Six Senses Comporta has been pushed back to 2028 and is being built on the site of a former golf course, originally slated for a larger project that would have included both a Park Hyatt and a Hyatt Regency. That plan fell through, and frankly, it’s probably for the better. Six Senses promises a much lighter footprint: 70 hotel keys, 58 residences, and the usual emphasis on wellness and sustainability. If they manage to protect Comporta’s famously low-key vibe, it could end up being one of the brand’s stronger European outposts.

Château de la Commaraine, a 13th-century estate outside Beaune, is due to open at the end of 2025 after a careful, multi-year restoration. It’s being developed by the team behind Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa which bodes very well. There’ll be just 33 rooms, a working winery, and a spa, with a strong focus on Burgundy’s food and wine culture. Early signs suggest a refreshing lack of flash; more understated country estate than over-polished vineyard resort. chateaulacommaraine.com

Opened in early 2025, La Fondation is located in the 17th arrondissement, set within a restored Haussmannian building. The hotel offers 83 rooms and suites, many with private terraces, and leans heavily into contemporary art throughout its public spaces. Facilities include a small indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a rooftop bar with panoramic views. The atmosphere is relaxed and residential, aimed at travellers seeking a more intimate, design-focused alternative to the city’s traditional grandes dames. lafondationhotel.com

Following Ritz-Carlton’s launch of Evrima and Four Seasons’ upcoming yacht debut in 2026, Aman is preparing to set sail. Its first vessel, Amangati, will launch in 2027 with just 47 suites, three restaurants, and a full spa. Named from the Sanskrit for “peaceful motion,” Amangati promises a quieter, more restrained experience than its rivals—though whether Aman’s famously private ethos can survive the inherently social nature of yachting remains to be seen. Following trends is nothing new for Aman these days; the real challenge will be living up to its own legend. aman.com/aman-at-sea

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Opened in February 2025, The Eve brings a much-needed burst of boutique energy to Sydney. The 102-room hotel leans into retro-modern design, with a rooftop pool and a lively restaurant and bar scene. It’s rather large for a so-called boutique hotel, but it injects a welcome dose of fresh air into Sydney’s otherwise uninspired hotel landscape. theevehotel.com.au

Soori is branching out from Bali with a new property opening in George Town, Penang, in mid-2025. Set across a collection of restored heritage mansions, it promises the same minimalist style Soori offers on the Island of the Gods isn’t short on charm, but it is short on genuinely elegant hotels—this could fill a serious gap if executed well. I’ll be publishing my review of Soori Bali later this year.

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Recommended by a reader, Flockhill opened in December 2024 and feels more like a private mountain retreat than a hotel. Set on a 36,000-acre sheep station in New Zealand’s Craigieburn Valley, it offers just a few villas and a four-bedroom Homestead, designed with deliberate understatement: natural materials, polished concrete floors, and walls of glass framing the wilderness. Horse trekking, hiking, fly fishing, and stargazing dominate the agenda—assuming you’re willing to leave the fire. Sugarloaf, the lodge’s restaurant, keeps the focus on simple, local produce rather than fine-dining. flockhillnz.com

A little bird tells me that Guenter Gebhard who most recently served as Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons in Saudi Arabia—is heading to Aman to oversee operations across Asia Pacific. His résumé reads like a who’s who of big-brand luxury: Jumeirah, St. Regis, Kempinski, Atlantis The Palm. Which begs the question—what exactly is Aman thinking? Can someone whose background is steeped in corporate gloss and large-scale theatrics really protect what’s left of Aman’s soul? Or is this just the final nail in the coffin for a brand that once defined quiet, characterful luxury?

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I also hear that Amanpuri has already adopted the new group-wide standards, scrapping its locally made menu folders in favour of a generic brasserie-style format and rolling out a globalised breakfast menu—same ingredients, same recipes, same portion sizes, everywhere. It’s all about being “on brand” now, apparently.

[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Aman is reportedly preparing to launch a third brand in 2026 or 2027, currently operating under the code name Atmos. Details remain closely guarded, but early whispers suggest a strong emphasis on wellness.

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Opening in 2028 on the site of the former Grand Hotel Cadenabbia, Six Senses Lake Como will take over a quiet patch of the lake’s western shore. The 102-room retreat promises all the brand’s usual hallmarks – a floating pool, a panoramic terrace restaurant, and a sprawling wellness centre. The aim is a slower, more grounded take on Como luxury, though whether that will cut through in a region crowded with iconic names is another matter. Frankly, 102 rooms feels like a lot.

Also on Lake Como, Raffles is making its Italian debut with a 2027 opening in Moltrasio, on the site of the old Grand Hotel Imperiale. The revamped Art Nouveau villa will offer 84 rooms, a beach club, lake access, and the usual Raffles signatures – Long Bar and Writers Bar.

