[Shanghai, 1st June 2015] As a commitment towards its growth ambitions for the Asia-Pacific region, Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH) is participating at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) for the third consecutive year to increase engagement with trade and identify new hotels that align with the SLH brand in these growing markets. 16 member hotels will be exhibiting alongside SLH.

The Asia-Pacific region is one of SLH's main areas of focus, making up a quarter of SLH's exclusive hotel collection. In the first half of 2015 alone, SLH has welcomed 16 new member hotels in the APAC region, in particular The Tokyo Station Hotel in Tokyo and The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach in Seychelles, the brand's inaugural hotels in both cities. From cultural immersions in China, idyllic retreats in Thailand and Sri Lanka, to chic city breaks in Tokyo, this pick of new hotel additions highlights the ever growing diversity and character of the SLH brand.

As the traveller becomes more informed and sophisticated in taste, SLH's member hotels are well-placed to offer guests a localised and personal experience in beautiful and culturally-rich cities. The Asia Pacific region makes up over a quarter of reservations made by SLH customers in 2015 to-date, with the top 5 APAC destinations being:

1. Hong Kong
2. Thailand
3. Singapore
4. Taiwan
5. China

In particular, bookings made for Singapore (+50%) and China (+23%) hotels experienced a rise over the past 3 years, moving them from 6th and 7th ranking to 3rd and 5th respectively. Demand for independent hotels in the region has grown and SLH expects to continue their expansion in 2015, with a few key openings to be announced in the later half of the year. As the brand celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, SLH's growth strategy in the region has allowed the brand to focus on what it does best – consistently delivering exceptionally high levels of service, quality and individuality.

For more information about SLH visit www.SLH.com. 

Annex A - List of member hotels participating with SLH at ILTM
Annex B - New APAC Members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (1H 2015)

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About Small Luxury Hotels of the World: The Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ (SLH) brand is an unrivalled portfolio of some of the world's finest small independent hotels. Comprising over 520 hotels in more than 80 countries, the diversity of the individual hotels, and the experiences that they offer, is exceptional. From cutting-edge design hotels to palatial 17th century mansions, city centre sanctuaries to remote private islands, historic country houses to idyllic resorts, Small Luxury Hotels of the World offers only the very best. Reservations can be made at any Small Luxury Hotels of the World property online at www.slh.com, via the free SLH iPhone app or by contacting your favourite travel agent. You can also call a Small Luxury Hotels of the World reservations office; to view a listing by country please click here: http://www.slh.com/contact-us/.

Editorial Enquiries: For further information and/or images from Small Luxury Hotels of the World, please contact Juliana Tan, PR Manager Asia Pacific at juliana.tan@slh.com or call +65 6632 7283.

New Members of Small Luxury Hotels of the WorldTM (H1 2015)

AUSTRALIA

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]The Dudley Boutique Hotel, Daylesford, Australia

Embrace the quieter pace of country life at The Dudley, a light and airy retreat that has welcomed guests for over 100 years. Set in a stunning private flower garden, this boutique hotel is an idyllic place to take a break and truly unwind. Indoors you'll find welcoming rooms and suites, with contemporary furnishings, bold fabrics and original artworks. In winter, curl up with a book in front of an open fire. And in summer, wake to the sound of birdsong and the scent of spring flowers drifting through the window.

Just a short stroll from The Dudley you'll find the Hepburn Bathhouse Complex – part of the Mineral Springs Reserve. Soak in the nourishing waters of this renowned spa, which first opened in 1895. Picnics can be prepared for guests to take out on day trips. Then return to your luxury hotel, just in time for a leisurely champagne tea on the lawn. As evening draws in, enjoy drinks or canapés in the lounge, before heading out to a bustling restaurant in nearby Daylesford.

