1. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
The first ever Nobu Hotel in Mexico brings 200 stylish guestrooms and suites to the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula. Seamlessly blending contemporary Japanese minimalism with locally-sourced Mexican materials and natural finishes, the hotel houses elegant meeting and event spaces, a luxurious spa with Natura Bissé products and, what all Nobu Hotels should boast – a spectacular Nobu Restaurant and Bar with ocean views.
2. Hotel de la Ville
Rome, Italy
Located on Via Sistina, Rocco Forte’s historical Hotel de la Ville has revealed a splendid new façade while local artisans continue to work on expertly restoring the beautiful architectural features in what promises to be the most exciting hotel opening in the Eternal City this year. The 18th-century palazzo is located above the Spanish Steps and pays homage to the European Grand Tour giving it a contemporary twist. Doors are set to open May 28.
3. Masseria Torre Maizza
Puglia, Italy
Set in the achingly quaint area of Savelleteri di Fasano, along the Adriatic coast and surrounded by ancient olive groves, Rocco Forte’s Masseria Torre Maizza has opened in a farmhouse that dates back to the 16th century. An investment of over six million euros has brought the property back to its natural beauty. The resort now features 40 lavish suites all with stunning views of the Apulian countryside, including the addition of the magnificent two-bedroom Torre Suite, located on the top floor of the masseria’s original tower. Guests have a variety of amenities to choose from while staying at the resort including a 20-metre pool, a nine-hole executive golf course, access to a private beach club, fitness centre and spa treatments at the Rocco Forte Spa.
4. COMO Castello Del Nero
Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, Italy
An exceptional 740-acre estate in the Chianti wine region, Tuscany’s COMO Castello Del Nero offers something a little atypical from most hotels. At the property’s heart stands a 12th-century castle featuring 50 rooms and suites with new interiors. The Castello’s historic terracotta flooring, fresco walls and vaulted ceilings remain untouched, alongside a lighter, more modern ‘COMO’ aesthetic, to complement and enhance the sense of history at the castello. The Michelin-starred La Torre is located in the original stables of the castle in the winter, transferring to the garden terrace in summer. The hotel also features two informal restaurants: La Taverna for traditional Tuscan fare; and during the summer months, the Pavilion, which offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and signature COMO dishes.
5. Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa
Uttarakhand, India
Self-described as a serene sanctuary to stir your soul, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa is spread over 12 and a half acres of terraced gardens on the banks of the river Ganges in the shadow of the Himalayas. Each spacious room has panoramic views of the river, with a white sandy beach, as well as the majestic mountain vista. Taj Rishikesh is a blend of contemporary and rustic in communion with nature and an architectural tribute to the Garhwal region. Guests should prepare to embark on adventurous activities like river rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, kayaking, local village visits and hiking. Or simply enjoy the quintessential five-star Taj experience in the comfort of your suite.
6. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
Dubai, UAE
Just when you thought Dubai’s coastline had all been snapped up, there arrives a stunning new five-star hotel, just a hop and a step to the water’s edge. The ultra-chic Jeffrey Wilkes-designed property consists of 256 spacious and elegant guest rooms and suites, most with private balconies and terraces with ocean or city views. The Jumeirah Beach Road address houses six restaurants and bars, all new and unique to Dubai’s dining scene with two signature restaurants; Tasca by Portuguese celebrity chef José Avillez and Netsu, a Warayaki-style Japanese steakhouse by Australian-born chef Ross Shonhan. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai puts the focus on locally inspired experiences – care for a 75-minute Za’atar Detox? All nine treatment rooms feature individual changing and bathroom facilities, and some have private terraces overlooking the ocean. This welcoming oasis offers exceptional heat and water experiences, and a range of holistic rejuvenation and relaxation treatments.
7. The Whitney
Boston, USA
With 66 rooms in Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighbourhood, this boutique beauty is named for Henry Melville Whitney, a prominent Boston industrialist and one-time owner of the site. The Whitney will soon become a new landmark in the city with a classic brick townhouse style, associated with its neighbourhood, balancing the vibrancy of the city along with the serenity of its location. The pet-friendly hotel has a secluded courtyard and Peregrine, with a focus on the cuisine and culture of Sardinia and Sicily.
8. Four Seasons
Astir Palace Hotel Athens
Athens, Greece
Located on a peninsula just 30 minutes from the city centre and a half hour from the international airport, the hotel is the ideal choice for travellers who want to experience the best of ancient and modern Greece. Four Seasons claims the new opening is ideal for weekenders from Athens or the region, families looking for a fun-filled and educational experience and couples looking for a world-class romantic destination. The ‘Grand Opening Offer’ featuring 20 percent savings on the room rate plus daily breakfast is extended through the end of 2019, and travellers are also invited to take advantage of the ‘Stay Longer – Sixth Night Free’ package offering a complimentary night with each five nights paid.