Industry News

Radisson Hotel Group has announced its first experiential resort under its recently launched Radisson Individuals Retreats brand extension. Located in Palampur – Himachal Pradesh, Rakkh Resort, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats is set against the pristine backdrop of the Dhauladhar snow-capped ranges. A mélange of traditional ambiance and barefoot luxury, the ethos of the resort is built on sustainability and community engagement. The resort is conveniently accessible by air from Dharamsala, Amritsar, or Chandigarh, by rail from Pathankot, and by road from Gaggal, and Manali. A 30-minute drive from Dharamshala, the resort’s unique location makes it a prime choice for travelers seeking an immersive and relaxing experience. Perched on top of a hill, the five-acre resort houses beautiful rooms and suites that offer stunning views of the snow-peaked mountains with nature-inspired interiors offering guests a sense of peace and privacy. The rooms are spacious, airy and enjoy abundant natural daylight via bay windows and design features inspired by the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. This further ensures a reduction in energy consumption which is in tune with the resort’s sustainability values.    “With the opening of Rakkh Resort, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats, we are proud to usher in the era of experiential hospitality in India. The country’s hospitality ecosystem is swiftly evolving, and we stand ready to be at the helm of this change to offer travelers a high-quality product that is driven by distinct experiences. We strongly feel that the future of Radisson Individuals Retreats rests on beautiful properties with unique identities offering tailor-made stays that are authentic, sustainable, and memorable. At Radisson Hotel Group, we are fully committed to bringing diverse experiences to our domestic and international guests in all parts of the country, from major tier-one cities to up-and-coming destinations.” said Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and Vice President of Operations, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.   Curated experiences are at the core of offerings at Rakkh Resort, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats, and encourage a sense of community and bonding. With activities ranging from rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga, village walks, weaving, and traditional cooking, the resort is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking an authentic experience. Given its proximity to key nearby locations, guests can try paragliding at Bir-Billing, visit the hilltop ruins of Kangra Fort, or marvel at the rock-cut Hindu temples of Masroor. In addition to becoming one with nature during their stay, guests can drink from the natural spring within the premises which also provides mineral-rich nutritious water throughout the resort.

Marriott International is pleased to announce that Delta Hotels by Marriott® has opened its 100th property – Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park – bringing the brand’s seamless travel experience to the city’s gated enclave surrounded by landscaped gardens and near one of the world’s most important trade centers. Delta Hotels by Marriott – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands – now offers two properties in Dubai and three overall in the Middle East, providing travelers with more opportunities to explore and immerse themselves in the destination. “From its beginnings in Canada to its current growing diverse portfolio around the world, this opening marks an exciting milestone in the Delta Hotels by Marriott journey,” said Manny Rappenecker, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Delta Hotels by Marriott. “A testament to our strategic growth, we’ve been able to strike a chord with our seasoned travelers by offering the seamless experience guests crave when on the road. Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park is another exceptional example of our brand’s distinction, demonstrating the bright future for Delta Hotels as we look forward to our next 100 properties.” Once a portfolio of 37 properties in Canada, Delta Hotels by Marriott has grown into a global and diversified brand since its acquisition in 2015, redefining premium hospitality in key business and leisure destinations. Focusing on the details that really matter, the brand is rooted in simplicity and concentrates on perfecting the small details that make all the difference during travel. Thoughtful design, complimentary water, a fully stocked Delta Pantry for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members, as well as warm and efficient service, are just a few of the elements that bring the brand to life. Situated in the district of Dubai Investment Park, close to many of the city’s key attractions and business hubs, the hotel brings a clean and purposeful design aesthetic reflecting the industrial nature of the area, featuring raw materials through exposed craftsmanship, eclectic furniture, and accessories. Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park features 248 spacious guest rooms and suites featuring the brand’s modern approach to design inspired by true craftsmanship, an outdoor swimming pool, spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. In addition to these amenities, the property includes Masian Restaurant & Bar, a full-service restaurant serving international cuisine and shisha, along with a dedicated menu in the evening alongside specialty craft ales and cocktails; The Hub, a coffee shop lounge area serving Lavazza coffee beverages, premium baked goods, and snacks as well as prepared hot and cold items; and Pool Bar, with a selection of lite bites and refreshing beverages available for guests lounging outside by the swimming pool. Grab & Go and Delta Pantry – two of the brand’s signatures globally – are also featured. Offering small bites, fruit, juices, and other cold items, Grab & Go is the perfect option for the traveler on the move. Designed to feel like a residential kitchen, the 24/7 Delta Pantry provides premium beverages and snacks available to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium, Ambassador Elite Members, and paying guests. Filled with natural light, the technologically advanced meeting and conference space expands across three flexible areas, including the soon-to-be-debuted The Hall – designed for larger business meetings and corporate events. “We are honored to open the 100th Delta Hotels by Marriott property,” said Raja Zeidan, General Manager of Delta Hotels by Marriott, Dubai Investment Park. “Our hotel answers a need for streamlined, purposeful hotels in Dubai, providing meaningful utilities for the modern traveler whether on business trips, weekend getaways, or anything in between. We look forward to welcoming global travelers and locals alike with our meticulous, efficient service for a flawless stay.” The brand is slated to bring its Simple Made Perfect® mission to more travelers, with nearly 30 hotels anticipated to join the portfolio before year-end. This includes more than 20 properties in the UK, from Edinburgh to Liverpool, and a collection of Golf & Country Clubs, significantly expanding its footprint in the region. Looking ahead to 2023, Delta Hotels by Marriott plans to make exciting grand debuts in Naples, Italy; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and New York City. Delta Hotels by Marriott participates in Marriott Bonvoy®, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International. Marriott Bonvoy Members will earn points for their stay at Delta Hotels properties, and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

Ocean Inn Hotels LLP, a hotel development company based out of Jaipur, today announced the signing of a franchise agreement with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts for a new resort development at Banskho near Jaipur, Rajasthan, India under the upper midscale Wyndham Garden brand. Jaipur is the capital and the largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a popular tourist destination in India and forms a part of the west Golden Triangle tourist circuit along with Delhi and Agra. It is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Jantar Mantar and the Amer Fort. It also serves as a gateway to other tourist destinations in Rajasthan such as Jodhpur (348KM), Jaisalmer (571KM), Udaipur (421KM) and Mount Abu (520KM). Over the last decade, Jaipur has also come up as an important MICE destination in India, particularly for lavish Indian weddings. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts currently have three Ramada by Wyndham hotels and one Days Hotel by Wyndham operational in Jaipur and two are under development. Banskho is a small village situated about 40 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur, Agra Highway. The proposed resort will enjoy great connectivity and access to Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra and is less than an hour’s drive from popular tourist attractions within Jaipur City like Hawa Mahal, Gated Old City, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal and more. It is also about an hour's driving distance from Sariska National Park, which is famous for its tiger safari. The resort sits adjacent to a hillock and is spread over seven acres of land will have over 70 low-density cottages and tented villas, extensive banquet and event facilities including party lawns, a business centre, refreshing wellness areas, an outdoor swimming pool, and will offer outdoor activities for leisure travellers and families on vacation.   “Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the largest hotel franchise company in the world, and we are extremely happy to partner with them to bring the Wyndham Garden brand to the city of Jaipur. We are sure that the resort which is being developed with Thai architectural influence will be loved by all guests visiting the city and we look forward to welcoming them to our resort by 2024,” said Mr. Ajay Sharma & Mr. Abdul Kalam, M/s Ocean Inn Hotels LLP.   “Our upper midscale brand Wyndham Garden is growing from strength to strength, and we are delighted to announce another signing of Wyndham Garden in the city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. This resort will further strengthen our presence in the state of Rajasthan with nine operational hotels and two additional properties under development. We look forward to our partnership with M/s Ocean Inn Hotels LLP and welcoming guests to a truly international standard resort in the upper midscale segment to the city of Jaipur,” said Nikhil Sharma, Regional Director Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.   Once operational, the hotel will generate direct employment for almost a hundred people in the city of Jaipur.

