2023, travel knows no boundaries anymore, and we finally embrace the world once again. As the world reopens its doors to travelers, the year 2023 witnessed a remarkable resurgence in the Asian hotel industry.From luxurious city retreats to idyllic beachfront resorts, Asia's hospitality scene welcomed a wave of exceptional properties that left an indelible mark on discerning travelers. As I embarked on my journey through this vibrant continent, I had the privilege of experiencing some of the finest accommodations that 2023 had to offer.Based on my overall experiences, I have selected my personal Top 10 Asian Hotels, which epitomize luxury, comfort, and unparalleled experiences.
Canopy by Hilton Xi'an Qujiang - China
Xi'an, as one of the most important gateway cities in northwest China, is also a city that I personally adore. Its rich history and mouthwatering cuisine never fail to captivate the imagination.
In recent years, the hotel market in Xi'an has been flourishing with remarkable offerings. Here, you can find my favorites in China, such as the Grand Hyatt and W hotels. And now, there is another exceptional addition - the Canopy by Hilton Xi'an Qujiang
Located at the bustling intersection in the heart of Datang Furong Garden, one of the most popular commercial areas in Xi'an, the Canopy by Hilton Xi'an Qujiang is within walking distance of the famous Tang Paradise and offers a breathtaking view of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
The hotel's architecture seamlessly blends traditional Chinese eaves and modern glass curtain walls. At night, the lights embedded in the glass curtains illuminate, while lanterns under the eaves light up, creating a perfect fusion with the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Datang Furong Garden, capturing the attention of countless visitors.
The hotel's interior design, created by HBA, the renowned firm behind the Shanghai Waldorf Astoria on the Bund and the Conrad Jiuzhaigou Resort, among many other Hilton Group properties, draws inspiration from the theme "Fresh Attire, Spirited Horse."
Conrad Shenzhen - China
Shenzhen, as the core hub of the Greater Bay Area, has seen the opening of numerous impressive new hotels in recent years. The Conrad Hotel Shenzhen, which debuted in 2023, stands out as a memorable addition to the city's hospitality scene.
Located in the bustling Qianhai area, which has already transformed into a skyline of towering buildings, the Conrad Hotel Shenzhen is situated within the Hongrongyuan Center. This center serves as a testament to the remarkable transformation of Shenzhen, from a small fishing village to a thriving metropolis.
The renowned design duo Yabu Pushelberg, responsible for the hotel's interior design, took inspiration from "A Dreamer's Tale" to create captivating spaces that blend artistic flair with a cozy atmosphere.
From the soaring 9-meter-high lobby, which subtly embodies the traditional Chinese architectural concept of "three entrances and three exits," to the spacious guest rooms starting at 56 square meters, and the extensive art collection that runs throughout the hotel, every detail is sure to captivate visitors.
This newly opened metropolitan hotel of 2023 is a unique work of art in the Top 10 Asian hotels list.
The Peninsula Hong Kong
This is my second stay at The Glamorous Hotel in Hong Kong, and there have been some changes since its opening in 2019. For instance, the iconic elephant in the center of the lobby has been replaced by new artwork.
Despite Tony's questionable use of space in the guest rooms and my ongoing confusion about the purpose of dual showers and the extravagant corridors resembling an executive lounge, The Glamorous brand's bold exploration and constant experimentation in luxury are truly refreshing.
CHAAT has achieved a Michelin one-star rating for its non-mainstream Indian cuisine within the hotel. Asaya, serving as a spa center, not only has its own kitchen but also features guest rooms. And the newly opened Carlyle & Co., with its eight rooms, takes the concept of a "hotel within a hotel" to another level.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa - Vietnam
The success of the JW Marriott flagship brand in Fuguo Island, which opened in 2017, cannot be underestimated.
Designed by the American design genius Bill Bensley, who has been living in Asia for many years, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa Resort on Fuguo Island breaks away from the stereotypical image people have of the JW Marriott brand. The entire hotel is a whimsical masterpiece that completely overturns expectations.
The hotel is located on the site of a former school that was destroyed during World War II. Bill Bensley used this as a foundation and combined it with the relevant theories of the French naturalist Lamarck to create a unique concept.
Lamarck, one of the founders of biology, proposed the theory of biological evolution even before Darwin. As a result, this JW Marriott hotel is also known as "Lamarck University." Bill Bensley even wrote a fictional history of the university, dating back to its establishment in 1917, adding depth and a sense of traceability to the hotel's design.
For my next island getaway, I will still choose it, so it must be named in the Top 10 Asian hotels list.
