Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) added five new properties this May including four newly opened hotels to its spirited global portfolio.

For this month alone, SLH has added not one, not two, but five new luxury hotels to its portfolio. The new properties include a sun-bathed hideaway in Santorini, a new hotel in the heart of Bangkok’s tourist district, a cosmopolitan retreat in modern Shanghai, a historic hotel in Chambord, France, and a former fashion house in Italy.

Relais de Chambord – Chambord, France

With castle views just outside its windows, there’s no shortage of feeling like royalty at Relais de Chambord. The hotel provides scenery courtesy of the awe-inspiring Château de Chambord, combining French heritage and well-being within a notable historic setting. Pushing romance even further, the hotel is surrounded by private gardens designed by Christian Fournet, bringing together natural elements, on a location that’s less than two hours away from Paris.

SLH Insider Tip: Take a seat in Le Grand Saint Michel restaurant (or on the terrace in warmer weather) to savour classic French cuisine. Then retire to the library, with a snooker table and classic board games to enjoy.

The Sukhothai Shanghai – Shanghai, China

Right in the heart of Shanghai, The Sukhothai Shanghai was designed by internationally-acclaimed Neri & Hu Design and Research Office. The designers imposed a minimalist style, in the hotel that has some of the largest rooms and suites in the city. The photo above shows extra-wide windows (which can be found all over the place) that offer unobstructed views of the cosmopolitan landscape.

Providing easy transportation, it’s seamlessly connected to the HKRI retail mall. The neighbourhood is also easy to explore on foot, or by bamboo bicycles, which is highly recommended and provided on the property with People’s Square, Grand Theatre and Shanghai Natural Museum all nearby.

SLH Insider Tip: Head up to the URBAN Café & Lounge where guests can create personalised gin cocktails. Call over the trolley to select herbs and locally sourced spices to blend with any one of the 300 types of gin available.

Canaves Oia Epitome – Santorini, Greece

We’ve featured this resort before, and I can personally tell you that it’s the ultimate luxury destination in Santorini. Canaves Oia Epitome is the pinnacle of luxury, tucked in a peaceful spot just outside the main town making it the perfect tropical hideaway.

Each private villa offers classic Greek design, and as shown in the photo above, it is perfectly positioned for soaking up the best sunset views on the island. Muted natural tones and a minimalist design add to the sense of peace, which is complemented by activities including daily yoga classes.

SLH Insider Tip: Book an Aqua Retreat Villa for its unique see-through glass wall pool view from the lower level bedroom.

akyra Sukhumvit Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand

Made for urban dwellers, the akyra Sukhumvit Bangkok re-imagines urban accommodation in the heart of Bangkok.

The hotel is ideally located on Sukhumvit Soi 20, an area of Bangkok known for its buzzing atmosphere, high-end retail, green spaces and fine dining. With classy interiors and personalised service, this boutique retreat beckons visitors to discover a cosmopolitan city lifestyle. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto spacious balconies in most rooms, merging indoors with the outdoors.

SLH Insider Tip: This property is set to become the first new hotel in Asia to launch without single-use plastic in its rooms or food and beverage outlets.

Fendi Private Suites – Rome, Italy

From fashion runways to the streets of Rome, this elegant palazzo originally belonged to a noble family and has been the headquarters of Fendi since 2005, making it the world’s first Fendi hotel.

Fendi Private Suites is comprised of seven exclusive suites, each serving as the epitome of hotel elegance. With exclusive access and immersion into the Fendi world, it redefines luxury for sophisticated travellers who are looking for privacy as well as a unique experience in the heart of Rome.

SLH Insider Tip: After a day of shopping, return to Fendi Private Suites and join fellow fashionistas for cocktails at Zuma Lounge, followed by contemporary Japanese cuisine at Zuma restaurant located on the rooftop.