2017 ‘s hottest new hotels include luxury big city designer scene stealers, bohemian boutique beauties as well as an eco-glamping experience in the land of the quokka. Exclusivity will have its place with ultra-high end properties, but the trend towards connecting with and reflecting the local community is growing. The success of the sharing economy means travellers who choose hotels still want to enjoy the local sights and sounds, connect with like-minded guests and eat and drink at a neighbourhood spot that just happens to be inside a hotel.
The Park Lane Hong Kong
After a $USD38 million makeover, The Park Lane, Hong Kong is turning heads with SKYE – a 27th floor, 8,000 square foot rooftop bar and restaurant.
An in-house DJ performs nightly and Chef Lee Adams has designed a contemporary French menu for guests who can take their eyes off the stunning skyline of Victoria Harbour and Victoria Park.
The Pullman branded hotel offers luxurious accommodations from Classic Rooms to the Pullman Suite with inclusions and views to rival other high-end Hong Kong hotels. https://www.parklane.com.hk
Four Seasons London at Ten Trinity Square
Just across the road from The Tower of London and a short stroll to St Paul’s Cathedral Ten Trinity Square is one of Europe’s most anticipated 2017 openings.
In the former 1922 headquarters of the Port of London Authority, the elite address was the setting for the inaugural reception of the UN General Assembly in 1946. Restored meticulously, the wood panelled UN Ballroom is just one of a number of venues in the historic hotel.
The 89 rooms and 11 suites are contemporary while the hotel’s public spaces show off the heritage credentials. Slated for opening on January 26, the 18,000 square foot, Roman inspired spa with a hammam and restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic complete a very special hotel. http://www.fourseasons.com/tentrinity/
Public by Ian Schrager, New York
When hotelier, entrepreneur and real estate mogul Ian Schrager moves everyone takes notice. The latest act from the man who is considered the father of the boutique hotel concept, is New York’s first Public hotel due to open in Spring on the Lower East Side.
At 28 stories the Herzog and de Meuron design will feature 11 multi-million dollar condos atop a 370-room hotel. Jean-George Vongerichten will lead a team to serve 3 different spaces – a 2,000 square foot market and coffee bar, 114-seater restaurant and a garden for 74 diners.
Schrager will also debut his second EDITION hotel in Times Square in 2018. http://www.ianschragercompany.com/press.html
Casa Republica, Lima
In 2004, Aussies Greg Carter and Chad Carey founded the groundbreaking Antarctic and South American tour company Chimu Adventures. Later this year they will open Casa Republica a boutique hotel in the vibrant Barranco district.
The transformation of the 1920’s heritage-listed mansion will deliver a 4-star property aimed at travellers who want a more authentic and bohemian Peruvian experience. With just 17 guest rooms, stunning interiors and a rooftop bar Casa Republica will be a welcome retreat from Lima’s hustle and bustle. http://www.casarepublica.com
Hyatt Centric Hobart
Closer to home, construction of Australia’s first Hyatt Centric hotel will begin in Hobart. Designed with Millennials in mind, Centric offer modern rooms with Bluetooth-enabled electronics and environmentally conscious bath products. Located in the middle of the action with nightlife close at hand, the Centric brand seeks to offer an authentic reflection of the local community. www.hyatt.com
Pinky’s Eco-Retreat, Rottnest Island
If glamping is more your thing, Rottnest Express and the Billi Resort Broome will introduce Pinky’s Eco Retreat and Beach Club on Rottnest Island.
The resort will feature 29 four and five star eco-tents with ensuites as well as family, backpacker and budget tents for families and travellers. A licenced bar, restaurant and café will take in the very best West Australian sunsets. If you’ve been to (and fallen for) Rotto – this seems the perfect solution to welcoming overnight guests. https://www.facebook.com/pinkysrottnestisland/
