W Sydney: A Modern Icon in Darling Harbour

By Author

Published on October 23, 2023

W Sydney, a new architectural gem, has graced the shores of Darling Harbour, Australia's vibrant capital city. As part of the W Hotels brand, it marks a triumphant return to Sydney and promises to be a coveted destination for both travelers and locals. Let's take a closer look at what makes this hotel so special.

The Heart of Darling Harbour

Situated within the stunning architectural structure known as The Ribbon, W Sydney is designed to hug Darling Harbour. It’s been meticulously crafted to offer a unique blend of luxury and modern energy, providing an exceptional experience for visitors.

Embracing Australian Spirit

The hotel’s interiors, designed by London-based Bowler James Brindley, pay homage to Sydney’s history, spirit, and culture. From marine-inspired rooms and suites to distinctive restaurant and bars, the essence of Sydney is infused into every corner. At the core of the design is “the larrikin,” a quintessentially Australian character whose vibrant spirit influences the hotel’s unconventional yet luxurious interiors.

Architecture

From the moment you step into W Sydney, you’re on a design-led journey. The entry, covered in copper, is a tribute to the city’s disused railway tunnels. An illuminated vertical promenade leads you into the Living Room, a social hub with a vivid blue theme that reinvents the traditional lobby. This space is inspired by the Australian Bowerbird, featuring an electric blue circular bar and nest-like seating.

Chic Guest Rooms

W Sydney’s 588 guestrooms, including 162 exceptional suites, draw inspiration from the nearby harbors and beaches. With a palette of nautical white and navy-blue, these rooms exude a marine-chic ambiance. The undulating walls pay homage to the sails of yachts in the marina, creating a unique and visually captivating experience.

Food and Beverage

W Sydney doesn’t just provide a place to sleep; it offers a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene. The hotel boasts four dining and bar venues across three exciting levels. BTWN, located adjacent to a flyover, brings the energy of night food markets to its urban surroundings. Head Chef Chris Dodd, known for his work at Aria and Blue Door, presents menus that highlight the best of New South Wales’ produce. If you’re a night owl, don’t miss 2AM: dessertbar, a late-night hotspot in collaboration with dessert guru Janice Wong.

Living Room’s menus reflect the hotel’s location on the edge of Asiatown, with a focus on Sake, Soju, and Asian small bites. For a fantastic view of Darling Harbour, head to 29/30, a two-level bar. And don’t forget the WET Deck level bar, which evokes an underwater world with coral-inspired lighting.

Relax and Recharge

If you’re looking to unwind, AWAY Spa offers a serene space designed to leave you feeling rested and recharged. The hotel’s FIT Gym is equipped with Technogym equipment, and the WET Deck is the perfect place to chill poolside with stunning views of Darling Harbour.

Business with a View

For business travelers, W Sydney offers over 1,300 square meters of event space across eight versatile rooms. The hotel’s Great Room on level five features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer extraordinary views of the city. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, the hotel promises a unique and unforgettable experience.

W Sydney redefines luxury in the heart of Darling Harbour, offering a new cultural and social hub that captures the vibrant spirit of Sydney. It’s a departure from traditional hotels, and visitors are bound to feel the unique W spirit at every touchpoint.

About W Hotels

Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has been redefining hospitality for over two decades. With over 60 hotels worldwide, each property offers a unique experience that is often imitated but never matched. The brand is known for its detail-driven design, Whatever/Whenever service, and signature Living Rooms that create dynamic and invigorating spaces. W Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International.

From marine-inspired rooms to a vibrant culinary scene and serene spa, W Sydney by W Hotels promises a distinctive and unforgettable experience in Sydney’s vibrant heart.

VGC Tickles Tastebuds as Central Vietnam Gains Global Foodie Recognition

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 21, 2025

Central Vietnam is cooking up a storm in the global culinary scene, and Vietnam Golf Coast (VGC) clubs are at the heart of the action. With the arrival of MICHELIN Guide inspectors in Da Nang, the region has officially joined Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City as one of Vietnam’s premier gourmet hubs.

Long known for its diverse culinary offerings, Central Vietnam tempts visitors with an irresistible mix of iconic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi, alongside regional specialties such as mi Quang (turmeric rice noodles with shrimp and pork), bun cha ca (fishcake noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese crepe), and congee with braised duck. Fresh seafood, sourced daily from local waters, remains a standout attraction for food lovers.

Adding a touch of fine dining excellence to the mix is La Maison 1888, a one-Michelin-starred French restaurant in Da Nang that continues to attract gourmands from across the world.

