Category: China

The Opposite House Beijing, recently named #1 The Top 5 Hotels in China, #1 The Top 15 Asia City Hotels and #3 in Top Hotels in the World by Travel + Leisure, is making its relaunch after the completion of an extensive renovation of its public spaces, restaurants and guest rooms. The first hotel under The House Collective brand by Swire Hotels, located in Beijing’s hippest neighbourhood of Sanlitun, has drawn inspiration from the city’s electric creative energy for its renovations that encompass design, art and culture.

With a collection of new restaurants and social spaces, the redesign makes The House Collective’s “House of Art” into a dynamic and inspiring destination that tastemakers will appreciate from every angle.

The Opposite House Beijing – Design

Imagined as a contemporary art gallery, The Opposite House was originally designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in 2008. Its now-iconic emerald green glass exterior reflects the hotel’s setting in Taikoo Li Sanlitun and inside, the airy atrium presents its signature rotating art exhibitions under monumental drapes that create a screen of light. The House’s new experience begins with Kengo Kuma’s “Origami” installation, which serves as the lobby’s new reception wall. Kengo applied Tyvek, a translucent synthetic textile resembling hand-made paper, to create a screen of light with organic texture and shades.

In the refreshed guest rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows open onto lush views of the leafy surrounds and neighbouring Taikoo Li complex. Transparent partitions maximise space while lending a modern touch to the rooms for a contemporary feel. Beijing-inspired décor complete the artistic ambience.

“We are very excited about the relaunch of our House,” said Olivier Dumonceaux, General Manager of The Opposite House. “As a space where art comes to life, The Opposite House has always been driven by the fusion of design, creativity and culture. With the art installations and pop-ups alongside new restaurant and bar concepts, we believe that our House is a true lifestyle destination with unique experiences for every guest.”

The Opposite House Beijing – Art

At The Opposite House, you can immerse yourself in art everywhere. Whether it’s the House’s collaboration with contemporary artists, to its curation of works, or even simply a cocktail, art can be appreciated from every angle. Each season, The Opposite House presents a different series of artworks, offering guests fresh cultural insights into the world of contemporary art.

The House Collective’s biennial art programme in 2019, ‘Encounters Across Cultures: Seeds of Life’, featured multidisciplinary artist Katja Loher, who collaborated with local artists and choreographers to create ‘Videoplanets’ of the Five Elements for a floating installation in the Atrium. This year, ‘Encounters Across Cultures’ returns, where contemporary dancers Yu Jinying and Li Xinmeng have joined forces to create an interactive art installation across space and time that explores The Opposite House’s architecture.

As the “House of Art”, The Opposite House is a destination for the capital’s culture makers. Blending fashion and art, The House features buzzed-about happenings from fashionable high tea that takes inspiration from the designers’ creation to pop-up stores featuring sought-after luxury brands. And almost as though an haute couture runway, Superfly, Union and the lobby’s Atrium inspire photos from The House’s worldly guests.

“Whether collaborating with artists to bring the ‘Encounters Across Cultures’ art programme or hosting special events with fashion brands, it’s always exciting to partner with artists and brands to create more unique experiences for our guests,” said Ami Tsou, Director of Communications & Marketing of The Opposite House.

The Opposite House Beijing – Culture

The Opposite House is set in the bustling Sanlitun, drawing on the area’s creative energy and melange of cultures. At Superfly, vintage vibes, Chinese pop culture and Sichuan’s street culture collide; at Michelin-starred Jing Yaa Tang, Chef Li Dong explores the parallels and juxtapositions of traditional and modern Chinese cuisine;

Union takes inspiration from the ancient Silk Road for an array of flavours from China to the Mediterranean; and Frasca celebrates traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the authentic flavours of Italy, rounding out the House’s global culinary offerings.

“Jing Yaa Tang, Superfly, Frasca and Union are each our tribute to the past and the present, and cultures within and outside of China,” said Will Gao, Manager of Union. “Besides focusing on creative experiments on classic cocktail recipes, we also love to infuse fresh ideas which is why we often invite renowned bartenders from different cities as guest bartenders at Union.” 

