INTERNATIONAL REPORT—With the rising middle class in countries like China and India, Asia-Pacific has long been a target for hotel brands looking to expand their reach. Here’s a few of the most recent openings in the region:
The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi
The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi has opened on the Malaysian island. Set in a private bay, the resort is surrounded by a jungle, while its beachfront faces the Andaman Sea. It is the first resort destination in Malaysia, and the second property in the country following The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.
Designed by Philippe Villeroux of Tropical Area Architects, the resort has 70 guestrooms, 15 suites and 29 villas with references to Malay architecture, which can be seen in the large windows and gabled roofs.
The resort houses four distinct dining venues, ranging from the blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine in Langkawi Kitchen to Western favorites in the Beach Grill to the Chinese seafood in Hai Yan.
Hyatt Regency Lucknow
Elsewhere, the first Hyatt-branded hotel has opened in Lucknow, the capital of the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India. Hyatt Regency Lucknow is the 27th Hyatt-branded hotel in India and further expands the company’s brand presence in South Asia.
“The opening of Hyatt Regency Lucknow marks a significant milestone for the Hyatt Regency brand as it continues to expand its footprint throughout India,” said Kurt Straub, VP, operations for India at Hyatt. “Not only is the hotel strategically located for business travelers visiting Lucknow, it is also well positioned for leisure guests who are interested in enjoying a journey through the Uttar Pradesh Heritage Arc of Lucknow, Agra and Varanasi.”
Four Seasons Hotel Dalian
Chinese real estate developer Luneng Group and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts jointly unveiled plans to open a luxury Four Seasons hotel in Dalian, located in the Liaodong Peninsula in northeastern China.
Situated within the Donggang (East Harbour), Four Seasons Hotel Dalian will open in the redeveloped financial and commercial hub of the city. The new mixed-use tower in the Donggang will have office space along with the hotel, providing access to industrial and commercial centers; restaurants, bars and shopping; as well as tourist destinations, including beaches and theme parks.