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2023 hotel openings - our "can't wait to stay" list

2023 hotel openings - our "can't wait to stay" list

Exciting New Properties Opening in 2023

There are many brands opening new properties globally this year, as the worst of the global pandemic may be behind us. This is our ” bakers dozen” list of properties opening in 2023 that we are super excited about and can barely wait to book, listed in geographic regions.  With most of these, booking through Rewarding Travel can provide you with luxury perks (eg daily breakfast, room upgrade st availability...) at no additional cost.

It’s going to be a busy year…

1.  Raffles London at The OWO (2Q 2023)
An architectural masterpiece, the Old War Office on Whitehall (OWO) is undergoing a meticulous restoration to create the Raffles’s first UK hotel.  OWO dates back to 1906 and is famed for housing influential leaders. These include Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and John Profumo. It also inspired Ian Fleming to write the James Bond series after working here as a key liaison.
The landmark building has undergone a monumental transformation and now features 120 lavish guestrooms and suites, 85 spectacular private residences, 9 ultra-stylish restaurants and 3 bars, bars including one gracing the rooftop with views across The Mall on to Buckingham Palace.

 An exclusive Guerlain spa and member’s health club (a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, saunas and steam rooms ) by movement and nutrition experts Pillar will offer private memberships for locals in the know.

2. The Peninsula, London (May 2023)
Swish Hong Kong hotel group Peninsula – famed for its Rolls-Royce fleets, crisp-suited bellboys and want-for-nothing service – is finally landing in London. Located at one of the most prestigious addresses in the British capital, overlooking Hyde Park Corner and the Wellington Arch, The Peninsula London is bringing the best of British – culture, art, and cuisine – to this new build in Belgravia.

Expect Peninsua’s usual sleek and understated elegance in each of its 190 rooms, while several destination restaurants, a Peninsula Spa (including a 25m indoor pool ) and a grand ballroom are also on-site. The Peninsula London also features a one-storey shopping arcade, with nine retail shops housing international luxury brands keeping luxury style very close at this new central London location.

 3. Mandarin Oriental. Mayfair (2Q 2023)
The luxury hotel chain is expanding its presence in London with the opening of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London providing a smaller, more intimate sister property to the award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in nearby Knightsbridge. Situated on Hanover Square, Mayfair’s oldest square, the hotel will provide a calming, discreet sanctuary for hotel guests.

The property comprises 50 guestrooms and 78 private residences in the heart of Mayfair, one of London's most stylish neighbourhoods. Taking advantage of its world-class location within walking distance of London's admired fashion houses on Bond Street and the boutiques of Saville Row, as well as art galleries, the new hotel will offer guests and Fans of MO ( its loyalty program ) exclusive access and experiences from high fashion to art, culture, and dining. It will also house the first namesake Akira Back restaurant in the UK from Michelin Star award winning Chef Akira Back, as well as his 'ABar Lounge' concept. There will also be an urban spa, focussed on renewal and recalibration, featuring an indoor 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, vitality pool, relaxation room and a myriad of bespoke wellness treatments.

4. Adagio London Whitechapel (Late 2023)
For guests who desire the helpful services of a hotel and the freedom to live like a local in a neighbourhood apartment, Adagio offers an easy balance of both. Designed for longer stays, the 147 serviced apartments conveniently located on Whitechapel Road in East London will provide one or two-bedroom apartments, complete with kitchens.

5. 100 Princes Street  Edinburgh (August 2023)
Red Carnation Hotels’ group first Scottish property is to be 100 Princes Street, whose name is a nod to their illustrious address on one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets. The interiors – designed by the team behind Ashford Castle in Ireland – will be full-blown Scottish chic with custom-made tartan by Araminta Campbell, roaring fires and a central staircase with a hand-painted mural of Scottish explorers by Croxford and Saunders restoring the former Overseas League building to its former glory. There’ll be just 30 guest rooms, some looking to Edinburgh castle, and a staff ratio of 2:1, so you know service will be a priority.

6. Six Senses Rome (March 2023)
For their new Rome hotel, Six Senses painstakingly restored parts of a Roman 15th-century compound, including the exterior Renaissance facade and interior staircase. Architect Patricia Urquiola is masterminding the interiors - guest rooms feature traditional cocciopesto plasterwork, locally-sourced travertine limestones, and sun-drenched terraces. Located steps from the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, overlooking via del Corso, it is a great place to rest after a long day exploring the city. They currently have an opening offer, valid until 30th of April:- 15% off best flexible rate.- Includes: breakfast, upgrade upon availability, a welcome drink, use of Roman Baths, Sleep questionnaire, bedding and sleep tracker and access to their Earth Lab. From Deluxe Suite onwards receive a one-way Airport transfer as well and a 20-minute skin instant lab. Contact RewardingTravel for more details.

7. Bulgari, Rome
The eternal city’s hotel scene is seeing an injection of fresh style with new branches of Nobu Hotels and Six Senses, plus the boutique ROMEO, in a 16th century palazzo. But top of our must-visit list for OTT luxury is Bulgari Rome. This Italian brand owns hotels as far afield as Shanghai and Bali, but finally opens its flagship on home city turf this coming spring or summer. Set in a 1930s modernist building dripping in travertine marble and red brick, it’s sure to be the epitome of more-is-more Bulgari style with warm jewel tones, fabulous artwork and unashamedly luxurious suites.

8.  Anantara Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi. (April 2023)
Following extensive restoration and renovation works, the heritage hotel – occupying a 13th-century monastery and former Cappuccini Friars Convent – will be restored to its original glory. The historic 52 guest room and suite  property will reveal new-look accommodation, refreshed dining concepts and a completely redesigned spa, all perched on a clifftop 80 metres above sea level with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Coast.

9. Maison Delano Paris (Early 2023)
Located in the heart of the ultra-chic 8th Arrondissement, Maison Delano Paris is an oasis within the bustling city. Occupying an 18th century courtyard building at 4 Rue d’Anjou, this is a place to experience exceptional and exclusive culinary concepts by three-star Michelin Chef Dani García, a fresh perspective on wellness and hyper-exclusive curated moments.

