INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Hotel brands like Avani, The St. Regis and others are enhancing properties abroad, some to further underscore luxury service and others to revitalize spaces. Here’s a look at four of them:
Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino
Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, located in the business and social hub of Gaborone, Botswana, in Southern Africa, has completed an extensive renovation, representing a $7.5-million investment by Minor Hotels, the parent company.
All 156 guestrooms and public spaces including the main entrance and porte cochere have been renovated with the aim of introducing Avani’s signature design hallmarks. The open plan design for the living lobby blends reception, lounge, eateries and chill out spaces. The interior is spacious and natural light has been used to great effect, allowing for a communal space where guests can relax, meet and eat, according to the company.
Anantara Angkor Resort

Following an extensive renovation that transformed Anantara Angkor Resort into an all-suite retreat, the 39-key boutique resort has unveiled Siem Reap’s newest presidential suites, the Henri Mouhot and Anantara Explorer Suites.
The two-bedroom Henri Mouhot Suite pays tribute to the French naturalist and explorer who alerted the West to the ruins of Angkor, capital of the ancient Khmer civilization of Cambodia, in 1860, according to the brand. This suite accommodates up to six guests.
The one-bedroom Anantara Explorer Suite offers living space inspired by another intrepid explorer, Jim Thompson, and founder of the Jim Thompson Thai Silk Company. This suite accommodates up to three guests.
The two new suites are reminiscent of a Khmer summer home and seek to evoke old world sophistication with imported Thai silk and fabrics overflowing throughout, draping the furniture in bold colors.
The St. Regis Mexico City
After months of renovations and refurbishments, the King Cole Bar at The St. Regis Mexico City has relaunched with a new look, philosophy and cocktail and dining menu.
The bar’s refreshed interior consists of hardwood floors, carpets and details in dark green. In addition, the hotel debuted a renovated outdoor terrace adjacent to the bar, providing views of Mexico City. Guests can sample classic cocktails and original recipes from the in-house mixologist, as well as creative interpretations of traditional Mexican appetizers from the Bar’s gastropub menu. .
“We are very excited to present the renovation of King Cole Bar, which was architecturally designed by the acclaimed César Pelli. We have given life to an atmosphere that captivates with its sophisticated elegance and warmth, perpetuating that halo of exclusivity that seduces our guests,” said Bernard de Villèle, GM at The St. Regis Mexico City.
InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay
Located along the Singapore River, the InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay is a residential-inspired hotel concept with 225 studios and suites, including an expansive penthouse.
Designed by architect firm SCDA, the property combines elements from Robertson Quay’s industrial past with sleek contemporary finishes such as Italian marble, slate, brushed copper and bronzes. The light-filled room interiors have been designed to magnify the familiar comforts of home. There are custom-made furnishings and bespoke amenities like a specially designed in-room cocktail kit by local bar guru’s Proof & Co.
Elsewhere on the property, there are five intimate meeting and event spaces, an exclusive 24-hour Club InterContinental lounge, a lap pool and 24-hour fitness studio, as well as a range of holistic dining options.