Need some inspiration for planning your 2016 travels? Let this list of notable hotel openings be your guide. From a multiyear makeover of a Parisian legend and a downtown Manhattan spot with dome-topped penthouses, to W Hotels’ first Indian resort, Park Hyatt's first opening in Spain, and Nobu's first European outpost, these 25 spots around the world are the ones we're most excited about this year.
Editor's Note: New hotels are notorious for opening months or even years behind schedule. The dates we've listed have been verified by representatives of each property, but be sure to double-check by calling hotels or looking at their websites before you make any travel plans.
SEE ALSO: 11 of the best new hotels in the world
The Restoration
Where: Charleston, South Carolina
Expected Opening: Already open.
Charleston's ongoing revival reached another milestone in January with the relaunch of The Restoration, a historic property set on downtown's King Street—though the "on King" has been dropped from the hotel's original name. Following a $27 million transformation, the new incarnation—which is spread out over five buildings, four from the 19th century—includes 54 suite-style rooms, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Other additions include a Culture Library curated by Assouline books, an on-site Toby's Estate coffee shop, and a bike-share program with Martone—so you can explore all the other new openings in the thriving city.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Charleston Guide
Renaissance Montreal
Where: Montreal, Canada
Expected Opening: Already open.
Business travel to Montreal just got a lot more pleasurable with the mid-January opening of thisdowntown Renaissance hotel, located near Place Ville Marie and shop-lined St. Catherine Street. Past its mirrored Art Deco exterior, the 142 espresso machine–equipped rooms feature contemporary design accented by eclectic graffiti-style pieces by local artists, as well as the city's only rooftop terrace, complete with stainless steel plunge pool, bistro kitchen, and panoramic views. The trendy vibe continues inside at East, a pan-Asian eatery with a master mixologist and live DJs. Renaissance signatures like in-house Navigators—local insiders who help guide guests to the best that the city has to offer—allow even time-crunched road warriors to make the most of their trips.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Montreal Guide
Elements of Byron Resort & Spa
Where: Byron Bay, Australia
Expected Opening: February
Australia's easternmost point is the home of a stunning new resort that honors, and is inspired by, natural elements. Opening in February, Elements of Byron sits on 50 acres that include miles of beachfront, creeks, ponds, rain forest, wetlands, and plenty of wildlife—all protected by the hotel's eco-conscious "slow architecture" philosophy. Water and fire elements will welcome guest to the main pavilion, beyond which lie lobby and poolside bars, a five-suite spa, an infinity lagoon pool, and—to start—94 villas (another 96 will be added in phase two). Executive chef Justin Dingle-Garciy, formerly of Morgans Hotel Group, will oversee menus that forgo trends in favor of modern, seasonal regional dishes that are both flavorful and healthy. It's all a part of the "barefoot Byron" experience.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Byron Bay Guide
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