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The most anticipated luxury hotel openings of 2024

January 12, 20243

Friday newsletters always feature luxury travel contests, tips, or news.

Today: The most anticipated hotel openings of 2024

Last month, I published my list of the 70 best new luxury hotels of 2023. Today, I share with you the 70 hottest luxury hotels & resorts that are expected to open their doors in 2024. It promises to be an exciting year as some of these new hotels will be managed by the world’s most exclusive hotel brands, including Soneva, Aman, One&Only and Four Seasons. Please keep in mind that hotel openings do get delayed from time to time, so to avoid disappointment, try not to book a room before the hotel effectively opened.

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1. SONEVA SECRET, MALDIVES

Located in Haa Dhaalu, the Maldives’ most remote atoll, Soneva Secret will welcome its first guests in February. Thirty years in the making, the Soneva Secret resort concept builds upon Soneva’s experience at the forefront of exceptional hospitality, and will set a new, unmatched standard in intuitive, personalized service, exquisite private villas and unspoiled settings, surrounded by nature.  The property will features just 14 beach and overwater villas, including lagoon Crusoe Villas, accessible only by boat, and the Castaway, the Maldives’ first floating villa. As well as vast master suites, including a roof that slides to reveal star-strewn skies, every villa will also feature adjoining bedrooms, offering ample space for families or additional guests. Soneva’s superlative service reaches new heights at Soneva Secret 2024, with a dedicated Barefoot Guardian and Barefoot Assistant for every villa, curating an utterly personalized stay and one-of-a-kind, rare experiences for every guest. The resort’s 14 private chefs, one for each villa, will craft bespoke menus and unique culinary journeys, whether savored in the privacy and comfort of the villa or enjoyed in nature at the island’s most picturesque spots.

2. AMAN NAI LERT BANGKOK, THAILAND

Aman Bangkok will be Aman’s first resort and residences in Bangkok, and its second in Thailand after Amanpuri in Phuket (which I reviewed here). Amid the skyscrapers of central Bangkok, Thailand’s first urban Aman hotel and residences will rise from the verdant sanctuary that is Nai Lert Park. Here, history and nature will come together to tell a new Aman story, one entwined with the exceptional legacy of Thailand’s revered Nai Lert family. Amid the leafy embrace of Nai Lert Park, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok will offer guests and residents a peerless experience of the Thai capital. Designed with wraparound views, open-air terraces and an innovative central atrium by Jean Michel Gathy of Denniston, the 36-storey building will house the 52-suite hotel, no more than 50 residences and unparalleled leisure and entertainment facilities.

3. JANU TOKYO, JAPAN

In March 2024, Aman will launch a new brand – Janu – with the opening of its first Janu Hotel in the Japanese capital. At the heart of Tokyo’s Azabudai Hills development – a vibrant community hub of nature, culture and art – Janu Tokyo will feature 122 guest rooms, eight restaurants and an expansive spa and wellness center inside a new, landmark building designed by visionary architects Pelli Clarke & Partners. Derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘soul’, Janu aims to be a visionary hotel, residence and lifestyle brand designed to encourage connection, restore balance and promote collective joy. Serving as a catalyst for Aman Group’s evolution, Janu marks a progressive new chapter, harnessing the potential of the legendary Aman brand to achieve a pipeline of sustainable growth. While Aman is renowned for its hallmarks of whisper-quiet seclusion and unparalleled service, Janu strategically positions itself at the vanguard for luxury hospitality, committed to providing a more dynamic, sociable experience.

4. ROSEWOOD MIYAKOJIMA, JAPAN

Rosewood Miyakojima’s 55 villa accommodations will feature private pools, landscaped gardens and unobstructed sea views. Conceived by Netherlands-based Studio Piet Boon, the architecture and interiors will be seamlessly designed to immerse guests in the natural surroundings and express harmony with the island through the extensive use of local materials. Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei Inc. is providing local architectural expertise and support in realizing the design vision. Four restaurants and bars will include relaxed beachfront concepts showcasing fresh seafood, prized island-raised beef, locally distilled spirits and craft beer. Asaya, Rosewood’s pioneering integrated wellness concept, will offer treatment rooms set amid private gardens, indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy facilities and a menu of programs and services influenced by local healing traditions. Beyond the resort, guests will discover an abundance of vividly picturesque sites, from the majestic natural stone arch of nearby Sunayama beach to the perfectly poised lighthouse at Higashi-Hennazaki Cape (a nationally designated “Place of Scenic Beauty”) and Yonaha Maehama, regularly ranked as Japan’s best beach and renowned for its cinematic sunsets.

5. SIX SENSES KYOTO, JAPAN

Visionary thinking BLINK Design Group has been brought on board to bring the Six Senses brand values to life in its first Japanese property through elegant designs while maximizing space, privacy, and views. The hotel’s interiors will contrast simple lines with earthy organic tones and a “beauty in the details” vibe, setting a calming and welcoming mood and celebrating authentic Japanese traditions and décor. Quirky touches will be inspired by folklore, The Moon Rabbit, and the 11th-century classic Tale of Genji. Six Senses Kyoto will offer 81 guest rooms and suites ranging from 42 to 271 square meters. It will be up to you to choose your view – from our peaceful central courtyard with its biophilic design and garden of seasonal landscapes to the gardens of the neighboring Toyokuni Shrine or the seductive city panorama of treetops, temples, tea shops, and rooftops. Dining options will include an all-day dining restaurant and a a counter-only Sushi Restaurant or ‘Omakase’ restaurant. An onsite Six Senses Spa will incorporate smart science, traditional healing, and Japanese Zen culture into a unique wellness experience

Over 135 years after the original Raffles opened its doors, the second Raffles in Singapore will be an all-villa resort set in sprawling tropical gardens with views over the South China Sea. All 62 villas will have their own private pool and terrace area for the ultimate retreat in seclusion. Facilities will include a bespoke bar, world-class restaurants, a well-appointed fitness centre, a multi-purpose celebrations room, state-of-the-art meeting spaces and a grand ballroom that can host up to 400 people. Inspired by the original Raffles Hotel which was conceived as a beachfront property, Raffles Sentosa Resort & Spa will return the brand to the beach on a pristine piece of land on Sentosa Island.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

7. THE STANDARD SINGAPORE

The Standard, Singapore will be the city’s new social hub featuring 143 rooms. The hotel is one of very few ground-up hotels to be built in proximity to Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping destination. The district boasts a myriad of international and local brands across retail, dining, and entertainment establishments and is well patronized by both tourists and locals. The hotel is also a short walk from the celebrated UNESCO Singapore Botanical Gardens through the picturesque Nassim neighborhood. The hotel will feature The Standard’s signature restaurant and nightlife vibrancy, and arts and cultural programming along with an infinity pool and pool bar set within a lush botanical courtyard. The Standard, Singapore will celebrate the city’s robust GreenPlanand will create a playful new sanctuary for the neighborhood.

  • Hotel website: Not available yet

8. CONRAD SINGAPORE ORCHAD

Steps away from Singapore’s vibrant Orchard Road shopping district and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Conrad Singapore Orchard will welcome a new conscientious luxury experience with its bold approach to artistry and authentic connection to nature. Featuring 445 sophisticated residential-style guest rooms, which includes 46 thoughtfully designed suites with double terraces, Conrad Singapore Orchard allows every guest to experience Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ meaningful hospitality and purposeful service. Guests can enjoy an award-winning culinary collection of stylish bars and a Michelin-starred restaurant, over 1,500 square metres of meeting and event spaces, a contemporary executive lounge, a pet-friendly program and a fully equipped fitness centre and pool.

9. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DALIAN, CHINA

The all-new Four Seasons Hotel Dalian will be housed within a glittering high rise building in the city’s harborside Donggang Business District, offering sweeping city and sea views, luxurious accommodations, destination restaurants and bars, a sky-high spa and wellness centre, and extensive event spaces for meetings and celebrations. Perched above the heart of the central business district, the 254 guest rooms and more than 50 suites will offer a combination of magnificent skyline and stunning ocean vistas, while  the hotel’s collection of signature restaurants and bars, clustered on the topmost floors, will combine soaring views with artfully crafted fare to create the city’s most dynamic dining destination. Seamlessly blending into the fabric of the city, Four Seasons aims to brings together the very best of Dalian with elegance, grandeur and heartfelt care. Also of note is the hotel’s ideal location just a 15-minute walk from the Dalian International Conference Center in the core of the Donggang Business District.

10. ALILA SHANGHAI, CHINA

Designed as an “urban utopia,” Alila Shanghai will offer guests an elevated retreat experience that balances the bustling spirit of Shanghai with the serenity of the Alila brand. Featuring natural materials, earth tones and charming city views, the hotel’s spacious studios and suites will evoke calm and relaxation. In contrast, a landscaped garden in the fourth-floor lobby inspired by Shanghai’s classical gardens, and facilities that embrace nature but live in harmony amid contemporary style, will provide surprise and stimulation for the senses. The hotel feature’s facilities will include a rooftop Chinese restaurant, an organic restaurant, Tea Bar and a rooftop bar that overlooking the Old Shanghai Zhang Garden. Other hotel facilities include a spa, an indoor pool, gym, meeting space and a private garden which will be well suited for events and functions. Alila Shanghai will be located in a mixed-use development that will also feature premium offices and retail space.

  • Hotel website: not available yet

11. HILTON KATHMANDU, NEPAL

Hilton Hotels & Resorts will debut in Q1 2024 in Nepal with Hilton Kathmandu, situated in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. The hotel will embody a harmonious blend of Nepal’s rich heritage and modern design, offering panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan mountain range. The hotel will boast 173 guest rooms, complemented by versatile event spaces that can be customized to suit different occasions. Dining options will include an all-day dining restaurant, an iconic rooftop bar that provides a stunning vantage point, and a grab-and-go deli with a unique street market concept. Throughout the property, guests will be able to immerse themselves in the charm of local art and culture, evident in the meticulously crafted detailing and incorporation of traditional motifs.

12. REGENT BALI CANGGU, INDONESIA

Since acquiring and relaunching Regent Hotels & Resorts in 2018, major hotelier IHG has evolved the Regent brand and expanded it. Regent Bali Canggu is set to open in the second quarter of 2024. The 150-key resort will be the brand’s first in Indonesia and its design will be inspired by Indonesian tradition and fashion. The architecture is by hospitality experts, US-based WATG with interiors by global firm, HBA, and grounds by the Ireland-born, Ubud-based award-winning landscape designer, John Pettigrew. Guest accommodations will boast abundant space, radiating the opulence of Bali through vibrant colours, authentic materials, and architectural finesse. The journey will begin at the port cochere and will carry guests over a bridge to a water court, through an exquisite landscape to a central courtyard. At its heart will lie the lobby lounge, whose design will mirror the form of a surfboard, framing a picturesque view of the ocean.

  • Hotel website: not available yet

13. RAFFLES JAIPUR, INDIA

Raffles Jaipur will be one of the iconic brand’s most exclusive hotels in the world, located in one of India’s most beautiful cities. Jaipur forms part of the culturally rich circuit known as The Golden Triangle, with New Delhi and Agra. With just 50 suites, all with private pools, the majestic hotel features a sense of old world charm with secluded residences and elegant courtyards, linking into the sprawling estate shared with Fairmont Jaipur, creating the perfect haven from which guests can go on to explore nearby Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort and Jal Mahal Palace.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

14. WALDORF ASTORIA KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Scheduled to open in 2024, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur will be developed and owned by Tradewinds Corporation Berhad and managed by Waldorf Astoria, one of Hilton’s luxury hotel brands. Guests can look forward to custom-designed interiors and furnishings at each of Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur’s 279 suites. The luxury hotel will also feature culinary excellence through five distinctive restaurants including Peacock Alley, the iconic lounge and bar synonymous with the Waldorf Astoria brand, and a state-of-the-art wellness centre. Perfectly located within Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur is within walking distance of the city’s top malls and attractions, including Pavilion Mall and Suria KLCC, in the famed Bukit Bintang shopping and entertainment district. It is also well connected to the city’s main transportation hubs, with KL Sentral station and Kuala Lumpur International Airport being 10 minutes and an hour’s drive respectively.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

15. THE ST REGIS LONGBOAT KEY RESORT, FLORIDA, USA

Nestled along the sugar-white sands of a Sarasota barrier island, The St Regis Longboat Key Resort will pair oceanside luxury with an unprecedented level of hospitality. In summer 2024, the resort will open as the only St Regis property set to debut in the USA in 2024, promising to bring a new level of luxury to the Gulf Coast. It marks the largest development on the island in over 50 years.  Situated on 18 acres of prime beachfront property with 168 elegant guest rooms including 26 suites with terraces, guests will have access to unparalleled amenities and the bespoke service of St. Regis. The resort will offer 800 feet of private beach, multiple pools and a winding river, a four-acre saltwater lagoon experience with stingrays, Galapagos turtles and tropical fish, a 20,000 square-foot destination St Regis spa and four chef-driven culinary outlets. Conveniently located near Sarasota Bradenton International Airport and the vibrant St. Armands Circle, the property is primed to become an iconic resort destination for discerning travelers and the local community alike.

16. CONRAD ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Conrad Orlando will debut with 433 rooms, including 51 impeccably designed suites and 10 spacious family suites offering oversized accommodations that deliver all the comforts of home. Other features include 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, a tranquil Conrad Spa with a private water garden, and numerous dining options including a signature rooftop experience. As part of Evermore Orlando Resort, bordering Walt Disney World Resort, guests will enjoy a 20-acre tropical beach and 8-acre crystalline lagoon, aquatic activities, and two Jack Nicklaus designed 18-hole golf courses.

17. THE VINETA HOTEL PAM BEACH, FLORIDA, USA

Slated for a late 2023 opening, the Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach will mark Oetker Collection’s 12th Masterpiece Hotel around the globe. Situated in the heart of Palm Beach, the hotel is located just two blocks off Worth Avenue – famed for its designer boutiques, restaurant scene and noteworthy galleries, and mere minutes away from the beach. Paying homage to the hotel’s legacy, Oetker Collection will restore the Vineta name, which it held for over five decades, heralding a bold new chapter in the property’s nearly 100-year history. Most recently known as The Chesterfield, the landmark building will be reborn following a top-to-bottom renovation by internationally acclaimed AD 100 interior designer Tino Zervudachi. Reducing the room count from 53 to 41 to allow for a more generous sense of space, the hotel will offer a range of accommodations, featuring fresh and bright interiors with a nod to the town’s distinct island lifestyle, and encompass new vibrant dining and bar concepts.

