Looking for new digs for your next escape? We check out some of the hottest new hotels coming to Asia in 2020.
Asia’s hotel scene is a diverse one. From regal grand dame properties to spritely, modern boutique hotels, there’s something to suit everyone. But, of course, that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for more. At least, that’s what hotel developers are betting on. With a slew of new openings scheduled for 2020, the Asian hotel scene is gearing up to welcome some big new players.
The Thai capital of Bangkok is particularly prone to new properties; at times, it can feel like a new hotel opens here every other day, so this is definitely a city to watch. But, with the 2020 Summer Olympics heading to Japan, Tokyo will be getting some luxe new additions just in time to cater to all the visitors that are sure to head that way to take in the action. Of course, hotels are always in demand in perennially popular Bali, and the Island of the Gods will get its fair share of new additions in the year ahead.
To help you make sense of it all, we’re showing you 10 of the most anticipated Asian hotel openings for 2020. Now, all you have to decide is where you want to go (and who to take with you).
W Bali – Ubud
From its hilltop location, W Bali – Ubud will offer stunning views over the Tanggayuda Valley. The new property is set to shake up Ubud’s sleepy hotel scene with the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service and eclectic art and design.
Inspired by Ubud’s historical antecedents, the hotel will feature modern takes on traditional Balinese style with works by local artists and craftsmen. There are 100 guest rooms here, but you’ll want to check into one of the 10 villas with private swimming pools or the luxe EWOW suite.
While you’re here, kick back at the WET deck, which features terraced pools inspired by Ubud’s rice paddies, or treat yourself to locally-inspired treatments at the AWAY Spa by W Hotels. Need to sate that appetite? No problem. Try decadent Balinese cuisine and progressive cocktails in an underground location at Synn, or stay healthy with plant-based offerings at Morinda.
The Clan Hotel Singapore
It might boast 324 rooms, but this new Far East Hospitality property has a decidedly boutique feel. Set to open in Q3 of 2020, The Clan Hotel Singapore aims to connect travellers with the area’s pioneering past. Guests are welcomed with a signature Nanyang Tea before being shown to modern, design-forward rooms that offer subtle nods to Singapore’s history.
Staying here means you become part of the hotel’s Inner Circle, which in turn allows you to become a real insider of the surrounding Telok Ayer neighbourhood. Translation: you can venture out on custom tours to explore secret bars, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, and other hidden gems.
You’ll also want to squeeze in a workout at the Sky Gym – it offers stunning vistas over the city.
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
Just in time for the Summer Olympics, the Japanese capital is set to get its second Four Seasons property. Combining Tokyo’s urban cool with its intriguing history and culture, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi will offer new levels of luxury in the city.
Hidden over five floors of one of Tokyo’s premier commercial towers, the hotel is ideally located between the city’s business district and Imperial Palace gardens. Translation: it’s great for work and play. Expect spacious guestrooms decked out with Four Season’s signature luxury, a sky terrace ideal for sundowners, and four restaurants offering an array of global cuisines.
Mandarin Oriental Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City’s accommodation options could sorely use a luxe new addition. Luckily, Mandarin Oriental is stepping into the fray in early 2020.
From its perch atop a mixed-use commercial building, Mandarin Oriental Saigon will offer 227 opulent guest rooms and suites that will undoubtedly be the top digs in the Vietnamese capital. With six restaurants and bars, a fully-equipped fitness centre, a Spa at Mandarin Oriental, and an outdoor swimming pool, you’ll be hard-pressed to leave the hotel after you check in.
But if you should choose to burn off some energy, you’ll find most of the city’s key attractions within walking distance, including the Saigon Opera House and the city’s top dining and shopping hubs.
One&Only Desaru Coast
Set to open in March 2020, this property will bring the One & Only brand’s luxurious amenities and attentive service to a pristine part of the Malaysian coast. Spread across 128 acres, this tropical retreat offers access to both lush forests and unspoiled beaches.
