Industry News

Fusion, a wellness-inspired luxury hotel brand with properties in Vietnam and Thailand, has taken over the management of Dong Duong Hotel, a distinguished property in the heart of Hue, a top heritage destination in Vietnam. The hotel is set to open in the third quarter of 2025, marking a significant addition to Fusion's regional portfolio. Dong Duong Hotel marks Fusion’s second property in Hue, following the success of Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, further solidifying the brand’s growing presence in this city. Situated on Hung Vuong Street in Hue City, the hotel boasts a prime location on the southern bank of the Huong River, offering sweeping views of the iconic Truong Tien Bridge and UNESCO-recognized heritage sites. The hotel consists of two towers with a total of 161 rooms. Designed in the Indochine style, the hotel exudes the charm of the Old Capital with stylish interiors featuring natural wood furniture, evoking nostalgic traditional values. Under Fusion’s management, Dong Duong Hotel is being redefined to preserve its historical style while blending new elements that alight with Fusion’s unique design, creating an inspirational lifestyle. Upon completion, the hotel will bring full-service amenities, including multiple dining options, spa treatment rooms, wellness facilities and MICE facilities for up to 250 guests. At the signing ceremony in late January, Mrs. Duong Thi Kim Boi, Director of Dong Duong Hue Limited Liability Company, which owns the property, said: “Dong Duong Hue Hotel is our pride and is a symbol that embodies the rich cultural heritage and beauty of the ancient capital of Hue. Through this partnership, we aim not only to strengthen the hotel's reputation but also to achieve long-term business cooperation and sustainable development. We believe that under the management of Fusion and its strategic business development, the hotel will create new values, not only for our hotel but also for the growth of the tourism and hospitality industry in Hue.” As Hue progresses toward becoming a centrally governed city by 2025, its tourism industry is witnessing significant growth. In 2024, the city welcomed nearly 3.9 million visitors. Hue is set to host the 2025 National Tourism Year, with the Hue Festival featuring over 170 events at both national and provincial levels. Through diverse programming, Hue aims to attract 5 million visitors in 2025, with international tourists comprising 38–40% of the total. These efforts are part of Hue’s strategy to become a cultural, tourism, and wellness hub in Southeast Asia by 2030. “With a long-term tourism master plan in place and its reputation as a favorite destination in central Vietnam for unique experiences, we are excited to enter this exclusive market with such an exceptional property. We look forward to combining the rich legacy of this iconic property with Fusion's service excellence to create a one-of-a-kind experience," said David Roberts, COO of Fusion. Christopher Hur, Group CEO of Lodgis Hospitality Holdings, the owning company of Fusion, added: "Dong Duong Hotel is set to elevate Hue’s hospitality scene, offering a seamless blend of relaxation, culture, cuisine, and wellness for both local and international travelers, backed by Fusion’s renowned management expertise. Additionally, Fusion is expanding with two new properties in Vietnam, including locations in Hanoi and Ha Long, and one in Thailand, all set to open in 2025. We are on track to reach 50 properties by 2028 and remain committed to providing wellness-focused, culturally immersive experiences across Asia." Dong Duong Hotel is scheduled for a grand opening in the third quarter of 2025. For more details, please visit: www.fusionhotelgroup.com.

