Townsville welcomes internationally-branded hotel

Tropical North Queensland has a new internationally branded hotel with the opening this week of Holiday Inn Townsville. 

Located in the central area, the former Madison Plaza is now an IHG property that promises affordable accommodation deals.

The modern hotel has 93 guest rooms, including spacious two-bedroom family rooms, modern meeting and event facilities, communal spaces and the Bistro Sol restaurant, which promises local flavours for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

True to the brand’s global promise, kids aged 12 and under also stay and eat free, making Holiday Inn Townsville the base for travelling families seeking value. 

"The opening of Holiday Inn Townsville is a significant milestone in our regional growth strategy and a testament to our strong partnership with Luxora Hotels alongside our ongoing relationship with La Vie Hotels & Resorts," says Matt Tripolone, regional managing director for IHG Hotels & Resorts. 

“As one of the world’s most iconic hotel brands approaches its 75th anniversary, it is a privilege to continue opening the doors of Holiday Inn in new destinations. Townsville is an exciting and increasingly important regional market, and we look forward to welcoming travellers to experience the brand’s warm, dependable hospitality while discovering everything this remarkable part of North Queensland has to offer.” 

Jerry Xu, CEO of La Vie Hotels & Resorts, said: “The opening of Holiday Inn Townsville is an exciting milestone for everyone involved. Rebranding a hotel is never simply about unveiling a building. It is about creating opportunities - for our people, for our guests, and for the local community.

“By partnering with a globally recognised hotel brand, we are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences while supporting the region's long-term growth. 

"With increasing investment, infrastructure development and visitor demand anticipated in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, North Queensland is well positioned for sustained growth. We see significant opportunities to further strengthen the region's hospitality sector and look forward to continuing our strategic expansion across Queensland.”

For more details see Holiday Inn Townsville. 

New Dalat hotel takes its cues from history

Dalat is different to the rest of Vietnam. Cooler and calmer.

The city is about to get a new hotel that pays tribute to the city's French colonial heritage and the unique character of Vietnam's Central Highlands. 

Grand Mercure Dalat Resort is being promoted by Grand Mercure Hotels & Resorts as a place "where  where modern flair meets enduring traditions". 

Located close to historic Dalat Railway Station and the city's former French Quarter, Grand Mercure Dalat Resort aims to reflect the charm of 1920s French colonial residences. 

Set among pine trees and landscaped gardens, the resort comprises 12 French colonial-inspired villa-style buildings arranged around courtyards, with interiors inspired by the impressionist art of Claude Monet.

The resort features 131 rooms and suites with windows or balconies overlooking the surrounding pine forests and gardens. Room categories range from superior rooms and family premium rooms to the Presidential Suite. 

Dining options at Grand Mercure Dalat Resort will include Deux Amants Restaurant, showcases farm-to-table cuisine crafted with seasonal local ingredients, while BAO Asian Cuisine celebrates the culinary traditions of Guangdong and Sichuan. 

The 1929 Lobby Bar will offer afternoon teas, while Fleurie Café serves locally sourced coffee with freshly baked French pastries. As day turns to evening, Moon Lounge offers cocktails inspired by regional ingredients. 

There is an outdoor swimming pool and La Maison Wellness Spa for relaxing. 

Grand Mercure Dalat Resort aims to capture weddings, social gatherings, meetings and events. 

Garth Simmons from Accor Asia said: “Travel should foster a meaningful connection with the destination, allowing guests to discover its culture and way of life through engaging experiences. 

"We are proud to bring Grand Mercure to Dalat, a city whose French colonial heritage continues to shape its identity today." 

For more info see https://www.grandmercuredalat.com/ 

Westin to debut on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is to gain another luxury hotel.

Marriott International has signed an agreement with Australian-based M Property for The Westin Gold Coast at Surfers Paradise, which will mark the brand's entry to the region. 

Expected to feature 138 keys, the new-build hotel is slated to open in late 2029.

Marriott already currently operates two resorts on the Gold Coast and has a further four properties in the pipeline. 

"The Westin Gold Coast represents a natural fit between brand and location, and we already see strong performance across our existing Westin portfolio, both in key domestic and international source markets for the Gold Coast," said Tristan Cooper, Marriott International's Director of Hotel Development, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific.

