New Hotels Openings to Build a Trip Around

The excitement surrounding what’s new is very real in the travel world; like every other market, press is generated, articles are published, IGs are posted - and FOMO is in full swing. Obviously, no-one needs to travel to the latest and greatest destination or attend the splashiest hotel opening, but it’s nice to just…know. So when you wonder where you should go next, you can refer back here for inspo. Mmm…Nairobi, anyone?

The Seminary, Vermont

As an East Coaster, I grew up with Vermont at my fingertips and outside of New York, it’s the state I miss most. But now I have a new place to land! Built as a seminary in 1829, this Colonial-style property become a country club, then faculty housing for nearby Bennington College, and later a private home, remaining in the same family’s care for six decades. Now, it’s a layered, jewel toned getaway for anyone in need of a genuine country New England escape (which is probably all of us).

Le Lappa, Chianti

File this under under: Immediately. Close enough to Florence for a day trip, this Remy Renzullo-designed estate (with AD100 status) is secluded in thick groves and woods and is framed by a charming garden and old olive trees. The two stone farmhouses have stood on this hillside for over a thousand years (which date back to around 1000 AD) and with only 11 unique rooms, your stay will feel super intimate. Expect full-blown charm with stone fireplaces, terracotta floors, and beamed ceilings that are hand-decorated by a Florentine artist. The property is also known for its high olive oil production and a bottle accompanies every meal (and every suitcase).

Celine & Lolo, Nairobi

A cute boutique hotel is really big news for this city as formerly, the reigning boutique property was Hemmingways (which is lovely - I stayed there in February!), albeit a bit out of the way. This re-imagined 1970s villa, located in the heart of the city, will be a great launching pad to kick-off your African adventure, no matter where you go (because oftentimes Nairobi is the hub for incoming and outgoing safari). Design is clean, relaxed, and playful and there’s something vibrant around every corner. Book a room that spills out to the garden.

Four Seasons, Cartegena

Cartegena (one of the best trips ever!), has been in need of a new splashy hotel opening for some time now. This new FS won’t necessarily de-throne the lovely Casa San Augustin, which is a more authentic, smaller stay in the old center, but for those who want real luxury, this is the spot. While some FS properties can feel devoid of character, this hotel is within a group of beautifully restored landmarks, including the 16th-century San Francisco Temple and Club Cartagena, a 1920s beaux-arts masterpiece. It was brought to life by Francois Catroux, a celebrated French designer who takes on projects selectively, making this one truly soulful.

Airelles Venezia, Venice

Years ago I stayed at this Guidecca-based hotel and it was a total dream then. Cut to: a re-launch by Airelles, the powerhouse french hotel group who’s behind some of the chicest hotels on Earth, and has transformed this former monastery into one of the biggest European hotel openings in years. The main complex occupies a former institute where young, impoverished girls once learned skills like lacemaking, but the property itself extends across three historic 16th century buildings. While it’s not on “mainland” Venice, it’s a mere 5 minute water taxi away from the madness that floods St. Mark's. Plus, it boasts the largest and most beautiful garden in the city, home to flowering pergolas and delicate vine wall climbers.

Bus Palladium, Paris

Ladies, start your engines! The legendary Studio KO transformed one of Paris’ most iconic 60s nightclubs, “Le Bus” into a new hotel. This is music to my Gen X, former club girl’s ears. Everyone from Mick Jagger to Gloria Gaynor to Salvador Dali passed through Nestled in Pigalle (Paris’ nightlife district), you’ll find Caroline de Maigret designed staff uniforms and curated playlists for the 35 rooms. On select evenings, the subterranean venue hosts discovery concerts and cabaret performances under the glittering disco ball. But the design is the other draw; raw concrete ceilings, crushed velvet, ribbed glass, vintage leather club chairs, and speakers galore help set the mood which is no doubt…nostolgia.