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai announces a new partnership with WiseOceans, a global leader in marine education and conservation practices. Expanding the Resort's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism, this collaboration introduces a selection of immersive experiences for guests to nurture a deeper connection with the natural world. Photo credits: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai A Shared Vision WiseOceans has successfully partnered with luxury properties worldwide, including Four Seasons resorts in Bora Bora, Seychelles, and Anguilla. Their mission aligns seamlessly with the Resort's dedication to preserving the pristine coastline of Central Vietnam, fostering wonder and respect for the environment, and leaving a positive impact on the local community. “Working closely with WiseOceans has enabled our team to create even more meaningful experiences for guests while also advancing our sustainability goals,” says General Manager Marcel Oostenbrink. “Through education and interaction, we hope to inspire a collective effort to protect our precious marine and terrestrial environments for generations to come.” The collaboration will see the launch of a bespoke Discovery Program, designed to provide opportunities to engage with nature while shining a light on conservational challenges, both on land and underwater. Four Seasons guests can participate in coral reef restoration, ecological monitoring and other hands-on initiatives aimed at minimizing the Resort's environmental footprint. By weaving conservation into the guest journey, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai and WiseOceans aspire to protect the natural beauty of Vietnam while encouraging a shared sense of responsibility for our planet. Photo credits: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Adventures for All Ages For young explorers, the adventures are as fun-filled as they are inspiring. The Snorkel Champion activity invites kids to dive into a pool-based quest, building water confidence and mastering snorkelling skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. Families can enjoy a Nature Treasure Hunt, wandering through vibrant gardens and along the beachfront, uncovering hidden wonders of flora and fauna alongside fascinating stories about the Resort's natural residents. Marine Craft workshops let little ones fashion their own ocean-themed souvenirs, such as playful octopus hats or shark bookmarks, while learning about the sea creatures behind their creations. At the Ocean Club Games session, interactive activities such as beach scavenger hunts spark curiosity and a lifelong passion for coastal exploration. Set to open in 2025, the Marine Discovery Centre will serve as the heart of marine education and conservation at the Resort for kids and adults alike. Offering hands-on workshops and ecological insight, the centre will provide a dynamic space to explore the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems while contributing to the restoration of local marine habitats. Photo credits: Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai Exploring Sustainability Guests can embark on a Sustainability Tour to witness some of the Resort's key eco-initiatives. Spanning 10.5 hectares (26 acres), the property's flourishing gardens yield an abundance of fruits, vegetables and herbs each year, used in the kitchens to craft seasonal menus and at the Spa to create locally-rooted treatments. A dedicated composting area collects approximately 300 tonnes (660,000 pounds) of garden waste per month, with 40 percent composted on-site and the remainder shared with local farms. The Coconut Cutting Experience allows visitors to discover the versatility of this tropical fruit, from drinking fresh coconut water to exploring its sustainable applications. The Resort is also pioneering the use of coconut fibre, an innovative solution to combat erosion and support soil health.

With extensive expertise in the full-service, luxury, and boutique hotel assets, MJH is focused on improving service standards, driving revenues, and developing an exciting culinary experience    

Bob W, the tech-powered hospitality operator, has today announced it has signed long-term lease agreements to convert two former hotels and an aparthotel in Munich into Bob Ws as it accelerates its expansion across the DACH region. Photo credits: Bob W Bob W Münchner Freiheit, Bob W Munich Old Town, and Bob W Munich Schwabing will bring the total number of the operator’s buildings in Germany alone to 15, adding 198 units and a total of 3,948 sqm to Bob W’s portfolio. The prime locations deliver a mix of serviced studios, larger apartments, penthouses, and rooms, all showcasing Bob W’s signature high-quality local design ethos and bespoke hospitality technology. This includes a digital front desk, seamless self-service check-in, and 24/7 remote guest service, blending the quality and reliability of a hotel with the comfort and practical amenities of a home. The lease agreements were brokered by Miles Knoll from the Hotel Services Team at BNP Paribas Real Estate GmbH and Prof. Dr. Clemens Engelhardt of Trustberg advised Bob W. Formerly H’Apato Schwabing, Bob W Munich Schwabing, is located at Fallmerayerstraße 22 and was last year presented with a German Design Award. The property offers 71 spacious serviced apartments, including a social lounge and coworking space, and is surrounded by a range of independent retailers, vibrant street art installations, and other cultural attractions. Bob W Münchner Freiheit, formerly H’Otello Schwabing, is located at Hohenzollernstraße 9, offering 71 rooms in a vibrant area that is popular among visitors exploring the city and digital nomads combining work and leisure. Situated within walking distance of medieval markets, beer halls, shops and restaurants, Bob W Munich Old Town — formerly the H’Otello Lehel — at Baaderstraße 1 in the heart of Munich’s historic Old Town offers 56 contemporary Bobs. The three new properties – which are owned by a private landlord – further strengthen Bob W’s robust pipeline of signed properties in key German cities including Munich, Bonn, Berlin, Stuttgart, Lübeck, Cologne, Dortmund and Hamburg. Germany continues to be one of Bob W’s most important markets, as the company commits to further growth in this strategically important region.  Niko Karstikko, CEO and Co-founder of Bob W, said: “This deal was made possible thanks to the outstanding support from our team and partners in Germany. The locally inspired, design-led, and quality-driven hospitality of the properties aligned perfectly with Bob W, making the partnership feel right from the start. We are humbled to continue the H'Otello/H'Apato story, upholding these principles and honouring the legacy with great care. “We’re not stopping here. We’re keeping our eyes on more opportunities in the DACH region, ready to transform potential assets into signature Bob W properties while continuing to deliver an outstanding experience for our guests.” Sebastian Höcherl, landlord of the new properties said: "Partnering with Bob W was an obvious and natural choice, as their values resonate seamlessly with ours. Renowned as one of Europe’s most innovative, guest-centric, and design-focused hospitality operators, Bob W carries forward the values we established for our brands. We are excited to see Bob W elevate these locations, delivering exceptional guest experiences while preserving the legacy we built with H’Otello and H’Apato.” Bob W is now operational in 18 cities across 10 countries and continues to seek new partnerships with landlords and asset managers to secure lease agreements for suitable properties across Germany and the continent.

