Top 50 luxury hotels openings for 2020

1/12/2020

Multi-hotel stays, luxury urban spas, hotels as good as art museums, high-profile reopenings, instant bucket-list items, extreme locations, but also plenty of classic resorts and reliable destinations: our rundown of the hottest luxury hotel openings this year is here! See what will make the biggest waves in luxury travel in 2020.

Top 50 luxury hotels openings for 2020

1/ AMAN NEW YORK, NEW YORK, USA

We kick off with a very exciting opening from one of our favorite luxury resort chains : Aman Resorts. This resort-cum-spa is set to make a splash with its unveiling, and not only in the world of the Aman aficionados.

Located on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street and overlooking Central Park, the 83-room hotel will come with the trademark Aman Spa (spread on three floors and featuring a 25-meter swimming pool), two restaurants, Wine Library, subterranean Jazz Bar, and a Garden Terrace overlooking Central Park. All rooms will have working fireplaces and many will enjoy views of Central Park. The hotel will also offer 22 private Aman Residences, as well a single five-floor penthouse on the very top of the building, literally its gilded ‘crown’. The penthouse will have indoor and outdoor pools.

Opening: 2021.

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2/ SONEVA FUSHI, MALDIVES

This is not a new opening, strictly speaking, but the big news this year though is that Soneva Fushi is launching new overwater villas, in the style and level of luxury of its sister property Soneva Jani.

Opening: April 2020.

3/ WALDORF ASTORIA BALI, BALI, INDONESIA

Perched atop a cliff 40 meters above the sea level, the Waldorf Astoria’s debut on the island of Bali is set to turn heads in the competitive hospitality industry in Indonesia. And not only because of the stunning sea views. Spread over a 32-acre estate, the resort will offer 96 luxurious villas (ranging from one-bedroom to six-bedroom villas), as well as a destination spa and two fine-dining restaurants. There will be an outdoor sea-facing pool and a beach club too. Guests will also have access to a private beach.

Opening: 2020.

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4/ SIX SENSES SHAHARUT, ISRAEL

This highly-anticipated new resort from one of our favorite resort brands will be launching this year in a remote spot south of the Negev Desert, in Arava Valley. The Six Senses Shaharut will be inspired by the surrounding scenery. The design, using local stone and earthy color palettes, will integrate the property into the rock and sand of the site. Other than the 60 suites and pool villas, Shaharut will feature an expansive Six Senses Spa, a yoga studio and nail salon, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. Dining options will include an Israeli-Mediterranean restaurant, a poolside bar, and a tented Bedouin-style dining spot. Six Senses also promises unforgettable desert experiences, such as dune trekking or camping-under-the-stars with an overnight sleep.

Opening: Spring 2020.

5/ KISAWA SANCTUARY, BENGUERRA ISLAND, MOZAMBIQUE

Located on the tropical island of Benguerra, in Mozambique, on a large patch of wild forest, and facing beach and dunes at Kisawa Sanctuary, this unique luxury resort aims to set new standards in sustainable design and innovation. Commissioned specifically for this project, patented 3D sand-printing technology is used for the construction of the resort, with sand and seawater mortar as the main building materials. The design will blend innovation with tradition in using local weaving, thatching, carpentry, and textile methods.

Kisawa Sanctuary will feature twelve bungalows (from one to three bedrooms), and one sprawling “Kisawa Residence”. Each beachfront with have a private swimming pool and a massage hut. The resort facilities will include dining venues, beach clubs, a large swimming pool, a library, and a spa.

Opening : 2021.

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6/ ELANG, ANAMBAS ISLAND, INDONESIA

“Elang will be the second island with accommodations—a mini-Bawah. There will be six villas, […] plus a central area for dining, the island’s own infinity pool, and also an activity center and boat house” — Paul Robinson, Bawah Reserve COO

Opening 2020

7/ ALILA DALIT BAY SABAH, MALAYSIAN BORNEO

Malaysian Borneo is one of the most fascinating tropical destinations in the world, and relatively untouched by tourism. But now the Alila Hotels and Resorts will certainly put it on the map for discerning travelers.

Located on the island’s northern coast, Alila Dalit Bay Sabah will have a white-sand beach setting and eco-friendly approach, without sacrificing modern luxuries and comforts. The plans for 152 suites and bedrooms, multiple dining outlets, swimming pools as well as an outdoor wedding chapel reflect Alila’s ambition to launch a fully-fledged beachfront resort. 74 villas will be set aside for private ownership.

Opening: 2020.

8/ CAMP SARIKA BY AMANGIRI, UTAH, USA

The second entry from Aman Resorts on our list this year is Camp Sarika, a luxury tented retreat designed as an exclusive, in-the-wild desert experience. The 10 canvas-topped pavilions of the camp will be located a short distance away from Amangiri. Each will come with a heated private plunge pool and a spacious terrace with a fire pit.

