Putting on the Ritz

The investment being poured into new hotel development throughout Asia continues to amaze me. As I’ve mentioned before, cities like Beijing and Shanghai are in grave danger of becoming overbuilt with too much capacity – but nonetheless, brand after brand make their way – or expand their presence – in the market.

There are a handful of luxury hotel operators, though, that have mapped out very strategic plans making them key players in the region – and the one that immediately comes to mind is Ritz Carlton. For the past 20 years, Ritz Carlton (www.ritzcarlton.com) has developed an impressive network of grand and luxurious properties, starting in Hong Kong and expanding throughout Asia – in Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Jakarta, Singapore, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo, Sanya, Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

The brand is continuing its growth in Asia with a second property opening in Shanghai in May and one in Hong Kong in November of this year.

An Eye on Hotels in Beijing & Shanghai

I just spent a week in China visiting new luxury hotels, and I am astounded as to how rapidly the country is growing. My last visit was only a year ago, and in that time the landscape has dramatically changed. New properties have opened or are about to open, and the country is raising its accommodation standards for luxury, style and service.

Since Asia is indeed fresh in my mind, I wanted to share with you my thoughts on some of my favorite hotels in Beijing and Shanghai, cities that never fail to intrigue me.