INTERNATIONAL REPORT—For hotel brands, entering new markets is an exciting turn of events. After all, not only does this allow them to be where the guests want them to be, but it enables hotel brands to reach an increasing number of new potential customers. Recently, several hotel brands have either debuted in new countries and regions around the globe.
Andaz Singapore Marks Brand’s Entry in Southeast Asia
Andaz Singapore has opened, officially debuting the brand in Southeast Asia. The locally inspired boutique hotel draws inspiration from its lively surroundings and is a short drive from Changi Airport and Singapore’s Central Business District.
Andaz Singapore opens in Duo, a pair of concave skyscrapers, clad in a latticework of hexagonal windows. Designed by German architect Ole Scheeren, Duo is the largest integrated development in the Ophir-Rochor district and comprises residences, retail spaces, offices and the new hotel. Duo is directly connected to Bugis MRT station via underground pedestrian walkways.
Andaz Singapore, in collaboration with interior designer Andre Fu of AFSO, envisioned the hotel as a contemporary lifestyle destination that embraces Singapore’s urban spirit. Fu observed the hotel’s location and its neighborhood to create a multi-layered alleyway and incorporated subtle, locally inspired techniques, decorative details, furniture, art and fabric into the hotel’s design.
Andaz Singapore houses 342 guestrooms, including 26 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows. Alley on 25 brings Singapore street dining to hotel guests by offering seven alleyway “shop houses” on one floor, from a platter of barbecued snacks from Smoke & Pepper to a steaming bowl of noodles from Auntie’s Wok & Steam or a refreshing shaved ice from Icehaus. Other options include 665°F, specializing in premium meat and sustainable seafood; and Mr Stork, a rooftop bar offering teepee-hut seating and an observatory corner. The hotel also has a 14,800-sq.-ft. events alleyway featuring four residential-style event spaces.
Hyatt House Opens Properties in Germany and Turkey
The Hyatt House Düsseldorf/Andreas Quartier has opened, marking the entry of the Hyatt House brand into the European market. Operated by In Town Hospitality under a franchise agreement, the hotel is a part of Andreas Quartier, a former courthouse being redeveloped by Frankonia Eurobau Andreasquartier.
Located in close proximity to the main train station and Düsseldorf International Airport, the hotel is also near the Rhine River embankment and Königsallee, one of the city’s most prestigious streets that is home to high-end retailers and theaters.
The interior has been designed by Jan Wichers, a German designer.
The Hyatt House brand has also marked its entry into Turkey with Hyatt House Gebze. This is the fifth Hyatt House-branded hotel to open outside the U.S. this year.
Located 10 miles from Sabiha Gökçen International Airport and less than 40 miles from Istanbul, the 158-room, upscale, extended-stay hotel offers the H Bar, the H Market, a 24-hour workout room and indoor pool, and flexible meeting space.
Avani Hotels & Resorts Opens in New Zealand
Avani Hotels & Resorts has made its first foray into New Zealand, with the Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences. Since being acquired five months ago, 65 of the luxury tower suites, formerly known as Metro Suites, have undergone a multimillion-dollar refurbishment.
The 39-story tower has enjoyed a rich history as one of Auckland’s most iconic properties, originally functioning as the Magistrates Court of Auckland. Located on Kitchener St., the hotel is close to Sky Tower, Vector Arena, the waterfront precinct, the Auckland Art Gallery and the city’s dining, nightlife and entertainment hubs.
Park Hyatt Brand Makes Its Caribbean Debut
The first Park Hyatt hotel in the Caribbean, Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour, developed by Range Developments, opened in St. Kitts. Set within Christophe Harbour, the 126-room luxury resort spans the secluded beach of Banana Bay at the foot of St. Kitts’ rolling hills and offers unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring Nevis. Offering a wellness sanctuary for restorative peace, the resort is also unveiling the first Miraval Life in Balance Spa in the Caribbean.
Home to three signature restaurants, indoor and outdoor event spaces, two pools, and other distinct amenities, the hotel’s 78 rooms and 48 suites incorporate local materials and intertwine contemporary architecture with colonial design.
Le Méridien Arrives in South Korea
Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has opened Le Méridien Seoul, the brand’s first hotel in South Korea. Following a meticulous, multimillion-dollar transformation, the hotel draws inspiration from both the brand—born in Paris during an era of glamorous travel—and the juxtaposition between the traditional and modern aesthetic of Korean design. The 336- key hotel was designed by interior design firm David Collins Studio.
“Seoul continuously charms global travelers with its sophisticated style, thriving culinary culture and dynamic design,” said George Fleck, VP, brand marketing & management, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts. “With a similar sensibility, we are delighted to debut Le Méridien in the heart of the city ahead of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, inviting guests to savor the journey of discovering Seoul—whether visiting for business or leisure.”