Asia's hotels set global standards

Hospitality industry awards Ahead Asia hail authenticity, sustainability and a strong sense of place in picking this year's winners

Vietnam’s Hotel de la Coupole was described as a “showstopper” by Ahead Asia judges for its Indochine style married with French haute couture.
Vietnam’s Hotel de la Coupole was described as a “showstopper” by Ahead Asia judges for its Indochine style married with French haute couture. PHOTOS: AHEAD ASIA 2020, ST FILE
Six Senses Bhutan (above) was feted for being able to connect five of Bhutan’s western and central valleys, with each lodge – Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey and Bumthang – varying in style from valley to valley, showcasing the diversity and character of
Six Senses Bhutan (above) was feted for being able to connect five of Bhutan’s western and central valleys, with each lodge – Thimphu, Punakha, Paro, Gangtey and Bumthang – varying in style from valley to valley, showcasing the diversity and character of each location. PHOTOS: AHEAD ASIA 2020, ST FILE
Nan Bei at Rosewood Bangkok (above), Thailand, impressed judges with its level of intricate details and dramatic Art Deco aesthetic. International design firm AvroKo created a luxurious dining experience that features a 7m-high light installation with a m
Nan Bei at Rosewood Bangkok (above), Thailand, impressed judges with its level of intricate details and dramatic Art Deco aesthetic. International design firm AvroKo created a luxurious dining experience that features a 7m-high light installation with a moongate screen and blue lacquered ceilings, inspired by the Chinese legend of “the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl”. PHOTOS: AHEAD ASIA 2020, ST FILE
Raffles Singapore won the Hotel Renovation and Restoration award for reflecting an era of grace, conviviality and civility, while an injection of new technology enhanced the guest experience.
Raffles Singapore won the Hotel Renovation and Restoration award for reflecting an era of grace, conviviality and civility, while an injection of new technology enhanced the guest experience. PHOTOS: AHEAD ASIA 2020, ST FILE
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Asia's hotels are setting international standards, says Mr Matt Turner, award director of Ahead Asia 2020, a biennial competition that recognises exceptional work in the hospitality industry.

Ahead stands for Awards for Hospitality, Experience and Design, which is hosted by Sleeper Magazine, the global industry magazine for hotel design, development and architecture.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on March 28, 2020, with the headline Asia's hotels set global standards. Subscribe