Travel
Excellence
Awards
2023
Rising Star

Rising Star

Newcomers that are fast becoming favourites. The Rising Star is awarded to promising new hotels with rave reviews.

Best New Hotels

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Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks
Qatar
By offering living spaces that perfectly serve as guests’ home away from home, Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks combines luxe comfort with full tranquility. Interiors and fixtures feature design elements that reflect Qatar’s unique artistry. With no shortage of amenities and an admirable drive to attend to guests’ every need and request, its status as one of the highly rated newcomers in the area comes as no surprise.
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Alva Hotel by Royal
Hong Kong
Escape the concrete jungle. A riverside retreat sounds delightful, don’t you think? Thankfully, Alva Hotel by Royal turns that whim into a reality. Nestled in Shatin, Hong Kong, this hip new hotel marries the best of both worlds: central convenience and an idyllic location. Well-appointed suites and tastefully curated spaces swathe guests in comfort. Alva Hotel boasts of smart technology, too — think in-room control tablets and a shower that rains vitamin-enriched water. Intrigued? We are.
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Artus K11
Hong Kong
One step inside this impeccable newcomer and you’ll know why it truly is an artisanal home above all else. Studios and suites at Artus K11 are rustic yet modern, filled with wooden accents and light fixtures that bathe the space in cosy warmth. More than anything, Artus K11 understands the need for quality downtime amid Hong Kong’s hubbub; staying here is like a balm that soothes the soul just until you’re ready to take on the city again.
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Bulgari Resort Dubai
United Arab Emirates
If designer delights are what you’re after in the United Arab Emirates, then go all-out with Bulgari Resort Dubai. Located at the manmade Jumeirah Bay, the stunning property has a tropical luxe appeal going for it — truly an oasis worth splurging for. Despite the fact that it’s just on its second year, the five-star resort is quickly becoming a favourite, thanks to world-class amenities and jaw-dropping facilities.
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Courtyard by Marriott Taipei Downtown
Taiwan
Courtyard by Marriott Taipei Downtown is a vibrant hotel that blends contemporary design with authentic Taiwanese culture. Thanks to its commitment to environmental protection, it is the first hotel in Taiwan to receive two green building certifications of LEED Gold from the U.S. and EEWH Diamond from Taiwan. Attracting discerning and eco-friendly travellers from all over the globe, this hotel boasts elegantly furnished rooms and first-rate facilities that assure a lively, memorable stay in Taipei.
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DoubleTree by Hilton Taipei Zhongshan
Taiwan
Step inside DoubleTree by Hilton Taipei Zhongshan, and you’re immediately transferred to a place that brings forth bright beginnings. Incandescent open spaces and a crisp aesthetic that sets the tone for your Taiwan stay are what await at this property, which is conveniently close to one of Taipei’s most popular business districts. At DoubleTree by Hilton Taipei Zhongshan, visitors are not only promised impeccable service; they find a home in central Taipei.
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dusitD2 Ao Nang
Thailand
In any destination, Dusit delights. Therefore in Thailand, a stay with dusitD2 Ao Nang never disappoints. With more than 170 well-appointed rooms and the dedication to be right at guests’ service, this idyllic addition to Dusit’s roster has quickly become a must-try for travellers looking to wind down in Krabi. Its design all throughout is inspired by the local culture that seamlessly blends with the destination.
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Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
All-in-one functionality and comfort is a theme most well-loved hotels take to heart, but Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur takes the concept to a whole new level. Although the brand is a household name in the hospitality industry, this relatively new offering in Malaysia’s bustling centre has been making waves impossible to ignore. Impeccable service, well-appointed quarters, and the invigorating appeal of bright beginnings. What more can you ask for?
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Fusion Resort Phu Quoc
Vietnam
Some hotels are as straightforward as possible, only acting as pit stops for fast travel and business trips. On the contrary, Fusion Resort Phu Quoc is one that’s meant to be the destination itself. With a sumptuous spa service, spacious grounds and suites, beach and riverfront views of Cua Can, and a “breakfast anywhere, anytime” concept, the resort affords guests luxurious peace and quiet in a breathtaking and brand-new paradise.
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Hilton Taipei Sinban
Taiwan
Hilton Taipei Sinban is all about contemporary cosmopolitan luxury from the moment you enter its doors. Its rooftop infinity pool is an urban oasis, offering you a sweeping view of the Taipei skyline while surrounded by lush tropical flora and Balinese-inspired birdhouse seats. Meanwhile, the lobby lounge SociAbility is a cafe that offers scrumptious pastries and beverages during the day, and transforms into a mixology bar-slash-liquor hideaway at night. And then right next door is massive Mega City BanQiao, for when you’re looking to do some shopping.
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Hotel Crescendo Seoul
South Korea