Settled in an otherworldly landscape of towering mesas, slot canyons, and rust-colored sands, the camp will follow the concept of spaciousness and clean lines of Amangiri, creating a meditative luxury in the heart of the desert.

Opening : April 2020.

9/ MANDARIN ORIENTAL QIANMEN, BEIJING

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen launches with a serious delay, but their press office ensured us that it is definitely happening this year. This will be the second property launched in Beijing by Mandarin Oriental, following the Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing.

Positioned near Tiananmen Square, this new hotel will be located within the East Hutong Quarter and it will follow the architectural style and design patterns established by the traditions of the Hutongs. This medieval part of the city date back as far as the 13th century, and is made up of courtyard houses connected by narrow lanes and alleyways—and the Mandarin Oriental Qianmen design follows this template. Other than the luxurious courtyard suites, the hotel will have a range of facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, an all-day roof terrace eatery and other dining venues, and the Spa.

Opening: Late 2020.

10/ THE CHEDI KUDA VILLINGILI, MALDIVES

Only a thirty-minute speedboat ride separates The Chedi Kuda Villingili in the Maldives from Malé’s Velana International Airport. The resort will feature beach villas, some with a plunge pool, over-water villas, and double-height villas with a second floor (all units will be offered as residences for sale). Add extensive food & beverage facilities and Chedi-branded level of service and Kuda Villingili is well set up to become an ultimate island destination.

Opening: Late 2020

11/ ROSEWOOD SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL

This is the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ debut in South America, and it looks like a very confident addition to our Openings list. The development is heralded by some big names in the world of architecture and design, with award-winning architect Jean Nouvel, designer Philippe Starck, and artist Vik Muniz commissioned to turn the 100-year-old building in the heart of the city’s Cidade Matarazzo into a luxurious city resort.
Set on the premises of a historic hospital constructed in 1904, Rosewood São Paulo will comprise 151 rooms and 114 suites and will feature two restaurants, bar and caviar lounge, two swimming pools, a large spa, and fitness center, as well as extensive gardens.

Opening: 2021.

12/ ZANNIER BAI SAN HÔ, VIETNAM

Zannier Hotels—known for the very cool Cambodian Phum Baitang, and the Namibian newbies Omaanda and the tented camp Sonop—have chosen Vietnam as the destination for their newest opening.
Zannier Bai San Hô is set away from the mainstream tourist destinations. Located on a discrete peninsula, with a stunning coastal location and direct access to a kilometer-long beach, this luxurious resort will offer 71 villas, inspired by different architectural traditions of the region. Surrounded by lush hills and paddy fields, Bai San Hô will also feature three restaurants and two bars designed to instill different moods. There will be a variety of beach and water activities on offer as well, including scuba diving.

Opening: 2021.

13/ XIGERA SAFARI LODGE, OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA

One of the most interesting openings in Africa is Xigera, set to be one of Botswana’s most luxurious safari lodges. It is the newest from the family-run Red Carnation Hotels, which includes Ashford Castle in Ireland, and The Twelve Apostles and Bushmans Kloof in South Africa.
Xigera’s concept blends safari experience with fine art and contemporary design, and the incredible staff-to-guest ratio (105 staff for 24 guests) will ensure a new level of service and luxury. The architecture is inspired by an owl in flight. Twelve luxurious guest suites are suspended above the ground, and their design will mix in installation art and Bushman cave paintings. Carefully designed to not disturb the area’s rich flora and fauna, the lodge is planned to be 95 percent solar-powered.

Opening: Summer 2020.

14/ ONE&ONLY PORTONOVI, MONTENEGRO

One&Only Resorts—the brand behind the One&Only Reethi Rah, and the new wildlife lodge One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, in Rwanda—this year is focusing on a very different location. The picturesque Boka Bay in Montenegro will be the group’s first European resort, on the western coast of the Balkans. Set on the edge of the Adriatic Sea between the towering mountains and inky sea, Portonovi will be a wellness retreat and a spa resort, designed with around 140 rooms, villas, and residences, with a yacht marina as well. Other than the picturesque coastline, the nearby riviera escape of Tivat and the medieval town of Kotor will offer plenty to explore.
One&Only’s foray into the old continent will not stop with the resort in Montenegro. We are looking forward also to the launch of One&Only Kéa Island in Greece, penciled in to open in 2021.

Opening: 2021

15/ VILLA COPENHAGEN, COPENHAGEN, DENMARK

A conscious approach to luxury with an eco-friendly mindset is at the heart of Villa Copenhagen’s concept. Located within a former Central Post and Telegraph Head Office, next to the Tivoli Gardens, the hotel will have 390 rooms and suites, including one made entirely from sustainable and recycled materials. Local and international dining venues will be available as well, and beautiful interior gardens will add to the sense of wellbeing and sociability.