CHINA

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]By-Spring Villa, Chongqing, China – Opening June 2015

Tucked away in Rong Hui Hot Spring City, By-Spring Villa is a welcome retreat for the wellness-minded traveler eager to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The architectural concept of the property adopts a minimalist style to create a peaceful environment, allowing the guest to enjoy the beauty of nature. All villas come with their own hot spring pool and private chamber. Bathe in the warm healing waters of the natural hot spring baths where guests can personalize their soak with traditional Chinese herbs specially prepared by Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) experts at the property, or luxuriate with aromatherapy oil or rose petals in their personal hot spring pool. A 24 hour dedicated butler service provides additional luxury and service, anticipating the guest's every need from the time of arrival to the moment of departure. By-Spring Villa was awarded “Best Boutique Hotel” at the first Chinese Golden Hot Spring Award.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Cours et Pavillons, Beijing, China – Opening August 2015

Within the city's traditional hutong is a surprise: an enchanting collection of seven luxury residences set in two beautifully restored courtyards, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Chinese communities first-hand. Close by Beijing's cultural gems, The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, Cours et Pavillons is ideally positioned for an immersive cultural experience.

The hotel brims with character and is tastefully decked out with a mix of modern amenities and traditional furnishings, many of which are original antiques from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. When it's time for dinner, be treated to a spread of authentic French cuisine prepared by Michelin three-star chef Zak el Hamdou – and a well-stocked wine cellar and cigar bar for late night escapades.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Eden Clubhouse, Wuzhen, China

At first glance, Eden Clubhouse takes you back to imperial China with its tranquil gardens dotted with bamboo, old stone bridges and ornate statues. But step inside the palatial lobby and discover a modern-day sanctuary offering 21st-century luxury. There are nods to this boutique hotel's past in its grand four-poster beds, gilt mirrors and carved screens, while plush furnishings, glass-walled bathrooms and cutting-edge technologies offer modern comfort. Guests can relax with a complimentary spa massage or sip tea on their own private terrace, before having dinner in the fine dining restaurant.

When it's time to explore, the sights and sounds of Wuzhen, the town on the water, are close by. This is the place to escape inside centuries-old temples, discover colourful fabrics in the Indigo Workshop or shop at the water markets. As night falls, look out for the Chinese story-telling room or Chinese opera.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Imperial Springs International Summit, Conghua, Guangzhou, China

With its tucked away pavilions, meandering waterways and sheltered pools, the Imperial Springs International Summit hotel mirrors a piece of traditional Chinese art. Guests can look forward to waking up in the luxury of the garden suite, done in chic Art Deco style with an Asian twist. Treat your mind and body to a yoga or Tai Chi class with a personal trainer, or truly unwind with an afternoon exploring a world of traditional massage and spa therapy. To complete the day, indulge in an exclusive dining experience by selecting your own ingredients for the chefs to create a personalized menu.

Outside the hotel, the mountains and lakes of Conghua beckon. Seek out the area's ancient hot springs, and take a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich waters. Discover historic Qiangang – a village of twisting avenues and timber houses mirroring life in medieval China. Then stroll through the tranquil forests, stopping off to pick fresh lychees as you go along.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Lijiang's Patio, Lijiang, China 

Lijiang is one of China's hidden gems – combined with beautiful natural sceneries such as Lugu Lake, Tiger Leaping Gorge and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the ancient UNESCO town – Dayan Town – it's the perfect escape from everyday life. Lijiang's Patio offers 22 private residences at an enviable address in the centre of the city. Guests arrive and take part in the hotel's traditional tea ceremony before being shown to their private villa.

When guests leave the hotel, they will find themselves transported back in time with historic bridges and cobbled streets running alongside beautiful canals all against the back drop of the epic Jade Dragon Snow mountain, which can been seen both from town and privately from the individual villas. Guests can also enjoy the Qin Cambodian Spa, after a long day of exploring. In the evening there is often wine tasting events being held at the Wyatt Wine Cellar – among some notable bottles and lastly for those who partake – the hotel offers guests the only Cigar Bar in town with some of the world's finest luxury cigars.

INDONESIA

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]The Sanchaya, Bintan Island, Indonesia

The newest luxury retreat on the Indonesian island of Bintan opened at the beginning of 2015 offers an exclusive insight into the art, culture and traditions of South-east Asian island life. Designed to reflect colonial grandeur and inspired by a deep passion for the region, treasures, artefacts, textiles and artwork from neighbouring countries are found all around the estate and inside the private villas.  Proving that it's the most luxurious place to stay on the island, Adjacent to the property is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region where visitors can watch playful dolphins.

