Jetwing Colombo Seven
Location: Ward Place, in the centre of Sri Lanka’s capital city
Grade: Upscale
Keys: 70 plus 28 serviced apartments
Facilities: Rooftop restaurant, bar, pool and fitness centre, all overlooking the city
Meeting space: Conference facilities for up to 200 delegates
They say: “Jetwing Colombo Seven promises unparalleled personalized breathing space… with luxury amenities set in modern ambience with a touch of elegance and efficiency”
We say: Sri Lankan hotel group’s first urban property is elevated by the use of its rooftop space. The restaurant and bar are likely to be popular among locals and visitors
Opening: Already open
Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection by Hilton
Location: Recently renovated 1930s building in downtown Kansas City, once the tallest building in the city
Grade: Upper-upscale
Keys: 216
Facilities: Restaurant, “underground tavern” for live music, coffee bar, fitness area, business centre
Meeting space: Eight meeting rooms including a ballroom
They say: “With its art deco charm, exquisite dining choices and idyllic history, Hotel Phillips is exactly what Curio guests are seeking”
We say: Landmark downtown hotel revived by Hilton. Original room count of 400 reduced to just 216
Opening: Already open
The Pearl of Africa Hotel Kampala
Location: At the top of Nakasero Hill, in the centre of Uganda’s capital city
Grade: Luxury
Keys: 296
Facilities: Restaurants, sports bar, spa, three swimming pools, kids’ club, retail outlets, tennis, squash and volleyball courts
Meeting space: 740m² ballroom, nine meeting rooms, two boardrooms
They say: “The Pearl of Africa hotel… will reflect the local culture to its guests and the magnificence of the country”
We say: Carlson Rezidor’s second Quorvus Collection hotel in Africa will focus on business and event travel, while its steakhouse could become a popular dining spot in the city
Opening: Q2 2017
The Zephyr – MBD Steigenberger Hotel & Apartments
Location: Bengaluru’s business suburb of Whitefield
Grade: Luxury
Keys: 178, plus 123 serviced apartments
Facilities: Multiple F&B outlets, executive lounge, bar, a large spa, beauty salon, swimming pool, tennis court
Meeting space: 2,200m² of conference and banqueting space
They say: “Aimed at redefining luxury at Bengaluru, Zephyr is the pioneering mixed-use development entailing [a] luxury hotel and luxury serviced apartments”
We say: With famous designers and architects employed on the project, Steigenberger’s first Indian hotel could be an impressive addition
Opening: 2020