18. PARK HYATT LOS ANGELES AT OCEANWIDE PLAZA, CALIFORNIA, USA

Park Hyatt Los Angeles at Oceanwide Plaza will exude a sophisticated character courtesy of acclaimed international design firm Studio Munge. This luxury hotel will feature upscale accommodations, exquisite culinary offerings, sophisticated works of art, as well as masterful attention to detail and a signature level of service offered by the Park Hyatt brand. The 184-room luxury hotel, with 34 suites, meeting and events spaces, spa and wellness facilities and a swimming pool, will connect to the retail and amenity podium known as The Collection at Oceanwide Plaza. The retail space design will lend to experience-driven guest accommodations amid a dynamic environment for innovative retailers to showcase unique merchandising concepts and sought-after products.

19. THOMPSON PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, USA

The Thompson Palm Springs Hotel will be located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, adjacent to the vibrant Uptown Design District and walking distance to the shops, restaurant and galleries that line the famed Palm Canyon Drive. The 150 guestroom, 17 suite resort will stay true to its desert oasis destination. The hotel will comprise a collection of small buildings and guestroom bungalows surrounding two outdoor pools and garden areas on an elevated patio terrace, offering panoramic views of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains and city. Thompson Palm Springs will also feature spa services, a fitness facility, a signature restaurant and lounge, as well as an expansive elevated poolside retreat and terrace bar. The first level of the hotel site will include boutique retail space and meeting facilities.

20. THE RITZ-CARLTON, PARADISE VALLEY, ARIZONA, USA

The Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley promises to be one of the finest resorts of its kind ever built in Arizona. Spread out over approximately 20 acres, the abundant oversized suites and detached casitas will make the resort an ideal destination for those seeking a private oasis. Guest accommodations will be connected by quiet, lush courtyard gardens and shaded walkways – evoking the sense of a village. The main pool will be one of the longest resort pools in North America. A specialty dining concept will harvest seasonal produce from the resort’s anticipated herb garden and citrus orchard and incorporate ingredients into the daily menus. Rounding out the offering will be a 16,000 square-foot spa with indoor/outdoor treatment areas, and a grand lawn with stunning views of the iconic Camelback, Mummy and McDowell mountains.

21. THE ST REGIS QUIVIRA, LOS CABOS, MEXICO

The St Regis Los Cabos at Quivira will showcase an exclusive 120-room luxury beachfront hotel and 60 residences set within Quivira Los Cabos, a premier residential community with an enviable list of assets, from a glorious of virgin beach on the Sea of Cortes to an internationally-acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature course at Quivira Golf Club. The hotel’s guest rooms will feature ocean views and the renowned St Regis Butler Service. The property’s three signature dining venues will range from a specialty restaurant and a beachfront grill with all-day dining to an al fresco poolside restaurant with fresh small plates and crafted cocktails. Guests will have access to a plethora of recreational facilities, including a fitness and wellness center, swimming pools, saltwater lagoon, luxury cabanas and a destination spa.

  • Hotel website: not available yet

22. FOUR SEASONS RESORT CABO SAN LUCAS AT CABO DEL SOL, MEXICO

A modern hacienda-style village within the private community of Cabo Del Sol in Cabo’s Golden Corridor, the all-new Four Seasons resort will feature 96 guest rooms and suites, plus 61 residences, villas and estates – all with glorious ocean views.  Set amid the sights, sounds and tastes of Mexican art and culture, the Resort will also feature an eclectic collection of dining and drinking options. A wide array of resort experiences ranges from spa and golf to watersports, with a pristine swimmable beach and multiple pools, plus easy shuttle access to dining, nightlife and shopping in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas will join sister property Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas on the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula; plus Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City; Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita and the just-opened Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort; and the new Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo in the company’s award-winning collection of hotels, resorts and residences in Mexico.

23. BANYAN TREE VEJA, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO

Nestled amidst olive oil groves and grapevines in the valley, the resort will be designed by renowned Mexican designer Michel Rojkind. Home to Banyan Tree’s first winery, the property will feature vineyards, a winemaking laboratory, tasting room, underground cellar, and rooms for fermentation, barreling and aging. An enchanting collection of 30 spacious villas nestled in the hills, will capture the allure of Veya Valle de Guadalupe, effortlessly blending into the rolling hills. Facilities will include five food and beverage venues, a spa with four treatment rooms, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. As you may know, Banyan Tree prides itself on a legacy as pioneer of the all-pool villa concept and sustainable, wellbeing-focused travel. Current Banyan Tree properties in Mexico include Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Cabo Marques (Acapulco) and Hacienda Xcanatun (Merida).

24. CHABLÉ SEA OF CORTEZ, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR, MEXICO

Chablé Hotels & Resorts, a boutique Mexican-owned luxury hotel company, will open its third property, Chablé Sea of Cortez, in 2024. Stretched over nearly 700,000 square feet of raw, untouched desert, Chablé’s upcoming masterpiece is an embodiment of sophistication. Jacques Costeau once hailed the Sea of Cortez as the “World’s Aquarium,” and this oasis promises the same enchantment but on land. The Chablé Sea of Cortez will include 50 stunning luxury villas and residences.  Drawing its inspiration from the serenity of its surroundings, Mexican design studio, Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos (SMA), was given the challenging task of ensuring each of the 50 units enjoyed an unspoiled ocean view. The property will also feature a huge spa, three dining venues, event space, private beach, and ocean-front pool.

25. NEKAJUI, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, COSTA RICA

Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, will be an exclusive luxury resort located in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region on a one-of-a-kind site on the Papagayo Peninsula. The new resort will offer 107 guest rooms, suites, and residences with access to breathtaking views, outdoor terraces, plunge pools, and spa-like amenities. The resort design will seamlessly integrate the cultural heritage, historical details, and natural beauty of Guanacaste, creating three distinct areas with unique architectural styles. Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve aims to prioritizes a deep connection with nature, with a hospitality design that embraces open spaces and natural ventilation. The property will features stunning landscapes, a hanging bridge leading to a spa, and a funicular railway descending to a beach club near sea caves and sandy beaches. This convention-breaking resort aims to set new standards in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments and emphasizes the importance of human connections with nature and oneself.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

26. HABITAS SANTA TERESA, COSTA RICA

Habitas is a small, hippy dippy American chain concentrating on barefoot luxury properties in countries like Morocco and Mexico. In April 2024, the brand will open its first outpost in Costa Rica. Nestled in the jungle in front of one of the region’s best surf breaks, Habitas Santa Teresa, Costa Rica, will be a beachfront sanctuary for those looking for an experience of adventure and discovery in a place where time is told in tides. The eco-sustainable retreat will comprise rooms built from local and ethically sourced organic materials, blending seamlessly into the environment with minimal disruption. Sustainability will be a priority throughout, including the spa, agora, restaurant and pool deck. In keeping with Habitas’ strict standard of environmental consciousness, Habitas Santa Teresa will be single-use plastic-free, establish a water management plan, and even plant equal amounts of trees for the wood used during any and all construction.

