Brazil
The beachfront Sheraton Rio Hotel & Resort finished the first phase of a comprehensive renovation. Starwood has invested $50 million into the property over the last two years, updating guest rooms, restaurants and public areas.
China
The 279-room St. Regis Chengdu is scheduled to open this month. It will be the sixth St. Regis property in the greater China region following openings in Tianjin, Sanya, Lhasa and Shenzhen. The 29-story Chengdu hotel will be part of the Huazhi Plaza mixed-use development. Six restaurants and lounges will pay respect to the city’s diverse gastronomic heritage, with private dining spaces available for groups. The St. Regis Chengdu will offer the brand’s signature butler service to all guests.
Japan
The new Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto offers 134 guest rooms on the banks of the Kamogawa River in Nihjo Ohashi. The urban resort offers four banquet rooms for hosting corporate dinners, seminars and receptions.
France
Shangri-La Paris opened a new outdoor venue that will available through summer for events. The terrace is landscaped with flowers and plants, and will offer a special ice cream trolley with homemade sorbets.
Kenya
Wyndham Hotel Group announced plans to launch the Ramada brand in Kenya. Located about 10 miles from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the four-star Ramada Nairobi will offer 89 guest rooms, two meeting rooms and a rooftop banquet space.
United Arab Emirates
The 368-room Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi is expected to open in 2015. The 47-story hotel will be located in Abu Dhabi’s Ras Al Akhdar district, 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and will include meeting facilities and two restaurants.