Let’s face it, from fluffy bathrooms and breakfast buffets through to the knowledge that there will always be someone to clean up after you, a fabulous hotel stay is one of the highlights of a proper holiday. Accommodation options at the top end in China have increased exponentially in the last decade but, in a country that seems to constantly reinvent itself, new options are always welcome. What’s more, 2017 is shaping up to see a bumper crop of openings from some leading players. Here’s the lowdown:
Capella
(Shanghai, Early Summer 2017)
Hurrah! We’ve been waiting forever for a proper boutique hotel in the leafy French Concession. Fifty-five rooms housed in a historic block of old shikumen lane homes and access to the city’s most eclectic shopping and dining should make this a winner with those that like low key luxury. Foodie bonus: Michelin favorite Pierre Gagnaire is opening a French resto here too.
Amanyangyun
(Shanghai, Late 2017)
Even by Aman standards, relocating an entire village complex of Ming and Qing buildings from Jiangxi Province to Shanghai is an ambitious project so this is really one to watch. Plenty of ‘Old China’ flavor here, and the suburban location indicates this will be a spot for rural retreaters rather than urban explorers. Given Aman’s pedigree with special properties like this we can’t wait to see what they do here.
W Shanghai
(Shanghai, Late June, 2017)
Due to drop anchor north of the Bund just opposite the International Cruise Terminal this is looking good for those in search of contemporary Shanghai vibes. Best bit? June is surely the ultimate time to open house if you’ve got the only outdoor rooftop swimming pool on the Bund! This could become a real hotspot in the sizzling summer season.
The Puxuan
(Beijing, Late 2017)
Familiar with Shanghai’s The Puli? You’ll be excited to know the group is opening its first hotel in the capital this year. Let’s be honest, it’s about time the center of Beijing got a sleek and sexy boutique property! The Puxuan will have 92 rooms and be located between hipster hub Gulou and the commercial Wangfujing area. Most exciting feature? A spectacular roof terrace with Forbidden City views.
The Bulgari
(Beijing, Late 2017)
Located north of Sanlitun in a striking contemporary building that’s also home to two office towers and a modern art gallery, Bulgari’s first foray into China looks to be everything we’ve come to expect from the brand. Designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and Partners, it’ll have some of Beijing’s biggest guest rooms, a Bulgari signature bar and restaurant, a stylish spa – even its own private park!
The Mandarin Oriental
(Beijing, 2018..?)
They’ve kept us waiting for eons now, and whilst the MO originally had two hotels scheduled to debut this year our sources tell us that we’re unlikely to see any action until 2018. First up will be their property right by the eastgate of the Forbidden City – with just 74 rooms, private courtyards and a rooftop overlooking central Beijing’s premier attraction this is sure to be a hit with leisure visitors.
Visiting China and want to make sure you pick the very best property for you? Bespoke’s Trip Customization Service includes hotel recommendations based on your taste, traveling style and budget.