Azuma Farm Koiwai, opening in spring 2026 in Iwate Prefecture, is the second Japanese property from Adrian Zecha’s Azumi brand, in partnership with JR East. Set within the historic 3,000-hectare Koiwai Farm, the 24-room retreat will feature a restaurant, lounge, private saunas, and offer immersive rural experiences – with future plans for eVTOL air taxi access from Morioka.

Blaise Montandon has recently left Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur – and, from what I hear, Four Seasons altogether. At The Leela Palace New Delhi, the excellent Preeti Makhija has been promoted to General Manager, taking over from Anupam Dasgupta, who now steps into a broader role as Area Vice President, North India, for IHCL. Meanwhile, Nicholas Kipper has been appointed General Manager of the long-awaited Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels. And after seven years at the helm, Mark Swinton is departing Capella Ubud. After six years with Rosewood Hotels, where he served as Managing Director at both Rosewood Luang Prabang and Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, Costa Rican native Guillermo Varela has taken on a new role as General Manager of Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Costa Rica.

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Corinthia has quietly entered the U.S. market with the acquisition of two small Beverly Hills hotels – Maison 140 and Mosaic – in partnership with Kuwait’s Action Real Estate. Combined, they total around 100 rooms. For now, Palisociety will continue to run them under their existing branding, while Corinthia explores what to do next.

Rocco Forte’s Verdura Resort in Sicily has reopened after a full revamp of its central building, with food clearly taking centre stage. Three new restaurants – L’Osteria, Zagara, and Buongiorno – have been added, along with Scirocco, a cocktail bar heavy on Sicilian flavours, and Nagori, a Japanese-Sicilian fusion spot set beside the 16th-century Saracen Tower.
roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/verdura-resort/

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Timbertales resort in Coorg, India, is set on a 100-acre coffee estate near Madikeri, with 71 villas across four categories, including some with private pools and others designed for families. The main restaurant, Bamboo Buzz, attempts an ambitious 250-dish menu, while Twisted Basil offers a seven-course vegetarian tasting. The three-storey spa, Viyoma, is unusually large for the region and even includes a Turkish hammam. timbertales.com

The Postcard in the Himalayan Willows has just opened in Stok, Leh – an intimate retreat that blends minimalist modernism with Ladakhi tradition. Set against the majestic Stok Ridge, the design features floor-to-ceiling windows, sun parlours, and traditional bukhari stoves that bring warmth and a sense of place.  postcardresorts.com/hotels/the-postcard-in-the-himalayan-willows-stok-leh

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There’s been a steady exodus at Aman lately. Jonathan Andrew Lithgow, Regional Director of Operations for China and Bhutan, departed last month. Nicolas Ilickovic, who oversaw APAC, has just been dismissed by Vlad Doronin. Michel Bachmann, General Manager of Amandari, and Audeline Witjaksono, General Manager of Amanpulo, are both set to leave in July.

Meanwhile, the long-rumoured Amancaya project has finally been unveiled. This long-gestating resort in the Bahamas has seen multiple false starts and concept revisions over the years, with earlier design work floated by the likes of Denniston and Oppenheim Architecture for Norman’s Cay. It now appears Aman is finally ready to move forward. It will feature 36 pavilions and a collection of residences. And if you like your ski resorts beige on beige, Aman Rosa Alpina opens this summer.

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Designed by Milanese architect Matteo Thun, Chiemgauhof offers 28 stylish suites with views of the water and mountains. The restaurant reinterprets regional flavours, while the bar provides a space to end the day with sushi. Guests can relax in the lakeside garden, enjoy the heated outdoor pool, and unwind in the spa area. Most notably, several rooms feature private ofuros on the terrace, allowing guests to soak while overlooking the water. It is a refreshing contrast to the more traditional Alpine hotels in the region. chiemgauhof.com

Van Oys Maastricht Retreat, which recently opened near Maastricht in the Netherlands, offers 81 rooms and suites that combine old-world grandeur with contemporary design. Dining is a highlight, with ‘Create by Guido Braeken’, helmed by a former two-Michelin-starred chef, and ‘Maes, Cuisine du Terroir’, focusing on locally inspired dishes. The retreat embraces a slow-living philosophy, with a nature-inspired spa, a well-equipped gym, and a culinary studio for chef’s table experiences. vanoys.com

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Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the country’s first all-villa resort, opened on March 1, 2025. Located on a hilltop beside the South China Sea, the resort features 62 contemporary private pool villas surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, the resort combines Singapore’s history with modern cultural nuances. Guests can enjoy direct access to Tanjong Beach, a dedicated spa complex with 13 treatment rooms, and five distinct dining venues. raffles.com/sentosa

As I previously hinted, The Beverly Wilshire will no longer be managed by Four Seasons at the end of 2025, marking the end of a long-standing relationship. What happens next remains to be seen, but it will be interesting to watch whether the owners opt for an independent approach or bring in another luxury operator. 

