An update on new hotels and restaurants being launched in India and across the world, along with major upcoming projects
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas
Adding a third property to its portfolio of luxury resorts in Vietnam, Anantara Hotels and Resorts has announced the development of its newest villa retreat which is scheduled to open in late November 2018. Located in a secluded bay in south central Vietnam, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas will comprise 26 one- and two-bedroom ocean-facing villas ensconced amidst 7.2 hectares of landscaped tropical gardens. A creative collaboration between HB Design and Marques and Jordy (M&J) architectural firms, Anantara Quy Nhon is designed to seamlessly blend into the natural environment. Locally-sourced materials, traditional craftsmanship and regional influences are discretely incorporated into the resort’s contemporary design. Spacious villas with their sleek timber and granite sundecks, minimalist plunge pools and extended low overhang roofs have a fresh, contemporary feel. Vietnamese blue stone keeps the look of the common areas vernacular while granite and marble elements introduce a touch of modernity.
With a focus on personalised service, each villa at the new resort will come with dedicated butler services and a range of customisable luxury amenities such as preferred room scent ranging from exotic lemongrass to refreshing green tea, Anantara signature soap collection and in-villa wine cellar stocked with fine vintages and delicatessen.
Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah
Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah opens this September, offering guests the opportunity to create their own tales of Arabian Nights. Tucked away amidst the rooftops and courtyards of a souk located on the banks of Dubai Creek, the 200 room hotel is spread across 22 traditionally designed Arabian Bayt (homes), adorned with the wind towers famous throughout the region. With views down into the alleyways of the souk and out across the busy waterways of the Creek, Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah is inspired by the culture, heritage and stories of old-world Arabia; and brings to life the warm traditions of Emirati hospitality.
JW Marriott Maldives
JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its presence in Asia Pacific region with the opening of the JW Marriott Maldives. Slated to open in Q4 2018, it promises a sophisticated retreat, yet culturally integrated, within the paradise island nation. With the introduction of JW Marriott Maldives, the JW Marriott brand now has nearly 40 hotels and resorts in the Asia Pacific region.
Set on the stunning island of Vagaru, Shaviyani Atoll, JW Marriott Maldives will be the perfect destination for leisure travellers to experience ‘a piece of heaven on earth’. The resort features 61 beach and overwater villas each with its own private pool and other modern amenities. Guests can explore distinct culinary options at the property’s multiple F&B venues. The property will feature JW Marriott’s new branded spa concept, Spa by JW. Another signature branded concept at JW Marriott Maldives is the Kid’s Club by JW, which will have play areas, an arts and craft area, individual reading and sleep corners, an educational Fauna and Flora corner and a server with wholesome and healthy foods.
WelcomHeritage Ashdale in Nainital
WelcomHeritage, India’s largest heritage hotel chain in India, added one more property to its existing portfolio – WelcomHeritage Ashdale in Nainital, launched recently. This old Manor from the British Era, built by the English as their summer residence is now owned by the Royalty of Sahaspur.
This 19th century bungalow has been renovated and refurbished to high standards and converted to a boutique hotel. It has 24 meticulously designed guest rooms with balconies and verandas, overlooking the greenery. The galleries adorn pictures full of history and the furniture stand to tell a story of a gracious lifestyle, not yet gone by. The property also has a multi cuisine restaurant – Green Oak, serving Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisines and a picturesque tennis court.
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
There are currently 500 Novotel hotels in 58 countries worldwide and Asia Pacific accounts for more than 143 properties. Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun is the first Novotel Hotels & Residences located in the heart of Seoul’s shopping district.
At Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun, ease and convenience are enhanced with the use of digital technologies including a mobile concierge and a smart phone which guests can use freely during their stay. The phone is pre-loaded with hotel information, maps, as well as call and message functions when they are out exploring the city. Back at the hotel, guests can scan QR codes assigned to each individual guest room and enjoy remote access to room controls and amenity service requests with the iStay app that can be downloaded to their own phone. A smart kiosk provides guests with useful hotel information including facilities, latest F&B and room promotions and a media wall that showcases a sketch of the Dongdaemun district. The hotel also offers an electric car recharging station.
The Sebel West Perth Aire Apartments
The Sebel West Perth Aire Apartments added 64 new studio apartment style rooms to Perth’s resurging accommodation market. The new hotel commands a prime position in West Perth, on the CBD fringe and is close to key tourist attractions including Perth Arena, Kings Park & Botanical Garden, and is accessible within 15 minutes by road from Perth International Airport. The Sebel occupies the first four levels of the 22-level Aire West Perth apartment tower. Resort-style amenities include a 22 m heated swimming pool, pool deck, fitness centre, sauna and outdoor dining area. The hotel has a fourth floor conference room and undercover car parking. Simon McGrath, chief operating officer, Pacific for AccorHotels, said, “The addition of The Sebel to West Perth comes at an exciting time as the city is readjusting from the mining-related activity with major investment in new tourism infrastructure such as the Perth stadium.”