"We are excited to welcome Westin to the Gold Coast and introduce a genuine point of difference to the market." 

The hotel is expected to occupy levels one to 15 of the new-build mixed-use development, with 115 premium guest rooms and 23 suites offering views of the Pacific Ocean or Gold Coast hinterland. 

The hotel is expected to feature a signature restaurant and bar, conference and meeting facilities, an infinity pool and pool bar, a fitness studio and the brand’s signature Heavenly Spa by Westin. 

Accor banking on Vietnam destinations

Leading global hotel operator Accor is very keen on the future of tourism in Vietnam. 

Accor and Sun Group, one of Vietnam's leading real estate and tourism developers, have strengthened a long-standing partnership with the signing of a strategic portfolio deal that will see the development of more than 5,300 rooms over the next five years.

Located in key destinations, including Phu Quoc and Danang, the new properties include hotels, resorts and serviced residences. 

Several Accor brands will also be introduced to the Vietnam market for the very first time including Sofitel Serviced Residences, Swissôtel Living and TRIBE as well as Ennismore's fashion-driven lifestyle brand SO/. 

The expanded partnership will also further strengthen the presence of established brands such as MGallery, Grand Mercure and ibis Styles.

Sébastien Bazin, Accor chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: “Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia's most dynamic destinations, and this milestone agreement reflects both the strength of our partnership with Sun Group and our shared ambition to shape the long-term evolution of Vietnam's tourism sector. 

“We remain focused on expanding our network in destinations that offer travellers more meaningful ways to connect with the culture and natural beauty of the country. These developments will bring a diverse mix of brands and experiences to market, creating new opportunities for tourism and contributing to Vietnam's continued growth on the global stage."

Dang Minh Truong, chairman of the Board of Directors, Sun Group, was equally optimistic, saying: “Sun Group has been committed to creating world-class destinations that celebrate Vietnam's identity and unlock the tourism potential of remarkable places across the country. 

“This landmark agreement with Accor marks an important step in that journey. By bringing Accor's diverse hospitality ecosystems and new experiences to Vietnam, we are not only elevating hospitality standards but also enhancing the attractiveness and competitiveness of our destinations, generating economic opportunities, and contributing to the sustainable growth of Vietnam's tourism industry."

The first phase of the portfolio includes Bana Hills Hotel Danang - MGallery Collection; Ruby Beach Hotel - MGallery Collection, SO/ Phu Quoc Ruby Beach, Grand Mercure Phu Quoc Ruby Beach, TRIBE Hon Thom Phu Quoc and ibis Styles Hon Thom Phu Quoc. 

Share some Sydney stories over a beer or two

 

One of Sydney's oldest and most storied pubs, Customs House Bar, is inviting both locals and visitors to raise a glass to history with the launch of Taps & Tales: Stories Brewed Since 1846, an immersive beer tasting experience celebrating nearly 180 years of hospitality at Macquarie Place.

Running every Wednesday (11.15am) and Saturday (2.15pm), Taps & Tales is a guided 30-minute tasting and storytelling experience, open to Marriott Bonvoy members, with guests able to join for free to participate.

Set in the heart of Circular Quay, close to the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the venue has welcomed guests since 1846. 

Originally the Customs House Hotel before evolving into what is now known as Customs House Bar, one of the city's most iconic hospitality destinations, Taps & Tales brings this history to life through a curated blend of beer tasting and storytelling.

Taps & Tales is promoted as offering guests a journey from the heritage of Macquarie Place, home to relics from the First Fleet and Sydney's first street lamp. 

From sailors and customs officers to city workers and legendary figures such as Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, whose aviation ambitions are "rumoured" to have been planned over a pint within these very walls, every sip comes with a story.

The experience also explores the venue's preserved heritage features, including its heritage‑listed marble bar and striking Victorian Italianate façade, while enjoying a guided tasting of the signature CHB Lager, crafted to reflect the bar's history and character.

“Taps & Tales was created to offer something truly distinctive - an experience where guests don't just enjoy great beer but connect with the stories that have shaped this venue for generations,” said Roman Kristek, director of food and beverage at Sydney Harbour Marriott.

