Unsung Hotels: The Best Hotels You've Never Heard Of

Esplendor del Calafate is located in the heart of Argentina's Patagonia.

Dozens of hotel chains around the world deliver comfort, native charm, and great value, but are unknown to most Americans. In Condé Nast Traveler's February issue, Sallie Brady reports on these foreign brands ("The Best Hotels You've Never Heard Of") and on how to find them at your favorite destinations. Here's a taste of two top South America-based hotel groups:

ESPLENDOR HOTELS
Brand Basics: Seven properties in some of the most popular cities in Argentina, Panama, and Paraguay.
The Good: Eye-catching decor; good value.
The Bad: Staff can be less than helpful; no concierge services.
Best For: Self-sufficient, savvy travelers who like hotels with flair.
Loyalty Program: Yes.
Where We Stayed: Esplendor del Calafate, El Calafate, Argentina (54-2902-492454; doubles, ($140-$180).
What It Was Like: The hotel's handsome interiors are studies in hardwoods, leather, and stone. The design and fine fare set it far apart from the competition.

LOI SUITES
Brand Basics: Seven properties in Argentina and Brazil, all in prime locations and designed with tasteful restraint.
The Good: Contemporary, bright decor; well-trained staff.
The Bad: Standard rooms verge on the cramped.
Best For: Tourists who rate reliability over local color.
Loyalty Program: No.
Where We Stayed: Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel, San Martín de los Andes, Argentina (54-2972-410304; doubles, $200-$300).
What It Was Like: The hotel draws golfers with its Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-holer. Capable staff keep the 85-room Bavarian-style hotel running like clockwork—just don't expect them to remember your name.

For more great foreign hotel brands from the Americas to Europe to Asia, pick up Condé Nast Traveler's February issue, or read The Best Hotels You've Never Heard Of on cntraveler.com.