The Peninsula Paris
We’re counting down the days until summer comes and brings with it warm weather, alfresco dining and drinking, and some new hotel openings. We’ll welcome a handful of stellar properties to the long list of places we can’t wait to check into, from Tokyo to New York City. When you’re planning your summer vacation, keep these five hot spots in mind.
The Peninsula Paris
It’s been a long time coming; we’ve been eyeing this Beaux Arts beauty for at least two years. Thankfully, we only have to wait a little longer — the Paris hotel opens on August 1. Located just off the famed Champs-Élysées, the 200-room hotel will have that classic Parisian elegance (dark woods and rich fabrics), which is accented by the top-notch technology for which the brand is known (we’re talking bedside and desk tablets that are available in 11 different languages and control just about everything in the space). Unlike many European hotels, the accommodations at this Peninsula are designed with the luxury traveler in mind, meaning they’re roomy and have ample closet space. When you aren’t enjoying all your room has to offer, head to one of the four eateries: The Lobby, which is a staple of all Peninsula hotels; The Kléber Terrace, which promises to be one of the largest outdoor dining spots in the city; L’Oiseau Blanc, where you can enjoy contemporary French cuisine in a rooftop setting; and LiLi, the hotel’s Cantonese restaurant that boasts a dramatic design (picture high ceilings with Chinese and Western opera-inspired décor). Of course, it wouldn’t be The Peninsula without a stellar spa, and this Parisian outpost is bound to deliver with a 19,375-square-foot sanctuary. Opens August 1
Soho House Chicago
The third Soho House hotel in the country will open in Chicago in August. Like the London-based group’s New York and Miami outposts, Soho House Chicago will have a private club aspect to it as well, meaning the property will feel more like an exclusive lounge than a hotel. Housed in a converted belt factory in the city’s Fulton Market neighborhood, the hotel will only feature 40 rooms (we told you it was exclusive). And if they’re any reflection of other Soho Houses, count on vintage-esque décor with unique furnishings, creating a rather residential atmosphere. One of the many great things about this property is its location. Near trendy Randolph Street, where popular restaurants such as Girl & the Goat, Nellcôte, Graham Elliot Bistro and Au Cheval reside, Soho House will be the first hotel in the area. Aside from the neighborhood, other hotel highlights include a 40-seat screening room, a glass-enclosed, 80-foot rooftop pool and two ground-level restaurants (Pizza East and Chicken Shop) that will be open to the public. Outside guests (and hotel residents, of course) will also be able to frequent Allis Bar for craft beer, wine and cocktails. In addition, the trendy boutique wonder will offer Cowshed Spa & Salon (yes, that’s open to outside guests as well), which will have a blow-dry bar and five treatment rooms. Opens September 1
Park Hyatt New York
Park Hyatt New York
If you’ve been to New York City in the past two years, you’ve likely seen the enormous One57 skyscraper coming to life. Beginning in July, you can finally check into the Park Hyatt and say you’ve stayed in the tallest residential building in the city. Sitting across from Carnegie Hall, the new flagship hotel will feature 210 spacious, Yabu Pushelberg-designed guest rooms outfitted with sleek and modern furnishings, natural stone flooring and custom artwork. Along with its contemporary style, the luxury hotel will have 21st-century amenities (including free Wi-Fi through the property). And the bathrooms come stocked with custom Le Labo products in Park Hyatt New York’s signature Tubereuse 40 scent (a blend of tangerine, orange flower and bergamot). Be sure to feast on chef Sam Hazen’s American cuisine at the signature restaurant, or visit the bar for great views of Carnegie Hall and 57th Street. When it comes time to relax, indulge in the 25th-floor Spa Nalai, where you can enjoy seasonal treatments with ingredients sourced from around the world in one of the six all-inclusive suites. If you want to take a dip during your stay, don’t miss the indoor pool in the three-story aerie that’s also on the 25th floor. Accepting reservations beginning in July
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
Considering Tokyo is one of Forbes Travel Guide’s soon-to-be-rated destinations, it’s only appropriate to include this artsy hotel. As the first Andaz property in Japan, it’s going to make quite a splash. Situated in the second-tallest high-rise in the city, Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills will have 164 rooms, including eight specialty suites, with a chic design that draws upon Japanese tradition (imagine natural materials and partitions). One perk of the guest rooms is that Wi-Fi and mini-bar treats (snacks and non-alcoholic beverages) are complimentary. Still, the main draw will be outside of your room: On the 52nd floor sits a rooftop bar that will boast a low tea counter serving sake, tea and domestic liquors, and Tokyo’s highest standalone wedding chapel. Refined European cuisine using Japanese ingredients will be served on the 51st floor at Andaz Tavern, while burgers and local beers can be had at the ground-level BeBu. Head to the 37th floor for some relaxation time at AO Spa & Club, which will have four treatment rooms with showers and restrooms, as well as one private couples suite with a shower, bathroom and deep-soaking tub. Opens June 11
Archer Hotel New York
Set to open in late May, this Midtown boutique property is sure to stand out — even in a hotel-filled city like the Big Apple. The 180 rooms, which are split into four distinct design palettes with details such as bold nods to the Garment District (subway-tiled bathrooms and exposed brick), will feature curated art and luxe amenities that include Nespresso machines, Frette linens and Malin+Goetz bath products. The brand is personified as Archer, “a storyteller and adventurer, connoisseur and consummate host,” and you’ll find fun, personal touches throughout your stay. For instance, at check-in, you’ll receive a “Destination Joker” playing card, which you’ll want to hold onto because when you collect two or more, you can earn upgrades and perks. When the weather finally warms up, savor craft cocktails and light bites at the rooftop bar before venturing to the soon-to-be-named restaurant by David Burke, who will also handle all of the room service (aptly called Burke in the Box) at the hotel. Opens May 28
Photos Courtesy of The Peninsula Paris and Hyatt Corporation
