1. Raffles London at the OWO
London, England
Britain’s Old War Office in Whitehall has been thoughtfully restored to its former glory with hundreds of artisans carefully reviving its heritage features. At the heart of the development is the newly opened Raffles London at The OWO, marking the brand’s first foray into London. 120 rooms and suites are the vision of the late Thierry Despont, who transformed landmark buildings such as the Statue of Liberty. The grand interiors reflect classic Edwardian architecture such as oak paneling, glittering chandeliers, and a magnificent marble staircase while offering modern luxuries. Heritage suites at the hotel are the former offices of influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill.
The property will house nine restaurants and three bars, including a spectacular rooftop with panoramic views across St James’ Park, The Mall and onto Buckingham Palace. Culinary concepts are led by world-class chefs and restaurateurs, including three unique dining experiences by chef Mauro Colagreco. Tipped to be a leading wellness destination, the Guerlain Spa at Raffles London features beauty and wellness experts from Guerlain, alongside a health club by movement specialists Pillar Wellbeing with an extensive gym, a 20-metre pool, and a vitality pool. The property will also offer 85 branded residences.
2. LUX Collective Zanzibar
Zanzibar, Tanzania
The continued touristic appeal of East Africa has resulted in global hospitality group The Lux Collective partnering with ZK Venture Company in Zanzibar to bring to life its first luxury resort in the region. Positioned as a premier destination for sustainable luxury travel, LUX* Marijani Zanzibar is located at Pwani Mchangani on the North-East coast on a private beach overlooking the Indian Ocean.
The luxurious boutique resort is inspired by modern Arabic architecture and design with all 82 guestrooms and suites providing elegant and spacious comfort, along with the warm personalised service that is the brand’s hallmark. For a purposeful stay steeped in rich cultural and heritage discoveries, guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Stone Town, Old Fort Zanzibar, 19th-century Hamamni Persian Baths to Jozani Forest nature trail and Spice Farm tour that traces back to the historic spice trade. The hotel also features restaurants with international and local cuisine, a spa with tailored holistic wellbeing experiences, a pool and meeting and conference facilities.
3. The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel
Kerela, India
Newly opened The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel is set on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake formed by the confluence of eight lakes, offering a backwater experience that balances barefoot luxury with rustic charm. Placid waters surrounded by greenery and swaying coconut palms create a tranquil atmosphere where guests can enjoy curated cultural immersion experiences. 93 tastefully appointed rooms, charming suites and villas offer stunning lake views and draw inferences from the destination paying homage to the traditional Nalukettu style aesthetics of Kerala.
Regional flavours imbue a gourmet Malabar cuisine in the hotel’s four atmospheric restaurants: Keraleeyam the multi-cuisine restaurant; Portico Café, serving comfort food; Raanthal, the floating dining experience; and Zirkon, the aqua-themed bar. The hotel’s houseboat is equipped with all the comforts of the resorts and offers guests the opportunity to experience an Ashtamudi backwater cruise in luxury. Adventurous guests can experience the water on kayaks, bamboo rafts and speedboats. The surrounding region offers a dense forest heaving with wildlife, serene beaches and historical heritage sites. To relax in true Keralite style the spa offers a transformative journey towards holistic well-being where guests can discover the profound virtues of Ayurveda.
4. The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka
Fukuoka, Japan
Recently opened on the island of Kyushu in Southern Japan, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka occupies the nine topmost floors in a 25-storey glass tower designed by Kume Sekkei of Tokyo affording views of the Genkai Sea and the surrounding hills. Overseen by Melbourne-based Layan Architects + Designers, the hotel’s interior design and art draw inspiration from the destination’s traditional yarn-dyed silk and kimono-weaving craft, called Hakata-ori. On the 19th to 23rd floors, the hotel houses 167 guestrooms, including 20 suites. Fukuoka Skyline rooms offer views of the city’s skyline, while Park View rooms overlook the Ohori Park.
From Bay View rooms, guests can see the passing ships of Hakata Bay and beyond. The hotel’s four restaurants and two bars reflect the food culture of Fukuoka. Sustainably produced local ingredients are used across the outlets, which range from Western cuisine to Japan’s culinary traditions of kaiseki, sushi and teppanyaki. The spa on the 24th floor, has an indoor swimming pool overlooking the bay, a gym, and both single and double private rooms for treatments using local ingredients. Fukuoka is known for its annual festivals, beaches, parks and historic places such as the 12th-century Shofukuji temple and the Fukuoka Castle ruins.