Also predicted in a previous issue, The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah will relaunch as a Four Seasons in 2026, following a full-scale revamp. The 74 rooms and 23 villas will be reimagined, alongside new dining concepts, an upgraded spa, and the usual promise of “world-class” amenities. Whether the serene, understated charm that once defined Al Zorah survives Four Seasons’ glossier, more international aesthetic remains to be seen.

Sad to hear that Nick Downing is leaving The Siam. He was a wonderfully hands-on, approachable General Manager, and a key part of what made this unique Bangkok property feel so special. His personal touch and genuine warmth will be missed—The Siam won’t quite be the same without him.

Mandarin Oriental is embarking on major renovations at two of its flagship properties. In Hong Kong, a US$100 million, four-phase refurbishment will refresh rooms, add serviced apartments, rework the spa and dining venues, and generally attempt to bring the 1963 grande dame up to contemporary standards without losing its soul. Meanwhile, in Bangkok, ahead of its 150th anniversary in 2026, the Author’s and Garden Wings are being reimagined with a more residential feel, and several restaurants—including Le Normandie and Lord Jim’s—are being overhauled under the direction of heavyweight chefs. Both projects aim to modernise these icons while preserving the heritage that made them famous, though the results, as ever, will depend on the execution.

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Following announcements from Auberge Resorts Collection and Four Seasons about their upcoming properties in Puerto Rico, Mandarin Oriental has now confirmed plans for Mandarin Oriental Esencia, Puerto Rico, set to open in 2028. Located along Boquerón Bay in Cabo Rojo, the resort will offer 106 rooms and suites, all with balconies, terraces, or private gardens, while some will feature private plunge pools.The project also includes with 83 villas and 200 private residences. Amenities will include five dining venues, a beach club, a Mandarin Oriental Spa, and an 18-hole golf course.

Auberge TOKITO, which opened in April 2023 in Tokyo’s Tachikawa district, features just four exclusive 106 sqm guest rooms, each with an open-air hot spring bath sourced from 1,300 meters underground. Culinary excellence is at the heart of the experience, led by Yoshinori Ishii, formerly of London’s two-Michelin-starred UMU, who serves innovative, seasonal Japanese cuisine served on handcrafted tableware, some made by Ishii himself. aubergetokito.com/en

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After years of delays, the expansion of Four Seasons Florence is finally underway. According to La Repubblica, Cugimi, the hotel’s owner, has begun converting Palazzo Salleac, a former high school at Viale Matteotti 7, into hospitality use. The project involves connecting the new wing to the existing hotel via the Gherardesca garden, though it’s unclear if it will function as part of the main building or a separate location. Cugimi is owned by Constellation Hotels Holding Ltd, part of a Qatari investment group.

Hoshino Resorts is bringing its first US hot springs development to Sharon Springs, a historic spa village in New York state. Opening in 2028, the 40-room property will feature Japanese ryokan-style accommodations and onsen bathing facilities, drawing on the village’s mineral-rich hot springs. Located about 3.5 hours from New York City, it will introduce a Japanese approach to wellness to the area.

Bambarone Masseria seems like a charming, unpretentious option for a stay in Puglia, with its restored farmhouse setting and peaceful location surrounded by olive groves. The property offers six individually designed rooms, each featuring a balcony, loggia, or private terrace with access from the central courtyard. While there is no on-site restaurant, guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet in the historic orchard, surrounded by the scent of oranges and lemons. masseriabambarone.com

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Atemporal is a small, tucked-away hotel in Lima’s Miraflores district, set in a charming 1940s Tudor-style house. It has just six rooms, each with its own character, blending contemporary design with touches of classic Peruvian style. The hotel feels more like staying at a stylish friend’s home, with house bicycles, and a communal kitchen stocked with snacks, but no on-site restaurant. atemporal.pe

Raffles Goa Shiroda is opening soon alongside a neighbouring Fairmont, with both properties sharing some facilities, such as the private beachfront club. The Raffles will feature 120 luxury villas spread across 27 acres, offering the iconic Long Bar, a selection of dining options, and the renowned Raffles Butler Service. Guests can also expect wellness facilities, including a spa, fitness centre, and swimming pool,  However, the shared setup with the larger 400-room Fairmont might not appeal to those expecting an exclusive experience. Accor has a habit of pairing its brands this way, which simply doesn’t work if you are looking for a truly high-end experience.

