What’s new in 2022: seven experiences to add to your bucket list

A recent study from the World Travel and Tourism Council and Trip.com suggests strong growth in international spending for 2022 and beyond. With the hybrid human here to stay and demand for travel and experiences at an all-time high, we can see why. Here are seven new luxury resorts – opening imminently – to put on your bucket list for 2022.

JW Marriott Jeju Hot Springs Resort, Jeju, South Korea

Incorporating key aspects of Jeju’s culture, the design narrative is an abstract representation of the island’s indigenous Choga architecture. The traditional curved roof has been reversed, expressing the patterned lattice on the underside of the structure. Low visual-impact greenery was introduced to the roof planes to mitigate heat gain and optimize views of Jeju island’s picturesque coastline. Echoing the island’s traditional volcanic stone and slate architecture, the design utilizes Jeju lava rock and a porous building technique to create a dynamic pattern of solid and void.

The Ritz-Carlton Jiuzhaigou, China

Ritz-Carlton’s first all-villa resort. 87 luxury villas are situated along the edge of the Tibetan Plateau with panoramic views of the beautiful snow-capped Minshan mountain range, deep woodlands, and ancient Tibetan villages. The angled shape of the villas mimics the surrounding mountain peaks and reflects the extraordinary rugged landscape. Celebrating the natural beauty and richness of the region, WATG’s design for the new destination pays homage to the local Tibetan heritage through the use of traditional building forms and locally sourced materials, and indigenous planting. Public spaces are designed with domestic scale and many lookout points, offering unmatched views and an intimate feel of exclusivity.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amman, Jordan

Designed by WATG, this classically proportioned in form and detail, the design is luxurious and grand expressed through historical elements. Formal gardens and colonnades and terraces create an elegance that gives a sense of grandeur and stature. Luxurious stone, polished metals, architecture that frames the views, and shade in simple trellises and screens create a timeless statement of style. Formal yet relaxed expression is inspired by rose-toned stones and Jordan’s landscape. The design is inspired by the terrain of Jordan and deeply rooted in history also connected to the newly branded Marriott International. The neoclassical architecture of the infamous Rose City to the Citadel seen in facades and symmetry.

Four Seasons Hanoi, Vietnam

In the cultural and scenic hub of Hanoi in a neighborhood characteristically anchored in French colonial architecture, the design brings to life the glamour of that era. At three stories at the street side and then stepping back to seven, the architecture sits gently and respectfully with its neighbors. A uniform of columns-pilasters graces the façade with arch bays that open to a discreet entrance protected by a metal and glass canopy. The feel is of a grand private residence at the right address, offering intimacy from the bustling street life. The building setback at the fourth floor allows for large suites with roof terraces, while French wrought iron balconies adorn the seven-story façade and take in the serene lake view.

The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, Doha, Qatar

With a design that pays homage to the glories of Indian Mughal architecture with a touch of Ottoman influence, the new Chedi Katara’s principal hotel building will house a lobby lounge with 180° views of the sea, an expansive spa and fitness facility, and rooms and suites with terraces and views over the Arabian Gulf and Doha skyline.

Four Seasons Cartagena, Colombia

WATG was commissioned to develop a renovation design for this elegant five-star hotel. Comprising four historically significant buildings dating back as early as 1918, Four Seasons Cartagena will be an adaptive reuse project that fully celebrates the local lifestyle and history of the region. The local government required that the majority of existing buildings be restored into courtyards and gathering areas, which WATG designed each with their own unique ambiance characteristic of Cartagena. A unique design challenge was the requirement by the local historical preservation authorities to preserve the original uses of select rooms of existing buildings, including ballrooms, feature courtyards, guest quarters, and the chapel.

Dali Lippo Karawaci Luxury Resort, China

In a historically rich and famous town of culture and romance, a contemporary architectural design will become a local modern highlight. The future-thinking design complements the local vernacular with the use of local stone, wood, glass, and plaster. Additionally, metal overhangs and vast windows take into account the weather and the panorama of Dali. Dali stone is a renowned local export and is therefore employed throughout the design aesthetics to capture the essence of the destination. An observation tower will lift visitors up to experience the view from the mountains to the valley. Dali’s rich architectural history is realized in the design with the use of bridges for small creeks and rapids. A modern interpretation of this is realized in the lobby building as part of the guest journey. The master planning incorporates and complements the natural meandering of stony creeks, surrounding natural forest, and lush tea gardens. These characteristics support the sense of wellness and serenity in the design.