The Opposite House Beijing Experience

In the heart of Sanlitun, stepping off Beijing’s bustling city streets and into The Opposite House is like setting foot in an urban oasis. A space designed for peaceful moments inspired by nature, you can brush your hands against bamboo trees, swim under the “stars” and discover your inner self at poolside yoga. Every step of the stay, from check-in to check-out, the House’s attentive team assure guests enjoy quality and personalised experience. As Guest Experience team leader Jessica Ju explains: “Our team always strives to provide guests with personalised and high-quality services. We hope to offer new experiences to every guest for a true sense of leisure and relaxation.”

To celebrate the recent honour by Travel + Leisure 2021 World’s Best Awards as #3 in Top Hotels in the World and #1 in The Top City Hotel in Asia, The Opposite House is launching “Appreciate From Every Angle”, a special offer for guests to experience the House themselves. Just need to top up RMB 600++ to the daily rate to enjoy a stay at Studio 70, daily breakfast for two at Frasca and a choice of two from the four dining experiences:

1. Michelin Menu for two at Jing Yaa Tang
2. Silk Road cocktails at Union
3. Custom menu for two at Frasca
4. Special menu for two at Superfly

Check out the offer here and reserve your stay today!

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna is situated in one of China’s burgeoning tourism regions with a fabled past and unique culture influenced by nearby Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. Its remote locale and tropical climate yield rainforests with rich biodiversity, rare plants and unique wildlife.

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna – Part Of Something Great

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna is in the heart of Sunac Xishuangbanna Resort, an 880,000 square meters cultural and tourist destination with an enviable reputation as the largest lifestyle, leisure, tourism and culture resort hub in Southwest China.

The complex includes Sunac Land amusement park and Water Park, and Sunac Mall, a generous shopping centre with restaurants, lifestyle and fashion boutiques, children’s entertainment, IMAX theatre, and supermarket. Meanwhile, Dai Show Theatre boasts Dragone Studio’s stunning world-class multi-media performance that interprets Dai culture through water acrobatics and masterful technology.

Two other hotels join Pullman in the complex along with a bar street, residences, a hospital and schools. Xishuangbanna International Airport is a short 20-minute drive away.

Gary Rosen, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, Accor Greater China, said: “Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna is a remarkable addition to our Pullman hotels and resorts in Greater China. The property injects Pullman’s signature upbeat and contemporary premium hotel experience into an extraordinary destination. Further, it reinforces Pullman’s perspective by offering dynamic experiences to active, adventurous travellers while seamlessly blending with the destination’s vibrant cultural scene.”

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna – The Rooms

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna offers spacious 412 guestrooms and suites designed with a contemporary take on the region’s traditional Dai style found. Natural materials, ceiling fans and generous balconies instil calm and comfort. The lobby sensitively merges ethnic Dai with an international flair for the optimum blend of sense of place in style, to welcome guests energetically yet warmly.

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna – Wine & Dine Options

Ideal for guests who work and play hard and value their leisure time, the hotel offers a variety of restaurants and bars to cater to every culinary whim. Dai Yunxuan Chinese restaurant features authentic local dishes inspired by Yunnan and Dai cultures alongside Sichuan and Hunan specialties, with local produce incorporated into the creative menu. The Joy all-day restaurant boasts an international buffet featuring fresh local ingredients, alongside French a la carte available throughout the day.

The Lobby Lounge has a dynamic, informal ambience with contemporary music courtesy of a live band. Designed using Dai stilt construction, the one-of-a-kind bar counter is an excellent spot to sip the region’s celebrated Pu’er tea, tropical fruit juices or specialty coffees. Along with casual meetings, an inviting Executive Lounge is an ideal place for fine beverages, delicious snacks and good music.

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna – Made For Events

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna is perfect for MICE or social events, with 1,400 square meters of meeting and banquet spaces including a pillar-free 660 square meters grand ballroom equipped with large LED screens and six multi-functional conference rooms.

An adjacent 1,500 square meters private Dream Lawn allows for al fresco dinners or open-air cocktails as extensions of meetings and events. All of the details can be taken care of through the hotel’s professional banquet team, available to offer support for business or social events for fluid experiences. The Fitness Centre features the view of rainforest and an outdoor swimming pool with a children’s pool round out the leisure facilities.

Kevin Hou, General Manager of Sunac Resort Xishuangbanna, said: “We at Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna are dedicated to creating a playground for travellers by offering a creative and artistic property. Our facilities provide guests with an immersive Dai cultural experience. These include guestrooms with splendid views of the tropical rainforest or Dai performances, diversified themes for events and conferences, destination weddings featuring romantic French or nostalgic themes, and memorable family vacation packages.”

