Senior Travel Designer Belinda highlights which hotels everyone will be talking about next year
01
Arctic Bath, Sweden

This floating hotel meets spa launches in January 2020. Taking inspiration from when felled trees were sent downriver for processing, the Arctic Bath is designed to blend into the environment – it floats on the water in the summer, and in the winter it freezes into the Lule River and becomes part of the frozen landscape. After pampering yourself in the cold bath, hot bath, saunas and more, you can stay within one of the six floating cabins or on land.
Belinda says: “It’s location actually in the river gives it a wonderful viewing point for the Northern Lights and the floating sauna will be extraordinary.”


02
Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne, Switzerland

The Mandarin Oriental is giving the iconic Hotel Lake Luzern a multi-million dollar makeover and turning it into the Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne in 2020. With redesigned rooms, new restaurants and landscaped gardens, this historic palace hotel is set to sparkle once more.
Belinda says: “We are excited to see Mandarin Oriental again bringing their trademark elevated service and Asian design to such a beautiful location!”


03
Kempinski Tbilisi, Georgia

With its mountain setting, the views from Kempinski Tbilisi will be hard to beat. Guests can relax on their private terrace or stroll up to the rooftop bar to get an even better look of the capital. While it made seem hard to tear yourself away from your suite, the resort’s gourmet restaurants found on the neighbouring mountain are sure to do just that. Particularly, the Enoteca wine bar, which is stocked with local wines.
Belinda says: “Georgia is already a hot destination making its way on to many travel wish lists for 2020 and the new addition of the Kempinski Tbilisi which is set to open late in 2020 makes it even more exciting. Boasting the largest guest rooms in the city both visitors and locals will be able to enjoy the rooftop terrace, which will offer stunning views.”

04
Nobu Hotel Warsaw, Poland

One of the world’s most fashionable hotels is about to arrive in Warsaw. Owned by actor Robert De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, this hotel is sure to become a fast-favourite with locals and guests alike. As it’s set right in the heart of the city, you won’t want to go anywhere else.
Belinda says: “I am sure that the locals are equally excited about this new opening as of course the hotel brings with it their signature Nobu Restaurant. It’s modern and luxurious design will be a lovely haven in the centre of this historic city.”

05
Le Grand Contrôle Versaille, France

If there is one hotel that is going to make you feel like royalty, it’s Le Grand Contrôle Versaille. Set within a 17th-century building on the palace grounds, you are sure to feel spoilt by its riches. For instance, it only has 14 rooms, but there is an Alain Ducasse restaurant and Valmont Spa on site.
Belinda says: “The hotel will contain original antiques and art and the building has been meticulously restored. Of course, all guests will also be entitled to personalised experiences at the Palace. We can’t wait to stay here!”

The Lightfoot Team travels to Europe at least once a year and can recommend only the best properties, restaurants and hidden gems for you to discover. Let us help you experience Africa with a tailor-made itinerary that suits you. Enquire now!


Suggested Itineraries

Classic Italy

Venice Florence Tuscany Rome Italy Europe

  • A tasting tour of the lagoon city of Venice

  • Italian food & wine with vineyard visits and cookery classes

  • The art and sculpture of the Italian Renaissance in Florence

  • Explore Vatican City and the archaeological sites of Rome

  • The ruins of the ancient Roman town of Pompeii

ideal length 11 nights

Hanoi, Sapa & Ha Long Bay

Hanoi, Mai Chau & Ha Long Bay Vietnam Asia Europe

  • Enjoy an early morning visit to Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ngoc Son Temple

  • Return to the golden age of travel with an overnight trip on the Victoria Express Train

  • Explore the dramatic scenery and ethnic hill-tribe villages of Sapa

  • Cruise around the emerald waters, towering limestone pillars and tiny forest-topped islets of Ha Long Bay

  • Start your day with sunrise tai chi on the sundeck of your boat

ideal length 6 nights

Sweden Winter Holiday

Stockholm Swedish Lapland Sweden Europe

  • Discover the rich history of Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town

  • Go on a photo excursion in the Abisko National Park with a professional photographer

  • Stay in unique accommodation including the ICEHOTEL and Treehotel

  • Explore the snowy wilderness on a dogsled, reindeer sleigh and snowmobile

  • Enjoy dinner while watching for the Northern Lights

ideal length 9 nights
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