Industry News

Sam Nazarian and SBE have launched a new lifestyle hospitality brand named Project HQ, supported by a strategic alliance with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. The launch comes following strategic investment from entrepreneur Marc Anthony and his company Magnus. The first hotels in HQ’s brand portfolio will be based in Montreux, Switzerland and Detroit, Michigan. The brand will focus on savvy Millennial and Gen Z travellers through a unique blend of cultural and lifestyle elements.  The first property, HQ Montreux Hotel & Spa, is set to open in 2025, following transformation of the existing Royal Plaza & Villa Toscane, originally constructed in 1905 by Swiss architect Louis Villard. Two signature restaurants will find home at the property, courtesy of SBE’s Disruptive Restaurant Group, while a lobby cocktail bar and on-site coffee shop will also be available. Additional amenities will include a spa and fitness centre, along with significant events and meeting space.  The next opening, HQ Detroit Hotel & Spa, will be the first US-based property for the new brand. The transformation of the existing property will include its 174 guestrooms, while a speciality restaurant and cafe will also be available upon opening.  HQ Montreux Hotel & Spa “In the 22 years since establishing SBE, we have always been looking around the corner and understanding the ever-changing landscape of consumers – the tidal wave of consumers coming into the marketplace from the Millennial, Gen Z and Latino audience is staggering,” says Nazarian, founder and CEO of SBE. “They’re eager to partake in communal celebrations, create new memories and relish moments of wonder – and we are creating the spaces to do just that." “Having established our first locations in Montreux and Detroit, we’re steadfast in our commitment to meeting the evolving desires of upcoming generations. This marks the genesis of Project HQ, and we eagerly anticipate unveiling more exciting initiatives in the months ahead, alongside Geoff Ballotti and his tremendous Wyndham team. With our sights set on the future, we aim to build tremendous momentum as we continue to innovate and inspire.”  Geoff Ballotti, President and CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, adds: “We’ve seen tremendous interest from owners looking to enter the smart lifestyle category created by Sam Nazarian’s SBE. These initial projects in Montreux and Detroit set the stage for a brand that will benefit from SBE’s legendary lifestyle experience and Wyndham’s unmatched scale and resources, creating a turn-key solution unlike anything in the market today.” Project HQ currently has over 15 additional hotels under discussion, with applications in both adaptive reuse and conversion developments. LionGrove meanwhile has committed to building 10 HQ hotels across the Caribbean and long the Sun Belt of the US.

There are bars and then there are rooftop bars. We’ve put together a mini round-up of two awe-inspiring rooftop bars in Thailand – one towering over Bangkok, the other Chiang Mai.

When envisioning the Maldives, one often conjures images of pristine white sands and luxurious resorts. However, beyond the typical tourist attractions lies a realm of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. The Nautilus Maldives, an ultra-luxury private island hideaway, is crafting extraordinary journeys in the captivating Baa Atoll, inviting its guests to embrace escapism through immersive cultural experiences. Inspired by The Nautilus’s brand hallmarks of the Art of Bohemia and Free Spirited Adventures, guests are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and indulge in transformative experiences. Through encounters with local personalities, guests gain an insight into island life, delving into cultural roots, traditions, nature, language, cuisine, and more. The Nautilus prides itself on tailoring bespoke experiences to suit the unique preferences of its guests—whether adventurers, culture enthusiasts, or families seeking more than a beachside retreat. Guests embark on one of The Nautilus’s luxurious yachts, exploring treasured spots of the Atoll and creating unforgettable memories that will linger in their hearts long after their journey ends. Discover the roots at the Kendhoo Nestled in the northwest of the Baa Atoll, Kendhoo carries a rich tapestry of experiences weaving together history and culture. Once a vital hub along ancient maritime routes, Kendhoo’s vibrant cultural landscape is shaped by centuries of influences from Indian, Arab, and Southeast Asian merchants, as well colonial conquests. Guests can wander its streets, indulging in local culinary treats with distinct flavours, and exploring landmarks like the 800-year old house marking the place of prayers of Abdul Barakaath Yoosuf al Barbary, a renowned Islamic scholar. Weave your memories of the Maldives into art at Kihaadhoo On the beautiful island of Kihaadhoo, guests can immerse themselves in the therapeutic art of coconut leaf weaving, a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Through hands-on experiences with the island’s residents, guests can learn to create baskets, hats, and decorative pieces, fostering a sense of cultural identity and belonging. Traditional lacquer masters at Thulhaadhoo Venturing to the southern tip of Baa Atoll, guests discover Thulhaadhoo island, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship in traditional lacquerware. Here, artisans share their secrets of this ancient art of decorating items with vibrant colours and intricate designs inspired by the Maldives’ marine life and lush tropics, which has been passed down through generations. Guests can even try their hand at creating these unique art pieces, serving as precious souvenir of their tropical getaway. Exploration of the Deep Blue Waters of Dhonfanu At Dhonfanu, one of Baa Atoll’s premier diving spots, vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life awaits beneath azure waters. In season, there’s also a high chance for guests to encounter graceful manta rays and majestic whale sharks, igniting the senses with excitement and awe. Delve into Poetic Ambiance of Dharavandhoo Guests can make a stop at Dharavandhoo island, which boasts a rich tradition of Maldivian poetry, where locals celebrate history and folklore through the art of storytelling, expressing emotions, beliefs, and aspirations in the most poetic ways. These enchanting verses, inspired by the islands’ natural beauty, love, nature, and daily island life, transport listeners to a world where ocean rhythms intertwine poetic imagery. Photo credits: The Nautilus Maldives