Announced to coincide with the International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes France (ILTM), the Dubai-based DAMAC Group, under its property development arm DAMAC Properties — one of the region’s foremost luxury real estate developers, has signed a contract with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to operate a new resort on a group of private islands in The Maldives. The 34-hectare luxury resort, which is currently under development and is scheduled to open in 2025, will be DAMAC Group’s first foray in the tourist islands, known for its premium five-star offerings. The Indian Ocean resort stretches across three private islands on Bolidhuffaru Reef in South Male Atoll, accessed by an easy 20-minute speedboat ride from Male’s Velana international airport. Surrounded by white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs for which The Maldives is renowned, the resort will provide a picturesque backdrop from where guests can enjoy a variety of activities including culinary experiences through various specialty restaurants around the island in addition to wellness retreats and water sports. The Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef’s accommodation comprises 130 stand-alone villas, made up of 64 overwater villas and 66 beachfront villas, including 10 branded residences. Ranging in size from 100 to 600 square metres (internal), the villas will be some of the largest in the market, each providing exclusivity and seclusion, with private pools and beautiful ocean views. The Group is working with a number of international consultants to ensure sustainability best practices are followed in all stages of the development. Eight dining outlets, including three speciality restaurants and an exclusive dining venue along with a pool bar will ensure that guests have a varied choice of cuisines during their stay. In addition, creative indoor and outdoor event spaces will provide unique locations for meetings, social gatherings and weddings.  Spacious wellness facilities will be located in the resort’s tropical gardens, and will include 12 treatment suites, vitality pools, hammam, sauna and steam rooms as well as a beauty salon. Mandarin Oriental’s expert team of wellness practitioners will offer tailored experiences and the Group’s signature treatments. Additional leisure activities will include a water sports and a dive centre, a world class kids and teens club designed by international consultants, a swimming pool and numerous private coves and beaches to explore. “The DAMAC brand is synonymous with luxury products and service, and we felt The Maldives was a perfect location for us. DAMAC has extended its global footprint outside of the Middle East, from the UK to Canada, and we are thrilled to have now reached The Maldives as well. We look forward to working with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group to manage our new resort on this beautiful island,” Hussain Sajwani, Chairman and founder of the DAMAC Group said. ‘’We are continuously entering into partnerships with established world class brands that mirror DAMAC’s reputation and standards for luxury offerings and are confident that Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will excel in its mandate,” Sajwani added. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from its Asian roots into a global brand, the Group now operates 36 hotels and seven residences in 24 countries and territories, with each property reflecting the Group’s oriental heritage and unique sense of place. Mandarin Oriental has a strong pipeline of hotels and residences under development and is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group. “Mandarin Oriental is focused on developing its resort portfolio and has been looking to enter The Maldives for some time. This project represents the right opportunity for the Group,” said James Riley, Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.

The hotel is nestled within the Golden Triangle of Jakarta, which extends from Central to South Jakarta and is one of the fastest-evolving central business districts in the Asia Pacific region. It is also ideally located within an exclusive enclave comprised of foreign embassies, government and commercial spaces well as upscale retail, and is an easy 45-minute drive from Soekarno Hatta International Airport. The St. Regis Jakarta features 282 exquisitely appointed guest rooms, including 28 spacious suites, each featuring a private balcony. Meticulously created by the renowned G.A. Design team, the guest rooms reflect contemporary luxury and feature thoughtful touches throughout, such as custom-made cushions accented with embedded batik motifs by Indonesian designer, Iwan Tirta. Guests will also enjoy the St. Regis Butler Service, a personalized signature offering that has been a hallmark of the brand, ensuring that each guest’s individual preferences are anticipated at every turn.