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Meanwhile, Dennis Laubenstein has opened the 86-room Capella Taipei, featuring an interior design by André Fu. Philippe Leboeuf, who most recently launched Raffles London at The OWO, is now CEO of Dorchester Collection. It’s a smart appointment—he’s a very respected hotelier  with a track record that includes Mandarin Oriental Paris and Claridge’s. Blaise Montandon has recently left his role as General Manager of Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur, and also exited the Four Seasons group entirely. Before Kuala Lumpur, he ran Four Seasons Nam Hai in Vietnam and Marrakech, and previously managed several Aman properties, including Aman Summer Palace in Beijing. Another great loss for the Canadian group. Sylvain Ercoli has stepped down as Managing Director of Bulgari Paris to pursue new opportunities.

The Brecon is a small hotel in Adelboden, Switzerland, set in a restored 1914 building. Its 22 rooms and suites feature a mix of mid-century design and natural materials. Interestingly, The hotel includes a spa with an outdoor pool, sauna, and steam room, as well as a communal living room where food and drinks are included in the stay. Could be interesting.
thebrecon.com/en

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Belmond has recently stopped managing Napasai in Koh Samui, which is now simply called The Napasai and is managed by the Thai brand Centara. Insiders tell me that next in line will be Puri Jimbaran in Bali, Belmond’s last remaining property in Southeast Asia, which is also set to transition to Centara management. Although these were Belmond’s weakest properties due to a lack of investment, it’s still sad to see them go. That said, I hear Belmond has ambitious expansion plans for the region.

There are rumours that my favourite UAE beach resort, The Oberoi Al Zorah, will soon cease to be managed by Oberoi, with speculation that Four Seasons may take over its management.

Aman Group, led by Vladislav Doronin, is planning to raise up to $2 billion to fund its global expansion. With 23 new hotel projects in the pipeline, the focus is increasingly on Aman Residences. Recent club openings include Bangkok, New York, and Tokyo, with more planned for Miami, Beverly Hills, Dubai, and Riyadh. Meanwhile, Amankila is getting branded residences built in a completely different style, and even Amanjiwo has development happening just behind the resort—gasp. My review of Amandari will be out later this year.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”custom” border_width=”2″ css=”” accent_color=”#F09A9A”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Lalique is transforming Zurich’s historic Hotel Florhof into Villa Florhof, set to open in 2025. The boutique hotel will have 14 rooms, including a suite, a fine dining restaurant, a bar with a terrace, a lounge, and a smoking room, while preserving the original vaulted wine cellar. General Manager Tanja Wegmann is overseeing the project, bringing Lalique’s distinctive style to the property. villaflorhof.com

Taj is set to open its first hotel in continental Europe, the Taj Hotel Hessischer Hof, in Frankfurt in 2025. Located near the trade fair grounds, the historic 134-room property, once owned by the Prince of Hesse, is undergoing renovations. It will feature Bombay Brasserie, Jimmy’s Bar, the Chambers Business Club, and a winter garden.

Airelles Venezia is set to open in autumn 2025 on Giudecca Island, Venice, marking Airelles’ first property outside France. The hotel will occupy the historic Bauer Palladio complex, featuring 45 rooms and suites, three dining venues, two bars, a spa, and three swimming pools, all designed by Christophe Tollemer. With nearly a hectare of Venetian gardens and panoramic views of landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the property will offer a quieter, more exclusive experience just a five-minute boat ride from Piazza San Marco. airelles.com/en/destination/venezia

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Luxury brands are expanding into Puerto Rico, with Auberge Resorts planning to open Moncayo in Fajardo by 2027. Set within a private 1,100-acre community, it will include 68 oceanfront suites, lagoon pools, and a championship golf course. Four Seasons also has projects underway, including Cayo Largo in Fajardo, featuring a 136-room hotel, residences, and an 18-hole golf course, as well as plans for a resort at Bahía Beach in Río Grande. aubergeresorts.com/moncayo

Four Seasons is opening a new resort in Porto Heli, Greece, reflagging the existing AKS Hinitsa Bay property. Set on a 185-acre estate at Hinitsa Bay, the resort will include 80 guest rooms, 30 bungalows, and branded residential villas, along with dining venues, a sports center, pools, and a spa. While the location offers great views of Spetses, the property’s boxy, uninspired design—more reminiscent of a Marriott—raises questions about how it aligns with Four Seasons’ standards.

