1. The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel
New York City, USA
In collaboration with the Reuben Brothers, the opening of The Surrey heralds Corinthia’s inaugural venture into North America, and the reimagining of an Upper East Side icon. First built in 1926 as a residential hotel, located on the corner of East 76th Street and Madison Avenue, the original Surrey was frequented by celebrities, creatives, and world leaders, establishing an illustrious legacy. In its latest iteration, the hotel is primed to re-establish itself as one of the city’s most sought-after destinations. The hotel’s 70 guest rooms and 30 suites have been designed by the celebrated Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, which also lent its creative eye to London’s Broadwick Soho.
Four ‘theme suites’ will also be designed to celebrate the bridges of Central Park. The hotel has also announced Casa Tua – which has current restaurants in Miami, Paris and Aspen – as its exclusive food and beverage partner. As well as a signature restaurant, Casa Tua will also operate a lounge-style bar and an exclusive members-only club. Other hotel facilities will include The Surrey Spa, which will have two treatment rooms, a steam room and sauna, a salt relaxation room, and a gym. A collection of 14 private residences located above the hotel offers owners exclusive access to The Surrey’s roof terrace, an elegant and intimate space that has been transformed into a private verdant oasis inspired by the English cottage garden.
Corinthia.com
2. Grand Hyatt Kunming
Kunming, China
Marking the debut of the Grand Hyatt brand in the heart of China’s scenic southern Yunnan province, Grand Hyatt Kunming is now open. Known as the Spring City for its year-round spring-like climate, Kunming offers endless attractions for culture, food, and nature lovers alike – from markets and museums to stunning forests and lakes. 331 rooms and spacious suites feature sumptuous beds, lavish marble bathrooms, and smart motion systems ensuring guests’ relaxation and indulgence, while supporting an energy-efficient stay. The meticulously crafted spaces, designed by MQ Studio from Shanghai, and Nao Architects from Tokyo, offer a fresh interpretation of the region’s environment within an aesthetic of refined elegance, incorporating elements reflective of local colours, textures, and crafts.
Five distinct dining and drinking venues offer modern gastronomy, as well as classic and creative dishes rich with the essence of Yunnan. For a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, guests can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of serenity at the hotel’s indoor pool, or head to the spa, a haven of rejuvenation featuring two luxurious suites offering treatments rooted in the wisdom of Yunnan’s wellness traditions. For the more active guests, the hotel’s fitness centre is well equipped for a comprehensive workout, and features a sauna and yoga studio.
Hyatt.com
3. Barceló Cappadocia
Cappadocia, Turkey
Barceló Cappadocia stands out for its privileged location in the picturesque town of Ortahisar. The small town, situated in the deepest part of Cappadocia, is framed by a rocky landscape formed by lava and volcanic sand, and offers a great base to explore the region. 170 rooms pay tribute to the region’s rich and historic architectural and cultural heritage through the stonework reflected in the walls, headboards, canopies, Turkish baths, and private pools. The hotel also offers 19 exclusive luxury stays in cave rooms carved into ancient rocks.
The richness of the elements and materials can also be observed in the common areas, among which are the wellness centre with its spa featuring a unique design with a heated water area, guarded by a stained-glass window serving as a skylight, and a beautiful outdoor pool. Based on Mediterranean cuisine and highlighting typical regional recipes, the in-house restaurant, located on the rooftop, invites guests to enjoy contemporary cuisine with spectacular views of the natural surroundings.
Barcelo.com
4. Voaara
Sainte-Marie, Madagascar
Located on the island of Sainte-Marie off the northeast coast of Madagascar, Voaara is a new barefoot luxury resort and first property from Philippe Kjellgren, founder of PK’s List and Kiwi Collection. Set to launch initially with eight bungalows and one three-bedroom villa – a renovation of the existing resort on the site – the hotel will eventually offer 45 keys in total, through a phased launch. South African-Chilean architect Luis F. Mira has designed the spaces, adorned with local materials and reclaimed wood, along with incredible infinity pools. Voaara will offer a total of five dining outlets and plans also call for a spa debut later in the year.
Once a pirate base, Sainte-Marie is renowned as one of the best spots in the world to view the humpback whale migration, which takes place between June and October each year. The hotel plans to hire at least 80 per cent local staff to not only support the community, but to ensure local tradition and culture is celebrated throughout. Voaara makes a great stop for long- stay travellers looking for adventure on nearby Réunion Island, a safari in Kenya, or to explore the Madagascan jungle.
Voaara.com
