The year 2016 is shaping up to be a very good one for hot new hotel openings. Here’s a sampling of the ones we’re most looking forward to — from a Star Wars-inspired Thai retreat to a futuristic London tower of luxury.
Presidential Suite, Watergate Hotel, Washington DC
The Watergate Hotel
WASHINGTON, DC
Feeling scandalous? Make your own history at the revamped 337-room Watergate Hotel. The décor pays tribute to the futuristic capital in The Hunger Games, and the rooftop bar and restaurant offer views of the Washington Monument and the Potomac River. Channel your inner President at the whiskey bar.
Estimated opening: March 2016
Related: Millennial hotel trend — 5 new brands to watch.
Four Seasons Oahu
Four Seasons Oahu
OAHU, HAWAII
We shouldn’t have to write more than “Four Seasons” and “Oahu” to paint a picture of this Hawaiian luxury destination. Play golf, play tennis, get married — just don’t miss the spa treatments in the gardens.
Estimated opening: Spring 2016
Intercontinental London at the O2, London
InterContinental London, The O2
LONDON, ENGLAND
Have a royal time being royally close to everything from the Queen’s House to the world-famous O2 Arena (via a hotel walkway) at the InterContinental London at The O2. Located on the Greenwich Peninsula, where the Greenwich Mean Time originated, spend some time enjoying the floor-to-ceiling views at the Clipper Bar — and trying to pinpoint the 27 different languages spoken collectively by the staff.
Estimated opening: Late December/early January 2016
Keemala Resort, Phuket, Thailand
Keemala
PHUKET, THAILAND
In celebration of the new Star Wars movie, live like an Ewok in a forest paradise. At Keemala, the villas are inspired by four local clans, including the Sky Clan — so awaken with the Force in one of their Tree Pool Houses with suspended furniture and a private pool.
Estimated opening: December/January
Related: 5 Miami Beach hotels that ooze beach chic.
Ace Hotel New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS, LA
The Warehouse District in New Orleans is home to art galleries, museums (including the popular National World War II Museum)— and now a new Ace Hotel. The 1920s Art Deco building was home to the Max Barnett Furniture Store in the 1970s, a family business and the first importers of Scandinavian modern furniture in the city. They probably never imagined their humble business having a rooftop pool.
Estimated opening: Mid-2016
