5 new hotels for your next vacation

In the evolving landscape of hospitality, no longer is it sufficient for hotels to merely offer a comfortable bed or panoramic views. Today’s travellers crave an authentic immersion, a deep dive into the culture, traditions and essence of their chosen destination. Stephenie Gee rounds up five new hotels rooted in their locales that are worth keeping in mind for your next vacation 

Alila Shanghai 

Newly opened in September, Alila Shanghai marks the brand’s first urban resort in China, offering a relaxing and nature-infused luxury retreat in the heart of Shanghai’s bustling Jing’an District. Alila, meaning “surprise” in Sanskrit, is known for creating inspiring experiences rooted in local culture and sustainability. The latter being central to Alila Shanghai. It’s the first hotel in China to use the Nordaq water-bottling system, replacing plastic bottles with reusable glass containers. The hotel also repurposes Nespresso coffee grounds as compost for organic produce used in its restaurants. Under the creative direction of Ju Bin, Alila Shanghai artfully balances the spirit of old Shanghai with a fresh, contemporary vibe. Inside the hotel’s 186 rooms, including 94 uniquely designed suites, guests will find Shanghai-inspired detailing like textured glass reminiscent of vintage window frames and bold flooring inspired by tiles from historic mansions. Spacious entry-level rooms measure 39 square metres and feature a generous lounge space, walk-in wardrobe, bar nook and dressing table area. For the ultimate indulgence, the 245-square-metre Penthouse Suite King located on the highest 37th floor comes with panoramic views of the Shanghai cityscape, as well as a striking marble-lined bathroom with an elliptical bath. 

Cheval Blanc Seychelles 

Luxury hospitality brand Cheval Blanc is set to open the doors to its sixth Cheval Blanc Maison in the Seychelles on December 1. Nestled along Mahé island’s Anse Intendance beach, the new location, 
designed by architect Jean-Michel Gathy, pays homage to Creole
traditions as well as its natural surroundings. The modern retreat
will house 52 villas, each complete with a private swimming pool
and sweeping views of the beachfront, hillside or tropical jungle.
Artistry will be celebrated across the property, with custom-made
pieces showcased throughout. On arrival, Centauresse, a sculpture by French artist Prune Nourry, rises from a pond amidst banyan trees, while the walls of each villa are marked by artwork by Malagasy artist Joël Andrianomearisoa. In one of the hotel’s restaurants, a glazed ceramic fresco by ceramist Maximilien Pellet recalls a convivial Etruscan banquet. The culinary experience at Cheval Blanc Seychelles will include Mizumi, a lakeside Asian restaurant; Vivamento, a vibrant pool-facing Italian eatery; and Mediterranean beach club Sula; as well as signature concepts including French restaurant Le 1947 and Le White. The forthcoming Seychelles Maison will also offer a collection of Guerlain well-being rituals at the Spa Cheval Blanc, along with a pool, fitness room, surf simulator, tennis courts and padel courts. 

Kai Okuhida 

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Northern Alps, Okuhida-Onsengo boasts an abundance of hot springs, cementing it as one of Japan’s premier destinations for thermal relaxation. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,200 metres, this scenic haven also offers a profound connection with nature’s seasonal transformations, presenting a vivid tapestry of colours and temperatures distinct from the lowlands. But despite serving as a gateway to renowned mountain attractions, Okuhida-Onsengo remains a tranquil gem. Embracing this serene ambiance, Kai Okuhida – the 24th property operated by Hoshino Resorts under the luxury hot-spring ryokan brand, Kai – provides a gateway to explore the splendour of Okuhida’s mountain hot springs while delving into the rich cultural tapestry of the Hida region. Blending modern architecture with exquisite local craftsmanship, the property invites guests to traverse walkways adorned with foot baths, meandering through courtyards and alleys, and embracing the flow of a traditional hot spring village. The rooms incorporate local elements, including headboards crafted using Hida’s renowned wood bending technique known as mageki, lacquerware wall art by Hida Shunkei, cushions in Hida dye, and expertly crafted furniture from Hida Sangyo. Of the 49 guest rooms, 28 boast outdoor hot-spring baths on their terraces. On the dining front, Kai Okuhida offers a kaiseki menu rich with local specialities like Hida beef, esteemed as one of Japan’s finest wagyu brands, ensconced in a unique tsuto wrapper of straw and lightly grilled. 

Also see: #travel: Top family-friendly hotels in Asia

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing 

Mandarin Oriental doubles its presence in China’s capital city with the new Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing. Set in the historic Central Axis complex – a traditional hutong neighbourhood listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site – it transforms the concept of a humble hutong into an exquisite sanctuary, seamlessly integrating the historic charm of these traditional alleys with modern, opulent comforts. The property is home to just 42 accommodations, each a spacious and luxuriously appointed courtyard house. Expect 24-hour on-call butler service, high-end amenities such as Frédéric
Malle bathroom products, Bose Bluetooth speakers and Dyson hair dryers, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in ample natural light. The culinary offerings at the hotel are equally impressive. Yan Garden, led by Michelin-starred chef Fei, serves Cantonese cuisine in a garden-inspired setting. There’s Tiao, a contemporary bar for innovative cocktails in a modern atmosphere. Vicini offers a relaxed dining experience with authentic regional Italian dishes. For tranquillity, Maple Lounge provides the finest teas in a serene courtyard, perfect
for unwinding after exploring the city. Each Mandarin Oriental holds its own ceremonial fan design – an identity unique to each hotel – and this swanky stay is no different. Designed by Chinese artist Xu Bing, the hotel’s signature fan draws on his trademark square character calligraphy, with the phrase “Unveil Beijing’s Soul” inscribed across it. 

The St. Regis On The Bund, Shanghai 

Unveiled as the brand’s 60th property globally and its second in Shanghai, this new St. Regis address weaves the brand’s timeless glamour and signature rituals into the vibrant tapestry of the iconic Bund area. A sophisticated collaboration between renowned designers Norman Foster and Heatherwick Studio, the exterior of the hotel sports a modern, boxy silhouette elegantly contrasted by a subdued copper colourway. Inside, you’ll find an Art Deco-style design language, reminiscent of Shanghai in the early 20th century, with intricate Su embroidery and delicate magnolia motifs. Adding to the artistic allure are the 72 original artworks from celebrated artists displayed throughout. That includes Ma Tianyu’s Legend of Shanghai and Shi Qi’s Splendid Orient. The 192 rooms, which include 13 expansive suites ranging from 118 to 288 square metres, adopt a similar sophistication, outfitted with thoughtful Shanghai- inspired details and luxurious touches. As with all St. Regis hotels, butler service is standard, which comes in handy if you need a garment pressed, are looking for restaurant recommendations and reservations, or just want a warming cup of tea before bed. 

Also see: Mandarin Oriental expands luxury offerings in North America with exclusive villas