Doors are re-opened again, at the Gran Hotel Bristol managed by Kempinski, after a longer hibernation period caused by the pandemic. Having opened first time in February 2020, the all-new Gran Hotel Bristol had to close after a very short 4 weeks opening period only, due to the health-related shutdown of Havana. Located in the heart of Havana, just steps away from the National Capitol Building (El Capitolio) and within walkable distance of the hotspots and hidden gems of the Cuban capital, the newest addition of Kempinski Hotels welcomes first guests. Nestled between Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) and Centro Habana, Gran Hotel Bristol is the ideal urban escape for a modern traveller. Inspired by the legendary Art Deco style of the 1930s, 162 comfortable guestrooms' interiors are stylishly appointed with bright accents, clean lines and contemporary furnishings. Each room features a flat-screen TV, an individual control panel and complimentary WiFi. Four unique dining experiences feature a rich kaleidoscope of cuisines and entertainment. Crowning Gran Hotel Bristol are two unique restaurants, El Capitolio and El Diamante. For a casual fare with impressive National Capitol Building views, El Capitolio restaurant serves breakfast and dinner in a stylish and bright dining room as well as al fresco on the rooftop terrace, whilst El Diamante restaurant and bar boasts panoramic views of Old Havana, serving Latin and Cuban tapas and light snacks throughout the day. As the night falls, a live DJ spins the latest tunes and sets the mood for the cocktail hour over the bright lights of the city. Pasos Perdidos lobby bar is an ideal spot to start or finish a day. Open throughout the day, the lobby bar serves a choice of daily continental or traditional Cuban breakfast with a freshly brewed cup of Cuban latte, also known as café con leche. Come nightfall, the trendy bar invites guests to indulge in a nightcap. Global cuisine awaits at La Muralla Club, which will open its door in late November. The menu will feature a wide selection of traditional and creative burgers, and chicken wings complemented by an extensive variety of beers and crafted cocktails. The night's entertainment will be headlined by a live jazz band. A destination of its own, the rooftop pool is destined to be one of the most iconic spots in Havana. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim with panoramic views over the city, or admire the reflection of the golden dome of El Capitolio while lounging poolside and sipping one of the handcrafted cocktails. For those who like to stay in shape whilst travelling, the hotel gym is fully equipped with the latest fitness equipment. Located on the mezzanine floor, the gym provides a modern space for an easy and convenient workout. Adjacent to the gym is a salon that offers a variety of professional hair and nail services, with dedicated stations for ladies and gents, and skilled staff to provide a seamless glam-up routine. Strategically located on the mezzanine floor, the meeting room is designed for intimate meetings and creative presentations. The flexible space can accommodate up to 12 people and features a large LCD screen. Steps away from the National Capitol Building (El Capitolio) and within walkable distance of the hotspots and hidden gems of La Habana, Gran Hotel Bristol has it all. 162 comfortable rooms and suites are stylishly appointed with bright accents, clean lines, contemporary furnishings and modern conveniences. Four unique dining experiences feature a rich kaleidoscope of cuisines and entertainment - from a wide breakfast spread in El Capitolio, relaxing moments in Pasos Perdidos lobby bar to delicious tapas in El Diamante and global cuisine accompanied with the notes of live music in La Muralla Club - while a rooftop pool boasts direct views of El Capitolio. Inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1930s, Gran Hotel Bristol is the ideal urban escape for the modern traveller.

Multi-billion resort Wynn Marjan by Wynn Resorts confirmed the anticipated opening of a casino complex, said to be bigger than its sister property in Las Vegas. Ras Al Khaima authorities are now fast forwarding implementation if adjusted laws for the opening to face no problems with setting up US-style gaming. Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts commented “We certainly don’t want to underbuild the casino. The casino component, where at least for some period of time, we will be operating on our own, which makes it quite exciting is shaping up to be somewhat larger than Wynn Las Vegas, but with numerous pockets of energy and compression.” According to Billings, the Wynn Marjan’s opening is planned for 2026 on the Dream Island of RAK and will boast a casino around 18,500 sq m in size. This will make the facility would one of the ten biggest in the world and almost double the size of the one in Wynn’s Vegas property.