“It's a celebration of Sydney's heritage in a way that feels authentic, engaging and distinctly local."

Bookings are available at customshousebar.com.au

How about a winter wellness package by the sea?

There is a new winter wellness package on offer at one of Sydney's hippest hotels. 

The packages are available exclusively at InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach from July 10-September 30, subject to availability. 

These deals combine luxury suite accommodation, Club InterContinental access and a  thermal experience at Èliva Spa, just steps from Coogee Beach.

Guests are promised "sweeping ocean views and the chance to spot migrating whales along the coastline before retreating to Èliva Spa to enjoy the facilities".

They can immerse themselves in magnesium mineral pools, infrared and salt saunas, cold plunge baths and a crystal steam room. 

From $700 per night, the package includes: overnight suite accommodation, Club InterContinental access for up to two guests, one 60-minute thermal facilities experience at Èliva Spa per guest, per stay, along with complimentary valet parking. 

For more info click HERE. 

Hyatt brand hits Hua Hin with a hint of Sanook

I've been looking for a new Thai destination for a proposed trip later this year. Hua Hin just jumped to the top of the list.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation this week announced the opening of The Barai Hua Hin, marking the debut of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in Thailand.

Located on the historic Khao Takiap coastline in Hua Hin, a favourite seaside destination for generations of Thai royalty, the 98-room beachfront resort is designed in the spirit of Sanook (สนุก) - the Thai expression for the joy of living.

Long before the concept of the "wellness retreat" became fashionable, Hua Hin was one. 

The destination has been a seaside escape for Siamese nobility since the early 20th century. 

Drawing on this legacy, The Barai Hua Hin opened as a spa 20 years ago. It has now expanded into a boutique resort. 

“Every stay is designed to unfold at the guest's own rhythm,” says GM Marco Avitabile. 

“Our philosophy is rooted in Sanook, the belief that joy, ease and delight should be part of life’s most meaningful moments. Whether guests come for deep rest, movement, spa rituals, culinary discovery or time by the sea, we invite them to experience renewal in a way that feels personal, memorable and entirely their own.”

Guests can also explore the Kui Buri National Park, Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, and Phraya Nakhon Cave in the region.

The resort has 27 suites and a pair of two-bedroom penthouses. 

Higher-category suites include butler service, terraces, in-suite rituals and daily massage inclusions. 

At the centre of the resort, The Barai Spa takes its name from ancient barays, reservoirs that once sustained daily life in the ancient empire. 

Wellness extends to the two-story Wellness Hub which includes a 24-hour fitness studio, yoga studio, holistic zone and wellness shop. 

The resort offers two dining destinations led by chef Benn Rowe, whose career spans kitchens across Australia and Thailand. 

I've made a note of this one. Small resort, wellness focus, interesting location. 

See www.thebaraihuahin.com

Brisbane's north gets a new international hotel

Brisbane’s north has a new focal point with the 148-key Adina Chermside Brisbane now officially open.

Billed as being created "for travellers who value space, comfort and connection", the new hotel is located in one of Brisbane’s fastest-growing lifestyle precincts, moments from Westfield Chermside, close to leading hospitals, and an easy drive to Brisbane Airport, the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, and the city.

Designed by WMK Architecture, Adina Chermside is "a calm, light-filled retreat crafted to reflect Brisbane’s subtropical climate and meet the needs of the evolving northern corridor". 

Guests at the TFE Hotels property can select from a mix of studio rooms and one-bedroom apartments with kitchen and laundry facilities. The hotel also offers access to an all-day café and bar, gym, meeting spaces, and undercover parking.

Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympic Games with accommodation expected to be at a premium. 

“The interior experience was about creating a sense of retreat within an urban setting,” says WMK Architecture Practice director David Percival.

“Now that the hotel is open, you can see how the continuity of materials and the softness of the palette help establish a genuine ‘home away from home’ for a wide range of guests.”

“Adina Chermside isn’t just opening its doors; it’s opening a space where travellers can breathe out, settle in, and feel held by something recognisably their own,” says GM Sue Rowe. 

