1. Westin Maldives
Miriandhoo Resort
Baa Atoll, Maldives
As its first property amidst the white sands and turquoise waters of the Maldives, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is now open for business. Nestled on a beautiful coral island in the Baa Atoll – a UNESCO biosphere reserve – guests are invited to explore local landmarks such as Hanifaru Bay, famed for the largest gathering of manta rays in the world, and make full use of the property’s extensive wellness offerings in the Heavenly Spa by Westin.
Featuring 70 villas and suites, 41 on-island and 29 overwater, each luxurious accommodation has spared no expense on its eco-friendly design and makes full use of natural materials where possible. As the resort’s signature restaurant, The Pearl serves up world-class Japanese cuisine, while the Sunset Bar makes romantic sundowners a no-brainer.
2. The Langham, Hefei
Hefei, China
Sitting at the centre of Hefei’s business, shopping and entertainment districts, The Langham, Hefei has been designed to exude contemporary luxury while acting as a preferred hub to host city events – from high-end weddings to corporate gatherings. Indeed, its 1,380-square-metre Grand Ballroom is up to the task, while its unique dining concepts all-but guarantee a memorable experience.
The hotel itself is spread across 339 guestrooms and suites, with guest access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities and holistic treatments available through the award-winning Chuan Spa. Of course, no Langham is complete without afternoon tea. Here, it’s served in the speciality lobby-lounge, Palm Court, overlooking the preened courtyard garden.
3. Six Senses Krabey Island
Krabey Island, Cambodia
The latest addition to Six Senses’ portfolio of ultra-luxe properties is now taking reservations. Open this month, Six Senses Krabey Island is set on a 30-acre private tropical island five kilometres from Ream National Park in southern Cambodia. With 40 private pool villas, each with green living roofs, expansive sun decks and open rainforest showers, the purpose-built resort promises something special.
Beyond its impressive accommodations, Six Senses boasts two restaurants – both with a focus on local, seasonal produce – as well as a sunset bar and on-site ice cream parlour. For your wellness fix, there’s a host of holistic rejuvenating treatments available, ranging from full-body massage to rooftop yoga, and guest activities include everything from jet skiing to organic farm visits.
4. Hôtel Brach Paris
Paris, France
If there’s one name in hotel design synonymous with style, it’s Philippe Starck. In partnership with Evok Hotels Collection, the designer has recently unveiled his latest project: Hôtel Brach Paris. Located in a former postal sorting centre, the hotel combines elements of the contemporary with 1930s architecture, a splash of modernism… and a touch of the surreal.
The eclectic property houses 52 bright and breezy guestrooms with a further seven suites, each with views across the French capital’s impressive skyline. For dining, a trendy restaurant accommodates 160 covers, while dessert on-the-go can be nabbed from the hotel’s in-house patisserie. Don’t miss a romantic evening in the outdoor hot tub, overlooking the bright lights of the Eiffel Tower.
5. Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas Hotel & Residences
Las Vegas, USA
The famous Las Vegas strip has welcomed a new addition to its glittering skyline with the recent opening of the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas Hotel & Residences. Formerly Mandarin Oriental, the rebranded Sin City property boasts 389 guestrooms and 255 residences, alongside 55 suites – all of which will undergo an extensive redesign in 2019, in-keeping with the Waldorf brand.
Located a mere stone’s throw from the action, the property neighbours some of the world’s leading shopping and entertainment districts, while the hotel itself offers unrivalled views across the city strip. When it comes to relaxation, the signature spa spans two entire floors – acting as a holistic sanctuary for weary travellers – while award-winning cuisine can be sampled at contemporary French restaurant, Twist.