A getaway in Gangnam sounds high-end yet homey. And this is exactly what The Hotel Crescendo Seoul offers. The property is effortlessly chic and trendy, much like the upscale district it calls home. Interiors maintain a cool vibe, without sacrificing warm hospitality and excellent service. A members-only lounge, a decadent rooftop bar, and a pilates studio make this newcomer a quick favourite among holiday-goers and city dwellers looking to escape Seoul’s endless hustle and bustle.
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Kimpton Da An Hotel
Taiwan
Fast becoming Taipei’s go-to urban sanctuary, Kimpton Da An Hotel promises two things: luxe comfort that’s a cut above the rest and a sophisticated style that only a boutique hotel can pull off. Dripping with designer appeal, the property hosts well-appointed spaces curated to perfectly pair functionality with form. Kimpton Da An Hotel is also home to a wide array of unique amenities, from custom-made bikes to pet-friendly features, for those from all walks of life.
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L’Escape
South Korea
Within easy walking distance from Namsan Park, L’Escape boasts world-class facilities amid a dazzling Victorian-era aesthetic. Stunning guest rooms are furnished after the likeness of elegant salons in France, while artful touches can be found all over the interiors of the hotel. Between the tea salon and sophisticated library open to guests at L’Escape, it’s no surprise that more travellers are flocking to this Parisian getaway in the pulsing heart of Seoul.
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Mercure Orange
Australia
Less is luxuriously more at Mercure Orange. That’s not to say it lacks anything that a hotel should offer, but it does go above and beyond in providing exactly what guests need and require. Mercure Orange houses understated yet undeniably chic suites and facilities. Amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, free laundry services, and ample parking spaces make the property a new easy favourite in the Land Down Under.
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Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan Tree
Malaysia
Stationed along Kuala Lumpur’s most bustling thoroughfare, Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur Managed by Banyan Tree keeps up with the surrounding buzz by being an ever-reliable one-stop stay. The property is home to a myriad of facilities and several accommodation options. Equipped with a pool, spa, ballroom, bar, gym, gallery, and versatile event venues, it has everything guests might need for a memorable Malaysian getaway.
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Radisson Medan Hotel
Indonesia
Location is something crucial in travel and something Radisson Medan Hotel has as its strong suit. Situated in Medan’s business and shopping district, it is also conveniently near go-to sites of Indonesia. Without even mentioning the plethora of amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour concierge, and complimentary breakfast, there is no question as to why Radisson Medan Hotel is becoming a new favourite among would-be visitors to Indonesia.
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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
Maldives
An extremely photogenic aerial image of Maldives is making its rounds online, and if you’ve come across it, there’s a good chance you’ve already laid eyes on the wonder that is Raffles Maldives Meradhoo. It’s difficult to miss those 17 lofty suites connected by a bridge that forms the shape of an eye. If this label’s sterling reputation won’t tempt you, then maybe the mesmerising waters that surround it will.
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RYSE Hotel
South Korea
Located in the heart of Hongdae, RYSE Hotel positions itself as a place for the creative and the passionate. Evident in its spaces are customised, original design pieces that will awaken your artistic sensibilities. Chill out in their print culture lounge, get some work done in their work studios, or host events in their event space — whatever you choose to do at this hotel, your experience will surely be a memorable one.
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Seda Manila Bay
Philippines
Expect nothing but the best when you’re on vacation at Seda Manila Bay. The 350-room hotel in Parañaque’s dazzling Entertainment City promises to give you the best that Manila has to offer: upscale accommodations, exceptional recreational facilities, and world-class service with signature Filipino hospitality. Whether you’re getting pampered at the spa or watching magical sunsets over the bay from the rooftop bar, Seda is the urban escape of your dreams.
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Swiss-Belresort Belitung
Indonesia
Each spot is truly a sight to behold at this Indonesian resort. Located at Belitung Island, crystal clear waters greet guests without fail at Swiss-Belresort Belitung — whether they’re lounging in their own suites or roaming the greenery-filled grounds. A sleek, designer façade and lavish interiors paired with generous amenities that belong on an island paradise make the Swiss-Belresort Belitung every getaway seekers’ new staple selection.
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YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport
Singapore
Travel melts worries away, but it also becomes tiring, especially when a road trip follows a long flight. For times when guests need to prioritise utmost convenience, there’s no better choice than the ever-reliable YOTELAIR, a trusted hotel that calls Changi Airport home. Gone are the days when you’d compromise a restful stay just to make your flight. YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport provides unparalleled proximity, plus business-class comfort and functionality.
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