To celebrate its opening, Adina Chermside is offering a special Shop, Stay and Play opening package. 

Book for stays from now until July 31 and you will receive a 15% discount on the rooms, a $50 Westfield voucher to the first 100 to book direct, a bottle of wine and noon check-out. Room rates start from $211. Book via adinahotels.com.

Adina has hotel apartments in Australia, New Zealand and Europe.

For more details see https://adinahotels.com/en/apartments/chermside-brisbane.

Movenpick hotel brand booming in Australia and New Zealand

The Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts brand is booming - no surprise as Australians look for casual but professional hotel experiences.

The Accor Group has announced the signing of Mövenpick Hotel Adelaide - a complete reimagining of what is currently the Peppers Waymouth Adelaide.

The property on Waymouth Street has undergone a significant refurbishment across rooms, suites, shared spaces, and a contemporary restaurant.

Further enhancements to corridors and guest rooms are coming with the hotel set to reopen under its new guise in December.

That will a total of five Mövenpick properties across Australia and New Zealand, alongside Melbourne, Hobart, Auckland, and Wellington.

Established in 1948, Mövenpick evolved from a restaurant concept in Switzerland into a global brand with more than 140 hotels across 40+ countries.

“We are proud to partner with Accor to bring Mövenpick to Adelaide”, said Domenic Mattioli, founder of owners the Mattioli Group.

“The hotel has already undergone a significant transformation, and this next chapter allows us to build on that investment with a brand that is globally recognised for its warmth, quality and ability to bring people together.

"Mövenpick's focus on generous hospitality and meaningful guest experiences aligns closely with our vision for the property and its role within the city.”

Accor is, naturally, excited.

“Adelaide is a dynamic city with a strong cultural and culinary identity, making it a natural fit for Mövenpick” said Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer, Accor Pacific.

“This signing allows us to introduce a brand that resonates with today's travellers - one that brings people together through generous hospitality, shared experiences and a genuine sense of place.”

Get in line: upgraded Kew hotel

One of suburban Melbourne's few international hotels has undergone multi-million-dollar refurbishment.

The Sebel Melbourne Kew is transitioning to a "design-led hotel offering premium apartment-style accommodation".

Designed by Mel Porter Design, the interiors draw inspiration from the elegant, leafy suburb where it sits - Kew.

The new-look hotel features a full lobby upgrade and an enhancement of guest rooms and corridors.

The works have span all key areas of the hotel, including an improved arrival experience, alongside refreshed public spaces.

Guest rooms and apartments have new furnishings, updated lighting and new tech.

“The transformation of The Sebel Melbourne Kew marks an exciting new chapter for Regional Accommodation Group," says group managing director Dominic Quilligan.

"Our aim was to create a contemporary, comfortable environment where guests can relax, work and feel at home. We've taken care to ensure the refurbishment not only aligns with The Sebel and Accor brand standards but also reflects the unique character of Kew.

"The result is a hotel that delivers a premium guest experience while remaining authentic to its local surroundings.”

The hotel is ideal for those seeking proximity to the CBD and MCG without being in the city.

For more info visit ALL.com.

* The Sebel brand comprises over 30 properties across Australia, New Zealand, and China. www.thesebel.com.

Byron Bay's new boutique hotel opens its doors

Raes has announced its new boutique hotel, The Bonobo by Raes, has opened in the heart of Byron Bay.

Designed as "contemporary hotel and lifestyle destination", The Bonobo features flexible accommodation, a lobby lounge for all-day dining and drinks, and a mix of wellness and retail experiences, as well as a rooftop pool. 

“The Bonobo introduces a more social expression of Raes in the centre of Byron Bay," says Marty McCaig, group general manager of Raes. 

"It’s been shaped as a hotel people can move through with ease - whether they’re staying, meeting friends for a drink, or dropping by for a wellness treatment."

Following the opening of its Double Bay studio in October, Reset will extend its wellness offering to Byron Bay. Reset at The Bonobo will feature cedar saunas, ice baths, a eucalyptus steam room, magnesium bath and vitamin C–infused showers, alongside a private treatment room dedicated to LED light therapy, facials and restorative body treatments. 

Treatments will be available to both hotel guests and the wider Byron Bay community.

