Some of the worlds most stylish hotels and resorts are opening in 2021 - theyre just waiting for guests to come and experience the plush surroundings.

From ryokans in Japan to paradise islands in the Maldives, we pick out the most luxurious new places you can stay in this year in Asia and Oceania.

1

Australia

From its upstart hipster roots in Portland, Oregon, the artsy Ace Hotel brand has now been reshaping the look of mid-range digs for 20 years, says Mark OFlaherty inThe Daily Telegraph. The brand arrives in Australia towards the end of this year, bringing the usual mix of artisanal coffee, seasonal cocktails and in-room turntables to a new 19-storey, 264-room tower in Sydney. The building is already a landmark in the Surry Hills neighbourhood of the city, which has gone from being a laid-back eastern suburb to a hub for food and design. As we have come to expect from the team behind the Ace Hotel brand, it is working with local designers to create something unique. The rooftop bar and restaurant promise to be quite the sun-drenched scene.

2

Japan

Azumi Setoda is the first hotel of a new brand inspired by traditional Japanese inns known as ryokan, says Claire Wrathall in the Financial Times. It is set to open in March on the island of Ikuchijima in Japans Seto Inland Sea, in a splendid 19th-century building that was once the home of a powerful shipping family. The building has been restored and converted to accommodate 18 suites and four duplexes, each with its own garden or balcony, by Kyoto-based Shiro Miura, an expert in sukiya, a style of architecture dating back to the 16th century that strives to balance the elements. Rather than focus on luxury, the concepts at the heart of Azumi Setoda are culture, community, arts and food. Hence the neighbouring yabune, or public bathhouse, is intended for locals as much as guests. Rates start from 560.

3

Maldives

This 100-villa resort on the beaches of the North Mal Atoll will welcome its first guests from Q2 2021. Villas are built across four paradise islands, all with ocean and lagoon views of the crystal-clear waters. Each villa will be cared for by a dedicated Aris Meeha, or personal host, to tailor guests journey and look after their every need. Guests will be able to dine at seven different restaurants, as well as enjoy treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.

4

Maldives

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has unveiled the largest private island in the archipelagic state. The ultra exclusive destination spans 32,000sqm in the heart of the Indian Ocean and is only a 40-minute journey from Mal on the resorts Princess yachts or via a 15-minute seaplane flight. The sprawling estate accommodates 24 guests across two-, three- and four-bedroomed residences, placed across the islands private beach and overwater. The private island also comes with its own dedicated culinary team.

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Best new hotels opening in Asia and Oceania in 2021 - The Week UK