Minor Hotels' Avani brand will make its Maldives debut with the opening of Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort in early Q2 2023. Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort will be Minor's sixth property in the country, increasing the hotel owner, operator and investors current presence in this paradisiacal setting. The first hotel opening in this highly coveted area of the Maldives for more than three years, the arrival of Avani+ Fares in the ubiquitous Baa Atoll will shake up the hospitality landscape. A stunning new private island resort, Avani+ Fares will offer all the attention to detail, experiences and unparalleled service that one would expect of a premium Maldivian escape without the ostentation. A new-build property on a natural tropical island showcasing the very best that Avani has to offer, Avani+ Fares will be home to a variety of accommodation options. From beach pool villas and four-bedroom beach pavilions to picture perfect three-bedroom over water villas sitting across the island's large turquoise bay, the accommodation will offer a stylish modern sanctuary, maximising breezy spaces and ergonomic lighting, as well as tech focused amenities to suit the needs of the most discerning guest. Avani+ Fares will appeal to couples, families and friends with an array of dining, fitness, water sport recreation and pampering spa treatments. Resting on a naturally protected island on the western edge of Baa Atoll, the resort will provide easy access to the world renowned Hanifaru Bay, home to what is regarded as the Indian Ocean's best biodiversity and underwater ecosystem and one of the best places to see manta rays. With twelve individual dive sites off the beach at Fares, divers are spoilt for choice. In addition, guests will have access to the Avani house reef, a 220-metre reef teeming with marine life including turtles and dolphins and the nearby Fares reef which is 600 metres off the shore. One of the stunning islands that make up the Maldivian archipelago, Fares boasts a 2.6-kilometre lagoon in front of the island, offering privacy and serenity as well as playing host to an abundance of reefs and marine life and of course serving as the backdrop for incredible sunsets. Due to the perfect positioning at the edge of the atoll, the resort enjoys zero light pollution for unforgettable stargazing. A picturesque paradise of stunning turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Avani+ Fares Maldives is only a 35-minute journey by seaplane from Velana International Airport. Throughout their stay, guests will be treated to a wide selection of Maldivian and international-inspired cuisines at each of the seven restaurants, in addition to private beach and in-villa dining. Each aims to expand guests' taste horizons with a variety of choices to push the boundaries of island dining whilst minimising carbon footprint with seasonal ingredients. Organic produce will be sourced from the resort's mini farm and catch of the day delivered daily by local fishermen. Young guests will have the run of the first kids-only restaurant in the Maldives serving nutritious, universally loved food. AvaniFit's new gym concept keeps guests in tip top condition offering fitness programmes designed in partnership with a high-performance coach. Those seeking to bliss out and indulge in some pampering can hide away from the world in style at AvaniSpa, which will offer various rejuvenating treatments alongside thoughtful wellness options. AvaniKids provides everything to keep children and teens happy and entertained so adult guests can enjoy some 'me' time. Between swimming, snorkelling and diving at the protected house reef and discovering the island's native flora, guests can fully enjoy a slice of paradise steeped in biodiversity and natural beauty.

Patina Osaka honours the land with its unique design concept based onthe memories of Japan’s City of Water. Patina alike connects to water,the most elemental entity, the flow of life that connects and carriespeople and planet.Set to open in 2025, Patina Osaka is the first urban property of PatinaHotels & Resorts, an elevated lifestyle brand by Capella Hotel Group.The approximately-220-room hotel is located opposite Osaka Castle,one of Japan’s most prominent historic sites, and next to thenoteworthy Naniwanomiya-Ato Park.Built in homage to Osaka’s effortless beauty and vibrancy, the modern20-storey building is a collaboration between two award-winningJapanese architects and designers: Jun Mitsui & Associates for exteriorand Strickland for the interiors. They have woven together a narrativerich in sense of place, while