Accommodation here is split between expansive suites and standalone villas, but all come with Malaysian aesthetics, private pools, decadent bathrooms, and indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at Ambara, which will serve Mediterranean-inspired farm-to-table cuisine, or enjoy a bit of dinner theatre at Hoshi, a Japanese restaurant with open kitchens. By day, Ember Beach Club will deal in adrenaline-fuelling water sports, but by night, you’ll be able to tuck into freshly-grilled meats and seafood. Need a little R’n’R? Book into the One&Only Spa by Chenot for scientifically-backed treatments.
Six Senses Fort Barwara
Treat yourself to a very royal experience at this palatial new hotel in India, the first Six Senses property in the country. The 14th-century fort in Rajasthan – once owned by the region’s royal family – has been exquisitely converted into a sprawling boutique hotel with just 48 suites.
Every effort has been made to conserve the fort’s regal history, but facilities have been brought up to date with decidedly 21st-century fittings. Expect hand-carved archways and wall-panelling, wooden latticework, and natural materials paired with exclusive amenities, contemporary light fixtures, and plush furnishings.
There will be two restaurants here, one specialising in classic Indian fare and the other in modern Indian dishes, but both will use fresh local ingredients.
A lavish Six Senses Spa will be located in the former women’s palace and focus on Ayurvedic treatments, while also offering signature Six Senses Integrated Wellness programs.
Waldorf Astoria Bali
Another new opening on the Island of Gods, Waldorf Astoria Bali will offer sumptuous accommodation from a prime cliff-front location. But, despite its opening date drawing near, there are still very few details to be found.
The 13-hectare estate will house 96 luxurious villas ranging from one to six bedrooms, each one boasting canopied beds, cosy seating areas, and sea views. Spend your days lounging on the private beach or at the beach club with a seafront pool. As night falls, head for the destination bar for sundowners, then dine at one of the two speciality restaurants. Of course, there will also be a health club and an indulgent spa.
Six Senses Bumthang
Bhutan is set to be a hot destination for 2020, and Six Senses is capitalising with a slew of hotel openings in the country. In Spring, the brand is set to debut Six Senses Bumthang.
The brand’s fifth property in the country will be an eco-conscious lodge set deep in a dense blue pine forest. The property will have just eight suites and one two-bedroom villa, but each is spacious and well-appointed. Each will also reflect the surrounding environment with light wood panels, earthy tones, and natural fabrics.
Helicopter over from the capital, Thimphu, and indulge in the Six Senses Spa and hot stone bath facilities. When you’re ready to explore, go horseback riding to the Kencho Sum Lhakhang monastery, see the famous burning lake, and hike to the Padseling Goemba hilltop fortress.
The Sira Lombok
Building on the success of the original property in Bali’s Seminyak, The Sira will open on Lombok’s west coast. If you’re a diver or snorkeler, you’ll want to book a trip out here ASAP. The property offers easy access to the vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life off the Gili islands.
There will be just 46 elegant suites here, but you’ll want to check into one of the 15 decadent pool villas at the adjacent The Club at The Legian. Of course, each room pays homage to local traditions with handwoven ‘Tenun Ikat’ fabrics from Sumba and solid teak furnishings from Sumbawa.
You could spend the whole time on the beach and in the water, but if you want to change things up, play the links at the Sire Beach Golf Club next door or slip into the Wellness by The Legian spa. When hunger strikes, head to The Restaurant for a contemporary menu of farm-to-table options laced with local, sustainable ingredients.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok Chao Phraya River
Occupying prime position along Bangkok’s main waterway, this flashy new hotel is one of several hotly anticipated openings in the Thai capital.
There will be 299 guest rooms and suites here, but you’ll want to check into a Riverside Terrace Suite for an exclusive retreat. You’ll have incredible river views, a private rooftop terrace, a spacious living room, and of course, a very comfortable bedroom.
You won’t go hungry here, but surprisingly, the hotel’s chosen not to include a Thai restaurant. Instead, feast on Cantonese cuisine at Yu Ting Yuan; enjoy modern Italian dishes at Riva del Fiumi or enjoy casual French dining at Brasserie Palmier. If you’re looking to quench your thirst, BKK Social Club mixes up bespoke cocktails with craft spirits served with fine cigars and a glamorous ambience inspired by Buenos Aires.
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