The Bonobo will comprise 33 hotel rooms alongside four one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom and nine three-bedroom residences, all managed by Raes and suitable for both short and extended stays. 

There will be the option to connect with adjoining rooms to create larger multi-bedroom residences. 

The hotel’s food and beverage offering will be crafted by two-hatted Raes Dining Room executive chef Jason Saxby. 

Hotel bookings are available now at  https:/thebonobo.com.au/.

Melbourne welcomes a new international hotel

Melbourne has a new international hotel with the opening of Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street on the edge of the CBD. 

Developed by Spacious Group with a $90 million investment, the 195-room property is being billed as the largest purpose-built hotel development to open in Melbourne CBD this year and the first new-build Mercure in the city centre in over a decade.

The 18-storey hotel features interiors designed by Sora Interiors and a hotel tower created by LiFE Architecture houses six suites, a restaurant and bar, and a gym. 

The lobby's aesthetic draws from the site's history as a tinsmith factory, most notably in an abstract artwork depicting tin offcuts that once would've littered the floors. 

The property' is a six-minute walk to Southern Cross Station, eight minutes to Marvel Stadium, and a 12-minute walk to Queen Victoria Market. 

“We're in a unique pocket of the city and are fortunate to have great separation between ourselves and other tall buildings on all sides,” said hotel GM Justin Phillips. “So no matter where you stay in the hotel, you've got great views, whether it's towards Docklands, back towards Flagstaff Gardens or views of the CBD and out towards North Melbourne.”

Guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows while select suites open onto private outdoor terraces. The décor in the rooms was inspired by the nearby gardens "with spring-inspired tones and nature-led hues layered through greens, blush pinks and soft neutrals".

The hotel teams share curated neighbourhood recommendations, from a gin masterclass at Little Lon Distilling Co, rooftop movie night at Brewmanity Beer Co or dinner on The Q Train. 

On level six, the lift doors open to reveal the hotel's restaurant and bar, Foundry, which is open to guests and the public. 

The bar spills onto an outdoor terrace that is likely to be a popular spot for after-work drinks. 

“The sun sets behind Docklands, and during golden hour, the buildings are illuminated and the water sparkles,” said Phillips. “It's just a very nice place to be at that time of day.”

The hotel is an Accor property. 

“The opening of Mercure Melbourne La Trobe Street is a hugely exciting moment for Accor and for Melbourne's tourism offering,” said Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Accor in the Pacific region. 

“The hotel brings a bold new expression of our Mercure brand to the heart of the city, thoughtfully designed for how today's travellers live, work and explore.”

With over 1,000 hotels in more than 70 countries, Mercure is the largest midscale hotel network outside the United States. 

Change of pace for exclusive Bordeaux hostelry

One of the very best addresses in the vineyards of Bordeaux will re-open for the summer season with a refresh and a new name.

COMO Hotels and Resorts has taken over the historic Cordeillan-Bages property, with the rebranded COMO Cordeillan-Bages scheduled to open for stays in May. 

The 19th-century château in Pauillac was converted into a hotel and restaurant in 1989 by the Cazes family (the owners of Château Lynch-Bages among others).

It is home to a restaurant that has been helmed by several esteemed chefs.

COMO Cordeillan-Bages will mark COMO's debut in one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions but it does have French properties in COMO Le Beauvallon in Saint-Tropez and COMO Le Montrachet, a delightful village' inn at Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy.

It says: "This intimate 28-room retreat brings together craftsmanship, understated luxury, and a profound appreciation for food and wine in the heart of the Médoc.

"With interiors by longstanding design partner Paola Navone, the beautifully restored 19th-century estate pairs contemporary comfort with the quiet elegance of Pauillac.

"A destination for true wine lovers, offering privileged access to Château Lynch-Bages and Bordeaux’s most legendary vineyards."

A stay or a meal will not be cheap, but the setting is superb. The property is exclusive and exquisite - when we dined a couple of decades ago Yves Saint-Laurent was among our fellow guests. 

Old meets new at a hip new Shanghai address

Shanghai is one of the most fascinating cities; Hyatt's Andaz is one of the hippest hotel brands.