creating an urban sanctuary that inspiresshared consciousness between humans. Patina’s perpetual journey, a seamless flow of energy, is reflectedthroughout Patina Osaka’s design concept. It all begins when guests stepfoot inside Roots, the signature plant-based restaurant, and are greetedwith an inviting warmth from its earthy hues. Guests will explore what isconscious eating through locally-sourced produce with bold and excitingflavours – including ingredients from the edible garden and outdoor nursery.Heading up to the rooftop (at level 20) where Fusion, the beating heart ofPatina is perched – guests will then check-in. The social spot encouragesinteractions between guests and locals alike. It features a cocktail bar andlistening station run by a DJ and equipped with an extensive vinyl collection– at Patina, music has the power to spark social bonds, fuel the collectiveenergy and invite expression.Following the gravity flow of energy, guests may proceed to the spiral stairswhich leads to the hotel’s brasserie and Tea Lounge on the next storeydown. These intimate spaces reveal the layers of nature – allowing visitorsto tune into the environment. Centred around a memories-of-the-land aesthetic philosophy, the hotel’sinteriors marry a shared love for natural and regional materials with customart by local artists and artisans. Inspiration was taken from the history ofOsaka Castle and Mother Earth, where each level is individually designed toreflect a contemporary take – featuring elements like copper, wood, earthand water.Each room and suite incorporate a balance between modern and naturalaesthetics, showcasing an uninterrupted view of Osaka Castle. Guests canalso expect versatile spaces within the room that speak to the convergenceof quiet downtime and vibrant activities. Every living area is dynamic,morphing into a fitness ground, a tea appreciation lounge or even amediation retreat and playpen with the tatami mat - offering seamlesstransitions between work, play, exercise and wellbeing. Developed by NTT Urban Development Corporation, a comprehensive realestate company within the NTT Group, Patina Osaka brings desired,unexpected, sophisticated and fresh experiences together.“We can’t wait to launch the first Patina Hotel in Japan, togetherwith our partner, Patina Hotels and Resorts, the lifestyle brand ofCapella Hotel Group. Built across the Osaka Castle, Patina Osakawill bring an unexpected fresh experience and raise a new bar ofsustainability standards for Osaka.” - Hiroshi Tsujigami,Representative Member of The Board President of NTT UrbanDevelopment Corporation.“This is Patina’s first foray into Japan and we are looking forward topartner with NTT Group to help establish theirs and our vision inJapan’s City of Water. This is a great opportunity for us to continueour growth, bringing Patina’s lifestyle as we establish our presencein Japan.” – Cristiano Rinaldi, President of Capella Hotel Group

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Hilton’s iconic luxury hotel brand, announced its entry into Vietnam with the signing of Waldorf Astoria Hanoi. The hotel, owned by BRG Group and managed by Hilton, continues the brand’s entry into the world’s most sought-after destinations. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts operates six hotels in China, Thailand and the Maldives, and will more than double its presence in Asia Pacific over the next five years. Nestled in the city’s beautiful and historic city centre, the upcoming Waldorf Astoria Hanoi is a conversion of the current Hilton Hanoi Opera and will feature fully reimagined accommodations across each of its 187 rooms and suites, after extensive renovations are complete. Honouring the brand’s commitment to culinary excellence and innovation, the luxury hotel will also feature four world-class dining concepts including the brand’s world-famous lounge and bar, Peacock Alley, a rooftop lounge and two other distinctive restaurants. Guests can also look forward to beautiful event spaces totaling over 1,000 square metres and lavish, holistic therapies at the award-winning Waldorf Astoria spa. “We are thrilled to debut our premier Waldorf Astoria brand in Vietnam with our longstanding partner BRG Group. This signing marks a significant milestone in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and tourism destinations. Situated in the heart of Hanoi next to the iconic Hanoi Opera House, Waldorf Astoria Hanoi will enhance the country’s luxury travel offerings to capture a rapidly growing segment of discerning travellers,” commented Guy Phillips, senior vice president, Development, Asia and Australasia, Hilton.

