Andrew Harper’s small team of editors travels far and wide, uncovering the most distinctive hotels in the world. While our 1,000 recommended properties vary in size, style and locale, it’s hideaways — those tranquil hotels of about 50 rooms or fewer — that are at the heart of what we do. Our favorite hideaways possess exceptional character and a commitment to classic hospitality, and they are sanctuaries offering a profound sense of place. The following are not just properties that we rated highly, but also the ones that had the greatest emotional impact, the places that changed our lives.