Gourmet Experiences at Vietnam Golf Coast Clubs

VGC clubs have embraced this culinary renaissance, ensuring visitors enjoy a world-class golf and dining experience.

Laguna Golf Lang Co offers ten diverse restaurants, ranging from Mediterranean delights at Azura to traditional Vietnamese flavors at The Water Court and refined Thai cuisine at Saffron, perched on a hilltop with panoramic sea views. The resort’s 67 Bar, located within an alfresco clubhouse, provides the perfect spot to unwind post-game with crafted cocktails and stunning golf course views.

Montgomerie Links elevates the golf experience with Birdies, an acclaimed restaurant blending East-meets-West flavors. The menu features seasonal dishes crafted with the finest local ingredients, ensuring every visit is a fresh and exciting culinary journey.

Ba Na Hills Golf Club takes pride in its clubhouse restaurant, serving everything from Vietnamese specialties to Korean and Western dishes, catering to international visitors. The club’s culinary reputation was cemented when it won the 2024 Vietnam Golf & Leisure Award for Best F&B Course. Located near the renowned BaNa Brewhouse, golfers can enjoy a refreshing SunKraftbeer after a round.

Beyond the Golf Clubs: A Culinary Odyssey

The culinary magic extends to the region’s historical cities as well. In Hoi An, visitors can indulge in cao lau and white rose dumplings, while Hue’s imperial cuisine, featuring bun bo Hue, reflects its royal heritage. These flavors, steeped in tradition yet evolving with modern influences, ensure that Central Vietnam remains a dream destination for food lovers and golf enthusiasts alike.

With MICHELIN recognition, world-class dining, and elite golf facilities, Central Vietnam is teeing up an experience that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable.

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Minor Hotels Announces NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 20, 2025

Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with over 560 properties across 58 countries, has announced the upcoming launch of NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments, set to open in early 2028. The 156-key luxury property will be located on Al Marjan Island, a premier waterfront destination in Ras Al Khaimah, further strengthening the emirate’s position as a growing hub for upscale hospitality.

The announcement was made at THINC Middle East, marking another milestone in Minor Hotels’ regional expansion. The new property, developed in collaboration with RRS International Development FZ-LLC, will feature 120 beach-facing rooms and suites, alongside 36 branded serviced apartments. Designed for luxury and comfort, the hotel will boast four restaurants and bars, a gym, an outdoor pool, a kids’ club, a games room, a retail shop, and a co-working space, offering an elevated guest experience.

A Landmark Development on Al Marjan Island

RRS International Development, a leading real estate developer in the UAE, is bringing its expertise to this project as part of its dedicated focus on Ras Al Khaimah’s booming hospitality and real estate sector. The NH Collection property is positioned as a key addition to Al Marjan Island’s evolving landscape, which includes the UAE’s first integrated resort and multiple five-star hotel projects.

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, stated:
"We are excited to announce the expansion of NH Collection within the Middle East, reinforcing the brand’s global growth beyond Europe and the Americas. RRS International Development has a deep understanding of the regional real estate market, and we look forward to working together to develop this remarkable property on Al Marjan Island."

Elevating Ras Al Khaimah’s Hospitality Scene

The launch of NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments aligns with Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism vision, which aims to attract high-end travelers and investment. Expressing excitement about the project, Sanjay Narayandas Dhawan, RRS International Development FZ-LLC, commented:
"This landmark development under the NH Collection brand will redefine boutique hospitality on Al Marjan Island. We are honored to align with Minor Hotels and contribute to the growth of this dynamic destination under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi."

Adding to this, Rakesh Mirchandani, RRS International Development FZ-LLC, stated:
"With Al Marjan Island set to become a premier five-star resort destination, we are committed to creating world-class developments that offer luxury at an attainable value."

Marjan’s Chief Executive Officer, Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, also emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating:
"Our vision to transform Al Marjan Island into a vibrant tourism and lifestyle destination is further strengthened by the arrival of NH Collection. Their focus on service excellence and premium hospitality aligns perfectly with our commitment to curating exceptional guest experiences."

Minor Hotels’ Continued Growth in the UAE

The new NH Collection property will join Minor Hotels' expanding portfolio in the UAE, where the group currently operates 17 properties across four brands, including Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, which debuted in early 2024. NH Collection first entered the UAE market with NH Collection Dubai The Palm in 2023—marking its global expansion beyond Europe and the Americas. Since then, the brand has extended its presence to Asia and the Indian Ocean, with further developments planned across Africa and the Middle East.

With its prime beachfront location, sophisticated amenities, and NH Collection’s signature blend of contemporary elegance and exceptional service, the NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments is poised to become a standout addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s luxury hospitality scene.