Pullman Resort Xishuangbanna welcomes guests with rate starting from CNY550 nett. For reservations or enquiries, please visit all.accor.com or call +86 691 8997000.

Sitting in a prime location on Hainan island’s beautiful shoreline, 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya’s design is a celebration of nature and sustainability. From dappled light filtering in through leaf-sheltered skylights to stacks of salvaged Chinese roof tiles echoing coastal cliff faces, the first Chinese resort from luxury brand US-based 1 Hotels draws its design inspiration from the rugged beauty of the island.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay – Eco-conscious Design

The eco-conscious architecture, designed by strategic planners Oval Partnership, combines locally sourced natural materials, such as lava stone and red cedar, with innovative green technologies. Company Director and project leader, Dr Lin Hao explain, “Our inspiration for the 1 Hotel Haitang Bay project is deeply rooted in the vision of the 1 Hotels brand, which aspires to be a relaxed, comfortable, natural and open environment for travellers, by crafting a more tangible and imaginative sustainability that celebrates the DNA of 1 Hotels.”

Paying homage to the tropical flora and fauna of Sanya’s forests and the crystal-clear waters of the ocean, Singapore-based design studio FARM managed the interior design. “We were taken by Sanya’s raw nature of fertile volcanic plains, green forested hills, sandy beaches and sparkling waters,” says Nina Arily, senior designer. “We wanted the interiors to capture the textures, diversity and spirit of the island.” “It has been a pleasure to work with FARM and to see them bring the nature-inspired 1 Hotel aesthetic to life through sustainable design,” says Arash Azarbarzin, CEO of SH Hotels & Resorts.

Encapsulating the biodiversity of the area’s local species and natural surroundings, verdant landscaped gardens sprawl across the grounds and building exterior. A lush Mangrove Tree Courtyard offers a tranquil retreat, while Living Green Walls planted with local vegetation – such as ficus pumila and ferns – flourish across staggered roof terraces and semi-open courtyards. Additionally, the off-site farm showcases Hainan’s seasonal produce.

Capturing the beauty of nature inside and out, the overall impact of the resort’s design is a gorgeous retreat that revolves around Mother Nature and builds upon the area’s rich resources.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay – Nature-Inspired Interiors

1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya boasts 294 spacious and beautifully furnished rooms, suites and villas, ranging from 62 square-meters to 1,300 square-meters.

Bringing a slice of island life inside, the contemporary guest rooms feature unpolished and locally sourced volcanic basalt stone and wood throughout and an abundance of natural furnishings: stools made of tree stumps, live-edge timber desks, rattan rugs, bespoke artworks made from sun-bleached driftwood, and organic cotton upholstery.

Incorporating reclaimed timber and steel from old fishing boats and authentic textured surfaces, 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya’s seven dining and drinking venues mirror the island’s natural wonder. The refined outlets offer some of Hainan’s freshest flavours, including handcrafted noodle restaurant Noodle House;

breezy lobby lounge Drift; al fresco rooftop lounge Sky Bar – opening soon that offers unparalleled ocean views; relaxed pool-side bar The Sandbox; and The Juice Bar for guests on the go.

1 Hotels’ signature all-day dining concept 1 Kitchen evokes imagery of rocky coastline, featuring a rammed earth wall to form a beautiful backdrop that complements its use of natural and organic ingredients.

True to its name, Chinese fine-dining restaurant Green House has floor-to-ceiling windows that allow sunlight to stream through and bring life to an exotic collection of edible plants, hanging ferns, palms, and orchids.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay – Experience Sustainability

Focusing on a mission-driven luxury lifestyle, 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya is carefully designed to minimize its footprint by utilizing the natural elements. Alongside using reclaimed and locally sourced materials, the hotel features a solar water heating system, greywater is harvested for back-of-house use and landscape irrigation, and rainwater is collected and stored for reuse. Skylights and clerestory windows allow daylight to be used over artificial light wherever possible. To keep areas cool, vertical landscaping and trellising provide shade and natural ventilation systems take advantage of the sea breeze in key areas such as the guest corridors and lift lobbies.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya is working towards Silver Level certification for LEEDv4 Building Design and Construction. The property has been pre-certified by the US Green Building Council, with its certification expected by mid-2020. In order to achieve this, sustainability measures include depositing over 75% of construction waste at recycling centres to reduce landfill waste; opting for building materials located within a 500-mile radius of the site to reduce transport energy; and using recycled materials where possible. Furthermore, environmentally friendly and low-VOC materials have been used for interior décor.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay – Accommodations & Facilities 