Opening: Spring 2020.

16/ FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BANGKOK AT CHAO PHRAYA RIVER, THAILAND

This new urban sanctuary from the esteemed luxury hotel brand Four Seasons is planned to occupy a prime spot along the riverfront of Chao Phraya River in the center of Thailand’s capital. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok wows with gardens, cascading waterfalls and mirror infinity pools, extending into the river below, in a series of integrated indoor and outdoor spaces. Designed by the architect Jean-Michel Gathy, the hotel will offer 299 rooms and suites, including many with garden terraces. The top accommodation will be an extraordinary, two-floor Presidential Suite. An extraordinary urban spa with two infinity pools overlooking the river will complete the suite of facilities, as will the BKK Social Club, a dramatic tropical entertainment space flanked by outdoor terraces.

Opening: Early 2020

17/ CHEVAL BLANC PARIS, FRANCE

We are very much looking forward to the unveiling of the Cheval Blanc Paris, planned to open in a coveted location next to Louvre. The hotel will be housed in La Samaritaine, not long ago a large department store filled with designer goods and chic boutiques. Now redesigned, the famous Art Deco building will house 36 rooms and 36 suites of Cheval Blanc, as well as a spa, swimming pool and a restaurant by a three-Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Donckele. A garden rooftop terrace will undoubtedly be a popular spot.

Opening: 2021.

18/ ONE&ONLY MANDARINA, MEXICO

Another entry on our list from One&Only is the Mandarina, located in a beachfront jungle in Mexico. The resort will offer a full spectrum of facilities and accommodation options. Fifty-three guest rooms will be split into three broad categories: Private Homes, Clifftop Villas, and Ocean Treehouses, offering expansive living spaces, private pools, and views towards the Pacific Ocean or dramatic mountains. The best among them will be the Villa Pacifico, which is designed to feel like its own private resort, thanks to two bedrooms, two swimming pools, and expansive terraces. The resort facilities will include Majahua Beach Club, numerous infinity pools, massage cabanas, bars, and restaurants, including the clifftop-positioned The Point—a perfect place to enjoy the Mexican sunset.

Opening: 2021

19/ THE RITZ-CARLTON, MEXICO CITY, MEXICO

The Ritz-Carlton Mexico City is a significant milestone for Ritz-Carlton in the Caribbean and Latin America, representing its entrée into one of the region’s most prominent cities. The resort offers beautiful views of Chapultepec Park and provides a full range of facilities, including a Club Lounge, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, as well as a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool. The 153 rooms and private residences of Ritz-Carlton are spread across floors 36 to 47 of a striking, 58-floor high building, situated in the heart of the financial center of Mexico City.

Opening: Summer 2020.

20/ SIX SENSES KOCATAS MANSIONS, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Six Senses Kocataş Mansions is the brand’s second opening in Turkey, following Six Senses Kaplankaya. Kocataş is already operating after soft-launch in November 2019, and the hotel will be fully operational in Spring 2020.

Located in the Sariyer district, on Istanbul’s European side, this 45-key hotel occupies two 19th-century mansions: Kocatas and Sait Pasa. Both were exquisitely restored, following two decades of neglect, itself a consequence of a devastating fire. Renovated and brought back to their former glory, the interiors fuse the imperial style of 19th Century Istanbul with the signature chic luxury of Six Senses. With uninterrupted views of the Bosporus River, the hotel will also offer three restaurants and an outing of Six Senses Spa.

Opening : Spring 2020

21/ AIRELLES CHÂTEAU DE VERSAILLES, LE GRAND CONTRÔLE, FRANCE

Airelles Collection, known for uber-luxe French properties such as La Bastide de Gordes, is opening a 14-room property in a coveted location on the grounds of the Château de Versailles. In fact, it’s the only hotel residing withing the palace boundaries—and, according to Airelles, the guests will be offered exclusive access and experiences at the Château de Versailles, after hours.
Housed in Pièce d’Eau des Suisses, a grand building dating from the late seventeenth century and overlooking the Orangerie, this luxurious new property will be transformed into a swanky hotel with 18th-century-style decor, but very much 21st-century facilities. This exclusive hotel will also offer a wellness center with an indoor pool and an Alain Ducasse restaurant.

Opening: 2021.

22/ KRUGER SHALATI, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AFRICA

This is as special a hotel as they get. Permanently stationed on a bridge above the Sabie River in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, The Shalati is a vintage train, designed to recall the age of the classic luxury travel. It celebrates the long heritage of one of the oldest parks on the continent, and one of Africa’s largest game reserves—and reviving the first train journeys on the continent. The early visitors to the park would park overnight in the exact spot where Kruger Shalati is set to be positioned—high above the riverbanks, with views stretching along the length of the majestic river.