27. THE ST REGIS CAP CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The St Regis Cap Cana Resort & Residences will be the first St. Regis hotel in the Dominican Republic. Slated to open in 2024, the resort is expected to feature 200 luxurious guest rooms and suites with spectacular ocean views and 67 residences, in addition to the iconic St Regis Butler Service, bespoke amenities and a world-class golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Set within a community committed to the continued preservation of the environment, The St Regis Cap Cana Resort & Residences is expected to adhere to the highest standards of sustainable and conservation-oriented development. This includes the project’s architectural design, which finds its inspiration within the Punta Espada golf course, where the hotel and residences are integrated into the environment as if they were a natural component of the course.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

28. SIX SENSES LA SAGESSE, GRENADA

Enjoying a pride-of-place setting between the ocean and a protected cove on the southern part of the Caribbean island of Grenada, Six Senses La Sagesse aims to invites guests to put their feet up and worries down and embark on a journey of discovery, rejuvenation, and celebration. Designed to reflect Caribbean village vibes and bursting with bold colors and scents, the resort will maintain a connection to Grenada’s “Spice Island” heritage. There will be 56 pool suites, which will combine eco-credentials and comfort using natural, renewable, and repurposed materials. The organic and contemporary interiors will feature open-plan bedrooms, each with an outdoor terrace leading to a private plunge pool for a cooling dip. In addition, there will be 15 villas enjoying prime hillside or beachfront settings, ranging between one, two, and four bedrooms, all with generously sized bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms. The property will feature 3 restaurants, including the signature restaurant SeaFire. The two-floor spa will house treatment rooms, a Hammam, a state-of-the-art gym and a yoga pavilion.

29. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AND RESIDENCES CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

Cartagena’s upcoming Four Seasons property will be housed in a collection of landmark buildings dating as far back as the 16th century. These are: the Cloister of Saint Francis, encompassing Saint Francis Church; the 1920s Beaux Arts Club Cartagena; and four theatres – Teatro Cartagena, Teatro Calamari, Teatro Bucanero and Teatro Rialto. Careful restoration work will preserve the heritage-rich buildings’ original architecture. Located just steps from Cartagena’s Unesco World Heritage-listed walled city, within the Getsemani neighbourhood, this property will place guests and residents at the heart of the coastal hub. As well as providing immediate access to Cartagena’s historic district, the hotel is close to Bodeguita Pier, which is the setting-off point for boat trips to Baru Island and the Islas Corales del Rosario. On completion, the hotel will showcase interiors designed by Francois Catroux and Wimberly Interiors, and comprise 131 guest rooms including 27 suites. Facilities will include four restaurants & lounges, two ballrooms, a spa, fitness center, and two rooftop pools.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

30. ROSEWOOD AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

The Rosewood Amsterdam will be housed in the former Palace of Justice, a building of great architectural, historical and social significance that overlooks the Prinsengracht (the Prince’s Canal), one of the city’s most beautiful waterways, in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Amsterdam Canal District. The hotel will be ideally situated near many of Amsterdam’s finest attractions including the museum district, the high-end shopping district on P.C. Hoofstraat and the hip De Pijp neighborhood. Rosewood Amsterdam will offer 134 guestrooms and suites, with many boasting spectacular views across the two adjoining canals, quiet internal courtyards and iconic townhouse rooftops. Amenities will include three restaurants, one of which will be an Indian restaurant, and bars; Sense, A Rosewood Spa offering ayurvedic treatments; a state-of-the-art wellness and fitness center; and an indoor swimming pool.

31. ROSEWOOD SCHLOSS FUSCHL, AUSTRIA

Rosewood Hotelshas been appointed to manage the legendary Hotel Schloss Fuschl in Austria, with a reopening scheduled in 2024. Located on the shores of turquoise-blue Lake Fuschl, surrounded by mountains and forests, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is a fairytale castle only a short distance away from picturesque Salzburg, a city famous for its history, culture, music and more. The full renovation will update the structure and grounds to feature 98 well-appointed guestrooms, including 46 suites and six chalets. In addition, the hotel will become home to world-class restaurants and lounges and will also feature Asaya, Rosewood’s integrative well-being concept, with eight treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a fitness center. First used as a hotel space in 1954, Hotel Schloss Fuschl was initially constructed as a castle to serve as a country escape for Austrian royalty, with its original structure dating back to 1450.

32. THE HOXTON VIENNA, AUSTRIA

The new Hoxton Vienna Hotel will be located in Stadtpark in a striking 1950s modernist building which has an interesting history as the former headquarters of Austria Chamber of Commerce. This history will be reflected in the design, with a restoration reclaiming original features of the building, incorporating inspiration from its history and local streets. The Hoxton Vienna’s 196 rooms will be rooted in the history and quirkiness of its Landstrasse home and 1950s building. Bedrooms will range from Shoebox to Biggy, with bold rugs, warm wood and statement furniture giving retro elegance by way of early 20th century Viennese design. The hotel will have a spacious lobby and coffee bar, a restaurant, a terrace rooftop bar with pool, and a sultry basement speakeasy.

33. SIX SENSES LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

With its proximity to Hyde Park and Kensington Palace, Bayswater in West London is recognized for its streets lined with grand terraces of white stucco houses and garden squares. Among them is an iconic building and former department store – Whiteleys – soon to become home to Six Senses London. The hotel will mark the brand’s entry into the UK and will open with 110 guest rooms and suites, starting from 355 square feet (33 square meters) and celebrating the building’s origins, while making space for modern living. There will also be 14 branded residences, with owners able to tap into all the privileges that come with a Six Senses home, including bespoke interior design, concierge service, dining, housekeeping and wellness programming.

  • Hotel website: Not yet available

34. PARK HYATT LONDON RIVER THAMES, UNITED KINGDOM

The Park Hyatt London River Thames, expected to open in autumn 2023, will offer 203 rooms and will be located within R&F UK’s Nine Elms development. The Nine Elms district is located in the south of London, on the south bank of the Thames and directly opposite Westminster. The future hotel will offer guests the possibility to be close to the new U.S. Embassy, to explore Sloane Square and vibrant Kings Road, to visit the Tate Britain and to stroll in the 200-acre Battersea Park and to discover the Kia Oval cricket ground. Besides, the future project will provide personalized experience for business and government travellers and a large ballroom in order to host private and public events.

35. THE ST REGIS LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

The St Regis London is expected to welcome its first guests this year after an extensive $122 million USD redevelopment and transformation of the former Westbury Mayfair Hotel, with the addition of an eighth floor. The hotel, which is expected to have 196 elegant rooms and suites, will be designed by Peter Newman-Earp of Morrison Design with interiors by Richmond International. Furthermore, the property is set to receive an extension to the rear of the hotel, creating enhanced public areas, along with renovations to the façade of the building and the drop-off area outside of the main entrance. Design plans include a signature restaurant, speakeasy jazz bar, fitness center and spa. The St Regis London will honor the building’s heritage by retaining the iconic Polo Bar, originally designed for the Phipps family of America, avid polo players and creators of the Westbury Hotel in New York and London, and where guests will be able to enjoy a local twist on the Bloody Mary, St. Regis’ signature cocktail.

  • Hotel website: Not available yet

36. MANDARIN ORIENTAL MAYFAIR, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is expanding its presence in London with the opening of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London this spring. Sitting on historic Hanover Square, in the heart of London’s most stylish neighborhoods, where fashion, media, art, and business intersect, the new property is a discreet, sleek and intimate sister property to the award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. Designed by internationally renowned Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners (the talent behind the Lloyd’s building and the ‘Cheesegrater’ in London, as well as the Pompidou Center in Paris), the building’s design has a rich historic context. The property will comprise 50 guestrooms and 78 private residences, offering hotel guests and residents an oasis of calm and Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service alongside a vibrant atmosphere in the public spaces. It will house the first namesake Akira Back restaurant in the UK from Michelin Star award winning Chef Akira Back, as well as his ‘ABar Lounge’ concept.  There will also be an urban spa, focussed on renewal and recalibration.