Put the two together and you have Andaz Shanghai ITC, which opened this week.

Located in the heart of Shanghai's heritage district, the new hotel is part of one of the city's newest landmarks, the soaring ITC Xujiahui complex.

So think spectacular views from upper levels and a design that drew on the theme of nostalgia, referencing numerous iconic Shanghai sights, tastes, sounds and smells.

The Xujiahui district has a storied past and was at the forefront of development when Shanghai opened up to the outside world.

Motifs of the city's past, and present, can be found in the luxe rooms, restaurants, the rooftop bar and the open, neighbourhood-style corridors.

There are 267 rooms and suites offering floor-to-ceiling views.

There is a variety of accommodation options, many offering outdoor terraces, Nespresso coffee makers, Byredo Eleventh Hour amenities, made for Andaz.

Three culinary options are The Rooftop Bar; The West Wing, a European/Shanghainese deli and wine bar and he East Wing (above) with daytime buffets and classic Shanghainese dishes in the evening.

There are also opening offers for World of Hyatt members valid for stays from February 10 to May 2.

I've added it to my "to visit" list. It joins the brand's Asian debut property: Andaz Xintiandi, Shanghai, in the city.

For more information, or to book a reservation, you can visit the Website.

New name and new vibe for Noosa hotel icon

One of Australia's iconic beach resort hotels is to re-open with a new name and a new vibe.

Formerly a Sheraton, then a Sofitel, Hastings Street favourite Elysium Noosa Resort – MGallery Collection will re-open in full with 175 rooms, including 104 suites and eight villas.

The highlight will be the signature Elysium Suite, with its private pool.

The Queensland hotel's culinary lead will be Mediterranean-inspired Cibaria from star restaurateurs Alessandro and Anna Pavoni.

It will celebrate local Sunshine Coast ingredients, from Noosa Reds tomatoes to Mooloolaba prawns.

By the pool, Bar Capri will be a venue for aperitivi under chic striped umbrellas.

The venue is one of several upcoming openings for Accor brand MGallery.

“Each upcoming opening enriches our brand's portfolio of signature hotels, where every stay becomes a memorable and meaningful experience," says Maud Bailly, CEO Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems.

"Designed to celebrate local and unique character, our hotels invite travellers to discover new places, new atmospheres and new stories to experience. We are extremely proud of our pipeline of upcoming openings and look forward to welcoming guests to these new destinations around the world.”

Other newcomers include V Villas Maldives at Mirihi - MGallery Collection (formerly the Mirihi Island Resort), Kamaliss MontAzure Phuket - MGallery Collection in Kamala, Phuket, and nearby Surin Beach, Navera Phuket - MGallery Collection.

For those headed for Europe, Le Bel Hôtel Oléron - MGallery Collection is located off the west coast of France, will have culinary ideas crafted by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire - one of the best in the world.

Closer to home, The Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection was soft-launched in late 2025 and is due to open fully next month.

See mgallery.com.

Image: Elise Hassey

New life for a long-time Bangkok favourite

A popular Bangkok hotel over several decades has been re-styled and given new branding. 

 
Radisson Hotel Group has unveiled the new-look Radisson Hotel Chateau de Bangkok, which it describes as "a stunning reinvention of one of the city's most storied landmarks". 

Nestled in the upmarket Ploen Chit district - home to major shopping malls, hotels and office towers - the hotel now offers 178 rooms, three dining destinations and versatile event spaces.

 

Radisson says the revamped property offers an "exceptional stay for both business and leisure guests seeking comfort, style, and convenience in Thailand’s vibrant capital".

Savvy guests will request a room offering panoramic views of Bangkok's dramatic skyline. 

Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia Pacific, Radisson Hotel Group, says: "Thailand is one of our key markets in south-east Asia, and we are delighted to strengthen our portfolio with the opening of Radisson Hotel Chateau de Bangkok. 

"This property has a special legacy in the city, and its reintroduction under the Radisson brand reflects both our growth ambitions and our commitment to creating memorable stays for our guests."



Guests can start the day at Larder & Lounge, a café serving artisanal coffee and locally inspired bites, indulge in Thai-French fusion at Château Botanique or enjoy cocktails and light refreshments at View Pool Bar on the 12th floor, while enjoying panoramic city views from the rooftop oasis.

