Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Sure, this summer you can book a room at your favorite spot and slip into the comfortably known — or you could channel your inner adventurer and try something new. We already told you about our top picks for summer hotel openings, but here are some more new properties that should be on your radar as well.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
The indoor-outdoor lifestyle of Southern California has been taken to a whole new luxurious level at this hotel in the greater Palm Springs area. Most of the 244 guest rooms have large terraces where you can take in views of the San Jacinto Mountains (some even have their own fire pits). The spa features both indoor and outdoor treatments, and an alfresco meditation mesa and whirlpool with those stellar mountain vistas. Those looking for more time under the desert sun can hit more than 20 miles of trails that start right at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Opened May 15.
Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
Get a big dose of authentic history when you check into this new hotel — it’s located within six connected 17th- and 18th-century palaces that overlook the Herengracht canal. The elegant 93 guest rooms are bathed in light-colored fabrics and décor, and they have large windows framing the canal or a private courtyard. Other cool features? The clubby Vault Bar (set in a former bank) and the intimate Guerlain Spa with three treatment rooms and direct access to a lush garden. Opened May 1.
The Gates of Key West
Later this summer, sink deep into Key West’s island culture at this new 100-room boutique hotel. Sophisticated beachy touches will be found throughout the resort — whitewashed beams and platform beds made from petrified cypress in the guest rooms, chaise lounges and cabanas surrounding the 71-foot swimming pool, and select rooms with large private poolside terraces. We expect most guests will head straight to the 2,000-square-foot pool deck where there’s a bar serving up ample rum drinks and regional small plates. Opens in August.
The Marmara Park Avenue
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to keep an apartment in New York City, reserve a room at The Marmara to find out. The new Midtown hotel (right near the Empire State Building) is outfitted with artwork and furnishings sourced from the city’s five boroughs. The 128 guest rooms have a sleek residential feel, many of them come with full kitchens and 40 offer private terraces. Would-be New Yorkers will want to head to the lower level to get some respite from the city’s crazy pace at the wellness center, which has a lap pool and steam bath. Opens in August.
Capella Marigot Bay
A multimillion-dollar renovation has turned this hotel on St. Lucia’s Marigot Bay into a lavish resort with new restaurants, a rum cave and an outdoor spa. A redesigned marina will house luxury yachts (charter one for trips around St. Lucia or to nearby St. Vincent and the Grenadines). The 124 guest rooms have views of the bay or the lush gardens surrounding the hotel; most of the 57 suites offer their own private outdoor plunge pools. While there will be several new eateries, we’re most looking forward to the rooftop fine-dining concept where you can indulge with views of the majestic Marigot Bay. Opens July 1.
Photo Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