1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya comprises 294 distinctively designed rooms, suites and villas ranging from 62 to 1,300 square meters with stunning views of the garden, poolside or the sea. The hotel boasts seven dining venues, 630 square-meters of meeting facilities and 4,000 square-meters of garden venues. There is also a Feature Pavilion, sunlit Sky Deck, natural farm, fitness center and 1 Hotel Spa by Bamford from the UK.

The five swimming pools mark another highlight of the resort, including the Family Pool, Children Pool, Sky Pool, Lagoon Plunge Pool and Adult Pool.

1 Hotel Haitang Bay – Book Your Stay

1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya is conveniently located on the beautiful shore, just 40 minutes away from Sanya Phoenix International Airport. It is also close to a number of leisure, recreation and entertainment attractions such as Haitang Bay Duty-Free Shop, Fantasy Town, and Water Park.

Accor Greater China is pleased to announce the opening of Raffles Shenzhen. As Raffles’ newest destination, Raffles Shenzhen joins the legendary collection of prestigious hotel addresses across the globe on 16 May 2019. From the legendary Raffles Singapore born in 1887 to Raffles Shenzhen – the latest edition to the 130 year old brand that combines contemporary elegance with a storied past and impeccable service. Raffles has cultivated a special place in many people’s hearts around the world.

Gary Rosen, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, Accor Greater China, says: “The significance of Raffles Shenzhen’s opening strengthens Accor’s leadership in Greater China and around the world by providing timeless hospitality in the most luxurious of spaces and destinations. Raffles is a classic luxury brand second to none, as it represents the true spirit and emotion that is luxury. We are so proud to introduce Raffles latest addition to the world with the significant location in Shenzhen, China. Raffles Shenzhen is a magnificent new icon that offers an oasis of calm and charm, with a compelling mixture of cultures and styles to reflect Shenzhen as one of the most vibrant cities in China.”

Raffles Shenzhen – Location, Location, Location

Raffles Shenzhen is strategically situated in One Shenzhen Bay, with direct connections to the adjacent Qianhai Economic Zone in the rapidly developing Nanshan District. The 72-storey high building is an unmistakable beacon in Shenzhen’s skyline.

Along with the hotel, the building includes Sky Concert Hall, certified as the highest music hall in the world, on the 71st floor; a Raffles brand residence; a helipad on the roof; excellent class A office space; a renowned car showroom; and international clubs, just to name a few of its occupants.

Raffles Shenzhen – Design Aesthetics & Views

Internationally acclaimed Manhattan-based architect Kohn Pederson Fox Associates (KPF) was responsible for the architecture of Raffles Shenzhen, evoking emotional splendour through its contemporary classic aesthetic. By combining Chinese cultural elements with coastal views,  Dubai’s LW Design provides a resplendent turn for the hotel’s interior design.

Each of the 168 meticulously appointed guestrooms and suites offer generous layouts with breathtaking views of scenic Shenzhen Bay and Hong Kong beyond. The rooms are finished with neutral shades to inspire serenity, accented by pops of natural hues in area rugs, cushions and throws. Traditional Chinese touches are introduced through key furniture pieces. The presidential suite epitomizes the height of welcoming opulence, and is decorated with warm amber shades complimented by sparkling metallic accents and plush textiles.

You are welcomed through the 34^th floor Sky Lobby with views of the majestic Shenzhen Bay. Its rich décor blends seamlessly with a feeling of returning home.

Raffles Shenzhen – Delightful Gastronomy & Event Options

Raffles Shenzhen offers outstanding levels of international gastronomy through its six signature restaurants and bars, each enhanced by panoramic views. RUI Lounge boasts Raffles’ acclaimed and unsurpassed Afternoon Tea.

Further, you may enjoy a selection of signature wine and champagne. Breakfasts feature Chinese and Japanese flavours with subtle western touches, while lunch is a distinctively Asian menu and dinner plates up a wide variety of seafood. The all-day dining Sky Café provides a sophisticated experience with unique flair through its interactive live cooking stations.