10. COMO Le Montrachet (2Q 2023)
Fine wine plus a fine spa – what else do you need? Launching in picturesque Burgundian village Puligny-Montrachet , COMO Le Montrachet is the latest (and first French) property in the wellness-focused COMO resort group is a celebration of life’s good things. Spread across four 18th century stone buildings, serene contemporary suites will channel pure Gallic serenity; meanwhile the Shambala Retreat spa will turn out deep tissue massages and hydrating facials. The restaurant will come with a superb Burgundian wine list, of course. Prefer spirits? Look instead to another exciting French opening: La Nauve, a former cognac distillery turned hotel near the Charente river.  Teasingly Olivier Jolivet, CEO of the COMO Group has said that “ Besides Europe, we will also add a new luxury resort in the South Pacific to the portfolio next year.”  (ie 2024)
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The COMO Group is an international privately-owned company with long-term investments in the world of fashion, wellness, high-level sports and luxury hotels. The group also supports its philanthropic mission through the COMO Foundation. Its subsidiary, COMO Hotels and Resorts, includes 14 international properties. Destinations in APAC include Bali, the Maldives, Bhutan, Thailand and Australia. In the Americas, the group own and operate a private island in the Turks and Caicos. In Europe, The COMO Group operates two city hotels in London and a resort in Tuscany.

11. The Standard, Singapore (late 2023)
Opening right off Singapore’s famed Orchard Road is the Standard Singapore, which aims to enhance the city’s already vibrant cultural scene with its buzzy, night-life-focused brand. In addition to their 143 rooms will be a signature restaurant, an infinity pool, and a bar set within a botanical courtyard. The Standard prides itself on shaking up the establishment and defying convention to deliver a unique experience. The company says its careful consideration of design, detail and service has allowed it to "cultivate a reputation for irreverent and playful sensibility".

12. Capella Sydney (March 2023)
The first property for Capella Hotels and Resorts to open in Australia will be housed in a magnificent heritage-listed sandstone building, centrally located just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge Capella Sydney is all about contemporary luxury balanced with the historical Edwardian-Baroque features – grand soaring ceilings, marble-clad foyer – with contemporary design, international art and 70 species of local floral on a seven-metre-tall ‘green wall’ of this 100-year-old building. Guests will also be granted access to the private Living Room – a signature of Capella properties across the world. Here, local pros or Capella Culturists will be on hand to organise guest activities both in and outside the hotel.

Over eight levels, 192 guest rooms and suites feature walnut wood, natural stones and deluxe textiles with standalone tubs, custom Italian Frette linen and Haeckel’s amenities in the bathroom. Three ground-level bars and restaurants include Brasserie 1930 and McRae Bar is a modern rendition of a Victorian-era drinking den. On level six is an Aruga spa, fitness centre, yoga platform and 20-metre heated indoor swimming pool. While the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are all within walking distance.

13. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne (March 2023)
At the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, which promises to be Australia’s tallest hotel, check-in happens at the Sky Lobby, 80 floors above the city. All of the hotel’s high-rise rooms, spread across levels 63 to 79, will have stunning views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. 

 A sharp eye for design, and two highly respected chefs are set to be the calling cards of Australia's latest Ritz-Carlton, delivering local, seasonal and cutting-edge cuisine across the luxury hotel's culinary offering. The restaurant will sit a cool 80 floors above the CBD alongside the lobby, and below it will lie a holistic wellness spa that includes a heated indoor infinity pool, spa, sauna and yoga studio.  The 257 carefully appointed rooms will feature interiors with custom leather and velvet furniture, handmade glass panels and marble bathrooms with art works by local artists gracing the walls.



Exciting Renovated Properties that will Re-Open in 2023

Not quite "new" but having had significant renovations or refurbishments, these half-dozen properties are also on our list. 

1.  The Dorchester: London
The Dorchester has been a London icon for the last 90 years, and now it's slated to debut its largest renovation since the '80s next year. French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon is redesigning the hotel's entrance, promenade, guest rooms and suites, along with a new Cake & Flower boutique. The legendary Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is redesigning the famous cocktail bar, which is now dubbed Vesper Bar.

2.  The Royce Hotel, Melbourne (4Q 2023)
What do you want from your next trip to Melbourne: a culture hit or a dose of nature? At The Royce, sitting on the border of the CBD and South Yarra’s parklands, you can enjoy both. This 1920s gem is being restored to its art deco glory, complete with a 14-metre high marble fireplace in the lobby lounge and a two-metre wide chandelier. The name pays tribute to its former roles as Rolls Royce (Australia) HQ and major showroom.  
The latest refurbishment, which aims to immerse guests in glamour with its 94 guest rooms, a marble staircase and fireplace, 24-hour concierge, and a swanky bar. In the rooms, freestanding baths, Molton Brown amenities and botanical wallpaper will round out this trendy South Yarra spot.

3.  Le Meridien Melbourne (early 2023)
From its Bourke Street perch, Le Meridien Melbourne will bring a touch of French flair to the theatre district. Expect plenty of surprises behind the art deco façade including an immersive arts program, house-made gelato and a dazzling rooftop pool deck with views looking over Parliament House towards Fitzroy Gardens.  The Parliament end of Bourke Street will welcome back Le Méridien to Australian shores. Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s before going through lives as a cinema, nightclub and theatre, the building will return to its origins as a hotel for the first time in decades. The 235-room hotel is set to have expansive views over the Royal Botanic Gardens along with a rooftop pool deck.

4.  Fairmont Port Douglas
Port Douglas is where the rainforest meets the reef and luxury brand Fairmont promises that its new Port Douglas resort will immerse guests in the area’s spectacular nature.enabling them to  connect with nature amidst eco-friendly luxury.  Expect organic architecture, a treetop walk, and butterfly nets above the children’s swimming pool, as well as an operating philosophy focused on sustainability.

