13 of the world’s best hotels for when it’s time to splurge

(CNN) — After more than two years of restrictions, we’re all more than ready for a big, celebratory, this-pandemic-is-finally-easing-up trip.

While Covid-19 still isn’t behind us, people are definitely on the move. And planning something big for the near future feels a lot more doable.

Starting rates are in US dollars per night.

The Brando, French Polynesia

If you’re after an over-the-top, bucket-list splurge, you can’t beat The Brando, Marlon Brando’s ultraluxurious private island resort on Tetiaroa, 30 miles north of Tahiti.

The far-flung resort is a favorite of celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Bradley Cooper and Ellen DeGeneres. Former President Barack Obama also famously escaped to the island to write his memoir there after he left office in 2017. (More recently, Kim Kardashian hosted her lavish 40th birthday party on the island in October 2020).

It’s got just 35 thatched-roof villas, each one decked out with a private infinity pool, outdoor dining area and all the creature comforts you might expect to enjoy at a five-star hotel in London or New York.

But the biggest luxury of all? Your own private stretch of powder-white sand and turquoise ocean, mere steps from your bedroom.

Matakauri Lodge, New Zealand

This Matakauri Lodge deluxe suite is not suffering for scenery.

Courtesy The Robertson Lodges

The views alone are worth the splurge here. With mountains rising behind serene Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge boasts a stunning setting in New Zealand’s South Island.

Located just outside Queenstown, the 12-suite, lakeside lodge looks out at Cecil and Walter peaks and the aptly named mountain range The Remarkables.

Excursions include bungy jumping, skydiving, rafting, canyoning and wine tours, but with scenery like this, pandemic-weary travelers might just want to book treatments in the full-service spa with uninterrupted views of the lake and towering 1,978-meter (6,490-foot) Cecil Peak.

Sensei Lanai, A Four…