Wellness also takes centre stage on the 12th floor. Guests can work out in the fitness centre, re-charge in the spa room, or enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool. 

Event venues can cater for up to 250 guests. 

"We are thrilled to welcome guests back to the Chateau, now part of Radisson Hotel Group," says GM Jean Pascal Bernet. 

"Our team looks forward to delivering the personalised service and warm hospitality that this property has been known for, while offering a refreshed experience that reflects the energy of modern Bangkok."

The hotel is a 40-minute drive from Suvarnabhumi International Airport and 30 minutes from Don Mueang International Airport (if traffic is kind). 

The BTS Skytrain Ploenchit station is 400 meters from the hotel. 

For more info click here.

New international hotel for Perth Airport will offer a resort vibe

Perth Airport is to get its first hotel and Pullman Perth Airport has unveiled a cutting-edge design concept. 

"The new hotel will offer a world-class retreat for visitors to relax and soak up the resort-style environment just steps from our terminals," says Dan Sweet, Chief Property Officer, Skyfields by Perth Airport. 

“The new Pullman Perth Airport hotel will be a world-class facility located at the front door to our major terminals. 

"It will offer a vibrant and convenient place to stay and recharge between connections for international, interstate and local visitors. 

“Travellers can also use it as a base to explore Perth's iconic attractions - it is just 15 minutes to the CBD, Optus Stadium or wineries in the Swan Valley, and 30 minutes to Perth's spectacular beaches.”

With construction scheduled to start in 2026, the 240-room hotel will features an aerodynamic form with metal fins that echo aircraft panels. 

The curved shape will maximise views of the runways from upper-level rooms while the rooftop pool and bar will aim to reinforce the resort feel. 

Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer Adrian Williams said: “Pullman is defined by spaces that are purposeful, contemporary and designed to provoke exchange, and Pullman Perth Airport will be a compelling expression of that philosophy. 

"Every element, from architecture and interiors through to the rooftop experience, has been intentionally crafted to serve the needs of today's lifestyles.

“By blending Pullman's global perspective with design cues inspired by Western Australia, the hotel will offer an experience that is globally connected yet locally grounded, where design actively shapes how guests engage, connect and move through the destination.” 

The approach to the architecture, interiors and landscapes by DKO Architecture will aim to strike a balance between the two worlds of aviation and a resort-style destinations.

“The brief from Skyfields was for the hotel to make guests feel instantly grounded, relaxed, and immersed in Western Australia's identity - all while delivering the sophistication of a global Pullman flagship,” said Dennis Chew, director of DKO Architecture.

“The strong sense of place is captured in the interiors, with colour palettes and materials that are deeply rooted in WA's diverse landscapes - the Pilbara's raw earth and ancient stories, the Kimberley's lush plantations and warm timbers, and Esperance's coastal calm.

“Outside, the hotel forecourt will be a green, welcoming plaza for people to gather in a serene garden environment. The space connects to the airport's existing Skybridge with a 30-metre canopy walkway leading from the terminal, providing an immediate and seamless transition to the resort environment."

New international hotel approved for Sunshine Coast

Queensland's booming Sunshine Coast is set to get another international hotel. 

Construction of a new $150 million Crowne Plaza Maroochydore by Felix Capital will commence in April next year. 

The new Crowne Plaza, on Ocean Street, has been approved by Sunshine Coast Council. 

“This is an incredible announcement for Maroochydore and the Sunshine Coast. Crowne Plaza will provide much needed leisure and business tourism accommodation as well as community entertainment facilities for the region when it opens in 2028,” said Michael Maroun, director at Felix Capital. 

Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will feature 180 guest rooms alongside more than 900 square metres of and event space including a 600sqm ballroom. 

The hotel will also include a 30-metre pool and spa, gym, sauna, and secure basement parking across two levels. The food and beverage offering will include an all-day restaurant and a 160-seat signature dining venue, as well as an outdoor pool bar and lounge alongside a lobby bar.

Part of this development - sitting on top of the hotel, AER Residence will feature 24 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments over four floors.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said Crowne Plaza will be an important addition to the region’s tourism and business sector.