The Sanchaya is the only property to have its own VIP Lounge at the ferry terminal to ensure a seamless island arrival and departure. Guests can also enjoy the highly personalized service and attention to detail, whilst the location of the property provides the perfect base from which to enjoy sailing, water sports, island hopping and mangrove tours. For an even more exclusive experience, the hotel has a yacht available to hire for private transfers between Singapore and Bintan, as well as to charter for sunset cruises.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Villa Borobodur, Borobodur, Indonesia

Nestled among lofty mountains, tiny villages, rice paddies and ancient temples, Villa Borobudur is a magical retreat with awe-inspiring views of cloud-topped peaks and green hills dotted with temples. Authentic art and lavish furnishings adorn each traditional Javanese 'joglo' – reminding one of a jungle retreat with elegance. Majestic yet inviting, the serene villas combine ancient heritage with modern day luxury. Expect grand, four-poster beds and traditional tiles alongside infinity pools and stylish day beds. Some feature outdoor showers and open-sided lounge areas.

With its location in the heart of Central Java, Villa Borobudur is within easy reach of some of the island's most captivating sites – guests can partake in local experiences including hiking through rice fields, green hills and waterfalls, or follow in the footsteps of Buddhist monks to ancient Borobudur Temple – a UNESCO World Heritage site. Closer to home, explore colourful markets or learn the local craft of pottery and batik at a nearby village.

JAPAN

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]The Tokyo Station Hotel, Tokyo, Japan

The Tokyo Station Hotel is SLH's first hotel in Tokyo, a destination much requested by customers. This grand, red-brick residence, celebrating its 100th anniversary in October 2015, offers an air of golden-age glamour effortlessly blending Omotenashi – the time-honoured spirit of Japanese hospitality – with 21st century luxury. Inside, vaulted ceilings complement the atrium's expansive skylight beneath which guests are served breakfast, while period features throughout the building guide guests towards an indulgent escape in the contemporary spa featuring Terrake treatments or in one of the properties' seven eateries showcasing French and Japanese fine dining under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Masahiro Ishihara. The 150 rooms offer spectacular views of Tokyo, and easy connection to the JR Tokyo Station Marunouchi for convenient travel throughout Japan.

SEYCHELLES

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach Seychelles – Opening August 2015

Ideally situated just 30 minutes from Seychelles International airport on the island of Mahe, The H Resort Beau Vallon Beach Seychelles is the idyllic address from which to sink into the tropical landscape and explore the riches of the island. This chic yet relaxed resort sits on the sparkling Beau Vallon Beach with lush grounds speckled by takamaka trees, and splashes of local life.

The island resort has 100 rooms facing out towards the expansive Indian Ocean, complemented by 16 beach villas with private pool and direct beach access. Boasting white sandy beaches, lush greenery and laid-back local life, the resort presents nothing short of a sublimely serene sanctuary.

SRI LANKA

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Langdale by Amaya, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

With its pristine white exterior surrounded by emerald gardens, Langdale by Amaya is a picture of old-world elegance in Sri Lanka's tea-growing heartland. Each room is designed to be a home-away-from home, decorated with cosy hand-woven fabrics and antique wooden crafts. Guests can choose from a variety of activities according to their fancy, from a quiet reprieve at the hotel's temperature controlled pool boasting stunning views of surrounding mountains, savour pastimes reminiscent of the region's colonial heritage, from a game of tennis to high tea on the lawn, or venture out and explore Nuwara Eliya's rolling hills and tranquil valleys.

The hotel makes a wonderful base for exploring the Sri Lankan countryside, such as embarking on a guided photography tour around the quaint little town of Radalla, strolling around the blooming gardens at Victoria Park, playing a round of golf at the historic Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, or touring tea plantations to seek out some of the world's finest Ceylon blends.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Signature by Amaya, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Nestled amid the rich heartland greenery of the centrepoint of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, Signature by Amaya is a tropical haven that resides on the edge of the tranquil waters of the magnificent Kandalama Lake in Dambulla. A deep sense of tranquility washes over from the moment guests arrive, beckoning one to draw closer to explore the diverse flora and fauna of this eco-friendly property.