37. ONE&ONLY KEA ISLAND, GREECE

Situated in a 65-hectare beachfront site on the west side of Kea island of the Cyclades, this ultimate ultra-luxury lifestyle experience will include 75 resort villas, as well as One&Only Private Homes available for purchase. Kea is the closest Cycladic island to Athens and is accessible by ferry or speed boat from Lavrio Harbour. A post-modern Greek island, the One&Only resort on Kea will be inspired by the azure ocean waters, providing contemporary Greek elegance, celebrating the incredible natural elements of Greece and the Cyclades. The stylish resort will also be home to three restaurants, two bars and an indulgent destination spa, introducing traditional and holistic practices fused with modern spa therapies, with overall wellness at its core.

38. INTERCONTINENTAL RESORT CRETE, GREECE

InterContinental Resort Crete will feature 205 guest rooms, all boasting private verandas – and half featuring private Jacuzzies – as guests are offered the brand’s signature slice of InterContinental life while enjoying their stay in one of Europe’s leading resort destinations. Providing idyllic views over Mirabello Bay, the hotel may be directly accessed from a seafront promenade, making it the only property in Agios Nikolaos to offer such great accessibility to its guests. The interior of InterContinental Resort Crete will be inspired by elements of the sea, air and rock, and enriched with local history, materials and craft, offering guests the ultimate combination of peace and relaxation. The entrance lobby, lounge and reception will feature an exposed rock face lit from above by a water-filled skylight, drawing from the island’s scenic coastal character. When it comes to relaxing, the hotel will offer something for every guest with four restaurants, three bars and a range of facilities including a pool terrace, indoor spa, infinity pool deck and rooftop pool. There will also be a wellness and fitness leisure centre, while those looking to work can visit the extensive, fully equipped range of meeting spaces.

39. SANTO MINE, SANTORINI, GREECE

Carved into the cliffs of Oia, the new adults-only Santo Mine hotel will combines privacy and bare-foot luxury with outdoor living, enhanced by the energy of its natural surroundings. The rugged landscape, the Mediterranean aesthetics, and the Cycladic minimalism and earth tones will create a feeling of being at one with nature and encourage guests to slow down, reset, and embark on a journey of authentic experiences. The property will features 37 rooms, each one with its own private plunge pool or Jacuzzi. Hotel facilities will include a wellness center, and outdoor gym with Aegean views, a fine dining venue, and a top-tier wine cellar.

40. GUNDARI, FOLEGANDROS, GREECE

Gundari will be a luxury resort wrapped in 80 acres of spectacular, raw nature on the secluded island of Folegandros. Set high on rugged, soaring cliffs overlooking the azure depths of the Aegean Sea, this extraordinary oasis will be designed to inspire and invigorate, with wellness, gastronomy and sustainability at its heart. Blending seamlessly into the landscape, Gundari will take its aesthetic cues from the ancient tones of the island itself, with majestic ocean views at every turn. Acclaimed Athens design studio Block722 have harnessed a wealth of natural materials to craft 27 suites and villas with authentic, Cycladic simplicity, at one with the earth that surrounds them. A feast for all the senses, the gastronomic offering at Gundari will be be lovingly curated by the Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou, uniting the fruits of both sea and land with a true passion for refined Greek cuisine. Regeneration will await at the Gundari spa, where Ancient Greek rituals will convene with Folegandros’ native herbs and tonics in a transformative wellness experience

41. ORIENT EXPRESS GRAND HOTEL DE LA MINERVA, ROMA, ITALY

Orient Express Grand Hotel de la Minerve is a creative collaboration between Orient Express, artisan of travel since 1883, Accor, and Italian group Arsenale S.p.A, experts in luxury hotels and hospitality. A heritage site in the heart of Rome, the hotel resides in the former Palazzo Fonseca, a sumptuous 17th century palace with a huge and majestic façade. The interior design and artistic direction of the hotel have been entrusted to famed architect and designer Hugo Toro, who will soon reveal a glamorous experience inspired by the Roman domus and the riches of the ‘Eternal City’.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

42. W MILAN, ITALY

W Milan – Duomo will bring the brand’s magnetic energy and distinctive design to the heart of Milan’s Fashion District. Situated in a prime location, W Milan – Duomo will be within walking distance of the city’s cultural landmarks including Piazza del Duomo, Teatro alla Scala and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Milan’s vibrant and iconic shopping street, Via Montenapoleone, is just a three-minute walk from the hotel. First built as a bank in the 1920s, W Milan – Duomo will blend Milan’s classic grandeur with W’s bold branding and innovative programming. Led by Milan-based architects Stefano Boeri Architetti and international design firm Yabu Pushelberg, the hotel is expected to feature 166 guestrooms and 36 suites, including an Extreme WOW Suite. Design plans for the hotel’s rooftop include the brand’s signature WET deck, offering spectacular views of the Duomo di Milano. The vistas continue with plans for an exclusive rooftop bar, W Lounge, and a signature restaurant; all complete with outdoor terraces and positioned to offer panoramic views of the city and the perfect aperitivo. Inspiring workout spaces are expected to include a AWAY Spa, complete with an indoor pool and FIT fitness center.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

43. W NAPLES, ITALY

W Naples is set to become a buzzing centerpiece in the heart of the historical Piazza del Municipio square. The charming building, also formerly a bank, will receive a multi-million-pound renovation, with the historic façade remaining untouched playing homage to its historic past. Old-world charm meets W Hotels’ unexpected design and innovative programming as the hotel is expected to serve as the perfect gateway to discover Naples by foot. Guests will find themselves immersed in the heart of the locally charged cultural scene with the hotel’s location just steps from the ancient Via Toledo known as the shopping street of Naples, the famed glass domed Galleria Umberto I and the prestigious UNESCO-listed, Teatro San Carlo, which is one of the oldest opera houses in the world. W Naples will also be within walking distance of Molo Beverello Port where guests can dine al fresco with seafront views, or take a day trip to nearby Rome, Capri, Positano, or Pompei. W Naples is set to bring together noble grandeur, culinary delicacies and couture fashion. The hotel is expected to feature 78 guestrooms, including 17 suites, several of which offer private terraces. The interior transformation will be headed up by the acclaimed Rockwell Group and design plans include a signature restaurant, W Lounge and fitness center.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

44. W PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Located in the heart of the capital, W Prague will open its doors at the former and well-renowned Grand Hotel Evropa. This radical art nouveau-style property pushed boundaries when it opened in 1905 and will do so again with the W brand’s progressive design and innovative spirit. The hotel is a renovation of the former Grand Hotel Evropa and, with its historic structure and lasting elements, will be combined with a new modern oval-shaped extension to create an intriguing blend of old-world glamour and bold new concepts. W Prague will offer 161 stylish guestrooms and suites, including the Extreme Wow (Presidential) Suite and multiple exciting restaurants and bars. The new hotel will revive the Grand Cafe, invite thirsty guests to the infamous W Lounge and feature a Rooftop bar with an outdoor terrace. It is set to be the ultimate destination for style-savvy locals and guests to enjoy sweeping cityscape views and a fabulous cocktail and culinary experience.

