Hotel Openings

🏖 Coronet Ridge Resort, led by GM Ethan Heng, opened in Queenstown, NZ, after a multi-million-dollar redevelopment. The resort features 41 rooms, including a 70 sqm Coronet Suite, with rates from $835/night. Located above Shotover River, it offers amenities like a spa and private cinema. Dining includes locally sourced menu by Chef Dominic Dsouza. Special opening rates start at $650/night. Nearby Coronet Peak Ski Area is under 10 minutes away. Visit coronetridge.co.nz for more details.

🏨 The Shepherd Mayfair will open in 2026 in Shepherd Market, London, led by Timothy Shepherd. Spanning 33,600 sq ft and featuring 82 rooms across 6 floors, the hotel includes dining venues Fayre (75 covers), The Lounge (58 covers), and Teddy’s Bar (72 covers). Inspired by Mayfair’s historic mansions, it blends classic and contemporary design. Notable features include bespoke joinery, marble bathrooms, and art by Jack English and George McLeod. Located at 2 Stanhope Row, London, W1J 7BT.

🏨 La Résidence Phou Vao, located atop Phou Vao Hill in Luang Prabang, Laos, has reopened after a comprehensive renovation led by Sanya Souvanna Phouma and HMD Asia. The 37-suite hotel combines Lao heritage and French art with modern comforts, such as expanded private terraces and state-of-the-art facilities. Plans for 2026 include a wellness center and a Presidential Suite. The renovation honors its history while offering panoramic views of UNESCO-listed sites and sacred mountains.

🏨 Within the global luxury hotel niche, groups focus on rarity, consistency, and high standards. These hotels, often controlled by sovereign funds or billionaires, prioritize unique, iconic properties. Service is central, with customized concierge teams and high autonomy for local managers. High rates are justified by oversized suites and personalized experiences. Loyalty is fostered through authentic staff interactions rather than programs. These groups curate a selective ecosystem, aiming for prestige and long-term value over size.