Oetker Collection is set to open a new luxury hotel in St. Tropez in 2027 on the former site of Le Mas Bellevue. Designed to resemble a Provençal hamlet, the property will include 53 rooms and suites, all with private terraces or patios, and a large infinity pool as its centerpiece. The design leans heavily on local materials to fit into the region’s aesthetic.
oetkercollection.com/hotels/st-tropez

Another high-end property is set to open in Rome with the debut of Accor’s Orient Express La Minerva in spring 2025. Located in the historic Piazza della Minerva, the hotel is housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Fonseca and will feature 93 rooms and suites, many with views of the Pantheon and the Roman skyline. Amenities include La Minerva Bar, with its historic skylight, and Voliera, a rooftop restaurant and bar.
laminerva.orient-express.com/en/hotel/europe/italy/rome/la-minerva

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”fadeInLeft”][vc_column][vc_separator css=””][vc_column_text css=””]Peter Nilsson, previously CEO of Banwa Private Island, is now Managing Director for COMO Hotels in the Maldives, overseeing COMO Cocoa Island and COMO Maalifushi. He has managed luxury properties like Laucala Island in Fiji and Soneva Gili in the Maldives. Marc Denton, the new GM at Soori Bali, has worked at The Oberoi Mauritius, Kamalaya in Koh Samui, Trisara in Phuket, and The Fife Arms in Scotland. Yann Gillet has been appointed as the Grand Cayman IHG Cluster Manager after overseeing the opening of One&Only Aesthesis in Athens.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Belmond has recently stopped managing Napasai in Koh Samui, which is now simply called The Napasai and is managed by the Thai brand Centara. Insiders tell me that next in line will be Puri Jimbaran in Bali, Belmond’s last remaining property in Southeast Asia, which is also set to transition to Centara management. Although these were Belmond’s weakest properties due to a lack of investment, it’s still sad to see them go. That said, I hear Belmond has ambitious expansion plans for the region.

There are rumours that my favourite UAE beach resort, The Oberoi Al Zorah, will soon cease to be managed by Oberoi, with speculation that Four Seasons may take over its management.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The town of Rishikesh in the Himalayas, known as the yoga capital of the world and a renowned hippie hangout, is set to host a new Oberoi property designed by Bill Bensley. In addition, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts is expanding into Europe with its first UK property in London’s Mayfair district. Situated at 40-46 Brook Street, the hotel will form part of a mixed-use development within the South Molton project and is expected to open in 2027. Oberoi is also collaborating with Cain International on 23 luxury serviced residences at South Audley Street.

If you’re in Bali, Begawan Biji is worth a visit for its farm-to-table dining and serene atmosphere. The restaurant blends rustic, traditional architecture with a few modern touches, and its open spaces let you take in the lush surroundings. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce, serving up a mix of traditional and contemporary flavours. begawanbiji.com

Baccarat Hotel Dubai, opening soon in Downtown, will bring its crystal-inspired design to the city’s skyline with 145 rooms featuring marble finishes and original artworks. The hotel will offer a rooftop pool with Burj Khalifa views, a spa, and multiple dining options. The project also includes branded residences with luxury apartments and penthouses. Architecture is by Studio Libeskind, with interiors designed by 1508 London. baccaratresidencesdubai.com

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Villa Beatrice, previously known as Castello Odero, is a 20th-century villa in Portofino, Italy. Belmond acquired the property in 2021 and plans to reopen it in July 2025 as a luxury villa. Located above Punta Caiega, it offers views of the Ligurian coast and features four suites in the main building, a separate one-bedroom stone cottage, and 6,000 square meters of parkland. Guests can expect amenities such as a private pool, chauffeur service, and a dedicated butler. belmond.com

The Aura by LHM, operated by the group behind The Legian and The Legian Club in Bali, is set to open in Prabu, south Lombok, on Kuta Beach. This lifestyle property will feature 40 pool villas and 7 Garden Studios, each with private pools and outdoor spaces. Blending tropical and Mediterranean-inspired design, it will offer two restaurants and a wellness facility. Meanwhile, The Sire Lombok, which was slated to be managed by LHM, has now opened under Marriott’s Luxury Collection brand and been renamed, rather unimaginatively, The Sira. Such a shame.

KS Hotels and HMD Asia have acquired two former Belmond properties: La Résidence Phou Vao in Luang Prabang, Laos, and La Résidence D’Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia. HMD Asia, known for managing  properties such as Shinta Mani Wild, and Shinta Mani Angkor will oversee operations. La Résidence Phou Vao will continue under HMD Asia’s management from November 2024, while La Résidence D’Angkor is undergoing renovations and will reopen in late 2025.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator css=””][vc_column_text css=””]Van Oys Maastricht Retreat, set to open in early 2025, is a small luxury hotel near Maastricht that takes a slower, more thoughtful approach to hospitality, whatever that means. With 81 rooms and suites spread across different buildings, it balances historic charm with modern comforts. Dining options include a restaurant by two-Michelin-starred chef Guido Braeken and a more laid-back farm-to-table spot focused on local produce. There’s also a nature-inspired spa. Set along the Maas River, it offers a quiet escape while still being close to the city. Interesting find in a very pleasant city. https://www.vanoys.com