5.  Manly Pacific, Sydney
A seaside favourite gets a new lease of life courtesy of the MGallery Hotel Collection and designers Coco Republic, who have given Manly’s best-located hotel (right on the foreshore)  a five-star makeover. Apart from the spa and the rooftop pool, highlights include a French bistro and Tokyo Joe restaurant, featuring sushi, sashimi and more courtesy of an ex-Nobu chef..

6.  W Sydney (October 2023)
Darling Harbour’s distinctive new development has already attracted plenty of attention for its eye-catching architecture. It will become even more of a landmark once W Sydney opens with all the modern pizzazz of the W brand . With 585 stylish guest rooms and suites occupying 25 floors with spectacular Darling Harbour views and interiors inspired by the waterfront location (think powder blue tiles and deep circular tubs and stunning Sydney views) we expect this will be one of the city’s buzziest hotels. 
Forming part of the development that includes an IMAX theatre and a retail wing. W Sydney features a two-storey rooftop bar, Level 29 WET® Deck with a heated 30m infinity pool, AWAY® Spa, FIT gym, all-day restaurant, Living Room bar, 1300sqm of event space and direct access to Darling Harbour waterfront precinct, and links across Cockle Bay and Sydney’s International Convention Centre (ICC).). .


Accor Hotels just launched another partnership, this time with Qatar Airways.

Similar to the Miles + Points partnership with KLM/Air France Flying Blue , Accor with Qantas and other crossover programs (eg Marriott and  Emirates; Shangri-La and Singapore Airlines; Hyatt and American Airlines), you can now double dip on Accor hotel stays and Qatar Airways flights. Here are the details of the partnership and now to earn both Reward points and Avios.

Accor and Qatar Crossover partnership

Accor Hotels and Qatar Airways have already had a partnership, but now this partnership is being improved. Now, members of either loyalty program can earn both ALL Reward points and Qatar Avios on either flight and hotel bookings.

First, you need to link your ALL account with your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account. You can link your accounts either via Accor Hotels or Qatar Airways.

If you already took advantage of the ALL and Flying Blue partnership, you'll need to choose which airline you want to double dip with. You can only linked your ALL account to one airline at a time. If you linked your ALL account to Flying Blue in the past 12 months, you will need to wait until the end of 12 months before you can link to Qatar Airways.

Double-dipping between Accor Hotels and Qatar Airways

After you link your Accor Live Limitless and Qatar Airways Privilege Club accounts, you will start earning both ALL Reward points and Avios on your stays and flights:

  • For every US$2 spent on Qatar Airways flights, you will earn 1 ALL Reward point,  in addition to the Avios you earn on the flight.
  • For every €1 spent at Accor properties, you will earn 1 Avios in your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account,  in addition to the regular ALL Reward points earned for your stay.
Make sure to provide your applicable account membership number at booking or check-in to receive points and Avios.

Once you have accrued your Avios and Reward points, you can transfer from one program to the other:
  • Convert 4,500 Avios into 1,000 Reward points.
  • Minimum conversion: 2,000 Reward points = 1,000 Avios.

T&C's apply, including:
  • Members who do not have a Privilege Club membership account before linking accounts will need to take an extra step. You will only earn Avios on hotel activities after performing an international activity. That can be your first stay outside of the country of residence in your ALL loyalty program account or after your first flight on Qatar Airways (all of which are international).
  • All domestic stays within 12 months before the first international activity and after the account linkage will be retroactively rewarded with Avios. Avios earned retroactively on stays in a given year will be credited no later than December 31 of that same year.
  • To remain eligible for the accrual of Avios on eligible stays, the members will have to perform an international activity at least every 12 months.

Fast-track to Elite Status

The Accor and Qatar partnership includes a fast track to elite status in both rewards programs. Accor elite status members will earn Qatar Airways Privilege Club elite status after their first qualifying flight:
  • ALL Gold status members will receive Privilege Club Silver status;
  • ALL Platinum status members will receive Privilege Club Gold status.; and
  • ALL Diamond status members will receive Privilege Club Platinum status.
Conversely, Privilege Club elite status members will earn ALL elite status after your first qualifying hotel stay:
  • Privilege Club Gold status members will receive ALL Silver status.
  • Privilege Club Platinum status members will receive ALL Gold status.

These Fast Track offers are only available once. Your complimentary ALL elite status will be good until the end of the following calendar year. So, you have the incentive to try to get your status as close to the beginning of the year as you can. Complimentary Privilege Club elite statuses will be good 12 months after being received.

What does this mean for you?

This is another great partnership from Accor. Double-dipping on points is always a nice benefit and reciprocal elite status levels are also great, especially when you can earn Oneworld Emerald status with your ALL Diamond status.

Avios earned can also be transferred/used for other Avios programs (BA, Iberia etc.), which may suit for say short-haul rewards flights. 

But the ability to accrue rewards with Qatar, consistently rated as one of the world's best airlines, is an outstanding attraction of this new double-dipping program. Depending upon your flying patterns and the alliance program your preferred airline belongs to (Qatar and Qantas are both OneWorld, Air France/KLM is SkyTeam), this may very well be the best double-dipping program.

To learn more about the Accor Live Limitless rewards program... …

Accor marks its 400th hotel in Australia and the Pacific

Accor marks its 400th hotel in Australia and the Pacific

This milestone for Accor is part of its dynamic Pacific expansion, with 11 new hotels  set to open in next two years in Australia and New Zealand.

Just three decades after entering the Australia/Pacific hotel market, Accor has recently added its 400th hotel, with the launch of The Porter House Hotel - MGallery in Sydney.

Accor's first hotel in the region - Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour (1991) - was a catalyst for the redevelopment of Darling Harbour into Sydney's premier tourism, entertainment and events precinct, and the transformation of the iconic Porter House building into a luxury hotel is set to boost Sydney's CBD revival.

The opening of The Porter House Hotel is part of a large-scale expansion of Accor in the Pacific region, with 11 new hotels and 1,569 rooms scheduled to open before the end of 2023. They include the debut of the 25hours brand in Australia, new airport hotels at Melbourne Airport and Auckland Airport, and another heritage restoration in Sydney, Hotel Morris, which is being created out of the 1929-built former West End Hotel in Pitt Street.