45. FAIRMONT GOLDEN PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Fairmont Golden Prague will be an enchanting landmark hotel in the center of a fairy-tale city in the Czech Republic. Located along the prestigious Parizska Boulevard and on the banks of the Vltava River in the Old Town of Prague, the sophisticated design concept of this luxurious hotel will capture the history of its stylish neighborhood with a nod to the spirit and energy of the 1970s. Guests will love basking in the hotel’s modern spa with indoor and outdoor pools, noshing among its multiple restaurants and bars, and dancing the night away in the hotel’s grand ballroom.

46. SIX SENSES SVART, NORWAY

With booming demand for adventurous and eco-conscious travel, northern Norway is one of the last frontiers for a self-sustainable, off-grid destination. The region will become the home of the 94-room luxurious Six Senses Svart, which will combine a futuristic design and technological innovation with earthy, organic materials that use the least embedded energy. To minimize the on-site impact, Six Senses Svart will be poised on poles above the crystal-clear waters of the Holandsfjorden fjord, at the base of the glacier itself. The hotel will be the first building to be designed and built after the highest energy-efficiency standard in the northern hemisphere. It will harvest enough solar energy to go back into the system, covering the hotel, adjacent operations, boat shuttle, and the energy needed to construct the building – rendering it independent from the power grid.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

47. DUO HOTEL LISBON, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, PORTUGAL

Set to open in Spring 2024, the property will couple a traditional 19th century building with a secondary new development, linked together by a beautifully landscaped interior courtyard. It will feature 75 stylish guest rooms, an all-day dining outlet, café, bar, meeting space and a Portuguese pasteleria, offering guests tempting local cakes and pastries. In the evening, the hotel’s restaurant will spill out into the courtyard, allowing guests to enjoy delicious meals al fresco. The hotel will be located in the bustling west-downtown area of the city, close to many of the key tourist attractions, restaurants and shopping areas.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

48. LEGACY HOTEL CASCAIS, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, PORTUGAL

With idyllic scenery that captivated writers, artists, and European nobility in the 20th century, Cascais is the latest Portuguese destination in Curio Collection by Hilton’s expanding European portfolio. Opening next summer, Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection by Hilton, will feature 59 guest rooms, many with stunning sea view balconies overlooking the town’s picturesque beaches. Guests will be able to enjoy the hotel’s lobby bar, restaurant, swimming pool, spa, and fitness center, before exploring Cascais’ many attractions, such as the imposing Conde de Castro Guimarães Museum, with its impressive collection of art and Indo-Portuguese furniture.

  • Hotel website: Not available yet

49. SAINTE-ANNE HOTEL DIJON, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, FRANCE

Marking Hilton’s debut in the Burgundy region of France, Sainte-Anne Hotel Dijon, Curio Collection by Hilton will be ideally located in the center of Dijon’s “Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin” (International City of Gastronomy and Wine). Set on the site of a former 17th century hospice, the distinctive, upscale hotel will feature 125 rooms and suites with décor inspired by Burgundy’s famed vineyards, along with outdoor terraces, a swimming pool, fitness centre, and Nhoraé spa. At the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, La Table de Sainte-Anne, guests will savor the flavors and delicacies of French cuisine, while the restaurant’s bar L’Oratoire will be dedicated to tastings of the region’s finest wines. Dijon’s medieval centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be within walking distance of the hotel. Famous sites include Dijon’s well-preserved aristocratic palaces from the 15th and 16th centuries, ancient cathedrals and fine art museums.

  • Hotel website: Not available yet

50. KEIGHT HOTEL OPATIJA, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, CROATIA

Keight Hotel Opatija will be Curio Collection by Hilton’s first property in Croatia. The 54-guest-room hotel will feature a rooftop sundeck with a swimming pool and bar for guests to relax, overlooking the red-tiled roofs that adorn the town centre’s 19th-century buildings. A second bar and restaurant on the ground floor will allow guests to choose between alfresco dining on the rooftop and casual indoor meals. Located in the heart of the seaside resort town Opatija, Keight Hotel Opatija, Curio Collection by Hilton will be less than a two-minute walk from the sea.

51. MANDARIN ORIENTAL PUNTA NEGRA, MALLORCA, SPAIN

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new beach resort on the island of Mallorca, Spain, scheduled to open during the second half of 2024. The new luxury resort comprises a significant reconstruction and redesign of the former H10 Punta Negra hotel, which occupies a peninsula on the Costa d’en Blanes in the southwest of the island. The resort will be spread over three hectares of landscaped clifftops and gardens cascading down to the sea, where it offers access to two coves surrounded by the sea. Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca will house 131 guestrooms, including 44 suites and nine bungalows located just a few steps from the waterfront. The spacious accommodation will provide full or partial sea views, outdoor terraces or balconies, some of which offer private panoramic plunge pools. A wide range of cuisines will be offered at a variety of local and international restaurants. A comprehensive Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer the Group’s signature wellness therapies and beauty treatments, with a focus on local nature-inspired programs. The spa will include an indoor swimming pool, while three outdoor pools are located across the resort.

  • Hotel website: not available yet

52. FOUR SEASONS RESORT MALLORCA AT FORMENTOR, SPAIN

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has announced plans to manage the former Hotel Formentor in Mallorca, Spain. Originally opened in 1929, the existing hotel will undergo extensive renovations before it will be unveiled as a Four Seasons experience in 2024. The renovations will be overseen by architects Estudio Lamela and SCT Estudio de Arquitectura, with interior designs by Gilles & Boissier. All of the 110 rooms and suites will offer balconies with sea and forest views, allowing guests to soak in their beautiful surroundings. The property is located on a 1,200 hectare (3,000 acre) plot of the Formentor Peninsula, offering access to a pristine beach, as well as a functioning vineyard a short five minute drive away. The resort will also include an indoor restaurant, beachfront restaurant and café, and a poolside bar and grill. Additional onsite activities will include tennis courts and beautiful spa facilities.

  • Hotel website: not available yet

53. OKU ANDALUSIA, SPAIN

A new home for OKU on the southern shore of Spain, OKU Andalusia will be located on a secluded stretch of pristine white sand where the rolling Andalusian hills meet the sea. A retreat for adventurous spirits focussed on barefoot luxury, the hotel will be home to infinity pools terraced on the hillside, and making the most of breathtaking views over the Spanish coast and Africa beyond. Guest rooms – an exercise in wabi-sabi minimalism – will include terraced suites with private pools, penthouses with expansive views, and two-bedroom suites for friends and families. There will also a private 4-bedroom villa tucked into the hill for groups looking for luxury, service and privacy in equal measure. Our relaxed To Kima restaurant will serve bites throughout the day, while a plethora of eateries – including our signature OKU Restaurant – are on offer come nighttime.