The Peninsula Tokyo -Japan
The Peninsula, never being the most visually stunning at first glance, has always placed a heavy emphasis on design. I have stayed in 8 different Peninsula hotels, and I still prefer to use the word "admiration" to express my impression of this brand.
The texture of The Peninsula is difficult to convey through images, which further reinforces my belief in the power of words. My admiration for The Peninsula prompted me to write passionately while traveling on the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto.
The location of The Peninsula Tokyo is exceptionally elegant, needless to say. It is situated in the heart of the bustling Marunouchi business district, facing the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park across the street. Within a 5-minute walk, you can stroll through the dazzling boutiques of Ginza. It is also just a 10-minute drive from the Shinkansen and JR Tokyo Station, with direct access to the subway station underground.
If we focus solely on the guest rooms, the rooms in this hotel are undoubtedly the most impeccable among all the hotels I stayed in last year. The attention to detail and comprehensive care left a deep impression.
I immediately include it in the Top 10 Asian hotels list.
Rosewood Beijing - China
This year, Rosewood Beijing will celebrate its 10th birthday. As the first Asian debut of the Rosewood brand, I have deeply experienced how it has remained fresh and vibrant over the past decade.
It is also because of Rosewood Beijing that I became a fan of BAR Studio. This design firm from Australia seamlessly blends traditional Chinese elements with the cozy atmosphere that Rosewood strives for, elevating it to a new level of elegance.
Although I have only stayed at this hotel twice, the Michelin Guide-listed restaurant, Country Kitchen, located on the 3rd floor, has become my go-to "canteen" in Beijing. Every time I visit Beijing, I almost always make a stop here.
With an average cost of around 350 yuan per person, it is quite affordable for a luxury hotel like Rosewood Beijing. Although I didn't order the famous Peking duck due to the smaller group size, all the dishes I tried were excellent.
Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok - Thailand
I visited Bangkok twice this year, and the only hotel I stayed at repeatedly was Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, which shows my love for it.
The hotel is designed by the local Thai design firm P49 Deesign, and it's worth mentioning that their office is not far from the hotel. The interior spaces of the hotel are fascinating and diverse.
In the guest rooms, the bathrobes exclusively created by Belgian artist Christian Develter for the hotel are very stylish and worth purchasing.
Lastly, I have to rave about the hotel's breakfast, which can be considered as one of the best in Bangkok hotels. The variety and quality of the dishes are outstanding, and it can easily be enjoyed as a brunch.
Conrad Osaka - Japan
As I stepped into the rightmost elevator, it took me straight up to the 40th floor where the magnificent sky lobby was located. Stepping out, I found myself facing the atrium that connected the 39th and 40th floors, and I couldn't help but let out a soft "wow." The sound was subtle, indicating that my geographical senses were still intact. However, that small "wow" accurately expressed my astonishment.
The bustling cityscape beyond the large glass curtain, intertwined with the rotating sofa seats and winding spiral staircase bathed in afternoon light, left me speechless. In that moment, I knew without a doubt that the Conrad Osaka Hotel had to have a name among all the metropolitan hotels I've stayed at.
The hotel's lobby was exceptionally impressive, one of my favorite lobby spaces among all the hotels I stayed at last year. Its presence is indispensable in the list of the Top 10 Asian hotels of 2023.
Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River - Thailand
Jean-Michel Gathy is my favorite hotel designer, hands down. And the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, which he masterfully designed, takes "urban resort" to a whole new level.
The hotel creates a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city with its numerous water courtyard spaces that are both intimate and inviting. The lush gardens surrounding the low-rise buildings exude a sense of relaxation, with gentle breezes and shimmering reflections on the water.
Regent Phu Quoc - Vietnam
Without a doubt, everyone around me has probably been urged by me to stay at the InterContinental Koh Samui Resort - it's my favorite hotel I stayed at in 2023, and it truly exceeded all expectations.
One aspect of the InterContinental brand that I absolutely love is their custom illustrations, which can be found in every InterContinental hotel. The attention to detail at the Koh Samui Resort is exceptional, with the custom illustrations even adorning the shoebox lining, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
In addition to the impressive hardware, the overall ambiance of the hotel exudes a sense of luxury. The art pieces, the graceful swimming koi in the "rice fields," and the crashing waves along the coastline all contribute to a memorable experience.
Furthermore, the impeccable service at the fitness center showcases the essence of a luxury hotel, paying attention to every detail.
This is clearly my top pick for the most satisfactory hotel in the Top 10 Asian hotels of 2023.
"The Most Anticipated New Hotel Openings of 2024" series is currently being planned, where I will comprehensively showcase the most highly anticipated flagship properties from various hotel groups around the world. Stay tuned for an exciting exploration of the global hospitality scene.
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