Announcing the 400th hotel milestone, Accor Pacific CEO, Sarah Derry, said it was fitting to celebrate such a major landmark as the hotel industry accelerated towards a full post-pandemic recovery.


Each year Travel + Leisure magazine taps into its readership and invites thousands to complete a survey that rates airlines, spas, hotels, islands and more on many factors. The detailed survey evaluation results in its readers' rankings of the best hospitality has to offer from around the world.

Participants in the survey collected data from late October 2021 through to the end of February 2022. They rated (with a maximum score of 100) hotels, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, etc on numerous characteristics, with the option of rating excellent, above average, average, below average and poor. A minimum number of responses was necessary for a candidate to be eligible for Travel + Leisure‘s World’s Best Awards.

This year’s results spanned a whopping 120 categories among hotels, resorts and hospitality brands in cities, countries and regions globally; to spas, favourite global cities, and best islands, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters, airlines, car rental companies and National Parks.

Some key observations:

The overall winner was the super-luxury Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino. Rosewood also had 2 other properties in the top 100. 

Auberge and Shangri-La also both had 3 properties in the top 100.

The groups with the most properties in the top 100 both have Indian roots - Oberoi and Taj both had 6 properties in the list of top 100 hotels. 

While Preferred Hotels owns no hotels of its own, it markets (and offers a loyalty program) for 5 of the top 100 hotels (Pendry Chicago #25, Riggs Washington D.C. #31, Finca Cortesín Hotel Golf & Spa, Málaga #44, Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Lake Como, #53 and Rancho Santana – Tola, Nicaragua, #56). 

Multi-brand Marriott had 4 properties, while Capella, Hilton, Six Senses (IHG), Rocco Forte and Mandarin Oriental each had 2 properties rated in the top 100.


In terms of the Best 25 Hotel Brands in the World, the Accor stable rated very well, with 3 of its brands rated in the top 25 (Raffles #4, Sofitel Legend #6 and Banyan Tree #11). Global Hotels Alliance (GHA) also had 3 of its brands rated in the top 25 (Viceroy #10, Anantara #14 and Capella #17).  

Of the major, multi-brand chains, IHG (Six Senses #19), Hilton (St Regis #24) and Marriott (Luxury Collection #25) each had 1 brand in the top 25.

If you'd like to know more about any of the hotels or brands, our associated Travel Agency is a specialist advisor for Langham, Shangri-La. Rosewood, Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Raffles, Preferred Hotels, Hyatt, IHG, Conrad and St Regis - able to offer free perks like room upgrades and property credits when you book.


Our congratulations to Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco and all category winners. Far too many to list here entirely, so we list below a selection of the results:

100 Best Hotels in the World

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (99.25),
Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection (99.22),
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi (99.11),
Pickering House Inn, Wolfeboro (98.95) and
One&Only Reethi Rah (98.93).


25 Best Hotel Brands of the World

Oberoi Hotels & Resorts (97.50),
One&Only Resorts (96.20),
Oetker Collection (96.15),
Raffles Hotels & Resorts (95.5) and
Red Carnation Hotel Collection (95.32).


5 Best Resorts - South Pacific

Namale Resort & Spa, Savusavu, Fiji,
Conrad Bora Bora Nui,
St. Regis Bora Bora Resort,
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora,
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa.


Best Islands of the World

Ischia, Italy (94.61),
Maldives (94.44),
Bali (92.51),
Milos, Greece (92.50) and
Fiji Islands (92.38).


5 Best International Spas

Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico (95.76),
Sha Wellness Clinic, El Abir, Spain (95.20),
Therme di Saturnia (94.15),
Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa (93.26),
Chable Maroma, Punta Maroma, Mexico (89.90).


25 Best Cities in the World

Oaxaca, Mexico (92.96),
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (91.77),
Ubud, Indonesia (91.73),
Florence (91.06) and
Istanbul (90.97).


Best City Hotels - Europe

Hôtel Madame Rêve, Paris (98.73),
Rosewood Villa Magna, Madrid (98.67),
Portrait Firenze, Florence (98.25),
Raffles Istanbul (98.25) and
Shangri-La at the Shard, London (97.86).


Best City Hotels - Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific

The Langham, Melbourne (92.53),
Park Hyatt Sydney (90.40),
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney (88.30),
InterContinental Sydney (87.76) and
Shangri-La Sydney (86.40).


Best Islands - Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific

Fiji Islands (92.38),
Moorea, French Polynesia (90.24),
Bora Bora, French Polynesia (87.70),
Great Barrier Reef Islands (86.90) and
Tahiti, French Polynesia (83.33). …

Banyan Tree "Branches Out" With 4 Exciting New Properties In Japan

Banyan Tree "Branches Out" With 4 Exciting New Properties In Japan

Banyan Tree Group has announced its expansion into Japan with the introduction of four locations.  Two have already opened, with the others being rolled-out over the next few years.

Banyan Tree Holdings brands include Banyan Tree, Angsana, Cassia, Dhawa and Laguna. The group is well known throughout Asia for its luxury wellness and sustainable ethos, with beautiful villas and resorts, especially in beachside locations.

Members of Accor Live Limitless can use points to make bookings at select Banyan Tree properties.

Both members and non-members can access luxury perks when booking (non award) stays through our travel agency - Rewarding Travel.

Banyan Tree and Angsana are two of our favourite spa/wellness groups, so this expansion into urban and ski-field locations is particularly exciting!

Watch this space...


Opened on 17 June 2022:
Dhawa Yura Kyoto opened its doors on June 17 near Sanjo Ohashi, a bridge that was once the final station of the ancient Tokaido Road from Tokyo. The road served as a route for long-distance voyagers during the Edo period in Japan. The 138-room hotel’s historic ties are reflected in the interior design and artwork, besides an 8lement Spa. 

As the first opening under the group’s newest concept, Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto is a 25-room hotel that also opened on June 17. It is located in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in 1603 during the Tokugawa Shogunate. The new Garrya brand is a concept promising a Zen-like atmosphere along with a focus on well-being and sustainability at a more accessible price point. The first Garrya, the Garrya Huzhou Lucun, opened in Huzhou, China, in 2021, now accomp[anied by the Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto. 

