CN Traveller predicts that: ‘In 2023, [we] will be going one step further as we look to deepen [our] experiences by having a lasting positive impact on the places and people we visit.
‘We’ll immerse ourselves in new, mind-bending wellness practices with benefits that continue far beyond checkout and make meaningful changes to the way we travel with protecting our planet top of mind.’
Here, we’ve searched high and low for the hotel openings you need on your radar.
Main image: Aman Niseko, Japan
Nobu Hotel And Restaurant, Marrakech
Just moments from the historic Hivernage district in Marrakech is Nobu’s latest luxury lifestyle destination, comprising 71 rooms and suites, indoor and outdoor pools, cool rooftop spaces, a spa and, of course, to-die-for restaurants. This exciting boutique opening is the group’s first in Africa. They say: ‘King Mohammed VI’s tourism development plan has been the driving force at encouraging foreign investment in Morocco’s tourism sector. His Majesty has outlined a great vision and Nobu is pleased to be entering the market at this exciting time.’ Pre-book it.
Hotel La Palma, Capri, Italy
When this hotel first opened in 1822 as Locanda Pagano, it welcomed artists, poets, writers and musicians from around the world. The same is sure to be the case when it emerges again in 2023. Decorated in the prettiest Mediterranean style – all sugared almond colours and chic umbrellas – it has 50 rooms, a swanky restaurant, an impossibly glamorous rooftop bar and a sublime beach club. Tatler says: ‘There hasn't been a hot new hotel opening of note on Capri since J.K.Place in 2008. So, it was a very clever move by the hotel group Oetker Collection (whose lavish portfolio of properties include The Lanesborough, Le Bristol and the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc) to open their first Italian property on this mythical island.’ Pre-book it.
Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, London
The slick new Mandarin Oriental will open on Mayfair’s oldest square, Hanover Square, in 2023. Mandarin Oriental hopes that this new spot will become the place where the ‘Mayfair community – a crossroads for the world of fashion, media, art and business – will gather to experience the brand’s legendary service’. Highlights will include the display of local artists’ work throughout the hotel and the Michelin-starred Korean fusion food on offer at Akira Black’s eponymous restaurant. Pre-book it.
W Sydney, Australia
W Sydney, opening in Darling Harbour in October, will be the brand’s largest hotel in the world. There will be 585 rooms and suites and no two will be the same. Designed by London based architects, Bowler James Brindley, the beautiful cotemporary building is a
feat of engineering. The Australian says: ‘A two-storey rooftop bar will literally top it off and open the venue up to the surrounding city. After all, the W isn’t a place to hide from Sydney, but to be immersed in its energy.’ Pre-book it.
Six Senses, London
To the minds of people of a certain age, this grand building in Bayswater is a shopping mall. But look again, my friends, for Whiteleys – the iconic department store that opened in 1911 – has become a swanky new space designed by Norman Foster and renamed The Whiteley. Among the lovely things housed there is a Six Senses hotel, complete with 110 rooms, a bar and restaurant and a whacking great spa that promises ‘pioneering programming to encourage growth, reflection and reconnection’. Pre-book it.
Hotel Corazon, Mallorca
Beautiful things tend to happen when an artist turns into a hotelier. Hotel Corazon is sure to be a new example of this. CN Traveller says: ‘On the island of Mallorca, where creativity has always pulsated, contemporary photographer Kate Bellm will be opening her bolthole, Hotel Corazon [in 2023]. Known for her dreamy ethereal snapshots of island life, Bellm’s spot is in the village of Deià, with London chef about town Magnus Reid in charge of the health-focussed restaurant.’ A quick browse of their super cool Instagram feed (@hotelcorazon) will prompt you to book a room immediately. Pre-book it.
Aman Niseko, Japan
The exquisitely luxurious Aman group is opening its doors this time amid fields of summer flowers and legendary ski resorts in Japan. Forbes magazine says: ‘The new property, located high on the slopes of Mount Moiwa on a nature reserve, is inspired by a ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style inn with just 30 guest rooms and 31 residences on expansive forest property. The rooms will feature open fireplaces and private Furo bathtubs in each room.’ Pre-book it.
By Becky Ladenburg
January 2023