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Pa Sak Tong is an exclusive retreat located in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Set amidst lush landscapes and sprawling gardens, this private estate features two main villas: Pa Sak Tong Villa, a lavish 5-bedroom villa with traditional Lanna-style architecture, and Khum Sak Tong Villa, a 3-bedroom villa designed for smaller groups or families. Both villas come with private pools, dedicated staff, and world-class amenities, including a spa, organic gardens, and a yoga pavilion. pasaktong.com

Evolve Back Coorg is set in the middle of a 300-acre coffee and spice plantation in Karnataka. It offers a quiet and natural escape, with villas and cottages that reflect the local Coorg style. The focus here is on simplicity and being close to nature—guests can walk through the plantation, take in the views, or just relax by the pool. It’s a place to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The group also opeates other properties in India and Namibia. evolveback.com/evolve-back-coorg

Zanzibar White Sands Villas, part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, is adding a three-bedroom  beachfront villa to its lineup. This new addition offers more space for families or groups while keeping the resort’s focus on privacy and natural surroundings. Like the other villas, it’s designed with a simple, comfortable aesthetic, featuring a private pool and views of the beach. whitesandvillas.com

Four Seasons Resort Mykonos, set to open in summer 2025 at Kalo Livadi Bay, will have 94 rooms, villas, and suites, all with views of the Aegean Sea. While the design sticks to the classic Cycladic style with whitewashed courtyards and pathways, I find the size of the resort a bit too large for Mykonos, which is better suited for more intimate properties. The resort will include an infinity pool, a spa, fitness facilities, and several dining options, including an Italian restaurant by the pool and a beachside venue.

Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, located on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, recently opened with 55 villas and suites, many featuring private pools. The property blends traditional Moroccan heritage with modern design, set within a 10-hectare estate offering views of the sea and Rif mountains. It features four restaurants, a wellness centre with marble pools and a Pilates studio. royalmansour.com/en/tamuda-bay

Six Senses has partnered with Gruppo Statuto to open two new properties in Italy: Six Senses Milan in 2025 and Six Senses Lake Como in 2028. The Milan hotel will be located in the artistic Brera district, featuring 68 rooms, including 15 suites, and facilities such as a spa, rooftop bar, and sky pool. Six Senses Lake Como will involve the restoration of the historic Grand Hotel Cadenabbia, offering 102 rooms and suites, gardens with rare plants, and an expanded wellness area, along with a floating pool on the lake and a terrace restaurant.

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Just 1.5 hours from Lisbon, Comporta is famed for its unspoiled beaches, though much of the area is now being transformed by large resort developments – many of which I’m not in favour of. One exception, however, is JNcQUOI Comporta, a revival of the Amanduna project designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, now reimagined by Vincent Van Duysen. I toured the project recently and was impressed by its scale and design: 164 hectares, featuring 64 villas, 4 restaurants, a spa, and a beach club. The nearby village of Carvalhal even hosts a colourful deli with suites and a fashion store designed by JP Demeyer. A project to watch. jncquoicomporta.com/en

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Mandarin Oriental,’s announcement to take over Hôtel Lutetia in Paris and the Conservatorium Hotel in Amsterdam is puzzling, given that nothing seems to have been signed yet. It’s interesting to see the group adding two more contemporary properties: the Lutetia, an Art Deco icon in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Conservatorium, a striking design hotel in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter. The lack of clear agreements makes the announcement feel premature and raises questions about what’s really going on behind the scenes.

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Hamak Hotels opened Casona Roma Norte in Mexico City on October 1, 2024. Originally built in 1923 and recently renovated by Colonnier Arquitectos, with interiors by Simple Arquitectura, this restored Belle Époque mansion features 32 rooms with marble bathrooms and organic amenities by local artisans. Art Nouveau-inspired designs and a collection of local and international artwork are showcased throughout the hotel. Guests can enjoy six F&B venues, including a Japanese-Sinaloa fusion restaurant. Unlike most boutique hotels in Mexico City, often glorified B&Bs, Casona Roma Norte will hopefully offer a more sophisticated experience. casonaroma.com

Rocco Forte Hotels has announced the opening of Rocco Forte House Milan, featuring 11 luxury apartments in a 19th-century palazzo on Via Manzoni, designed by Olga Polizzi in collaboration with Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen. The palazzo showcases original stuccos, frescoed ceilings, and antique furniture, with more modern designs on the upper floors. Each apartment, named after iconic Milan districts, offers views of a traditional courtyard and comes with concierge, valet, chef services, and a private gym.

