Travel News – February 2022


[Hospitality News]
The Dubai EDITION Adds Modern Luxury to Dubai

EDITION Hotels officially premieres in Dubai’s iconic Downtown district, a stone’s throw from the city’s world-class retail flagships, commercial district and its flourishing art, design and culture hubs. The Dubai EDITION is the brand’s latest addition in the Middle East following the success of its launch in Abu Dhabi.
Welcoming guests since November 2021, The Dubai EDITION, with its own unique and original identity, embodies its sense of place at the centre of a thriving international gateway city that is steered by pioneering spirit and innovation while anchored in its rich culture. 
The Dubai EDITION heralds a new generation of modern luxury and pays homage to Dubai’s passion to create something entirely new. The result is an elegant, vibrant, urban hub that undeniably encapsulates the essence of this inspiring city and sets the bar for luxury of the future. The Dubai EDITION brings a new bespoke, boutique experience with the acute attention to detail and finesse that the EDITION brand is known for.

From the outside, The Dubai EDITION stands tall within the Downtown district surrounded by world-famous attractions and landmarks. The green-filled entrance to the hotel is populated with bold terracotta pots transporting guests from the hustle and bustle to an oasis of calm. The clever landscaping continues throughout the hotel into the lobby, outdoor spaces and terraces, shaping intimate venues complete with lights beautifully woven through the gardens to create a playful dance at night.
As with all EDITION hotels, the lobby is a dynamic, social space that subtly reveals a sense of place and sense of time. In this soaring public space, the 50-foot-high domed ceiling is reminiscent of Italian architectural structures. The centrepiece, a seamless triple spiral staircase, is a truly unique design statement that connects the lobby to other public spaces. Dark woods, neutral tones, soft textures and warm lighting glide through the lobby lounge, with furniture placed in intimate seating groups. This considered and intentional space is tranquil, comfortable, and effortless. A grand three-tiered crystal chandelier adds drama and decadence to this modern gathering place to see and be seen.

The cohesive design language flows seamlessly throughout the hotel and continues into the 275 guestrooms, including 41 suites and a vast Penthouse. This simplicity in design immediately brings attention to minute details such as the matching of veins in the natural stone and wood. The palette is minimal yet warm, with a journey of slightly different hues and colours. The light oak wood and stone accents flow from one room to the other and evoke a feeling of tranquil luxury. The monochromatic colour scheme and contemporary minimalism make each room feel fresh and light and is complemented by the elegant lines of the furniture, textured upholstery and wooden-lined walls. Meanwhile, the spacious bathrooms, with natural-toned marble, are fitted with oval-shaped baths and custom Le Labo toiletries of EDITION’s exclusive scent. Floor to ceiling windows provide abundant light and lead onto large glass balconies with spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. Artwork by Carole Benitah adorns the walls depicting a young girl dancing in the Dubai fountains.

Tucked away in the lobby, Leon is a cosy speakeasy-style bar serving original custom cocktails and flavours from around the world. It is an exciting juxtaposition to the rest of the hotel with its punchy accents in orange and red against a dark, rich background. Clever lighting further enhances the vibrant colour-blocking throughout the space. It exudes energy and will be a place for visitors and those living in the city to enjoy live DJs, network and socialise. Leon perfectly channels EDITION’s ethos to surprise guests with the unexpected.

Accessible from the lobby, the ground floor is home to Duomo, the theatrical Italian restaurant serving modern interpretations of the traditional cuisine. Natural light fills the space through floor to ceiling windows highlighting the pop of yellow in the velvet furnishings, a clear design departure from the natural-toned lobby. Abstract digital art is projected onto the dome ceiling above creating an interactive and encompassing dining experience from the surroundings to the plate. The outdoor terrace is adorned with large potted olive trees and lit by lanterns at night with views of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, in the near distance.
On the first floor, Jolie is a lively venue serving exquisite French cuisine inspired by Mediterranean coastal flavours. Here, wall to wall portraits inspired by Parisian high fashion sets the scene for an energetic, glamourous space to transition from morning to evening dining. The restaurant is filled with natural, earthy hues from the bronze finishes, tan hide leather chairs and the raised olive and gold bar chairs that line the ‘U’ shaped bar. Rattan and teak chairs are interspersed with olive-green banquettes, while parlour palms and tropical plants give a sense of privacy. Seamless Terrazzo flooring is the statement design element throughout the restaurant. On the semi-enclosed balcony-inspired terrace overlooking Old Town, artwork adorns the walls depicting urban living.
By day, guests at Thia Sky Lounge can relax soaking up the sun and jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa. Large chaise lounges and private cabanas frame the beautifully landscaped pool that sits flush atop a deck with teak wood furniture and terracotta potted plants. In the evening, Thia Sky Lounge is a cosmopolitan attraction and an idyllic spot for sundowners and fresh light bites.
The Dubai EDITION offers modern event and meeting facilities including three flexible meeting rooms, an event space poised to host the city’s latest happenings, and a ballroom with pre-function space. The hotel’s large 24-hour gym is light and airy, and fully equipped with Technogym equipment. The hotel will also feature an intimate spa with three treatment rooms.
Nestled in the epicentre of Downtown, the hotel is located near Dubai’s best neighbourhoods and attractions. It is just minutes to Downtown’s bustling boulevard, The Dubai Mall and Dubai Water Canal, and close to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Opera, the soon-to-open Museum of the Future and the financial district. The hotel is a serene escape from busy city life and a vibrant, social destination by both day and night. The hotel is housed in a 23-story building, with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline and unobstructed views of the landmark Burj Khalifa and the Old Town.
For more info, telephone +9714 602 3333 or head over to editionhotels.com/Dubai

