We have rounded up three properties in Africa, Europe and China that are re-opening after undergoing extensive renovations. These properties have upgraded their guestrooms, and their guest offerings, making them more than just renovated hotels—in fact, they’re practically new.
Taiwan
This week, the Grand Hyatt Taipei in Taiwan has re-opened after a renovation that stripped the property down to its core. The 853 rooms and suites were redesigned and rebuilt. Guestrooms now feature bathrooms with marble, muted colors, goose down duvets, and deep-soaking tubs; and the Presidential Suite offers views of the Taipei 101 Tower. The property is also unveiling two new restaurants—a Chinese restaurant, Yun Jin, and a Western restaurant, the Steakhouse. The Club Lounge is also new and offers Eastern and Western comfort food throughout the morning. The lobby now houses Baguette, a bakery and gift shop designed to offer guests more seating, and a place to socialize. The property’s less formal vibe can also be seen in the check-in area, which now features five low desks instead of the high, grand counter that once served as the check-in area. Rates start at $325 per night. For more information, visit taipei.grand.hyatt.com.
Mozambique
Mozambique’s andBeyond Benguerra Island is getting a new look as part of andBeyond’s extensive investment plan. The lodge’s refurbishment (it will re-open in June) includes an elegant new interior design reflecting Mozambique’s Portuguese heritage. Guestrooms will be re-arranged offering king-sized beds with views of the beach, outdoor showers, and the outdoor decks are also being redesigned to accommodate private pools, which are being updated to larger rim flow versions, as well as hanging beach beds. There’ll also be a new welcome entrance with beach views, as week as expansive decks facing the ocean. On the beach, the Dhow Bar, a Benguerra icon, will get a new look that allows it to function as more than just a bar; and the lodge’s Casinhas and cabanas have been revamped to offer tropical chic decor with touches of African and Portuguese influences. The property’s private villa will be renamed Casa de Familia. It’s a 3-bedroom suite, featuring a master bedroom; two additional bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom; air conditioning; and a private pool. Casa de Familia can accommodate six adults or four adults and four children. The lodge’s dive center is also being expanded and adding showers for divers; and the property’s double-full catamaran, the Stiletto, is getting updated and will be available for half- and full-day cruises on a charter basis. Rates start at $585 pp per night and include accommodations; three daily meals; soft drinks; house wines; local branding spirits and beers; teas; coffees; an option of sea kayaking, sunset dhow cruise or scheduled snorkeling trip per day; an option of either a castaway picnic, an island expedition or a local village tour per stay; laundry, emergency evacuation insurance, VAT; and transfers to and from the lodge airstrip. For more information, visit andbeyond.com.
Spain
Sant Francesc Hotel Singular, a boutique hotel located in Palma de Mallorca, re-opened last month. The 42-room property is located inside a restored and renovated 19th century mansion on Sant Francesc Square. The hotel offers three options for cocktails, dining, and relaxing—the Lobby Bar & Patio Mallorquin, ideal for drinks; the Quadrat Restaurant & Garden offering tastes of the Mediterranean; and the Singular Rooftop Terrace with panoramic views. The property’s Wellbeing sanctuary features products from Anne Semonin and a selection of Singular soothing treatments. Room rates start at $198.55 per night. For more information, visit hotelsantfrancesc.com.
