It’s safe to say 2023 is set to be a big year for travel: flight routes are increasing, and the prospect of getting a new stamp in your passport has never seemed so exciting. There have been so many new hotel openings this year that choosing somewhere to stay can feel a little overwhelming. To help realise your dream holiday for 2023, we’ve rounded up our favourite new hotel openings of 2022.
From bustling city hideaways to the crème de la crème of luxury, these are the best places to stay in 2023 that should be on your radar.
What’s the deal? Located on a serene island on the Udai Sagar Lake in the Aravalli Range, India’s first Raffles hotel fulfils all the extravagance and grandeur expected from the name. Enjoy the peace and calm of the waters as you access this palatial 18.5-hectare hotel by private boat. After mooring, you’ll enter a fantastical world of manicured lawns, butlers, copper domes and Venetian windows. Spacious rooms and suites blend local craftmanship with opulent fixtures, and some feature their own private plunge pool or garden – or both.
Why stay? For magnificent lake views and unparalleled service.
Don’t miss: Long, lazy breakfasts and lavish Indian feasts at The Dining Room, the name for three venues joined into one sophisticated space.
What’s the deal? Located in one of Bangkok’s most recognisable skyscrapers, the Standard Mahanakhon captures its city’s playful atmosphere in its upliftingly retro design features. This hotel boasts all the service expected of its five-star status while maintaining a reputation as an unpretentious and fun place to stay. Sip on cocktails at Thailand’s highest rooftop bar, take a dip in the colourful swimming pool, and enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s five restaurants – which include Mott 32’s Bangkok outpost.
Why stay? For an unforgettable stay at Bangkok’s liveliest hotel.
Don’t miss: The lineup of awesome DJs constantly on rotation.
What’s the deal? Channelling an aesthetic that balances effortless cool and comfort with the warm palette of the Australian landscape, the design forces behind Ace Hotel have created yet another must-stay outpost – their very first in the southern hemisphere. Located in Surry Hills, just 1km from the Sydney CBD, this boutique hotel is full of carefully considered details, from the art that hangs on the walls to the imaginative food served across its four restaurants. The former brick factory-turned-hotel often hosts renowned DJs in its lobby and event spaces.
Why stay? For a cosy, charming stay in an ideally located part of town.
Don’t miss: Their in-house wine programme curated by Sydney purveyor P&V Wine & Liquor Merchants.
What’s the deal? Every bit as cool as the London neighbourhood it’s located in, One Hundred Shoreditch is quickly becoming the place to stay in the East End. From the pared-back, sleek and modern rooms and suites to the chic Lobby Bar – and even an in-house coworking space – this hotel boasts everything you’d expect and more from an East London hotel. A prime location on Shoreditch High Street makes this a convenient base to leapfrog into everything London has to offer – when you aren’t enjoying a drink or meal at one of the hotel’s five stylish venues, that is.
Why stay? For a relaxed and welcoming stay with a drop of Shoreditch cool.
Don’t miss: The boozy bottomless weekend brunch at The Rooftop.
What’s the deal? This beautiful hotel is in the heart of Korea’s most stylish district: Gangnam. Combining impeccable Korean hospitality with unique modern touches, it’s one of the most elegant places to stay in the city. Each bright and spacious room boasts panoramic views of the city, and you’re spoilt for choice food-wise with four in-house restaurants and a bar to choose from. There’s also an indoor swimming pool, gym and spa to unwind at after a long day spent taking in Seoul’s landmarks.
Why stay? To experience true Gangnam style.
Don’t miss: The view from 1914 Lounge & Bar as you sip one of the hotel’s signature cocktails.
What’s the deal? The Hilton Singapore Orchard , the luxury chain’s largest hotel in Asia-Pacific, opened in early 2022. It’s located on Orchard Road, in the centre of Singapore’s shopping and entertainment district, and is within walking distance from designer boutiques and just a short drive or subway ride from landmarks such as Gardens by the Bay. With minimalist designs in muted tones inspired by the Chinese paintings of misty landscapes, the 1,000-plus rooms blend views of one of the most famous parts of the city with eco-friendly features like motion-controlled lighting and air conditioning. There’s also an outdoor pool, gym and five restaurants to explore during your stay.
Why stay? For its prime location in the centre of Singapore’s bustling shopping district.
Don’t miss: The Sichuan cuisine at the hotel’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Shisen Hanten.
What’s the deal? Saint James Paris is the city’s only château-hotel, housed in a 19th-century neoclassical mansion house in Paris’ exclusive 16th district. Dreamed up by French designer Laura Gonzalez, this quintessentially Parisian residence is nothing short of magnificent, featuring just 22 rooms and 25 suites outfitted with a balance of art deco and contemporary touches. Don’t miss the hotel’s one-Michelin-starred restaurant Bellefeuille and its spa offering treatments by Guerlain.
Why stay? The French fine dining alone is reason enough to stay here – but it’s the romantic atmosphere that will keep you coming back for more.
Don’t miss: The signature Dédicace Guerlain treatment at the spa. This rejuvenating facial and massage is exclusive to Saint James.