The Long Bar is a destination where the life and soul of Shenzhen can be found. You and your loved ones can enjoy stimulating conversation alongside outstanding mixology and delectable nibbles against the picturesque landscape of Shenzhen Bay and Hong Kong.

Kokoni is an exquisite Japanese restaurant with elegant kaiseki, premium steaks, sushi and sashimi served with fresh produce and careful attention to detail by the resident Japanese master chef.

Yun Jing enchants on the 70^th floor with the best of classic Cantonese dishes in their purest setting. It features fresh local ingredients for an unforgettable epicurean experience.

Raffles Patisserie is akin to an art gallery, where you can indulge in an extensive selection of handcrafted delicacies including chocolates, macaroons, truffles, cakes, pastries and gorgeously packaged gifts.

Raffles Shenzhen boasts 3,000 sqm of event spaces including a column-free grand ballroom and eight multifunction halls. Its tasteful yet modern venues are ideal for any type of meeting or occasion. Raffles’ unparalleled service ensures flawless and professional events from start to finish. In addition, comprehensive wedding services are available for the milestone event to a life’s journey.

Brides and grooms arrive in style via exclusive helicopter landings, while state of the art lighting and technology underscore a memorable scene. Bridal dressing rooms, personal butlers, and event planning are all available for a highly personalized event to reflect fairy tale romances that will forever be treasured by everyone in attendance.

Raffles Shenzhen – Award Winning Spa & Facilities

The award-winning Raffles Spa is the distillation of a relaxing sanctuary, where senses are awakened and revived through a serene oasis of peace and tranquillity. Time honoured methods and holistic treatments calm and transform the body and mind.

The Fitness Center offers natural daylight to enhance coastal views of Shenzhen Bay alongside a fully equipped facility with the latest gear and private training sessions for you to get the most of your workout. An indoor swimming pool is augmented by rejuvenating hydrotherapy wellness experiences including a Jacuzzi, vitality pool and sauna naturally lit for invigorating experiences.

Gary Rosen further comments: “As Shenzhen is a key component to the government’s plans for the Greater Bay Area, it is linked to the economic, innovation and infrastructure development of Hong Kong, Macau and Guangzhou. Raffles Shenzhen provides the city with a new icon through tasteful architecture and design, attentive service and unparalleled culinary offerings. All of the signature Raffles delights will be an exciting introduction to the Shenzhen market, combined to offer a new destination for relaxation, hospitality and socially rewarding experiences. Our Raffles Shenzhen is destined to become the favoured spot for local residents, business and lifestyle travellers, particularly globally minded Chinese travellers who want to experience the very best sense of the locale.” 

Located on the upper floors of WF CENTRAL, one of the city’s premium lifestyle retail centres, Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing, Beijing is proud to introduce Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality to China’s Capital. Besides the impeccable rooms, facilities and services, many of its rooms command a superb view towards the Forbidden City! Read to find out more.

Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Beijing – The Rooms

The hotel features 73 rooms and suites which are amongst the largest in the city and are designed with a contemporary residential style combined with subtle traditional Chinese elements, an array of luxury amenities and expansive, spa-like bathrooms. Many of these rooms command superb views towards the Forbidden City.

Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Beijing – Wine & Dine

In keeping with the Group’s reputation for dining excellence, Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing has two restaurants and a rooftop bar – all of which have direct access to an expansive garden terrace. Café Zi is a relaxed environment featuring pan-Asian cuisine, while Mandarin Grill + Bar focuses on classic dishes.

MO Bar is a sophisticated lounge, serving innovative cocktails with an international DJ.

Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Beijing – Wellness & Beauty

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing offers a range of curated wellness and beauty treatments as well as a 25-metre indoor lap pool with natural light and a comprehensive gym.

“We are delighted to bring Mandarin Oriental’s legendary hospitality to Beijing and look forward to welcoming guests to the beautiful environs of Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing.” said General Manager Mark S. Bradford. “Our proximity to the sights and sounds of historical Beijing, and our desire to provide personalised service that comes from the heart inspires all of us every day to deliver our very best,” he added.

Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Beijing – Special Opening Offer

To celebrate the opening, the hotel has an enticing Opening Offer valid until 18 June 2019, that includes a generous daily hotel credit of CNY 888 to be spent throughout the property. For reservations and further information, visit www.mandarinoriental.com/beijing/wangfujing/luxury-hotel.