Planned to open 2024:
Located in the Gion and Higashiyama district, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto will open in spring 2024 as a 52-room luxury, hilltop urban resort. It is touted to be the first and only hotel in Kyoto city to have a Noh stage. 

Planned to open 2025:
A newly built resort set to open in 2025 in the most popular ski resort destination of Japan, Cassia Hirafu in Niseko will be a stone’s throw from Hirafu ski slope. It will feature 50 rooms and 113 residences that will be available for sale.

Planned to open 2026:
Renowned for its hot spring and views of Mount Fuji, Banyan Tree Ashinoko Hakone is slated to open in 2026, in an area adjacent to Lake Ashino.

Accor's novel "floating hotel" combines luxury with QE2 history

Accor's novel "floating hotel" combines luxury with QE2 history

Accor's MGallery Hotel Collection is adding a novel property to its portfolio - the world-renowned cruise ship, Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2).

After Accor taking over operations from May 2022, the cruise ship will undergo further upgrades and renovations prior to joining the MGallery Hotel Collection. Once the renovation is completed, the new MGallery Queen Elizabeth 2 will feature 447 hotel rooms, nine food & beverage outlets, ten meeting rooms, 5,620sqm area for outdoor events, six retail outlets, a swimming pool and a gym.

Permanently berthed  in Dubai’s Port Rashid, the QE2’s location will in close proximity to Sheikh Zayed Road, providing easy connection to every main attraction the city has to offer. Dubai International Airport, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and La Mer Beach are all located less than 20 minutes away, while the Palm Jumeirah and Mall of the Emirates are located 35 and 29 minutes, respectively.

Presumably it will participate in Accor Live Limitless (the loyalty program), but I am yet to have that confirmed.

I'm also curious to know if it will retain the capability to sail again. If so, it would have the potential to be moved to another port/location, should the need ever arise.

A novel property that will contribute to the Dubai Urban Master plan 2049, providing a sustainable urban development while increasing the city attractiveness as a global destination. Guests will be able to enjoy a unique experience while conveniently located to all of Dubai's attractions.

I'm pencilling it in for my future Middle East tour.  

New Orient Express hotel in Venice | links to the Orient Express La Dolce Vita rail journey

New Orient Express hotel in Venice | links to the Orient Express La Dolce Vita rail journey

Late in 2021 (see article dated 10 December 2021), the Accor-owned Orient Express announced the launch of a new train service, offering travellers an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most beloved countries: Italy.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita will welcome its first travellers in 2023. Six trains will embark through several iconic itineraries across 14 regions and beyond, including three international destinations from Rome to Paris, Istanbul and Split.

A stopover in Rome will feature the very first Orient Express Hotel, Minerva, scheduled to open in 2024.

Orient Express has recently announced its second hotel in Italy, at the spectacular Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice, set to open in early 2024. A sample of its beautiful architectural detail is pictured.

Located just ten minutes from Venice's Santa Lucia train station, next to the Cannaregio shopping district, the Palazzo Donà Giovannelli is a treasured palace built in 1400 by architect Filippo Calendario, known for Venice’s famed Doge's Palace. The Orient Express Venice Hotel will be home to 45 rooms and suites, all overlooking the gardens and canals of Venice. The hotel bar will be located in the former piano nobile ballroom on the main floor of the building. Select terraces hidden on the hotel’s rooftops will offer the most beautiful views of the wonders of the Serenissima. 

As soon as the hotel opens, passengers on the Orient Express La Dolce Vita train will be able to disembark directly at the Venice Santa Lucia Station and reach the Orient Express Venice Hotel by foot or by boat. 


Accor today announced that it is accelerating its expansion in the all-inclusive market with the launch of its multi-branded All-Inclusive Collection – an expanded offering that builds upon the success and experience in the luxury-all-inclusive market gained over 20+ years under the Rixos brand (predominantly in Turkey, the Middle East and Central Asia).

Accor created the All-Inclusive Collection using not only Rixos properties, but by including its luxury and premium brands with Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Swissôtel and Mövenpick in the Collection. International expansion of the all-inclusive business will be centered in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Turkey, Asia, Central America and the Caribbean.

The Collection will initially focus on the further expansion of Rixos’ footprint to 50 properties in the network and pipeline and will scale and diversify as part of a longer term multi-branded strategy of having over 100 all-inclusive resorts in the next five years.

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha and Rixos Qetaifan Doha—which includes one of the world’s largest waterparks—will both open in time for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Swissôtel Sharm el Sheikh will open later this year as the first non-Rixos branded property in the All-Inclusive Collection; it will have 1,350 rooms, a water park, multiple dining, beach club and entertainment facilities.



The All-Inclusive Collection  will include new openings of Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha and the Rixos Qetaifan Doha, which includes one of the world’s largest waterparks. Both these resorts will open in time for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Also opening later in 2022 will be the first non-Rixos branded property in the collection - the Swissôtel Sharm el Sheikh.

Carefully curated entertainment programmes, for both day and evening activities, will play a central role, with spectacular shows and multiple sporting activities per resort accompanied by world-class spa and wellness facilities. This will be complemented by a breadth of restaurant, bar, beach club and nightlife concepts that will be inspired and led by Carte Blanched, with each venue providing diverse and culturally relevant cuisines and culinary experiences. 

Since the pandemic, there has been a substantial increase in demand for travel to All-inclusive resorts.Accor and Hyatt are 2 of the groups well-positioned to respond to this trend.

To learn more abour Accor's brands and loyalty program... …

Accor expands Australian footprint with new deal

Accor expands Australian footprint with new deal

Salter Brothers has announced that its portfolio of hotels, acquired as part of the recent Travelodge acquisition, will be joining the global hotel giant Accor at the start of the 2023 financial year.

The management agreement, which includes an industry-leading link to ESG outcomes, will see its hotels (2000+ rooms) rebranded to (budget brand) ibis Styles, Mercure and Novotel (mid-range) hotels when they join the 340+ Accor network of hotels, apartments and resorts across Australia.