54. ROSEWOOD DOHA, QATAR

Housed in two striking towers inspired by the coral reefs in the seas surrounding Qatar, Rosewood Doha and Rosewood Residences Doha will consist of an ultra-luxury hotel with 155 exquisite guestrooms and sumptuous suites, 162 serviced apartments for longer-term stays and 276 residences available for rent. The hotel will be one of the city’s most dynamic culinary destinations with a collection of eight innovative outlets, including a bistro, lobby lounge, coffee shop/deli, three specialty restaurants, cigar lounge and a lifestyle entertainment lounge. Featuring a 1,500-square-meter ballroom and 8 meetings rooms, the property will showcase multiple private event venues, anchored around sleek interiors and state-of-the-art technology, which will transform ordinary events into the extraordinary. The hotel will also introduce Asaya, a ground-breaking urban wellness concept that delivers innovative and integrative solutions for personal transformation. Rosewood’s Manor Club executive lounge concept will soar to new heights in Qatar and offer guests curated services with added convenience and privacy.

55. ANDAZ DOHA, QATAR

The 318-room Andaz Doha will be located in the prestigious West Bay area of Doha, nestled amongst embassies, consulates and key government institutions. Situated within close proximity to a cosmopolitan blend of restaurants, residential and retail space, the hotel will cater to travelers searching for the best of local culture. It will feature four distinct food and beverage outlets offering a wide range from local flavors to international dishes while creating a vibrant social scene. All dining options will boast modern design and an innovative approach to drinking and dining. The hotel will mark the fourth Hyatt hotel in the country.

56. ONE&ONLY ZA’ABEEL, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The first One&Only urban hotel – the One&Only One Za’abeel – is due to open in 2022 and will be introduced in Dubai’s latest architectural icon, One Za’abeel, a completely original destination with revolutionary design. A symbol of ambition, innovation and the pioneering spirit of Dubai, One Za’abeel stands tall and proud in the Za’abeel district in the heart of the city, strategically positioned at the crossroads of the old and new business districts of Dubai. The two-tower, high-rise mixed-use development will incorporate One&Only One Za’abeel, luxury residences, serviced apartments, and office spaces, in addition to The Gallery, an opulent retail podium, and a panoramic sky concourse, The Linx, which will connect the two towers of One Za’abeel.

57. JUMEIRAH MARSA AL ARAB, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, planned to open in 2024, will lead a new generation of Jumeirah Group’s ultra-luxury portfolio. Nestled at the tip of a peninsula at the heart of Dubai’s largest private beach, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab will complete Jumeirah’s oceanic trilogy, which includes the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel and sailboat-inspired Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The new resort, with design influences of a futuristic superyacht, will feature 386 rooms and suites, four penthouses, as well as 83 luxury hotel apartment suites set amid private landscaped gardens. It encompasses specially-integrated wellness and leisure destinations and an impressive line-up of signature restaurants, including a new concept comprising four restaurants in one. With all rooms offering a panoramic vista over the Arabian Sea, this statement property will mark a new epoch for Jumeirah Group.

58. THE LANA DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai will open its doors in Downtown Dubai on February 1 2024, comprising 225 guest rooms and suites and a number of private residences. This will add to Dorchester’s existing classic collection that includes sophisticated and culturally unique hotels in London, Milan, Paris and the US. With architecture by Foster + Partners, and stunning interior spaces designed by Gilles & Boissier; guests of The Lana, Dubai, will enjoy the culinary delights produced by three renowned chefs: Martín Berasategui (who has been awarded a total of 12 Michelin stars), Jean Imbert, and pastry Chef Angelo Musa, who are pioneering a new era of dining in downtown Dubai. Named after the master craftsman’s granddaughter, Jara by Martín Berasategui will serve Basque cuisine, inspired by the vivid spirit of life in the Basque region that straddles France and Spain.

59. ANANTARA MINA AL ARAB ISLAND, RAS AL KHAMAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Set along the Arabian Gulf coastline on Mina Al Arab Island in Ras Al Khaimah with a backdrop of the majestic Hajar mountains, Anantara Mina Al Arab is situated amid mangroves and lagoons in a natural reserve. Opened early January 2024, the resort is a 45- minute drive from Dubai International Airport and just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, the new-build resort features 174 guest rooms, suites and villas, including the first over water villas in the emirate. All the accommodation has been built in a sustainable fashion, with furniture and fittings using eco-friendly materials such as sustainable wood and recycled fabrics and plastics. Guests can enjoy the impressive Anantara Spa, with seven treatment rooms catering for males, females and couples, along with a wet area and relaxation spaces. The selection of dining options include piquant journeys around Southeast Asia at Mekong, grilled fish and seafood at Beach House, and international specialities from breakfast through dinner at the all-day dining restaurant.

60. MANDARIN ORIENTAL MUSCAT, OMAN

Located in Muscat, the capital of Oman. Mandarin Oriental Muscat will feature 150 guest-rooms and suites, five restaurants and bars, a luxury Spa at Mandarin Oriental and an outdoor swimming pool. The property is designed by renowned French interior designer Xavier Cartron, and will bring warmth, comfort and sophistication to the Omani shores. A variety of banqueting and meeting spaces will accommodate social and business events. The property will also feature 155 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, which will feature some of the most select private apartments in the capital. The property will be located on the beach in a prime city location and the low-rise architectural design will take full advantage of the views over the Arabian sea. Mandarin Oriental, Muscat will be a 20- minute drive from the airport and will be based in a prestigious and central district with a mix of retail and leisure facilities, including the nearby Royal Opera House, the Grand Mosque and Muttrah, the city’s traditional souk

61. NUJUMA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, SAUDI ARABIA

Slated to debut in 2023, Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is expected to form part of the eagerly anticipated Red Sea destination and offer a highly personalized leisure experience that blends intuitive and heartfelt service with stunning natural beauty and indigenous design. Nujuma will be the first property from the brand in the Middle East. Nujuma will be situated on a pristine set of private islands, which are part of the Red Sea’s Blue Hole cluster of islands. Surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty and designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, the resort is expected to feature 63 one to four bedroom water and beach villas. Plans also include a range of luxurious amenities and exceptional services including a lavish spa, swimming pools, multiple culinary venues, a retail area and a variety of other leisure and entertainment offerings including a Conservation Center. The destination is also expected to include 18 Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences, offering owners a one-of-a-kind living experience.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

62. THE ST REGIS RED SEA RESORT, SAUDI ARABIA

Opened early January 2024 and situated on the pristine Ummahat Island in the Al Wajh Lagoon, The St Regis Red Sea is a destination-defining oasis with its avant-garde architecture, sustainable design details and bespoke service. Accessed by chartered boat or seaplane from the newly opened Red Sea International Airport, The St Regis Red Sea Resort features a collection of 90 lavishly appointed beachfront and overwater villas, offering one-to-four-bedroom accommodation, each with a private pool, sundeck and outdoor shower. The open and spacious villas seamlessly blend the outdoors inwards and capture unrivalled sea views from sunrise to sunset. Surrounded by swaying palm trees each deck is a peaceful place to star gaze at night. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma with interiors by Kristina Zanic Consultants, the resort’s design echoes the surrounding coral reefs, marine life and sand dunes. Interior spaces and furnishings take on organic forms with soft curves and spiral shapes. Fabrics are natural and tactile, with a desert inspired colour palette imbued with blue and green tones found in the local biodiversity. Contemporary interiors are accented with bespoke elements including custom furniture, marble and woodwork.

