12 must-visit new hotels to explore in 2016

A stunning treehouse getaway in Phuket?

A beautifully restored historic pub in Sydney?

Whether you crave opulence, elegance, uniqueness, or boldness, these standout new hotels—some already welcoming guests—are destinations to check out in 2016.

Keemala (Phuket, Thailand): A one-of-a-kind retreat

Opened: December 1, 2015

Keemala stands out with its distinctive design that harmonizes with both nature and local culture, making it one of the most unique resorts in Phuket.

With 38 pool villas to choose from, guests can select from treehouses, bird's nest villas, and clay cottages. The bridges and pathways connecting them blend naturally with the landscape, and even the water buffalo are part of the serene environment.

The resort's activities focus on relaxation and nature, offering meditation, yoga, nature walks, and forest Tai Chi, all aimed at helping guests reconnect with the natural world around them.

Four Seasons Hotel, Dubai IFC (United Arab Emirates): A luxury retreat in the heart of Dubai

Opening: Early 2016

The new Four Seasons at Dubai International Finance Center offers a refreshing departure from typical UAE hotels, featuring a cozy and intimate setting with just 106 rooms, including 28 suites.

Primarily catering to business travelers thanks to its prime location, it's just a short distance from the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and the city's vibrant downtown.

Interior designer Adam Tihany has crafted the hotel's sleek aesthetic and handpicked its impressive art collection.

During the city's cooler months, the 'aquarium-style' pool is a refreshing choice, while rooftop bars, cigar lounges, and open terraces offer an array of al fresco experiences.

Four Seasons Dubai IFC, Unit GV09, Level GF Gate Village, Building 9, Dubai International Finance Center, United Arab Emirates

The Old Clare Hotel (Sydney, Australia): A chic, heritage-inspired destination

Opening: January 2016

Nestled in Sydney’s trendy Chippendale neighborhood, this 62-room boutique hotel occupies two beautifully restored heritage buildings, blending the charm of an old pub with the historic Carlton Breweries administration headquarters.

As with many Australian hotels, the dining experience is a major highlight.

Old Clare’s Kensington Street Social marks the debut restaurant in the city from renowned British chef Jason Atherton.

The most luxurious option at Old Clare is the 100-square-meter Cub Suite, which was once the Carlton Breweries boardroom and now features parquet floors, paneling, and even a restored executive men's washroom.

East Hotel (Miami, Florida): A modern getaway with a vibrant twist

Opening: April 2016

Following successful launches in Hong Kong and Beijing, this U.S. property promises the same unique blend of chic, eclectic design crafted by New York’s Clodagh.

With 352 rooms and suites ranging from 300 to an expansive 1,800 square feet, the hotel’s standout feature is its signature restaurant, Quinto La Huella, offering an authentic Uruguayan parrilla beachside grill experience for meat lovers.

The 20,000-square-foot deck (1,858 square meters) will boast four pools, while the gym, cleverly named Beast (short for Body By East), adds a fun twist.

East, 788 Brickell Plaza, Miami, Florida

InterContinental Bordeaux (France): A luxurious gateway to the heart of wine country

Opened: December 2015

The newest addition to the InterContinental brand is a historic property located in Bordeaux’s stunning La Place de la Comedie, the city's grand central square.

The hotel’s origins date back to 1776, with the 130-room Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa undergoing a complete transformation to cater to both business and leisure guests.

In addition to meeting rooms and an indoor pool, the property now boasts a new restaurant by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

Given its prime location, the wine offerings are exceptional, and the Royal Suite features a private 100-square-meter terrace with its own Jacuzzi.

InterContinental Bordeaux, 2-5 Place de la Comedie, Bordeaux, France

Najd Boutique Hotel (Doha, Qatar): A stylish retreat in the heart of the city

Opened: November 2015

The Souq Waqif, located in Doha’s historic center, is a traditional Bedouin market area offering a glimpse into Qatari culture. The area has been revitalized with new restaurants, shops, and hotels.

