After almost three years of radio silence in the hospitality industry, finally, newly refurbished and brand-spanking new hotels are beginning to open worldwide, giving staycationers and vacationers a plethora of exceptional resorts, boutique hotels, and urban lodges to choose from. One of the marked changes is experiential travel, sustainability efforts, and community-supporting ventures. Little Steps has done a roundup of hotels that will be ready for this year’s festive Christmas and Chinese New Year celebrations.
The first Banyan Tree Escape resort in northern Ubud has a no walls, no doors concept with just 16 bales or villas. The resort embraces a zero-waste, farm-to-table concept in its dining space. The menu is 70 percent plant-based, with products sourced from the surrounding area. The Botanist Bar uses locally grown ingredients and botanicals infused into its divine cocktails. The Toja Spa embraces a garden experience and offers well-being know-how from the local Buahan villagers. Much of the interiors used recycling and crafting from local boat jetties to create hand-carved headboards. There are also beautifully crafted copper bathtubs and natural dye soft furnishings. Buahan has a well-curated collection of activities that guests can participate in to benefit the local community.
Buahan, Jl, Buahan Kaja, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali,+62 361 620 8181, reservations-buahan@banyantree.com, https://escape.banyantree.com/
Part of IHG, the Kimpton Kitalay in Koh Samui is a boutique resort on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand. The resort's poetic name derives from the Thai words 'kita,' meaning 'song' or 'singing,' and 'lay,' which means 'sea.' The hotel is a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Thai elements. The double-tiered, stilt-suspended rooms have a village vibe. The resort has 138 rooms and pool villas, all with in-room beach picnic baskets and signature sea salt and pachouli-scented bath amenities. The kids will enjoy the kids club while parents head to the spa. There are five impressive dining venues, including a lounge specializing in coffee and artisanal teas, a Thai lifestyle café, and a Fish House restaurant and bar. What's more, is that your furry friends are welcome to stay as well!
Kimpton Kitalay Samui, 10/79 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, +66 77 951 999, kimptonkitalay.info@ihg.com, https://www.kimptonkitalaysamui.com/
New for Singapore and perfect for families, Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore is a new aparthotel concept celebrating the creativity and diversity of Singapore. This is the brand's first location in Asia and it's located right in Singapore's amazing business district. There are 268 fully serviced apartments and you can custom fit your stay including options to select from their wellness suite, opting for pet-friendly amenities in-room or a playtime set-up for younger guests, or ordering tailored fresh produce boxes to cook in-room. All guest experiences are in collaboration with specially curated local partners, chosen to showcase the best of Singapore.
Dao By Dorsett AMTD Singapore, 6 Shenton Way, Oue Downtown 1, #07-01, Singapore 068809, https://www.daobydorsett.com/
Bansak Beach is the sought-after location of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, the expansive 327-room shoreside family resort. Choose from deluxe lagoon pool rooms to the expansive family pool suites with separate living and dining areas and a balcony. Avani+ has child-friendly amenities, a two-story kid's club with board games, a Playstation corner, various play zones, swimming pools, restaurants, and bars overlooking the Andaman Sea. AvaniFit is open around the clock with various fitness options, including hanging yoga, boxing, a climbing wall, PADI diving lessons, and beach assault courses. Spoil yourself with an excursion or a treatment in AvaniSpa.
Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, 99 Moo 8, Khao Lak Tumbon Bang Muang, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga, +66 76 427 300, avaniplus.khaolak@avanihotels.com, https://www.avanihotels.com/en/khao-lak-phang-nga/
The latest addition to sought-after Uluwatu, known for its dramatic clifftops, impressive surf breaks, and white sandy beaches, is the Jumeirah Bali, an all-villa resort. The 123 room resort is in the south of this beautiful island. Perched on the cliffs, the resort overlooks the ocean. Each villa has one or two bedrooms and a private pool. Larger groups will appreciate the Royal Water Palace, expansive four-bedroom accommodation. You'll have access to the private beach and the resort's infinity pools. Kids will love the Jumeirah Bali kids’ club. Three restaurants and bars, including the AKASA Grill serving traditional Indonesian cuisine. The wellness and spa facilities are expansive to maintain your fitness goals. The special opening offer affords a 25 percent discount from the best available rates.
