If you’re looking to stay at one of the top hotels in the world, the Forbes Travel Guide’s annual Star Awards is the list to keep your eye out for. Now in its 68th year, the awards recognize the most luxurious hotels, restaurants, spas, and cruises across the globe through an independent ranking system.
Inspectors go under cover to test hundreds of specifically chosen hospitality standards, paying their way through the experience just as any customer would. This ensures that all rankings are objective and accurately reflect the quality of each stay.
“While the quality and condition of the facilities remain vital, exceptional service accounts for 70 per cent of a property’s rating, reflecting the human element at the heart of luxury,” explains Forbes.
This year, Forbes inspectors travelled to over 100 different countries to find the best of the best, including new destinations like Bhutan, Croatia, Poland, Tanzania and Uzbekistan. The 2026 Star Awards also mark the first time a cruise has earned five stars.
In B.C., many beloved hotels and spas were recognized, earning four and five stars, as well as a “recommended” status.
Here are all the B.C. hotels and spas recognized in the 2026 awards, and their rankings, according to Forbes:
- Fairmont Chateau Whistler (recommended)
- Fairmont Empress (recommended)
- Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (four stars)
- Fairmont Pacific Rim (five stars)
- Fairmont Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim (five stars)
- Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler (four stars)
- JW Marriott Parq Vancouver (recommended)
- The Magnolia Hotel & Spa (recommended)
- Paradox Hotel Vancouver (four stars)
- Rosewood Hotel Georgia (four stars)
- Sidecut Steakhouse (recommended)
- Spa by JW at JW Marriott Parq Vancouver (four stars)
- The St. Regis Hotel (recommended)
- The Sutton Place Hotel (recommended)
- Wickaninnish Inn (four stars)
These are the B.C. stays to bookmark!
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