The Xara Collection has opened Palazzino Belvedere, a restored 17th-century palace in Mdina, Malta. Adorned with traditional Maltese tiles and honey-colored stone walls, it offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, dining room, kitchen, and basement with a wine cellar. The property also features three terraces, two balconies, and access to the seasonal pool at The Xara Lodge. Guests can enjoy historical artifacts, a personal experience curator, and complimentary champagne and airport transfers. Palazzino Belvedere joins The Xara Collection, which includes Michelin-starred restaurants and The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux. xaracollection.com/brand/xara-residences

Langham Hospitality Group have announced the 2026 opening of The Langham, Customs House, Bangkok, along the Chao Praya River, right next to the Mandarin Oriental. Long rumored to become an Aman, the historic Customs House, built in 1888, will be restored as part of the project. The neo-Palladian building will feature 78 guestrooms, along with luxury amenities, including T’ang Court, a three-Michelin-star restaurant from The Langham, Hong Kong, a bar, pastry shop, and Chuan Spa. The design will blend traditional Thai elements with the building’s Western architecture.

With Bali already saturated with luxury resorts, the long-delayed Mandarin Oriental, Bali – first announced over a decade ago – raises questions about its impact on the market. Set to open in 2027 on the Bukit peninsula, the clifftop resort will feature 110 suites and villas, most with private pools, alongside a cliff-edge restaurant, beach club, spa, and 68 private residences.

Jati Private Island Resort, Cambodia’s newest luxury escape, is set to open in 2024, offering 82 elegant villas, some with private pools, blending modern sophistication with traditional Khmer architecture. Positioned 10 minutes from Sihanoukville airport and a short boat ride away, the resort promises an activity-filled experience with tennis courts, a Khmer Tonics Spa, water sports, a kids club, and jungle exploration. Guests can enjoy two restaurants, four bars, and beachfront dining. jatiresorts.com

More changes at Four Seasons: veteran Ray Udao has moved from Four Seasons Sydney to Four Seasons Tokyo Otemachi. Additionally, the excellent Michael Groll has been appointed as the General Manager of The Landmark after being promoted in 2021 to Hotel Manager at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong.

[/vc_column_text][cz_gap height=”30px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css_animation=”fadeInRight”][vc_column][cz_image id=”cz_94343″ image=”4280″]Capella Bangkok[/cz_image][cz_gap height=”30px”][vc_column_text css=””]Antonio Saponara, formerly General Manager at Amanpuri, The Surin Phuket, and Bulgari Hotel Beijing, has been appointed to succeed John Blanco as General Manager of Capella Bangkok.

John Blanco has now moved into the role of Cluster General Manager for Capella Kyoto and Patina Osaka.

Marc Denton has been appointed General Manager of Soori Bali, succeeding Julien Hediger. Marc has held senior management roles at luxury resorts and wellness retreats worldwide, including Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Koh Samui and The Oberoi Group. His previous appointments include serving as General Manager of The Oberoi, Mauritius, and The Fife Arms in Scotland. Look for my review of Soori in 2025.

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Azerai Can Tho, the Adrian Zecha resort located on a private islet in the Hau River, has been rebranded as Legacy Mekong. That is sad news, as I very much enjoyed this stylish, peaceful Vietnamese retreat last year. It also casts further shadows over the future of the Azerai brand, following strong rumours that the brand may fold.

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Faena New York: The Faena Hotel in New York City will boast 120 guest rooms and suites, each designed with luxury and comfort in mind. Spanning 13 floors, each level will feature a unique design inspired by New York’s rich cultural heritage. The rooms will also offer modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and state-of-the-art sound systems.

The Postcard Group: One to watch is The Postcard Group, established a few years ago by the passionate hotelier Kapil Chopra, who spent 14 years with Oberoi. The group manages small boutique properties across India, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. Notably, a camp in Ranthambore, Rajasthan, designed by architect Luca Franco of Luxury Frontiers, will feature spacious 1,950-square-foot rooms and a private heated pool. postcardresorts.com

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The Discover Collection Club: Another exciting venture is The Discover Collection Club, founded by Bernard Bohnenberger after he left Six Senses post its acquisition by IHG. This members-only club plans to open properties in Bhutan, Albania, Oman, Ireland, and Mexico, among others. discovercollection.com

Capella Kenting will debut in Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s southernmost county. Interior designers Antonio Citterio and Patricia Viel will design the 60 villas, each 197 sqm, equipped with a private pool, hot spring facilities, and stunning sea views. Taiwan is a beautiful destination, and it’s great to see more intriguing projects in development, with an expected opening date in 2028.

Raffles Tokyo: Also set for 2028, Raffles Tokyo will occupy the top 46 floors of the WTC building, a landmark in Tokyo since 1970. Designed by Melbourne-based studio Layan, Raffles Tokyo will feature 130 guestrooms (including 27 suites), six F&B outlets, a fitness studio, swimming pool, spa, and bathhouse.