The Najd Boutique Hotel is part of the Souq Waqif Hotels Collection, a select group of properties that embody the essence of boutique hospitality.

Their nine properties in the region each have no more than 15 rooms, all featuring distinctive Arabian-inspired designs.

Guests enjoy access to a wide range of dining and leisure facilities across the collection, with 12 restaurants, three spas, and four gyms all within a 15-minute walk.

Langham Place (New York): A luxury hotel in the heart of Manhattan

Opened: Renovations ongoing, completion date TBA

Langham Place on Fifth Avenue, located in midtown Manhattan, took over the former Setai building in 2013 and continues to undergo renovations to elevate the guest experience.

With 22 floors of rooms and suites, the Empire State View suite stands out at 1,900 square feet, offering unparalleled views of the iconic New York landmark.

The Forest Side (Cumbria, UK): A charming countryside retreat

Opening: January 15, 2016

Grasmere, located in Cumbria’s picturesque Lake District, is set to welcome the Forest Side, a beautifully renovated 19th-century Victorian hotel that adds to the area’s charm.

The 20 guestrooms are comfortable and well-equipped, but it's the exceptional dining experience that truly steals the show.

A large Victorian kitchen garden and 46 acres of foraging land supply fresh, seasonal ingredients for the ever-changing menu, crafted by head chef Kevin Tickle, formerly of the two-Michelin-starred L’Enclume restaurant, just 20 miles away.

The Forest Side, Grasmere, Ambleside, UK

Amanera (Dominican Republic): A secluded paradise offering luxury and tranquility

Opened: November 2015

Amanera, the newest beachfront property in the Dominican Republic, is a stunning addition to the renowned Aman brand.

Nestled amidst 2,000 acres of jungle on a clifftop, the resort boasts breathtaking views of the Cordillera mountain range, with the panoramic scenery available from the Playa Grande golf course.

Privacy is key here, with just 25 one-bedroom 'casitas,' each with its own private garden. Of these, 13 come with a 10-meter swimming pool for added luxury.

Cigar rolling, big-game fishing, and hikes through the nature reserve are just a few of the activities on offer.

The Silo (Cape Town, South Africa): A chic new destination in the heart of the city

Opening: End of 2016

The Silo Hotel in Cape Town will be located within the iconic Grain Silo Complex, a historic landmark being transformed into the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.

The museum is made possible by Jochen Zeitz, former CEO of Puma, who donated his personal art collection to create this cultural hub.

The hotel will occupy the top floors of the museum, offering panoramic 360-degree views of Cape Town, including Table Mountain and Robben Island.

The Penthouse spans an impressive 2,200 square feet, with the rooftop offering a glass-bottom swimming pool, a champagne bar, and a fine dining restaurant.

The Silo, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Como The Treasury (Perth, Australia): A luxury hotel blending heritage with modern comforts

Opened: December 2015

Perth's central business district has undergone a major transformation, highlighted by the Cathedral Square development surrounding the historic 'State Buildings.'

At the heart of this development lies COMO The Treasury, a luxury hotel where 95% of the original building has been meticulously restored to house 48 spacious rooms, each averaging an impressive 70 square meters.

The interiors are sleek and luxurious, with no expense spared. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining and bar options, all curated by executive chef Amanda Gale.

Shangri-La at the Fort (Manila, Philippines): A five-star escape in the heart of the city

Opening: March 2016

Bonifacio Global City has swiftly risen to become the most dynamic district in Metro Manila, making it a natural fit for Shangri-La's expansion in the Philippine capital.

The new 576-room hotel will boast 6,000 square meters of versatile event space, alongside seven dining and bar options, with the standout being the Raging Bull steakhouse, designed by the New York-based Avroko.

For those seeking luxury, the 46 suites come with dedicated butlers, and the Shangri-La Suite is the pinnacle of indulgence with three bedrooms, 235 square meters of space, and breathtaking views of the city.

Shangri-La at the Fort, 30th Street corner 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Manila, Philippines