The deal is Accor’s largest integration since its $1.2 billion acquisition of Mantra Group in 2018, which brought the Art Series, Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree brands under Accor.

Nine of the properties will become Mercure hotels, growing Mercure from 44 properties in Australia to 53, making Mercure the largest and fastest growing global mid-scale brand in Australia with more than 50 hotels.

Both Accor and Slater believe that the Australian travel market is starting to show very promising signs of recovery and the deal signals their confidence in the return of corporate travel.

We anticipate that all the properties will participate in the loyalty program, Accor Live Limitless.

Is Accor changing ALL status requirements ?

Is Accor changing ALL status requirements ?

It looks to me that Accor will be changing its qualification criteria for elite tier status levels.

The latest ALL T&C's dated 26 Jan 2022 show qualification based on either nights stayed or rewards points accumulated (Silver 2,000; Gold 7,000; Platinum 14,000 and Diamond 26,000).

However, the ALL members' site is currently showing the criteria as based on (the same number of) nights stayed or eligible spending (Silver €800, Gold €2,800; Platinum €5,600 and Diamond €10,400).

Since all tiers of members earn status points at the rate of points per €10 spent (eg 25 at say a Sofitel property), this will result in the same amount of spending required.

Why the subtle change? 

While all members receive the same earning rate at a particular property (no tier bonuses), not all properties have the same earning rate for status points (eg IBIS 12.5 or 10 for both Peppers and Mantra).

So for all members, a stay at a Peppers property would, for the same spend, earn 40% compared to the identical spend at a Sofitel property.

By changing the thresholds to spending rather than based on one of only 4 earning rates, this is much fairer to members, as the same spend provides the same tier status, regardless of which properties received the spending.  

If this change does come into effect, it is an improvement for Accor's ALL members. Bravo!

Sixt Car Rental - new points partner for Accor

Sixt Car Rental - new points partner for Accor

Car rental company Sixt and French hospitality giant Accor have just signed a points partnership deal, that will provide attractive benefits for members of  Accor's loyalty program ALL – worldwide and free of charge.

As part of the long-term collaboration, members of  ALL will be able to collect points when they book a rental car with Sixt, with packages of 200 to 500 points

Currently Accor also has a partnership with Europcar, where ALL members earn up to 1,000 points for every rental, plus get a 10-20% discount. 

So we will wait to see if both partnerships survive, or Sixt replaces Europcar.

World Ski Awards - Best of 2021

World Ski Awards - Best of 2021

World Ski Awards - the sister organisation of World Travel Awards  - has unveiled the winners of its ninth annual programme. The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading ski travel, tourism and hospitality brands.

A brief selection of the prize-winners (and their loyalty programs where relevant) is shown below.

  • World’s Best Ski Resort – Verbier, Switzerland
  • World’s Best Ski Hotel -  W Verbier, Switzerland (Marriott Bonvoy)
  • World’s Best Green Ski Hotel -  rocksresort, Switzerland
  • World’s Best Ski Chalet -  Chalet Zermatt Peak, Switzerland
  • World’s Best New Ski Chalet -  Chalet Face a Face, France
  • World’s Best Ski Tour Operator -  TUI
  • Australia’s Best Ski Resort - Thredbo
  • Australia’s Best Ski Hotel -  Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa Hotel (Accor ALL)
  • Canada’s Best Ski Resort – The Lake Louise Ski Resort
  • Canada’s Best Ski Hotel – Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside   (GHA Discovery)
  • France’s Best Ski Resort -  Val Thorens
  • Japan’s Best Ski Hotel – The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Hokkaido (Marriott Bonvoy)
  • New Zealand’s Best Ski Resort – Mount Hutt
  • New Zealand’s Best Ski Hotel -  The Rees Hotel , Queenstown
  • Norway’s Best Ski Hotel – Radisson Blu Resort, Trysil (Radisson Rewards)
  • Poland’s Best Ski Hotel  – Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences, Zakopane (Radisson Rewards)
  • Russia’s Best Ski Hotel –  Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi (non-participating in Accor ALL)
  • Slovakia’s Best Ski Hotel – Grand Hotel Kempinski, High Tatras   (GHA Discovery)
  • Slovenia’s Best Ski Hotel – Ramada Resort by Wyndham  (Wyndham Rewards)
  • Spain’s Best Boutique Ski Hotel – Melia Royal Tanau Boutique Hotel  (MeliaRewards)

Congratulations to all of the World Ski Awards 2021 prize-winners  !


Similar to the crossover program between Accor Live Limitless and Qantas Frequent Flyers, there is now a similar offer specifically for business owners.

Benefits include discounted flights and Qantas Club membership with Qantas and for Accor, discounted rooms, food & beverages at participating Accor properties in the APAC region.

Better yet, for a limited time there is a promotional offer where you can receive 5,000 bonus Qantas points when you join Accor Business Plus and Qantas Business Rewards. You can receive a further 5,000 Qantas points by making purchases.

You must purchase an Accor Business Plus between 17 January and 13 March 2022 to receive the bonus Qantas points. Other T&C's also apply.

This is a very attractive promotion if relevant to you. Like to learn more?  …

La Dolce Vita returns with Orient Express

La Dolce Vita returns with Orient Express

Soon, the Accor-owned Orient Express will launch a new train service, offering travellers an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most beloved countries: Italy.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita will welcome its first travellers in 2023. Six trains will embark through several iconic itineraries across 14 regions and beyond, including three international destinations from Rome to Paris, Istanbul and Split.

A stopover in Rome will feature the very first Orient Express Hotel, Minerva, scheduled to open in 2024.

The concept for the new Orient Express La Dolce Vita trains pay tribute to “La Dolce Vita,” a historical period of glamour, joie de vivre and artistic fervour in Italy during the 1960s.

The train’s sumptuous decor will adorn 12 deluxe cabins, 18 suites, and one honour suite and restaurant, all boldly celebrating the craftsmanship, design and creativity of the 1960-70s. (Pictured: Accor - Orient Express Deluxe Suite)

Before departure from the Roma Termini station, the Orient Express executive lounge will welcome passengers offering them a selection of refreshments in an elegant space, complete with dedicated services and staff to assist them.