NORDEN Camp in Tibet: Overlooked by Sean Flakelar’s consultant firm, NORDEN is a camp combining 12 cabins and tents, open from May until October. Currently under renovation, it plans to reopen in May 2025 with a new dining hall and cabin upgrades. nordentravel.com

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Palazzo Talìa in Rome:  Palazzo Talia is a 26-room boutique hotel in the renovated 16th-century Collegio Nazareno. The public areas were designed by film director Luca Guadagnino, while the remaining 25 rooms were designed by Mia Home Design Gallery and Laura Feroldi Studio. It features a tropical courtyard, colourful fabrics, and a French-inspired bistro serving Italian cuisine. The 250 sqm Talìa Suite boasts 11 m ceilings, frescoes, and a wooden choir. palazzotalia.com

Opening in 2028, Rosewood will launch a new resort in the Bahamas, situated on a 124-acre private island in the Exumas. This exclusive, low-density resort will feature just 33 suites, an Asaya spa, six bars and restaurants, a beach club, and two marinas. It’s certainly an intriguing project.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]The excellent Duncan Palmer, who did such a brilliant job at The Beaumont, joins Bulgari Hotel London. With a career spanning The Murray Hong Kong, The Langham London, The Sukhothai Bangkok, and London classics like The Connaught and The Savoy, his arrival might be reason enough to take another look at this Knightsbridge property. https://www.bulgarihotels.com/en_US/london/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”4180″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

In addition to Four Seasons New Cairo Capital at Madinaty, there are rumors that Four Seasons might open a hotel a short distance from Giza, offering striking views of the pyramids. This would be a welcome addition, especially since Oberoi stopped managing the Mena House, which is now sadly a Marriott.

This summer, Oetker announced the Locanda dell’Amorosa project in Sinalunga, with a projected opening date of 2027. According to local sources, this timeline seems highly optimistic. This will be their second Italian property, following Hotel La Palma in Capri.

For those seeking more active holidays, the Eleven Experience group looks quite interesting. They have 11 lodges in various destinations including the Bahamas and Patagonia. I’ve heard particularly good things about their property in Iceland. elevenexperience.com

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Mandarin Oriental is making its return to the Riviera Maya with a new property in the Kanai development, following their brief management of a resort in Mayakoba years ago. The upcoming hotel, set to open in 2028, will feature 120 elegantly refined guestrooms and suites, each with a private pool and breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Additionally, the property will include 50 branded residences.

Pemako Punakha is nestled in the Punakha Valley near the Punakha Dzong (Palace of Happiness). Situated by the Mo Chhu River, the hotel spans 30 acres and features 21 tented pool villas. Guests can dine at four outlets and intimate picnic venues. The Chef’s Table showcases seasonal Himalayan flavors with selections from local farmers. The spa is rooted in Sowa Rigpa, the ancient Bhutanese art of healing. Every guest is paired with a dedicated guide/butler. pemakohotels.com

Quinta do Paral, an 85-hectare wine estate owned by Rimowa suitcase founder Dieter Morzseck, now hosts a 22-room hotel built around a 19th-century manor house in southern Alentejo. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this boutique property offers three restaurants, a fitness center, and an infinity pool. quintadoparal.com

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Rosewood Hotel Georgia

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Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver has reopened after a five-month renovation, revealing refreshed culinary concepts and accommodations, along with a new F&B option, The Georgia Bar. Originally opened in 1927 as Hotel Georgia, the property was last renovated in 2011 when it became Rosewood Hotel Georgia. The redesign of the 156 rooms and suites was undertaken by New York-based Lillian Wu Studio, while Vancouver’s Ste. Marie Studio revamped the hotel’s public spaces, including the lobby and restaurants. rosewoodhotels.com/en/hotel-georgia-vancouver

Minor Hotels is launching Layan Life by Anantara at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, opening in Q3 this year. This 19,020-square-foot medical wellness facility combines modern technology with ancient Thai healing traditions. It offers 3- to 10-day programs designed by doctors and Thai medicinal experts, focusing on goals like weight management, de-stressing, anti-aging, and fitness. Facilities include a gym, yoga and Pilates studios, meditation rooms, hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam room, and various medical and holistic treatment rooms. The outdoor Active Zone features tennis courts, a Muay Thai ring, a climbing wall, a fitness area, and water sports facilities. anantara.com/en/layan-phuket

Aman is set to open a new resort in the Vaavu Atoll in the Maldives, featuring 52 villas ranging from one to three bedrooms, along with 16 exclusive residences. Designed by the renowned Kerry Hill Architects, the resort will boast a 2,638 sqm spa located on its own private island, offering a serene escape. Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including multiple restaurants and several secluded private dining venues. aman.com/aman-maldives[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]