The hotel will have 31 glass-walled rooms (24 of them in the carriages and 7 in the Bridge House), as well as a deck with swimming pool, perched on the bridge, offering a swimming experience above the river populated by crocodiles and hippos, and visited by buffalos and elephants.

Opening: first quarter of 2020.

23/ COMO COCOA ISLAND, MALDIVES

The intimate Maldivian resort of COMO Cocoa Island will be reopening after a seven-month transformation, during which the resort significantly expanded its wellness center, and had all villas refurbished and many enhanced with brand new private swimming pools.
A new Pilates studio, state-of-the-art gym, and yoga studio with 360-degree views of the island were also added. But the resort has stayed true to the essentials of the Coco Island experience, with the away-from-it-all concept, in which barefoot walks on the beach are what you really come here for.

Reopen on January 9th 2020.

24/ SIX SENSES NEW YORK, USA

NYC is a hit with new hotel openings this year. Six Senses is jumping on the action, with the launch of what looks to be their most swanky urban resort yet. The new Six Senses New York will be housed in two unique, twisted-on-axes skyscrapers, located near the High Line, and looking out to Hudson River. The hotel will feature two restaurants, a private member’s club, and—our favorite—Six Senses Spa, reflecting the brand’s approach to wellness. Guestrooms and suites will be designed like contemporary penthouses, offering every modern convenience and luxury. Behind the design of the interiors is the celebrated Parisian firm Gilles & Boissier.

Opening: 2021

26/ CASA COOK SA TORRE, MALLORCA, SPAIN

Following the success of the chic, down-to-earth resorts popping up in the Mediterranean basin (Casa Cook Rhodes and Casa Cook Kos in Greece, or recently opened Casa Cook El Gouna in Egypt), the latest addition to the small but growing portfolio of Casa Cook will be Sa Torre, a boutique hotel located in the middle of the Mallorcan countryside farmlands.
The company took over an older property with the aim of transforming it into a rural retreat flanked by a 15th-century windmill and a private neo-Gothic chapel. The buildings of Casa Cook Sa Torre trace their origin as far as the 14th century, as evidenced in old archways and vaulted ceilings, stone flooring, and cobblestoned alleys. For the launch of the hotel, the site has been seriously refurbished, with contemporary design bringing the signature Casa Cook style to this heritage location. Expect rattan cane furniture, worn leather, and recycled wood, with earthy tones contrasted against dark charcoal elements. Every room will be unique, some with cute balconettes, some with views over the lush Mediterranean gardens.

Opening: Spring 2020.

27/ ALILA HINU BAY, SALALAH, OMAN

We have checked directly with the Alila press office, to confirm if Alila Hinu Bay resort will be ready for a launch in 2020 (the answer is: yes), as we are keen to discover how the minimalist design from Alila would fare in Salalah. Alila Hinu Bay will bring a contemporary fusion of local architectural traditions with modern aesthetic sensibility. The resort will offer 120 private suites and 25 villas, alongside several dining venues, a Spa Alila and a diving center.

Opening: 2020.

28/ MANDARIN ORIENTAL SAIGON, VIETNAM

Mandarin Oriental Saigon will be housed in the Union Square Saigon building in the heart of the city, currently under renovation. This new city hotel will occupy the upper floors of this commercial property, with other parts taken over by luxury retail boutiques and other businesses. The hotel will have 227 rooms and suites, as many as six restaurants and bars, and conference and banquet spaces. A well-equipped fitness center, a spa, and an outdoor swimming pool will complete the offering.

Opening: 2020.

29/ HOTEL CASTELLO DI RESCHIO, UMBRIA, ITALY

There are plenty of unique developments on our list this year, but a location in a 10th-century castle must be one of the most romantic ones. The renovated Castello di Reschio in Umbria is the setting of a beautiful, 36-bedroom hotel, surrounded by the classic landscape of rolling hills peppered by the tall Cypress trees. The enchanting, centuries-old stone farmhouses, house guest rooms exquisitely decorated with vintage furniture and period objects.
The hotel will also feature a homemade-style restaurant, a private swimming pool, and a tennis court. The surrounding countryside will offer a lot of opportunities to explore, also on horseback.

Opening: 2021.

30/ AZURA MARLIN BEACH, BENGUERRA ISLAND, MOZAMBIQUE

Azura Marlin Beach is scheduled to open on a kilometer-long stretch of white beach in the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park.

Following the acquisition of an older property (Marlin Lodge, ruined after a fire), Azura has taken on the project and after a complete refurbishment, it will re-establish the place as a new five-star boutique hotel. Eventually, the resort will have 20 villas and rooms, which will include a two-bedroom family villa with a swimming pool and nine individual beachfront villas. The stay here can be easily combined with the sister property Azura Benguerra Island.