“The Sunshine Coast requires more than 2,400 additional hotel rooms, or around 10 new hotels, to support our tourism industry into the future," she said. .

“Council took a bold step to create incentives, and it is having an impact. Crowne Plaza ticks every box in terms of providing important tourism infrastructure to boost our region’s appeal as a year-round destination and we look forward to construction commencing in April next year.” 

There is a targeted opening for the hotel in 2028. 

Culinary adventures and entertainment on the Bangkok waterfront

When it comes to location in Bangkok it is hard to go past Anantara Riverside Bangkok, a delightful riverside oasis in one of the world's busiest cities.

The hotel has just announced the grand opening of Sala Lakorn, a new restaurant on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Sala Lakorn is promising "world-class Thai cuisine with a captivating theatrical performance".

Guests are invited to an immersive evening of contemporary Thai culture and spectacle, available daily from 6pm to 10pm. 

The heart of the experience is "The Eternal Siam" (below), a show that is the vision of Manop Meejamrat (Kru Nai), a highly respected artist and recipient of the prestigious Silpathorn Award for Performing Arts.

The media release says: "The production masterfully blends stunning contemporary Thai performances with world-class visual effects and a powerful musical score. It takes audiences on a journey through the timeless beauty and spirit of Thailand, from the country's ancient origins to its vibrant present."

I'm more interested in the food; a buffet offering which showcases a mix of Thai culinary heritage and international favourites. 

A barbecue seafood section is a centrepiece, offering a selection of river prawns, blue swimmer crabs, slipper lobster, fine de claire oysters, and other delicacies. 

Signature Thai dishes include gang keaw wan gai (Thai green curry with chicken) and pla pad pak preaw wan (sweet & sour seabass) along with Thai street food favourites such as crab omelette with coconut siracha, sweet chilli sauce, bean sprouts and Thai herbs and live-action Som Tum stations.

International flavours include a China Town Station, where guests can enjoy scrumptious dim sum and favourites such as Hainanese chicken rice, and barbecue pork pork on rotation, while Indian favourites include chicken tikka, dal tarka and aloo shimla mirch. 

Sala Lakorn is aiming to become Bangkok's premier destination "for those seeking an evening of cultural immersion, exquisite dining, and world-class entertainment". 

For reservations and info contact +66 2431 9486 or email riversidedining@anantara.com.

New Melbourne hotel promises "best of both worlds"

If you want to stay close to Melbourne CBD - but not in the centre - then a new hotel opening might be of interest. 

Radisson Hotel Group has just debuted the Park Inn by Radisson Melbourne Carlton.

The city-fringe hotel sits adjacent to next Princes Park, opposite the Carlton AFL Club’s grounds, and is only 4 kilometers from Melbourne’s CBD.

The hotel features 89 rooms with views of Princes Park and the hotel’s outdoor pool. 

The interiors reflect Park Inn by Radisson's upbeat design ethos, creating a space where guests can relax and recharge. Families and small groups can enjoy the convenience of connecting rooms to stay together.

The new hotel is minutes from Lygon Street, Melbourne’s original Little Italy, with its many cafes, trattorias, pizza joints and gelato bars. 

Melbourne Zoo is a short 10-minute walk, with leading medical institutions, including the Royal Children’s Hospital and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, are within one kilometre.

The location is connected to tram routes, the University of Melbourne and city attractions. 

“We’re proud to introduce Park Inn by Radisson to Australia from a spot that feels authentically Melbourne," says GM Kathy Zha. 

"Our guests get the best of both worlds, the city’s energy within minutes and the calm of Princes Park right outside. 

"Whether here for meetings, medical visits, game day, or a weekend on Lygon Street, we’ll keep things easy, comfortable, and uplifting for guests.”

The outdoor swimming pool is now available and a new wellness hub is in development featuring an infrared and steam sauna, as well as a cold plunge experience.

The hotel runs up to 80% solar-powered energy, uses high-efficiency showerheads and taps. It features drought-tolerant native landscaping that needs minimal irrigation.

A multilingual team, speaking more than 10 languages, caters for international visitors.