Hotel Openings

🏢 Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, December 2025, unveils Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas and Boduge Residence. The 265 sqm villas offer families or friends privacy and luxury, featuring king and twin bedrooms, a 97 sqm outdoor area with a pool and sundeck. The 395 sqm Boduge Residence provides ocean views, a 160 sqm outdoor area, and a 45 sqm pool. Book by September 30, 2025, for stays from January 10 to June 30, 2026, with complimentary seaplane transfers.

🍴 The Clarke's Group will open a new steakhouse and seafood restaurant, Rockwell & Rose, on October 8 in Philadelphia, opposite Independence Hall. The restaurant will seat 146, with distinct dining areas, and feature a bar with eight taps. Menu highlights include jumbo lump crab cakes and “Freedom From Want.” The venue ties to historical figures and themes, such as Rosie the Riveter and the former Rockwell Museum, in its design and naming.

🏠 Located at Lübeckertordamm 2, near Hamburg's central station and Lake Alster, a new site comprises 185 apartments over 17 floors, each about 30 m², equipped with kitchenettes. The stay is digitally managed via smartphone, offering 24/7 customer service. The stylish interior blends burgundy, camel, and blue, with Verner Panton's lamps and artwork. The group, expanding its European presence, recently opened its first UK property in Brighton and appointed five new managing directors.

🍴 Norman’s Japanese Grill opened on August 1, 2025, in Dallas, replacing the closed Homewood Restaurant in the Oak Lawn neighborhood. Duro Hospitality, known for original restaurant concepts, launched this Western-inspired Japanese raw bar and grill. The 3,100-square-foot space accommodates 105 patrons, including a seven-seat sushi bar and outdoor patio. Dishes blend Japanese and American West influences, offering nigiri, sashimi, and wood-fired specialties. Cocktails feature Japanese spirits, American whiskeys, and tequilas.

🏨 Guildford's Harbour Hotel undergoes a £3 million refurbishment, transforming all 183 rooms by summer 2025. The first phase revamps 72 rooms, enhancing them with luxury interiors and modern technology. Guests enjoy amenities like complimentary in-room gin and Smart TVs. The hotel also supports the local YMCA by donating beds. This initiative is part of Harbour Hotels’ broader update across its 14 UK properties, reflecting commitment to luxury and community engagement.

🍴 September, Lilibet’s opens at 17 Bruton Street, Mayfair. Ross Shonhan launches this 160-cover restaurant, offering exquisite seafood in a setting inspired by British elegance. With dishes tracing an imaginary Grand Tour, the menu features creations like whole turbot pil pil and lobster bisque. Designed by Russell Sage Studio, Lilibet’s reflects a timeless charm with handcrafted elements. The venue will include an Oyster Bar, outdoor terrace, and Cocktail Bar, with bookings available online.

🌊 December 12, 2025, in Jukkasjärvi, ICEHOTEL 36 will open, with 29 artists from 9 countries crafting a 2,800-square-meter hotel using 2,000 tons of Torne River ice. New features include art suites like "Sweep Me Off My Feet" and "Spaghettification." Experience Northern Lights, ice sculptures, and ICEBAR. In mid-November, construction begins, and ICEHOTEL 365 remains open year-round. Explore dog sledding, Northern Lights safaris, and savor local cuisine.

🎨 Lough Erne Resort, 12th-14th September 2025, hosts a "Sketch & Stay" retreat with artist Eamon Colman in Fermanagh Lakelands. Guests enjoy art masterclasses, luxury breakfasts, and a visit to Hambly & Hambly at Dunbar House. Includes a two-night stay, Thai Spa access, and meals. Booking starts at £565 per person, with single occupancy rates available. Call +44(0)28 6632 3230, quoting "Hambly" to book.