Opening: Summer 2020.

31/ JACK’S CAMP, BOTSWANA

After decades of setting the standard for safari luxury in the Kalahari desert, Jack’s Camp will reopen following a complete refurbishment. The guest tents will be rebuilt and made bigger (double what they used to be), but their beautiful interiors will still pay homage to the classic 1940s safari style. They will be enhanced by new features and comforts, such as new furniture, wood-burning stoves, and overhead cooling systems. The ensuite bathrooms will be equipped with indoor and outdoor showers, and each outdoor veranda will have a new private plunge pool as well.
Other camp facilities will be new or refreshed. The swimming pool pavilion will have a sun deck, and a brand new, dedicated spa tent will be a welcome addition. The camp will be greener as well, and it will run exclusively on Tesla solar power.

Opening: May 2020.

32/ CAN FERRERETA, MALLORCA, SPAIN

The creative team behind the art-filled, neoclassical Sant Francesc Hotel Singular in Palma headed to the rural town of Santanyí in the southeast of Mallorca for their second venture, Can Ferrereta. It is another beautiful heritage property restoration on this list, this time of a 17th-century building. The meticulously crafted rooms and suites (31 of them) will be filled with intriguing Spanish art from the owners’ private collection, and many will feature private patios and terraces. The hotel’s signature suite will have a private swimming pool. Adding to the allure of the place will be also verdant gardens, a beautifully designed spa with hammam and indoor pool, two bars, and a Mediterranean restaurant serving seasonal dishes.

Opening: Spring 2020.

33/ ONE&ONLY DESARU COAST, MALAYSIA

Desaru Coast will be One&Only’s first development in Malaysia. Positioned as a lavish destination resort, the property will be spread on a sizeable chunk of beachfront land, and will offer 42 suites and 50 private villa residences. The award-winning firm Kerry Hill Architects are realizing the vision of the resort as a modern reincarnation of a traditional Kampung (village), making it part of the stunning landscape.

Opening: March 2020

34/ BVLGARI HOTEL PARIS, FRANCE

It’s not easy to make a splash in a city known for the highest standards of luxury in its booming hospitality industry, but the Bvlgari Hotel Paris might just manage to do the trick. The Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts style has always had an undertone of lavish luxury, rich in marble and expensive fabrics, and the eighth hotel in the group’s portfolio will follow the template, with the Hausmann twist.

With the prestigious address of 30 Avenue George V (within the Triangle d’Or, the city’s most exclusive area with luxury shopping and entertainment), the hotel will feature 76 rooms, a spa with a 25-meter pool, a bar, and a Bvlgari restaurant and courtyard garden. The design firms commissioned with turning the historic building into a five-star hotel are the Italian architectural studio Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Parisian firm Valode & Pistre.

Opening: 2021.

35/ JUMEIRAH BALI, ULUWATU, BALI, INDONESIA

We are reminded of our trips to the amazing Bali—and are always on the lookout for a good excuse to visit again. One such excuse might be the new resort from Jumeirah, scheduled to open early this year on the southern tip of Jimbaran. The resort will be made up of around 80 hotel suites and 25 villas, with three dining outlets, a fitness center, and a clifftop wedding venue, ensuring a fully realized beach holiday stay. The resort’s tropical villas are designed to utilize greenery and water, combining contemporary comfort with cultural heritage in the exclusive style of Jumeirah.

Opening: Early 2020.

36/ THE WESTBUND HOTEL SHANGHAI, CHINA

This new opening in Shanghai’s Xuhui District aims to appeal to the sophisticated tastes of one of the most cosmopolitan urban centers in China. Housed within the top floors of a 52-floor skyscraper, and featuring 219 rooms, the Westbund Hotel Shanghai will also offer spa facilities with a 25-meter infinity pool, as well as restaurants, cocktail bars and a rooftop Sky Bar with an outdoor terrace. Among the dining venues will be also an English tea room, modeled on the group’s Brown’s Hotel in London. True to the international nature of the city, the interiors will draw on Chinese art and Eastern aesthetics, with Western-born, 21st-century luxury.

Opening: 2020.

37/ VILLA IGIEA, A ROCCO FORTE HOTEL, PALERMO, ITALY

Villa Igiea is a former retreat of royalty and celebrities, located in a prime spot overlooking the Gulf of Palermo. This historic Art Nouveau palazzo is undergoing fundamental restoration work, and upon its completion, it will open as a five-star Rocco Forte Hotel. Expect timeless 1900s Belle Époque splendor, meticulously restored to its former glory, blended with modern luxury in the 104 rooms and suites. Villa Igiea will be Rocco Forte’s second property in Sicily, complementing Verdura Resort, located on the coast.