On board, travellers will experience 5-star service, savoring award-winning Italian wines and exclusive haute cuisine curated In collaboration with local and international chefs and sommeliers.

The romance of Italy combining with the romance of luxury rail travel sounds like a winning combination to me.  To La Dolce Vita! 

Banyan Tree planning for growth

Banyan Tree planning for growth

Banyan Tree has unveiled plans to to double its footprint of 54 properties across 23 countries by 2025 with the introduction of 5 new brands launching in the next 18 months.

In 2022, the group will introduce the new Garrya, Homm and Folio brands, as well as two brand extensions of Banyan Tree named Veya and Escape.  Each of the 5 new brands to be released are responses to macro and regional trends such as a greater desire for well-being and sustainability-minded travel offerings.

In readiness, it has already opened 7 hotels so far this year, including:

  • last month's opening of the first Garrya Huzhou Lucun in China
  • the debut of Homm Bliss Southbeach Patong: and
  • a soft-opening of Banyan Tree Veya Phuket.
Four Garrya and two Homm have been signed in Asia with more in the pipeline.

This follows Banyan Tree Group this year signing 20 hotel management agreements worldwide including Benin, Mexico, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Thailand, China and Vietnam.

Banyan Tree has along-established reputation for luxurious spa and resort properties with an ethos of sustaianabilty and supporting local communities.  These new destinations will add exciting options.

Banyan Tree's ethos of sustainability started in 1994 when they transformed an ecological wasteland spoiled by waste from a nearby tin mine into a rejuvenated area with the first environmentally sensitive Banyan Tree resort.

Stays at Banyan Tree spas and resorts (which I highly recommend) can be either booked directly or via Accor (to receive ALL member benefits).
Accor is one of our advertisers and at no additional cost to you we may receive a small compensation if you use our link (with thanks).

Raffles Hotel London | Accor confirms opening late 2022

Raffles Hotel London | Accor confirms opening late 2022

Accor has confirmed Raffles London at the OWO will open toward the end of 2022.

A combined residential and grand new hotel in the landmark Grade II listed former Old War Office on Whitehall, are being completed in partnership with Hinduja Group, which has been passionately committed to the meticulous restoration of the heritage features of the building since 2016.

Hundreds of artisan craftspeople have been commissioned to restore the historic interior elements including delicate hand-laid mosaic floors, oak panelling, chandeliers and a magnificent marble staircase.

The building will open to the public for the first time, having undergone a transformation to create 120 rooms and suites, 85 unique branded residences and 11 destination restaurants and bars.

Located at one of London’s most historically significant addresses, originally completed in 1906 and designed by British architect William Young, it has stood witness to many world-shaping events. The likes of Sir Winston Churchill, Lord Haldane and the James Bond (is that his Aston Martin DB5 out front?) author Ian Fleming have all walked the corridors of what was the Ministry of Defence headquarters.

The OWO will be the first Raffles hotel in the UK and is located opposite Horse Guards, with views towards St James’s Park, and is moments from Downing Street and UNESCO world heritage sites: The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. 

It will have an extensive wellness space featuring world leading spa and fitness partners and will be home to a rooftop restaurant and bar with panoramic views across Whitehall, the Mall and on to Buckingham Palace.

I love when historic buildings are restored & repurposed so that their beauty can be appreciated by future generations.

Accor welcomes Hotel Belmont Vancouver into its MGallery Hotel Collection

Accor welcomes Hotel Belmont Vancouver into its MGallery Hotel Collection

Accor announced that effective today, December 1st, 2021, Hotel Belmont Vancouver (pictured) will join the Group  as the first Canadian property in the MGallery Hotel Collection of individual, boutique-styled hotels.

As part of the MGallery Hotel Collection, Hotel Belmont Vancouver will maintain its unique personality and bespoke design while also featuring some of the MGallery brand's markers such as memorable character, luxury, innovation, local art, and music.

The 5-story, 82-room boutique property features retro-modern design, upscale finishings, and curated art throughout. Hotel Belmont Vancouver has a glitzy past, famous in the city for hosting many performers over the years, including young crooner Michael Bublé at the start of his singing career. 

Another attractive option for Accor ALL members, it joins the other Accor properties in Vancouver of Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Pacific Rim, Fairmont Waterfront and Fairmont Vancouver Airport.

Find out more details on the Hotel Belmont Vancouver.    (advertiser) 

Accor Stadium - new name for Sydney's Stadium Australia

Accor Stadium - new name for Sydney's Stadium Australia

The iconic venue is recognisable from being the centrepiece of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

It has a capacity to hold concerts for 100,000 spectators (eg Adele, AC/DC, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift) and over 80,000 people for seated sporting events (such as National Rugby League Grand Finals, international Football games, and Bledisloe Cup and British & Irish Lions rugby Test matches).

Members of Accor’s global lifestyle loyalty programme, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, will receive exclusive access to ‘Limitless Experiences’, and more across Accor Stadium events.

A further boost to Accor's loyalty program members in Australia, who already benefit from specific APAC regional program benefits.

Accor announces new luxury hotels & resorts collection

Accor announces new luxury hotels & resorts collection

Accor yesterday introduced Emblems Collection, a global portfolio of boutique hotels and luxurious resorts.

The first property under the new brand is slated to open in December 2021 - Guiyang Art Centre Hotel, Emblems Collection - in the Guizhou province of China.

The luxury brand is expected to grow to 60 properties around the world by 2030.

“The hotels we will feature in Emblems Collection are those sought out by travellers who appreciate high-end, boutique-style experiences” said Sébastien Bazin, CEO of Accor.

Accor will encourage hotels under the new brand to retain their unique identities, which is important to hoteliers who have invested in creating a certain style for their hotel and/or market.


Looking forward to a staycation / city break?  Accor has a choice of over 100 hotels to choose from in Australia and New Zealand in their Black Friday sale.