Mandarin Oriental Debuts Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group introduced its legendary hospitality to the vibrant southern China city of Shenzhen, with the opening of Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen.
The luxury hotel is located on the upper floors of UpperHills, a striking new 79-storey premium building in the Futian district. Each of the 178 spacious rooms and suites enjoys spectacular parkland and city views and ranges in size from 56sqm to 76sqm, while the 16 exquisitely appointed suites range from 114 sqm to 400 sqm. The accommodation features luxurious marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, Diptyque toiletries, Samsung 55” LED televisions, Dyson Supersonic hairdryers and Bose Bluetooth speakers.
The Mandarin Club, located on the 78th floor, provides a private experience for guests, with a spacious lounge, dining area and glorious views. The signature Spa offers a range of curated wellness treatments and a hi-tech gymnasium and 20m indoor swimming pool.
The property has eight restaurants and bars including a fine-dining Cantonese restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Fei, while other restaurants feature the cuisines of China, Spain, Japan and France, with the vintage-vibe rooftop MO Bar catering to the city’s elites.
There is also a myriad of MICE offerings, which includes The Cube, a free-standing event venue featuring the latest technologies, making it ideal for large gatherings, bespoke conferences, cocktail parties and weddings.
The official opening ceremony began with a traditional Chinese blessing followed by speeches, unveiling the hotel logo, ribbon cutting and a champagne toast. After a lively Lion Dance and Eye-Dotting ceremony, General Manager Mark S. Bradford addressed the invited guests.

“We are delighted to bring Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality to the exciting city of Shenzhen. As well as fabulously luxurious and spacious rooms, we have eight distinctive restaurants and bars, making us a must-visit destination for the discerning diners of Shenzhen. This is my second China opening for Mandarin Oriental in the space of three years, and it has been an exciting and rewarding journey. My experienced team and I look forward to providing exceptional experiences for our guests.”General Manager Mark S. Bradford
To celebrate the opening, the hotel has an Opening Offer available, priced from CNY 3,088, including a CNY 1,000 hotel credit. 
For further information, head over to mandarinoriental.com/shenzhen

Hilton Debuts Largest Hotel in Asia Pacific with Opening of Hilton Singapore Orchard

Hilton officially opened Hilton Singapore Orchard, the company’s largest hotel in Asia Pacific on 24 February 2022. Located at the heart of Orchard Road, the 1,080-room property sets a new benchmark of hospitality for the city’s renowned shopping district with a vibrant blend of contemporary design, innovative dining experiences and extensive meeting spaces.
“Today we celebrate a key milestone with the opening of our largest hotel in Asia Pacific. Hilton Singapore Orchard is a fantastic showcase of our flagship brand and places us in a strong position to usher in a new era of travel. Together with our partners at OUE Limited, we are confident that the hotel will be in a leading position to cater to the travel demand that we anticipate will come rapidly as global economies and travel networks reconnect. Hilton Singapore Orchard will truly be top of mind for both leisure and business guests as it delivers exceptional experiences supported by Hilton’s renowned hospitality,” said Alan Watts, president, Asia Pacific, Hilton. 
“As one of the largest hospitality companies in the world, Hilton is renowned for its strong brand recognition, global distribution network, and successful loyalty programme – all of which combined will provide our property with a competitive advantage and enhance its positioning in the market,” said Brian Riady, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, OUE Limited. “We are confident Hilton Singapore Orchard will be a leading lifestyle destination for locals and travellers alike.”
Singapore is a key business hub and world-renowned leisure destination for travellers around the world. The hotel’s positioning in the heart of the city-state’s lifestyle, fashion and dining haven, with a direct connection to luxury shopping centre Mandarin Gallery, ensures easy access to the best global brands and gourmet offerings, as well as premier specialist medical centres and the central business district.
Hilton Singapore Orchard features a modern contemporary design that pays homage to Singapore’s rich colonial history and agricultural heritage. Botanical references are reflected throughout the hotel’s artwork and interiors while embracing a seamless and eco-friendly guest experience. Energy-efficient technology such as in-room motion, air-conditioning and light sensors feature in every room and suite, while digital key access and smartphone-connected services offer greater convenience for guests on the go.
Alexandra Jaritz, senior vice president, brand management, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “With its strategic location, stylish design, diverse array of culinary concepts and bespoke events capabilities, Hilton Singapore Orchard will be a beacon for the brand. We look forward to delivering exceptional experiences complemented by Hilton’s signature hospitality.”
From Osteria Mozza by celebrated chef Nancy Silverton to residential all-day dining restaurant Estate, Hilton Singapore Orchard’s five curated concepts will satisfy even the most discerning palates, with something for every taste and occasion. For afternoon tea or an aperitif, guests can enjoy barista-quality brews, botanical-inspired afternoon tea, handcrafted cocktails or artisanal pastries at Ginger.Lily. Two-Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro and award-winning Chatterbox famed for their local Singapore delights round up the stellar culinary line up at Hilton Singapore Orchard.
The hotel features a sprawling 2,400 square metres of event facilities for meetings, conferences and events of all sizes, which include 16 highly versatile spaces bathed in natural light. Two pillarless ballrooms – the elegant Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 900 guests and multi-tiered amphitheatre-style Imperial Ballroom with panoramic city views – are fitted with state-of-the-art LED walls, and lighting and sound technologies to create memorable event experiences.
Hilton Singapore Orchard is located at 333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867. For more information, or to make a reservation, head over to Hilton Singapore Orchard or call +65 6737 4411

Photo credits: Respective brands