Nihi Sumba – formerly Nihiwatu – has earned the title of ‘#1 Hotel in the World’ for the second consecutive year in the annual Travel + Leisure awards.
Every year, for their World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks their readers to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas and airlines from around the world. Hotels are rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Nihi Sumba came out on top with a staggering 99.12 rating overall.
Nihi Sumba offers guests a genuinely extraordinary experience; the resort features its very own world-class wave, known as ‘Occy’s Left’, for private surf sessions; whilst their Sandalwood Stables allow guests to explore a private beach on the back of indigenous sandalwood horses, guided by Sumbanese riders from the Pasola festival. Along with its own chocolate factory, ocean-gazing infinity pools and dedicated organic spa, Nihi Sumba is a traveller’s paradise, set against the backdrop of immaculate rolling countryside and the serene infinity of the ocean.
What really sets Nihi apart is their commitment to community projects and sustainable tourism in the local area. Working in collaboration with the Sumba Foundation, the resort directly benefits local people through dedicated health, education and employment initiatives.
Not content with resting on their laurels, Nihi have set their sights on expansion into other global destinations:
“We are actively seeking growth opportunities grounded in our doctrine ‘The Edge of Wildness’,†says Managing Partner James McBride in a statement to the press. “Current destinations of interest include the South Pacific and Central America. These areas present environments not entirely influenced by modern conveniences therefore benefitting from the natural exploration, education, and philanthropic aid of a Nihi Hotel.â€
The title of Best in the World is hard earned but worn lightly by Nihi Sumba. We’ll let the reviews of T+L readers speak for themselves:
“It is the epitome of escape, adventure, and luxury,†said one fan.
“The people of Sumba are so warm and beautiful,†wrote in another family. “They will forever be in our hearts and soul.â€
Panorama Destination travelled to Nihi Sumba last December to experience their world-beating resort first-hand. Click here to read the full feature in the Travel With Us section of our website.