Opening: June 2020.

38/ FOUR SEASONS HOTEL TOKYO AT OTEMACHI, JAPAN

Tokyo is a hot destination this year, for a good reason, as the Summer Olympics will take place in the city in July and August 2020. And the hospitality industry is reinvigorated by the event.

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi will be located in the financial heart of the city, and designed by one of the hottest architects, Jean-Michel Gathy. The hotel will occupy the top six floors of a 39-story building, and its floor-to-ceiling windows will permit stunning city views from every guest room. The 193-key hotel will wow with urban luxury and a top-floor spa (with a 25-meter pool) set to become a leading wellness destination. A very extensive events space with a ballroom, as well as dining options (including a Paris-inspired destination bar), will complete the full range of facilities. This is Four Seasons’ second opening in Tokyo, after Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi.

Opening: 2020.

39/ SIX SENSES BUMTHANG, BHUTAN

The idea behind the Six Senses offering in Bhutan is that rather than a single resort, it is a journey, designed to showcase the magical Kingdom of Bhutan on an expedition between five small lodges. Six Senses Thimphu, Six Senses Punakha, Six Senses Paro, and Six Senses Gangtey are already operational, and this year’s launch of Six Senses Bumthang will complete the portfolio.
The final lodge is located in the region of Bumthang, famous for the 17th-century Jakar Dzong fortress and Tamzhing Lhundrup Lhakhang, regarded as the most beautiful ancient temple in Bhutan. The new Six Senses property will feature timber walls, upcycled furniture and huge windows framing heart-stopping views.

Opening: Spring 2020.

40/ KALESMA, MYKONOS, GREECE

In 2020, the luxury boutique hotel scene in Mykonos will be enriched by the opening of Kalesma, in Ornos Bay. This charming, all-suite property, created to resemble a whitewashed village, will be located a short walk from the beach and will feature two luxury villas in addition to its suites, as well as a restaurant. It will be the first hotel on the island with every single room equipped with its own private swimming pool.

Opening: June 2020.

41/ ALAMAYAH, SUMBA, INDONESIA

Alamayah will be a five-star boutique retreat, comprising only six private suites. Each will have king-size beds, outdoor terraces with beautiful views of the surrounding jungle and beaches, private dining areas, and en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers.
The resort will be located in a beachside village in the region of Sumba, some two-hour drive from Sumba’s Tamboloka Airport. Alamayah’s concept of wellness is reflected in its name, first of all, a combination of alam (“nature”) with mayah (“grandmother”). Second of all, in a range of spa, fitness and yoga experiences, and health-focused dining. The all-inclusive experience includes a “healer’s body analysis” and daily spa treatments.

Opening: April 2020.

42/ NOMAD, LONDON

The fourth property from NoMad (after hotels in New York and Los Angeles) is also the company’s first foray outside of the United States. It will introduce its special blend of comfort and understated elegance to London, in the heart of Covent Garden. The hotel is taking over a listed building, previously The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station—and its concept will weave in the history of the place as an integral part of its DNA. Reimagined as a hotel with space for private events, the building will also host a small museum with rotating exhibitions honoring the history of the Metropolitan Police Force. The 91 rooms and suites will also have much of the original architecture preserved and incorporated into the design, thanks to the New York-based interior design firm Roman & Williams.

Opening: 2021

43/ SIX SENSES FORT BARWARA, INDIA

This very ambitious project from Six Senses is centered around a careful restoration of a 14-century fort. The fort’s three palaces and two temples will be brought back to their former glory, providing a chance to experience the life of Rajasthan royalty. Located some three hours by car from Jaipur, the Barwara will house a gorgeous luxury hotel with the highest standards of service, and its features will include two swimming pools, two restaurants, and the outpost of the Six Senses Spa.

Opening: 2020.

44/ THE ORIENT EXPRESS MAHANAKHON, BANGKOK, THAILAND

The history of this hotel is a little complicated already. It appeared on our previous lists, except then it was being planned as The Bangkok Edition hotel. But now the tallest building in Bangkok (also known as the “Pixel Tower”, with Thailand’s highest observation deck, the Mahanakhon Skywalk) will be the host to the Orient Express hotel. It will have 154 rooms and 9 suites, and an entire floor dedicated to wellness, with the Orient Express Spa by Guerlain, and an outdoor swimming pool. The property will also feature two signature restaurants, and a rooftop dining area with bar, on Level 76. The hotel’s Art Deco interiors were developed by French interior designer Tristan Auer.

Opening: Summer 2020.