63. CHEVAL BLANC SEYCHELLES

Cheval Blanc Seychelles will open in autumn 2024 along the southwestern coast of Mahé Island on Anse Intendance beach. The newest Cheval Blanc is designed by the architect Jean-Michel Gathy as an ode to creole traditions and paying homage to its natural surroundings. The Maison will offer 52 villas spanning 220 to 1,950 square meters, each with a private swimming pool, and beautiful beachfront, hillside, or tropical jungle views. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by the majestic sculpture Centauresse by Prune Nourry, which rises from a pond among the banyan trees. On the walls of each villa, works by the Madagascan artist Joël Andrianomearisoa will appear like a hymn to the generosity of luxuriant Nature and find an echo in the pastel-hued walls of the restaurant Le White. The culinary arts will be revealed in a five-part creative composition by the Cheval Blanc team: Mizumi, the Asian restaurant by the lake; Vivamento, the vibrant Italian facing the pool; Sula, the Mediterranean beach club by the ocean. Also here are the brand’s signature concepts: Le 1947, the emblematic French gastronomic restaurant, and Le White, with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Each is like a musical score in its own right, for discovering and sharing. The Seychelles Maison will also offers a collection of Guerlain well-being rituals at the Spa Cheval Blanc, a pool, a fitness room, a surf simulator and two tennis and padel courts.

  • Hotel website: not yet available

64. WALDORF ASTORIA SEYCHELLES

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island will create a new benchmark for luxury in the Indian Ocean, with the resort just over 130 kilometers south of Mahé, in a pristine atoll fringed by palm forests and migratory seabirds and turtles protected by its own lagoon and coral reef. The resort will be home to a collection of 50 seafront villas, featuring up to five-bedroom villas for unique vacation experiences, all equipped with their own private pool and personal concierge. Home to native Hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, manta rays and whale sharks, much of Platte Island’s surrounding scenery remains beautifully untouched, promising a plethora of firsts and an unrivaled sense of magic for guests.

65. CANOPY BY HILTON SEYCHELLES

Located on Mahé’s Anse à la Mouche beach, famed for its calm and shallow waters, this resort is set to bring a new sense of vibrancy to the oceanfront community. The first Canopy by Hilton resort property in the world will offer 120 locally inspired guest rooms and spaces to accommodate more intimate meetings and events. Guests will be able to enjoy exquisite dining at the resort’s two dining venues, opt for a relaxing getaway at the spa, swim laps at the pool with direct beach access, or snorkel in the resort’s crystal-clear waters. Canopy by Hilton Seychelles will be a 10-minute drive from Jardin du Roi Spice Garden and a 20-minute drive from Seychelles Golf Club.

66. BANYAN TREE ILHA CALDEIRA, MOZAMBIQUE

Situated on the private Island of Ilha Caldeira off the coast of Mozambique, Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira will offer 40 private pool villas with stunning oceanfront views of pristine Indian Ocean, as well as sunrise and sunset views.Thz solar-powered resort will be located inside Africa’s largest marine reserve, where preservation and sustainable sensibilities will touch everything from the beaches and reefs to the signature fish-and-seafood restaurant onsite. The property will also features a Banyan Tree branded spa and offer activities such whale watching, snorkeling, kayaking and more.

67. VOAARA, MADAGASCAR 

Set to open in March 2024, Voaara in Madagascar will be a new barefoot luxury resort comprising tropical-style bungalows and villas as well as a community-led concept for the region. Located on the island of Sainte-Marie off the northeast coast of Madagascar, Voaara is the brainchild of Philippe Kjellgren, founder of PK’s List and Kiwi Collection, who has made it his life’s work to become an expert in the world’s luxury hotels, staying in over 2,000 properties in 149 countries to date. Now realizing his dream, Kjellgren is taking inspiration from his travels to ensure every element of Voaara is thoughtfully and deliberately chosen to create a place of quality, innovation and authenticity. Set to launch initially with just eight bungalows and one three-bedroom villa – a renovation of the existing resort – the development will eventually offer 45 keys in total through a phased launch. Kjellgren is working with South African-Chilean architect Luis F Mira to design spaces adorned with local materials and reclaimed wood, along with infinity pools. With inspiration drawn from some of Kjellgren’s favourite hotels – including The Brando in French Polynesia, Six Senses in the Seychelles, and Laucala in Fiji, as well as Uxua Casa in Brazil and Parador La Huella in Uruguay – the property will also celebrate local produce across five dining outlets.

68. KIBALE LODGE, UGANDA

Volcanoes Safaris, the pioneer of gorilla and chimpanzee ecotourism in Uganda and Rwanda since 1997, is opening its fifth lodge in May 2024. Kibale Lodge will be perfectly positioned for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park in Uganda, one of the best parks to view chimpanzees in Africa, with a community of 1,500 chimps.  Kibale Lodge will comprise eight deluxe rooms and a villa, plus a spa, sauna and pool. Three deluxe bandas will be open by May 2024 and five more by the end of 2024. Hand built by the Volcanoes Construction team, Kibale Lodge will bring out the characteristics of the special 150-acre site dominated by a rocky outcrop with stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon) from the main ridge line looking towards the west and the Queen Elizabeth plains and the Kazinga channel to the south. The area is surrounded by lush homesteads of the Kabarole region, with its welcoming temperate climate.

69. ATZARO OKAVANGO CAMP, BOTSWANA 

Invoking the spirit of adventure, Atzaró Okavango Camp will be a premium safari lodge embraced by nature’s wild abundance, in the beating heart of Africa. The lodge will be one of the largest and most iconic five-star retreats in the delta, comprising of twelve stunning suites, an array of viewed terraces, and a spa with gym and twenty-meter pool. An African art gallery will be a testament to the area’s rich tapestry and the Ancestral Boma, the authentic heart of the camp, will take guests on a beautifully curated journey into the area’s heritage. A wine cellar with sommelier, and high-tea room with observation deck, will set the scene with lounging or drinks at dinner and views across the fire-pit, for dreamlike evenings in the unrivalled bush location. Game drives, guided safari walks, community visits, and Mokoro canoe expeditions are just some of the unforgettable experiences that will leave guests connected with the heart of the delta forever.

70. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RABAT AT KASR AL BAHR, MOROCCO

Kasr Al Bahr, meaning “castle of the sea,” was built as a sprawling royal summer palace in the 19th century, later becoming the Marie Feuillet military hospital prior to closing in 1999. Following extensive renovations and an extremely detailed rehabilitation of this five-hectare (12-acre) historic heritage site and cliffside retreat, Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr will usher in a new era for the historic property with 204 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahrwill feature seven restaurants and lounges; a spa with well-appointed treatment rooms and an indoor pool; several outdoor resort-style pools; as well as expansive conference and event space. The hotel’s thoughtful restoration has been led by Moroccan-based architect Karim Chakor of META Atelier d’Architecture, while Roger Nazarian and Associates have been selected to lead the property’s interior design, landscaping and more. With easy access to key international and regional hubs, the hotel will be a 20-minute drive from Rabat–Salé Airport and 90 minutes from Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport. Visitors can also utilize Morocco’s high-speed train network for seamless journeys from Rabat to the key commerce hubs of Casablanca (45 minutes) and the white beaches of Tangier (1 hour 45 minutes).

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3 Comments

  1. Thank you for your posts. I look forward to One and Only Kea Island, and St Regis, Longboat Key- should you ever do tours on those.

  3. You omitted some MAJOR ones in Asia:

    Bangkok: Andaz & Ritz Carlton in The One development.

    Kuala Lumpur: Park Hyatt in Merdeka 118 the 2nd tallest building in the world.

    Jakarta: Waldorf Astoria the tallest building in Indonesia.

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