It’s quite the cocktail.
With more than half the planet’s population, massive infrastructure projects and rapid growth in air connectivity, the Asia-Pacific region is attracting more international tourists than any other part of the world.
The UNWTO puts the total tourism earnings from Asian countries at a cool US$390 billion, much of which comes from the hotel sector.
No surprise, then, that pretty much every Asia-Pacific destination you can think of seems to be opening new places to stay.
We’ve already told you about the recent openings we’re excited about.
Now, here are some of the hottest new spots around the region due to open – and in one case, reopen – for business in 2019.
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
Arguably one of the most famous names in Asian hospitality, Raffles Hotel Singapore is set to re-open in mid-2019 following an extensive top-to-bottom renovation.
New features include dining concepts by globally renowned celebrity chefs like Alain Ducasse, new categories of suites and a brand new Raffles Spa. There’s 24-hour butler service and a Singapore Sling cocktail served to all guests on arrival, while a History Gallery illustrates the property’s heritage dating back to 1887.
Raffles Hotel Singapore has begun accepting suite reservations.
Raffles Hotel Singapore, 1 Beach Rd, Singapore; +65 6337 1886
The Barracks Hotel, Singapore
Another heritage building in Singapore undergoing a meticulous restoration is a former military outpost dating back to 1904.
The Barracks Hotel at Sentosa, an island off Singapore’s southern coast, offers 40 guestrooms and suites that promise elegant décor and the luxury of space.
One key feature is set to be their pool – always a welcome feature in a tropical climate – which sits amid their tranquil gardens. Ground floor suites have direct access for taking a dip.
The Barracks Hotel, 2 Gunner Lane, Sentosa Island, Singapore; +65 6512 2202
Capella Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the world’s greatest hotel cities, offering rooms at every conceivable price point.
At the very top end of the scale, the “ultra-luxury” Capella on the banks of the Chao Phraya River is set to join the list.
Opening in the second quarter of 2019, it will offer 100 guest rooms and villas that all boast views of the bustling and iconic waterway below.
Gourmet restaurants include one from renowned Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco, while a 9,000 sq. ft. Auriga Spa and pool will provide plenty of chances for serious downtime.
Capella Bangkok, 300 Charoenkrung Road,Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok, Thailand; +66 2 658 7888
Rosewood Bangkok
Moving to another prime location in the Thai capital, Rosewood Bangkok is located in heart of the central business district, amidst embassies and upscale retail options.
The property will offer 159 guestrooms that include Pool Sky Villas featuring large terraces and private plunge pools.
Three restaurants and bars, meeting and function spaces and an extensive Rosewood Spa complete the picture.
Panoramic views of Bangkok’s iconic skyline come as standard, especially from the Sky Villa event venue on the top floor.
Rosewood Bangkok, 1041/38 Ploenchit Road, Bangkok +852 2138 2222
Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River
The third quarter of 2019 is when the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River is due to start receiving guests. The nine acre waterside site will host an architecturally striking property designed to integrate seamlessly into the landscape.
With 299 keys – that’s rooms and suites to those not in the industry – the property is positioning itself as an urban resort experience.
That’s thanks in part to a series of uniquely designed green courtyards that thread through the site. Three restaurants will focus on Italian, French and Chinese cuisine, as well as a Latin American inspired social club and bar.
Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, 300 Charoenkrung Road, Yannawa, Sathorn, Bangkok; +66 2 043 0888