45/ HABITAS NAMIBIA, NAMIBIA

“Namibia is one of the most incredible unknown destinations in the world and we wanted to challenge the traditional concept of what it meant to go on safari and to engage with the environment and culture.” — Oliver Ripley, CEO of Habitas

The lifestyle Habitas brand, which started with the chic Habitas Tulum hotel in Mexico, has some pretty aggressive expansion plans, which include properties in San Miguel de Allende, Todos Santos, Bhutan—but the most interesting among them is the opening in Namibia. Habitas Namibia will be situated on the outskirts of Windhoek, in a large private reserve, and is planned to have 40 private guest suites, Spa, education and learning center, and conference facility. Each accommodation unit is referred to as a “custom-built private lodge”, and will come with outdoor and indoor showers, private viewing decks with their own telescopes for stargazing.

Opening: January 2020.

46/ THE LONDONER, LONDON, ENGLAND

The Londoner is doing something interesting with the concept of the “boutique” hotel—it is trying to maintain the atmosphere, sensibility, and personalized look of a small and independent property, but in a much larger scale. They even gave the concept a name: Super Boutique Hotel.

The luxe aesthetic of the hotel, the work of Yabu Pushelberg studio, will do some work at least towards making this idea work. The eight-story hotel will have as many as 350 guest rooms, including 15 suites and a tower penthouse. All will sport floor-to-ceiling windows for the maximum light, and views. A rooftop terrace will feature a contemporary Japanese lounge bar with a terrace and fire pit. But space is at a premium in London’s Leicester Square, and the hotel will also have six stories below ground, making it one of the deepest public buildings in the world. A number of restaurants and concept eateries, bars, leisure facilities, as well as two onsite cinemas will be housed there.

Opening: June 2020.

47/ FOUR SEASONS HOTEL MADRID, MADRID, SPAIN

The Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is designed to put its guests at the heart of everything that makes Madrid cosmopolitan. The city is welcoming and full of energy, with a long history underscoring its vibrant moods. This new hotel, housed in a historic landmark building, aims to redefine elegance and urban luxury. The Four Seasons Hotel Madrid will consist of 200 rooms and suites, three sophisticated restaurants and bars (including an expansive roof terrace), a cutting-edge Spa, as well as events and luxury retail boutique spaces.

Opening: Early 2020

48/ THE ST. REGIS DUBAI, THE PALM, DUBAI, UAE

Located on the famous artificial Palm Island of Dubai, The St. Regis brings its signature style, service and brand of luxury to the UAE. The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm will be a property of 289 guestrooms and suites, located on the first 18 floors of Palm Tower, with the remaining upper floors comprising of 504 luxury apartments. The hotel will also have two swimming pools—one of them touted as one of the highest-positioned infinity pools in the world (on the 50th floor, and 210 meters above ground—with astonishing views to match).

Opening: 2020.

49/ LA MAMOUNIA, MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

La Mamounia is a legendary hotel dating back to 1923, but this year it is set for a major renovation. The refurbishment will include a full overhaul of the dining venues and structural improvements to the rooms and public areas.
The new look of the property promises to enhance La Mamounia with a contemporary design, and yet keeping true to the heritage and traditions for which this grand dame of Moroccan hotels is recognized. The refurbishment will be lead by the Parisian firm Jouin Manku.

“We look forward to the challenge that will see La Mamounia refurbished, both as representative of the current day and as a 95-year-old property that has maintained its charm and heritage through the decades” — Pierre Jochem, GM of La Mamounia

Opening : September 1, 2020.

50/ ANANTARA MINA AL ARAB RAS AL KHAIMAH RESORT, UAE

Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost emirate of the UAE, known for stunning Arabian Gulf beaches, and located only some 45 minutes by car from Dubai. And it’s the location selected by Anantara for its newest 300-room resort, with overwater luxury villas in a Maldivian island resort style. The Anantara resort will occupy parts of the brand new Mina Al Arab luxury development, with marina and waterfront cafes and boutiques. Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah is the newest opening from this well-respected hotel brand, following the launch of the Anantara Tozeur Resort in Tunisia.

Opening : Late 2020.

NEW LUXURY HOTEL OPENINGS 2020 : AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST

Fairmont Marina Abu Dhabi, UAE.
SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Dubai, UAE. This will be one of the tallest hotels in the city when it opens in the third quarter of 2020?
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay, Doha. Qatar.
Zulal Wellness Resort, Qatar. Late in the year.
Jumeirah Muscat Bay, Muscat, Oman. Early in 2020.
Shangri-La Hotel Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Nobu Hotel Tel Aviv, Israel. Late 2020 (image below, middle).
Arthaus Gemmayze, Beirut, Lebanon. February.
The St. Regis Cairo, Cairo, Egypt. June.
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar es Salam, Morocco.
Anantara Al Houara Tangier Resort, Morocco. Late 2020.
Fairmont Taghazout Bay Resort, Morocco.
Marasa Umubano, Kigali, Rwanda. Early in 2020 (image below left).
Pioneers Lodge, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. April.
Chisa Busanga Camp (“The Nest”), Zambia. Opening June.
Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Tanzania. Relaunching in June, following refurbishment. The redesign will tone down the opulence, bringing interiors closer to the “Out of Africa” chic.