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Vignette Collection, Union Han, Istanbul Karaköy, – marking the brand’s debut in Türkiye. The converted property, owned by Cortex Turizm, will become the 16th IHG hotel in the city once it opens in the second half of 2025. Vignette Collection, Union Han, Istanbul Karaköy represents a continuation of IHG’s growth momentum across Türkiye, taking the total of opened and signed properties in Türkiye to 45 hotels. The latest signing also joins a growing portfolio of Vignette Collection properties around the world, which is set to reach 100 hotels in 10 years, bolstering IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio, one of the world’s largest, with nearly 900 open and signed hotels globally. Vignette Collection is IHG’s luxury conversion brand and allows owners to retain the independent identity and character of their hotels, whilst providing guests with a one-of-a-kind stay in destinations to remember. Staying true to the brand’s ethos, Vignette Collection, Union Han, Istanbul Karaköy will be underpinned by its own “A Means for Good” initiative, highlighting the hotel’s partnerships with local non-profit organisations to spearhead positive contributions to the communities in which it operates. Situated in the historic Tütün Han building, the hotel will feature 51 unique, stylish guest rooms and an all-day artisan bakery and specialty food restaurant, as well as premium wellness facilities including a spa. (Mrs) Willemijn Geels, Vice President, Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “It is great to see the momentum Vignette Collection, IHG’s very first collection brand, is having across Europe since its launch in 2021. Today, across the region, we have more than 14 open and signed Vignette Collection properties all in some of the most sought-after destinations. This is a testament to the trust new and existing owners have in IHG, our brands and global enterprise – including our leading loyalty offer and powerful technology and revenue systems - to deliver for them.I’m incredibly proud of the growth we have seen across Türkiye in recent years, which is due to the dedication and drive from our in-market team, who have established strong relationships with our partners. We look forward to working alongside Cortex Turizm to bring the hotel to life and welcome guests to Türkiye’s first Vignette Collection property in 2025.” Cortex Team said: “It is incredibly exciting that our first property with IHG Hotels & Resorts also marks the debut of the Vignette Collection brand in Türkiye. We are confident IHG’s trusted reputation and leading loyalty offer will make the hotel the leading choice for domestic and international travellers alike who are looking for a unique and immersive experience.” IHG Hotels & Resorts has 32 hotels currently in operation across the Türkiye and an additional 13 in development spanning right across its brand portfolio. Vignette Collection, Union Han, Istanbul Karaköy joins other notable signings from this year, including the first Garner hotel in the country which will be located close to the new International Istanbul Airport, and InterContinental Ankara which is set to open in 2025.

