China
Development began on the 300-room Fairmont Hangzhou, slated to open in 2017. The property will have 32,000 square feet of function and banquet space. Hangzhou is located in the Yangtze River Delta region of eastern China, and the Fairmont will be located atop the city’s tallest building.
England
The Barbican in London celebrated its grand re-opening with a reception for 250 industry leaders. The venue was refurbished, and the newly united conservatory, garden room and terrace spaces can accommodate up to 650 guests. The update added a new technologically advanced boardroom and brought a partnership with the nearby Montcalm London City hotel. In total, the Barican can accommodate conferences of up to 2,000 people.
indonesia
Development of newest Ritz-Carlton Reserve is underway in Ubud, Bali, a cultural capital on the island, celebrated for its arts and crafts, temples and monasteries. Opening in summer 2015, the company’s third tranquil Reserve property will offer 60 villas, a spa and options for custom excursions.
Switzerland
InterContinental Hotels opened a new luxury property in December in Davos, with 216 guest rooms and more than 16,000 square feet of conference facilities. The InterContinental Davos offers four restaurants and access to numerous local ski resorts.
W Hotels moved into Switzerland with the opening of the 123-room W Verbier. It is also the brand’s first alpine resort, with chalet-style decor that echoes the rustic environment. In addition to the signature W Living Room space, the hotel offers several dining outlets, an outdoor terrace and other function venues.
United Arab Emirates
The 361-room, Polynesian-themed Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort is now open. The luxury property includes meeting space for groups of up to 700 people and a spa with 28 treatment rooms.
Vietnam
JW Marriott opened its first property in Vietnam with the debut of the 450-room JW Marriot Hotel Hanoi. The architecturally unique property will offer six restaurants and bars and 25,800 square feet of function space, including 17 meeting rooms and two large ballrooms.