Awaken to the sound of birdsong drifting in through the window in the morning, and enjoy breakfast on your private balcony, served by your dedicated butler. Stroll along peaceful walkways and take in the scent of crape jasmine (pichcha) flowers that dot the pathways, before taking a swim in the infinity pool. In the afternoon, why not take a boat ride, or head out on an elephant safari? Those seeking total relaxation can indulge in an Ayurveda spa treatment. To complete your day, savour authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in the fine dining restaurant, Signature.

This boutique resort is well-placed for exploring one of Sri Lanka's most important cultural sites, the Royal Rock Temple in nearby Dambulla where a system of caves houses hundreds of Buddha murals and statues, some dating back over one thousand years.

THAILAND

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Akyra Manor, Chiang Mai, Thailand – Opening July 2015

Akyra Manor will be one of the most hotly-anticipated, hip downtown hotel located in the centre of Thailand's buzzing second city. A collaboration between AHMS - The Collection and Singapore's Manor Studio, the property is within walking distance of chic boutiques, galleries and coffee shops. The all-suite luxury hotel features 28 suites created around a courtyard-within-a-room concept.

From the hotel's rooftop pool and bar, Rise, guests can take in the thriving activity of the chic boutiques, galleries and bars below, or gaze out at the mist-topped hills of northern Thailand. Its Italian restaurant, Italics, will be the place to be seen in downtown Chiang Mai with a state-of-the-art show kitchen. The hotel will also have Thailand's first organic rooftop nursery and promotes a SLOW Food concept where the hotel grows most of their own ingredients. Bespoke guided tours to places where guests can connect with authentic Chiang Mai culture can also be arranged.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Keemala, Phuket Island, Thailand – Opening September 2015

Keemala is a luxurious sanctuary nestled in an enchanting woodland and located close to the village and beach of Kamala on the west coast of Phuket. Its tranquil setting encourages guests to rebalance, rejuvenate and relax during their time at the resort, making use of natural features such as trees, streams and waterfalls to complement the surrounding landscape.

Its 38 pool villas are split into four different styles, with each one representing a different group of fictitious early Phuket settlers through their design and position, including clay cottages, tent villas, tree houses and bird's nest villas. While every villa comes with its own private pool and outdoor terrace, there is also a larger communal pool as well as a spa offering organic and traditional treatments, a gym, yoga pavilions, and meditation areas in keeping with Keemala's wellness ethos. Its restaurant will feature wholesome cuisine as well as fine dining and there are also quaint spots around the resort for destination dining - ideal for private parties, romantic picnics and cooking classes. Keemala is like no other resort on Phuket Island, due to its architecture and the experiences offered, making it an ideal addition to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ collection.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Mom Tri's Villa Royale, Phuket, Thailand

Situated on a headland overlooking the Andaman Sea and the white sand beach of Kata Noi, Villa Royale is a personal creation of the renowned artist and architect Mom Luang Tridosyuth Devalus better known as Mom Tri, a descendant of King Rama 1V. Forty-two suites offer the highest standard of privacy and comfort in one of Phuket's last hideaways. Alluring glimpses of its distinctive Thai-style buildings, authentic Thai antiques blend with luxurious modern comforts and panoramic sea views and lush tropical gardens to create an atmosphere of rare tranquility.

[if !supportLists]·        [endif]Sireeampan Boutique Resort, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Sireeampan is Chiang Mai's quaint and charming boutique resort and spa, where rich Siamese heritage meets modern luxury. Featuring 11 exquisitely designed suites in a replica Thai manor from the Rattanakosin era (circa 1780), guests are pampered with second-to-none grandeur and fully personalized service. Each suite features colours, textures and artwork that complement the unique surroundings of the country's spiritual capital. The secluded sanctuary allows you to surround yourself with the charms of Chiang Mai nature and be pampered with private personalized services, which includes a personalized and professional shopping experience for time-starved guests to bring homemade artisanal products home.

Personalization doesn't end when you step outside Sireeampan Boutique Resort & Spa - the hotel crafts itineraries for bicycle tours, cooking classes or can arrange customized sightseeing trips. Excursions could take you past rice plains, temples and tribal villages – stopping to visit elephants and local artists along the way, or tee off at the member's-only North Hill Chiang Mai Golf Club that boasts an 18-hole course.