Jumeirah Bali, Kawasan Pecatu Indah Resort, Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Pecatu, Kuta Selatan, Kab. Badung, Bali, +62 361 201 5000, jbareservations@jumeirah.com, https://www.jumeirah.com/en/stay/bali/jumeirah-bali
Set on the slopes of the Lantau Hills, the colorful and unexpected city hotel gives guests a sense of retreat and respite. The hotel boasts over 200 bedrooms, a delicatessen, bar, and restaurant surrounded by lush greenery and an executive lounge. The expansive windows afford gorgeous views across the unspoiled countryside, Tian Tan Buddha, the hills, and lush green valleys towards the sea. Select rooms and suites have outdoor terraces with a Jacuzzi or swimming pool. For health-conscious families, there is a 24-hour gym, yoga lawn, and an impressive 25-meter outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi. The Silveri is also close to Disneyland and other landmark attractions.
The Silveri Hong Kong – MGallery, 16 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, +852 3602 8989, ha4a4@accor.com, https://thesilveri-hongkong.com/
The popular Lamai beach on Koh Samui sees the opening of the Outrigger Beach Resort, an elegant sanctuary and oasis of calm. The resort is synonymous with old-world charm and a nod to time-worn Thai villages. Throughout the resort, various courtyards house pretty guest wings and accommodation. 146 rooms include superior and premium categories, a fitness center, and two open-air swimming pools. For kids, the Edgewater Beach Club has a children's water slide and the Voyager 47 Club Lounge, the Coral Kid's Club, and a games room.
Outrigger Beach Resort, 173/41 Moo 4, Rob Koh Road, Maret, Koh Samui, +66 77 458 560, reservations.samui@outrigger.com, https://www.outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/thailand/outrigger-koh-samui-beach-resort
The all-suites-and-villas resort nestles happily on its private beachfront on Long Beach, Phu Quoc Island. The UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve island is located just off the coast of Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand. The expansive resort has 176 suites and 126 villas, all with super-calming interiors and spectacular sunset views. Almost half of the island is a national park. The resort has several swimming pools, rooftop and outdoor yoga pavilions, and a large spa. Dining options include Oku, a Franco-Japanese 'salon de boeuf,' the Rice Market for traditional Chinese and Vietnamese dishes, Bar Jade for cocktails, and Ocean Club for laid-back beach eats.
Regent Phu Quoc, Bai Truong, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, +84 297 388 0000, regent.phuquoc@ihg.com, https://phuquoc.regenthotels.com/
Proudly overlooking the South China Sea, The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is the brand’s first resort opening. The 425-bedroom seafront hotel is adjacent to Ocean Park and moments away from Aberdeen, the bustling fishing town, the city's arty neighborhood Wong Chuk Hang, and the Central district. The hotel offers five dining spaces, including the signature Cantonese fine dining restaurant, Jade. There is an impressive infinity pool with spectacular sea views and a 24-hour gym. Your family will enjoy FUN programs, the lagoon, and The Explorers, a vast indoor kids' zone inspired by various city heritage sites and landmarks.
The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong, 3 Ocean Drive, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, +852 2166 7388, fop.info@fullertonhotels.com, https://www.fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-ocean-park-hotel-hongkong
Just steps away from the liveliest area of Hong Kong, the AKI Hong Kong – M Gallery, Wanchai, is a mere 10-minute walk from the Causeway Bay shopping district and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition centers. The 173 contemporary rooms are modern and thoughtfully designed, creating a bright and nurturing cocoon with stunning views across the city. The latest contemporary Asian hideaway AKI, meaning a clear, bright crystal, is a glistening glass structure with seamlessly balanced sophistication, moments of tranquility, and trendsetting offerings. Try the signature Japanese-style tatami rooms with luxury mattresses on the floor. You can enjoy the extensive free-flow brunch offerings with your family each weekend.
AKI Hong Kong – MGallery, 239 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, +852 2121 5000, HB5L5@accor.com, https://www.aki-hongkong-mgallery.com/
The Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers opened almost half a century ago next to Victoria Harbour in the Tsim Sha Tsui district; it has since been witness to the city's evolution. The hotel's refurbishment includes a trip down memory lane in the 'Sheraton Showcase' with displays of historical items, original room mock-ups, and photography. Enjoy the varied cuisine with Chinese and Japanese-inspired dining, café-style fayre, and the oyster and wine bar. The Kowloon waterfront hotel has 782 modern guest rooms and suites with Sheraton's signature sleep experience to ensure a perfect slumber. Head to the 10th floor for the swimming pool, Jacuzzis, and health club.
Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers, 20 Nathan Road, Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852-3051-2888, res.hongkong@sheratonhotels.com, https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hkgsi-sheraton-hong-kong-hotel-and-towers/overview/
The Paradox Singapore Merchant Court was recently rebranded from the former 476-room Swissotel. This colonial-style hotel has spacious rooms and suites and award-winning river-view dining at Ellenborough Market Café, which serves a fusion of Peranakan and international cuisine. A fully equipped gym, free-form swimming pool, kid's pool with waterslides, and an outdoor Jacuzzi. The hotel is at the heart of the city's buzzing Clarke Quay neighborhood, giving it easy access to the Central Business District and the meandering Singapore river.
Paradox Singapore Merchant Court, 20 Merchant Road, Clarke Quay, Singapore, +65 6337 2288, info@paradoxsingapore.com, https://www.paradoxhotels.com/singapore
You’d be forgiven for thinking that the Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak Resort was a traditional Thai riverside village. A beautiful klong, or canal, runs straight through the beachside resort connecting guest rooms and public areas. The rooms and suites all feature private terraces with views over the canal, gardens, and pools. There's a great kids' corner for your little ones and a dedicated children's swimming pool so they can play all day. Patio is an exciting all-day-dining restaurant with many live cooking stations serving Asian and international dishes. Mango, the fine dining restaurant, serves age-old Southern Thai recipes. The hotel is a short boat ride away from world-class diving spots.
Grand Mercure Khao Lak Bangsak Resort, 71 Moo 7, Khao Lak , Bang Muang Takuapa District Phang Nga, +66 649 0998, hb130-re@accor.com, https://www.grandmercurekhaolakbangsak.com/
World Islands is an artificial archipelago in the Arabian Gulf located just off the coast of Dubai. Seven sets of islands are constructed in the shape of a world map representing Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Antarctica, and Oceania; the project has been two decades in the making. Anantara Worlds Island is on the South American continent, accessible by speedboat from Anantara, The Palm Dubai Resort. Committed to sustainability, Anantara is planting 4,000 plants throughout the landscaped gardens, which attract rich birdlife, including a family of peacocks! The resort has 70 suites and beach and pool villas, including pool villas (which can take up to 12 guests) with direct access to the beach. Enjoy beach dining and movies under the stars to the sound of lapping waves.
Anantara World Islands, PO Box 566548, South America, The World Islands, Dubai, +66 2 365 9110, reserveanantara@anantara.com, https://www.anantara.com/en/world-islands-dubai/
The 151-room and suites and seven-villa resort is the epitome of beachfront luxe on the shores of the Andaman Sea. The seven villas have plunge pools or an outdoor terrace amidst lush tropical gardens. The spacious rooms and elegant suites each have a balcony or terrace and blend Thai architecture with modern design with complete ease. The resort's swimming pool and Jacuzzi enjoy impressive sea views. There is also a fitness center and spa. Dine in the Edgewater beachfront bar and grill for stunning views. The kids will have a ball at the Yim Yai Kids Club which offers a host of activities like kite-flying, baking, sports and arts & crafts.
Outrigger Khao Lak Beach Resort, 2/4 Moo 8, Bangmuang Takua Pa, Khao Lak, Phang-Nga, +66 76 427 100, reservations.khaolak@outrigger.com, https://www.outriggerthailand.com/khaolak/
The 583-room hotel in Marina Bay is home to the largest sky-lit atrium, with over 2,400 plants, trees, and shrubs. It's the first garden-in-a-hotel that is sustainable and environmentally responsible. There are various dining options, including progressive Cantonese dining at Peach Blossoms. If you are a cocktail connoisseur, Portman's Bar has a great selection of almost 100 whiskies and craft cocktails. The rooftop urban farm has over 60 varieties of fruit, veggies, herbs, and edible flowers used in the hotel's farm-to-table concepts. The 25-meter pool is breathtaking at night as it comes alive with almost 1,400 fiber optic lights.
Parkroyal Collection Singapore, 6 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore, +65 6845 1000, enquiry.prsmb@parkroyalcollection.com, https://www.panpacific.com/
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