Accor APAC Members receive early access to the sale.  Register & book before 25 November to get 30% off the price of their stay and earn 2X Reward points.  Accor Plus members receive an additional 10% off.

The member-only sale ends midnight on 25 November 2021, and public access starts 26 November and ends 1 December 2021.

Stays must be completed between 01 December 2021 &  28 February 2022.
.
Further T&C's apply. …

Accor & Qantas commence their dual earning alliance

Accor & Qantas commence their dual earning alliance

Today marked the launch of the "crossover" alliance between the Accor Live Limitless and Qantas Frequent Flyer programs. 

Under their agreement, you must be a member of both programs, then you can earn points under both programs:

1) from Qantas flights around the world if they hold at least either ALL Gold or QFF Platinum tier status;
2) from stays at Accor properties, regardless of tier status, but only for stays in the APAC region.

Learn more about the benefits for both ALL members & QFF members.

Accor extends ALL points expiry...another 12 months

Accor extends ALL points expiry...another 12 months

Accor has announced a further extension for the expiry of its ALL members points.

Back in March this year, ALL points expiry was extended to 15 December 2021.  Ths has now been further extended to 15 December 2022

This complements the tier status extension that was announced in October (also to December 2022).

A welcome development for Victorians, who have just come out of lockdown and in time for summer breaks.  Also for members in the Americas, where Accor's footprint is smaller and there is less opportunity to earn points to extend the life of accrued points.

Fairmont announces offers showcasing links between its sustainable properties & nature

Fairmont announces offers showcasing links between its sustainable properties & nature

Since its creation in 1907, Fairmont has developed magnificent destinations from the big city sights of New York to the spectacular landscape of Canada’s Rocky Mountains.

Fairmont was the first luxury hotel brand to adopt a global sustainability program (now incorporated into Accor’s dedicated program, Planet 21).  Today, Fairmont has a portfolio of over 80 properties where sustainable development has been a key element.  

With this campaign, the brand reveals breathtaking images that connect natural landscapes to Fairmont destinations in the desert, the mountains and tallgrass prairies.

Over the coming months, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts around the world will unveil “The Grandest of Escapes Exclusively by Fairmont” - a series of offers that through a series of "unique and exciting experiences that will breathe new life into adventurers’ souls and the need to reconnect with nature”.

Accor ALL members and Fairmont fans should keep their eyes peeled for future announcements…


Australian members of ALL can earn 3x the normal number of points when renting a car through Hertz.

Book before 30 November and rent before 15 December 2021 to enjoy:

* 15% off the base rental rate

* triple rewards points.

When you make your booking you must quote:

CDP code:   840267
PC code:     203530 and provide your ALL membership number.

Read more to go to the Hertz site to make your booking. …

Accor changes rules so ALL points are now easier to retain

Accor changes rules so ALL points are now easier to retain

Good news for Accor Live Limitless (ALL) members.

Now any points earned will extend the life of all your points.

Previously points expired after 365 days unless you had made an eligible stay or participated in the Accor Dining Offer.  

Points may be earned from stays, shopping with retailers on the Accor portal, using one of their partners' products (eg car rental with Europcar or Hertz) or dining in one of the many participating restaurants, bars and cafes.


Qantas announced plans on May 31st to giveaway a suite of mega prizes to Australians who get the COVID-19 vaccine, including unlimited travel for a year.  This is in addition to the announcement a week earlier that it would offer frequent flyer points along with travel vouchers and status credits to Australians who get inoculated.  It is understood the options being considered by Qantas include giving people who get both their two COVID-19 jabs up to 1000 frequent flyer points, flight vouchers towards domestic and international flights, and status credits, which allow people to move into high Frequent Flyer tiers.

Any reward would be available to people who had already received their jabs and the program would run until the end of 2021 when the vaccine rollout is due to be completed; the details are yet to be completed. Now, the national carrier has launched a further incentive scheme which it hopes will boost vaccination rates and help get state and international borders reopened permanently.

“We’re looking at having 10 mega-prizes, at least one for each state or territory, where a family of four can have unlimited free travel for a year on the Qantas and Jetstar networks,” CEO Alan Joyce revealed on Channel 7’s Sunrise program.

The trips would be in economy class and each of the ten winners.  “In addition to that, the Accor Group have come on board and they’re offering one million Accor Points, which gives free accommodation at 400 hotels and resorts across the country.”

Joyce said the program would launch in July, "will include anybody that has already been vaccinated (and) will apply to anybody that's vaccinated through to the end of 2021."

“We have a vested interest in this, we want to do everything we can to ensure the borders domestically open and stay open and that we get international up and running,” he explained.

The airline has consistently said that it will require all passengers to be vaccinated when it restarts international flights beyond New Zealand.

More Australians vaccinated means more potential travellers making bookings.

While the moves may not be entirely altruistic, I think both companies are to be commended for “putting their money where their mouth is” and not just relying on Government to provide support for the ailing sector.

It’s understood that vaccinated Australians will be able to claim their rewards and enter to win a mega-prize through the Qantas app from July.

Don’t be surprised to see if this coincides with the launch of the Qantas/Accor dual points earning (crossover) capability that was announced in November 2020 as part of a closer strategic relationship between the companies.  This too was scheduled to launch mid-2021 and will be the first partnership of its kind between an airline and hospitality group in the Asia Pacific region. …


Qantas and Accor have announced a deeper partnership that will see mutual members of their loyalty programs being able to double-dip for rewards points in the APAC region. 

The newly minted crossover feature is scheduled to launch mid-2021.

While similar to other crossover programs (eg Marriott and both Emirates and United; Shangri-La and Singapore Airlines; Hyatt and American Airlines), it will be the first partnership of its kind between an airline and hospitality group in the Asia Pacific region.

Will it be an attractive feature?  Read on for our thoughts.

…


There was an article in Le Figaro (later syndicated through Reuters) saying that Accor was looking closely at IHG with a view to takeover or merger.  How would that look ?  Where are the overlaps?  What might it mean for the respective programs of Accor Live Limitless and IHG Rewards Club? …