australia and be recognised as leading in the Oceania region.”

The hotel was designed by Richards & Spence and opened in 2018.

The Tasman

The Tasman was a new entry on the list, but also received high praise.

“The contemporary 152-room property combines three buildings with three different styles into one cohesive hotel,” 50 Best said.

“This beacon of hospitality in Hobart converts its guests to the Tasmanian style and pace of life through unfaltering service and attention to detail.”

The Tasman is run by the Marriott Hotel brand. Photo: The Tasman

Stephen Morahan, The Tasman’s general manager, said Tasmania is a jewel in Australia’s crown because of its natural delights and warm hospitality.

“The Tasman embodies these experiences, and to be celebrated on the world stage is not only testament to our offerings, but those of the entire state.

“I would like to express my gratitude to The World’s 50 Best Hotels’ judging panel for the acknowledgement, and thank our amazing team who offer exceptional service every day.”

The Tasman was highly rated for its location and access to Tasmanian nature. Photo: The Tasman

The winner

The ultimate winner of the award, beating out a crowded field, was Capella Bangkok.

Capella Bangkok was named the best hotel in the world. Photo: Capella

Built on the waterfront, the hotel features a total of 78 rooms, seven villas and other assorted suites, alongside a resort boat shuttle, in-room personal bars and a Michelin star restaurant.

Asia dominated the list with 15 entries after last year’s edition was criticised for being ‘Eurocentric’.