Singapore, 7 October 2022 – Global hospitality group The Lux Collective and    P Q Hai Quoc Joint Stock Company have signed a hotel management agreement to build a luxury overwater resort under the LUX* Resorts & Hotels brand on the island of Phu Quoc, Vietnam. Named LUXNAM* Phu Quoc, the resort is set in one of Asia’s most sought-after destinations and is expected to open in late 2024."We are honoured to partner with the P Q Hai Quoc Joint Stock Company to manage this new built overwater resort located on the remote Northern coast of Phu Quoc, which is adjacent to a UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve spanning over 314,000 square metres of unique flora and fauna, evergreen forest and dense mountain range. Inspired by the iconic Maldivian-style overwater resorts, this is a first for Vietnam and the region," said Mr Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective."We are delighted to be the first strategic partner of The Lux Collective in Southeast Asia. Collaborating on the LUX* flagship luxury brand, we envision LUXNAM* Phu Quoc to become one of Southeast Asia’s top luxury resort destinations with its unique overwater design and extraordinary experiences. The tropical modernist resort, designed around sustainability, will showcase natural beauty from every room to inspire the most discerning traveller looking for a natural escape, exquisite design and conscious travel," said Mr Duy Tran, Chief Executive Officer of P Q Hai Quoc Joint Stock Company."We are proud to work with The Lux Collective on the stunning LUXNAM* Phu Quoc project. We are certain that this long-term strategic alliance will help to promote Phu Quoc as a heaven-on-earth destination - mapping it as the Maldives of Vietnam - among global travellers,” said Mr Bao Vu, Chairman of    P Q Hai Quoc Joint Stock Company.One-of-a-kind in Asia, LUXNAM* Phu Quoc is an eye-catching overwater resort on a jungle-draped island off the coast of Vietnam. Tucked away between a pristine beach and tropical jungle, the dragon-shaped resort consists of two areas connected by a sleek 4-kilometre long jetty over the lagoon. An unexpected, modernist Maldivian-style resort, LUXNAM* Phu Quoc sits above the shallow waters and coral reefs of Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve. Its design inspiration originates from reimagined Vietnamese traditions with a minimalist twist. The stylish ambience combines comfort and sophistication. Besides building in harmony with nature and biodiversity, the Group’s sustainability DNA is thoughtfully incorporated throughout the resort. Overseeing panoramic seaviews, the 126-villa only resort includes 109 overwater villas (most with private pool), 13 beach pool villas, 2 penthouses and 2 beachfront pool mansions. Set overwater on stilts are intimate and private one- to five-bedroom villas and penthouses. All accommodations exude elegant comfort along with the personalised service that is a hallmark of LUX*. It will also feature restaurants with innovative world-class cuisine, spa, fitness centre, four swimming pools, a children's playground and other modern facilities and amenities. Ideal for renewal, slow living and a holistic approach to wellbeing and creative dining, LUXNAM* Phu Quoc is set to define the new take on Vietnamese luxury for global travellers and in-the-know locals. Growing its global presence, The Lux Collective currently manages 16 operating resorts and hotels in Mauritius, China, Maldives and Ile de la Reunion, and has 12 more hotels in its development pipeline in Southeast Asia, China, Europe and Middle East.

The Emerald Collection has announced the opening of its second Maldivian five-star luxury property in Raa Atoll: Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa.Immersed in lush greenery and surrounded by a 100-hectare private lagoon with natural coral reef, the new Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa is located on an intimate 7-hectare island, just 20 minutes by boat from the group’s first property, Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa. Both resorts are members of The Leading Hotels of the World, and offer The Emerald Collection’s high-quality, signature Deluxe All-Inclusive service formula, as well as the opportunity for guests to island-hop in the Maldives, experiencing two luxury properties under the same brand.Emerald Faarufushi encompasses 80 contemporary and independent villas, 5 restaurants offering international cuisine, 2 bars, the Emerald Spa with 8 treatments rooms in evocative treehouses, and a Sports Centre equipped with professional Technogym machines and equipment. The resort is also home to tennis and padel courts, and ensures a programme of fun yet educational activities for children and teens at the Dolphin Kids Club.The signature experience is The Emerald Collection’s Deluxe All-Inclusive formula, that allows guests to make the most of countless activities (both on water and land), à la carte gourmet dining, and an extensive selection of premium international wines, beers and spirits.“We are thrilled to consolidate our presence in the Maldives with the opening of Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa”, says Aldo Scarapicchia, Partner and Managing Director of The Emerald Collection.“The new property will allow us to offer an integrated experience for international guests, with 80 additional accommodations between Beach and Water Villas, 70 of which have private pools. All our villas have been designed to comfortably host both couples and families with children. In fact our new resort is also home to the Dolphin Kids Club, a space where younger guests can really play, learn, have fun yet feel independent under the watchful eye of our multilingual professional educators.The ‘barefoot elegance’ style of the resort is woven through every element of a stay, and promises excellent standards delivered hand-in-hand with a genuine sense of ease in the refined yet informal surroundings”.The group has also renewed its focus on promoting sustainable tourism by implementing green practices both operationally and for the guest experience at the 100% plastic free property. The Emerald Collection aims to leave as limited impact on the destination as possible, with projects including a coral farming initiative, the consumption of Emerald Water bottled directly at the resort.