NEW LUXURY HOTEL OPENINGS 2020 : ASIA & PACIFIC

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives debuts redesigned villas.
Avani Fares Maldives Resort, Maldives. Opening late 2020.
Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore, Singapore. Soft opening Q2 2020.
Waldorf Astoria Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia.
Shangri-La’s Bali Resort & Spa, The Maj Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia.
Intercontinental Yao Yai Resort, Thailand.
Shangri-La Hotel Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Angsana Siem Reap, Siem Riep, Cambodia. Opening Q1 2020.
The Chedi Mumbai, India.
Harding Boutique Hotel, Sri Lanka. Early in 2020.
Hoshinoya Okinawa, Japan. April.
Ritz-Carlton Nikko, Japan. Opening in May.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, Japan. Opening in January.
Fusion Suites Vung Tau, near Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Waldorf Astoria Sanya, Haitang Bay, China.
W Chengdu, China. March.
The Ritz-Carlton Nanjing, China. May.
Sequoia, Adelaide, Australia. Opening: September.
The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart, Australia. September.
Park Hyatt Auckland, New Zealand. Opening early 2020.

NEW LUXURY HOTEL OPENINGS 2020 : AMERICAS

The Lake House on Canandaigua, New York, USA. Summer.
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero, San Francisco, USA.
Four Seasons Resort & Residences Napa Valley, California, USA.
Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences – Riviera Beach, Florida, USA. Early in 2020.
Pendry West Hollywood, West Hollywood, California, USA. Summer.
White Elephant, Palm Beach, Florida, USA. Early in 2020.
Fairmont San Jose, California, USA. Early in 2020.
Andaz Palm Springs, California, USA. Late 2020.
W Nashville, USA. Opening in November.
W Philadelphia, USA. Scheduled for June (image below, middle).
Montage Healdsburg, California, USA. Late 2020.
Thompson Washington D.C., USA.
The Newbury, Boston, USA. April.
Commodore Perry Estate, an Auberge Resort, Texas, USA.
The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville, USA. October.
Bishop’s Lodge, Santa Fe, New Mexico. Reopening this year.
Park Hyatt Mexico City, Mexico.
Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski Cuba, Cuba. April (image below left).
SO/Sofitel Paseo del Prado La Habana, Cuba. Early 2020.
Ace Hotel Toronto, Canada. Early 2020.
1 Hotels Toronto, Canada. Summer.
W Toronto, Canada. Opening: Summer.
Rumors Alert! After years of speculation, Leonardo DiCaprio’s much anticipated eco-friendly private island resort and wildlife reserve on the Blackadore Caye island in Belize may be opening its doors this year

NEW LUXURY HOTEL OPENINGS 2020 : EUROPE

Soho House Paris, France.
Hôtel du Palais Biarritz, France. Reopening after renovation, in June.
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, London, UK. Opening in spring this year.
The Mayfair Townhouse, London, UK. Autumn.
Pan Pacific London, London, UK. Autumn.
Zedwell, London, UK. February.
The Pig at Harlyn Bay, Cornwall, UK. June.
Artist Residence Bristol, UK. February.
Hotel Brooklyn, Manchester, UK. February.
Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, Dublin, Ireland. Mid-2020.
The Pavilions Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
T-Nest, Lika, Croatia. May.
Ikos Andalusia, Spain. May (image in the second row, right).
Soho Roc House, Mykonos, Greece. In May 2020 San Giorgio Mykonos will be joining the Soho House hotels (image in the second row, left).
Angsana Corfu, Corfu, Greece. Opening in Q2.
Iniala Malta, Malta. Opening: April.
The Rome EDITION, Rome, Italy.
Soho House Milan, Milan, Italy.
The Marriott brand is planning to open W Milan and W Rome in Italy.
Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection, Italy. June.
Jumeirah Capri Palace, Capri, Italy. Reopens on 23 April after refurbishment.
Belmond Hotel Splendido, Portofino, Italy. Reopens after a redesign in June.
MGallery Pompei Habita 79, Italy. Spring 2020—the property has a rooftop bar-restaurant offering a unique view of the ancient ruins of Pompei.
Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, Switzerland. End of the year.
Nobu Hotel Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland. Spring.
The House Hotel Tbilisi, Georgia. March.
The Museum Hotel Antakya, Turkey, in January. Built over an archaeological site spanning 23 centuries of history, including the world’s largest single-floor mosaic dating back to the 4th century Roman Empire.

OUR HOTELS COLLECTION

VISION Destinations | Updated on December 20