Central Vietnam golf resort designated as a preferred venue for Taiheiyo Club members

The Gin Trap Inn in the North Norfolk coastal village of Ringstead, has become the latest acquisition for Chestnut, East Anglia's fastest-growing hospitality business. Photo credits: The Gin Trap Inn The acquisition consolidates Chestnut's foothold in the region, through the addition of a further 16 bedrooms. This is the Group's fourth Norfolk acquisition in 2024. In addition, Chestnut has opened The Maltings - a 28 bedroomed hotel in Weybourne (near Blakeney) with The Grain Store, a barn style restaurant and bar overlooking the sea. Founder and Managing Director, Philip Turner, said of the new additions “2024 has been a busy Norfolk year for the business. We started this journey in March 2020 - one week prior to lockdown, and four years later we have almost 200 bedrooms across the county. We remain an ambitious business trying to make a difference for our guests and team – this week we opened our second “winter garden” at The Globe (Wells-next-the-Sea) serving cheese fondues and tartiflette pizzas!" "Building community around our properties is a huge priority for us through The Giving Tree – our charitable foundation which is aiming to raise of £15,000 over this period to support local charities. We take our role as a significant regional employer (excess 200 people) seriously and are keen to develop strong relationships with those promoting North Norfolk as the go-to destination. I have known The Gin Trap Inn for many years and feel privileged that Chestnut has the chance to be part of the future.” Photo credits: The Gin Trap Inn David Lamyman, vendor of The Gin Trap Inn said, “We have taken The Gin Trap Inn to a new level since we acquired the business in 2019. Our great reputation is thanks to a very dedicated and hard-working team of people that know what our guests want and excel at delivering it. Having watched Chestnut grow by acquiring such quality venues and ensuring they individually thrive, I know that The Gin Trap will be in good hands.  Thank you to all those that have supported us.” Chestnut will welcome the new team members from the pub and looks forward to working with them to take the business to the next stage. All guest room bookings and table reservations will remain in place.

Mohari Hospitality (“Mohari”) today announced the acquisition of the Bauer Hotel in Venice, Italy. The acquisition of this iconic property is a significant addition to Mohari’s growing European portfolio, underscoring its commitment to building a collection of luxury properties with irreplaceable heritage and unique cultural resonance. Previous owner, Signa Group, had signed a management agreement with Rosewood Hotels, which will operate the property. Mohari has made this latest acquisition alongside its strategic partner in Europe, Omnam Investment Group, a real estate investment and development group specializing in high-end, transformative hospitality with over a decade of experience in Italy and Europe, investing and developing historic and complex projects. The Bauer Hotel is located in the heart of Venice and considered one of the city’s architectural treasures, embodying late 19th-century Venetian medieval mannerism. The property is positioned on the Grand Canal in the historic San Marco district, just steps from the world-renowned Piazza San Marco. Under its new ownership, the property will undergo an extensive restoration, recapturing its grandeur as a symbol of Venetian elegance. “Our vision at Mohari is to establish a portfolio of unparalleled luxury hospitality destinations defined by iconic locations, heritage value, and exceptional guest experiences. The legendary Bauer Hotel fits perfectly within our vision,” said Mark Scheinberg, Founder and Principal of Mohari Hospitality. “The Bauer is truly irreplaceable, prominently situated in the beautiful city of Venice. We are proud to have the opportunity to preserve and elevate this extraordinary jewel of a property, honoring its legacy while transforming it to become one of Europe’s most distinguished hotels.” Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, celebrated for their global collection of remarkable destinations and expertise in reimagining heritage properties, will bring their design, restoration, and operational excellence to the project. The Bauer Hotel joins Mohari’s growing collection of luxury European assets, following the Company’s recent acquisition of a historic Parisian property, which is set to become a luxury hotel of exceptional prominence and stature, and its previous flagship investment in the Four Seasons Hotel in Madrid, which has since become one of Europe’s most exceptional hotels. Mohari and Omnam were advised on the acquisition by Kryalos SGR, DLA Piper, Deloitte, Eastil Secured, CBRE, and Cushman & Wakefield.

