At this time of year there are usually a rash of hot lists detailing the ‘in’ countries for the year, but backpacker hot lists are not the same as a hot list for those who are willing to spend to see the world in style. The Luxury Travel Mag list is exclusively for luxury lovers who are also world travellers who love to explore. Each quarter the Luxury Travel Mag publishes the world’s ultimate luxury resorts, elegant hotels, exclusive hideaways and private island paradises.

2009’s best overseas resorts are:
 
1.   Four Seaons Resort at Jimbaran Bay, Bali
2.   Huvafen Fushi, Maldives 
3.   Chiva Som, Thailand
4.   Four Seasons Langkawi, Malaysia
5.   LikuLiku Resort, Fiji
6.   Sheraton Denarau Villas, Fiji
7.   W Retreat & Spa, Maldives
8.   Amankila, Bali 
9.   St Regis, Bora Bora
10. Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand

More info at www.luxurytravelmag.com.au