Regent Porto Montenegro, a contemporary five-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Porto Montenegro in the stunning Bay of Kotor, is delighted to announce an exciting brand-new collaboration with GoBaloo, Montenegro’s leading 4X4 off-road adventure specialist. Photo credits: Regent Porto Montenegro Renowned for its impeccable service and elegant design, Regent Porto Montenegro offers guests the chance to complement their stay with a thrilling adventure with GoBaloo. Guests can explore Montenegro’s rugged beauty like never before, with adrenaline-pumping off-road expeditions, cultural tours, and hiking experiences. This experience is perfect for those looking to add a touch of excitement to their luxury getaway.  Discover Montenegro’s Untamed Wilderness This exclusive experience takes guests beyond the Adriatic coast and into Montenegro’s wild, mountainous terrain. GoBaloo’s expert guides lead off-road excursions to Durmitor, the country’s highest peak, while traversing breathtaking coastal roads and secluded trails. Along the way, guests can hike through untouched forests and soak in panoramic views that reveal Montenegro’s most scenic and hidden gems including the Museum of Living History, Fort St Andrija, and the historic village of Gornji Stoliv.  Many of the adventures are four hours long and include picnic lunches with local Montenegrin dishes, homemade rose juice, and freshly brewed coffee. Regent Porto Montenegro and GoBaloo have expertly curated the itineraries enabling guests to have an enriching experience that encompasses the culture, history, and local food of Montenegro.  Photo credits: Regent Porto Montenegro Experience Montenegro Differently This new partnership between Regent Porto Montenegro and GoBaloo brings together the best of both worlds: the finest in luxury and the untamed spirit of Montenegro’s natural landscape. Adventurous travellers can now immerse themselves in the dramatic contrasts of this beautiful country, whilst staying at the stunning five-star Montenegro, experiencing both luxury and exploration in one unforgettable stay.   

September 2nd, 2024 – Creator of one-of-a-kind hospitality projects, Zannier Hotels, has announced a partnership with NEOM to develop a new luxury eco-resort in Zardun, one of Magna's destinations located in the Northwest of Saudi Arabia on the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. Overlooking crystalline waters, Zannier Zardun nestles into the exquisite landscape stretching from the mountains to the low hills, across the coastal plain to the sea. Known for its distinct hotels and resorts that harmonize with their environments, Zannier Hotels is partnering with NEOM to develop Zannier Zardun, a tranquil retreat for discerning guests seeking authentic experiences amidst a breathtaking natural setting. The resort, situated within the four square kilometers of Zardun in a carefully restored semi-desertic landscape thriving with native fauna and flora, will feature a total of 100 rooms and suites, spread over three striking signature buildings, each themed to offer diverse and breathtaking experiences. A distinctively unique experience centre welcomes guests through an underground entrance, leading to a 360-degree observation deck that reveals the splendor of Zardun, providing a setting for the most intimate connection between humans and nature. Guests will enjoy transformative experiences, educational programs on nature conservation and rewilding, and various sports and leisure activities including trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, stargazing, meditation, and yoga. "We are thrilled to officialize our collaboration with NEOM" commented Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels, highlighting that "this partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying our position among top-tier hospitality brands. It highlights our ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, serving as both a cornerstone for our brand's evolution and a testament to our emergence as a formidable contender in the luxury hospitality market.” As part of NEOM and Zannier Hotels' dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment, the resort will feature a series of lush oases designed to support diverse habitats, aiding the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species. “Zannier Zardun epitomizes NEOM's dedication to crafting unrivaled experiences that celebrate the precious environment and rich heritage of Magna. Together we will carefully and diligently cultivate and conserve the vibrant ecosystem along the coast for future generations” said Jeremy Lester, Executive Director, Magna. “This partnership with Zannier Hotels reflects a unified vision where ultra-luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. Zannier Zardun charters new horizons, merging our grand ambitions and shared values to create lasting memories for our guests and visitors to cherish.” This project represents another major achievement for Zannier Hotels continuing to make its mark as an ambitious and creative global hospitality brand and a leader in new-generation luxury. “Our collaboration with Zannier Hotels, a brand that shares our commitment to authenticity, sustainable practices, and creating unique guest experiences rooted in nature, represents a powerful partnership for NEOM," said Chris Newman, Executive Director of NEOM Hotel Division. " Zannier Hotels' dedication to authentic experience makes them the ideal partner for Magna. Together, we will create a sanctuary that embraces the stunning natural beauty of the Gulf of Aqaba, pushing boundaries in progressive architecture with the aim to redefine how we travel, stay, and live." Zannier Hotel's strength lies in its “Simple Mastery” approach, which emphasizes customization, immersion, sustainability, and authenticity. All projects are crafted by the acclaimed Zannier Interior Design Studio, ensuring a unique and masterful touch.     

Ushering a new era for Florida’s Premier Beachfront Luxury Destination

Set to open in 2025 after refurbishment, InterContinental Table Bay Cape Town will build on the legacy of the property and write a new era of luxury hospitality in the country.