From a hillside property in Florence to the shores of Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic, here are the latest hotel and resort openings
Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Collegio alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection
Auberge Resorts Collection has opened the doors to Collegio alla Querce in Florence, Italy, marking the brand’s first property in the country. This 16th-century former centre of learning has been transformed into an 83-room hotel with stunning views of Florence and the surrounding hills. Transformed while preserving its original character, the five-star hotel features exquisite rooms, suites, and four dining venues.
W Punta Cana
The new W Punta Cana marks W Hotels’ first adult all-inclusive property worldwide. This debut redefines luxury hospitality with 340 stylish rooms, each starting at a spacious 700 square feet, each with king-sized beds and many offering swim-up pools. Designed by Zanobia Arquitectura, the resort boasts 12 dining and bar venues, including a food hall and speakeasy, plus vibrant entertainment curated with local music. The AWAY Spa offers 10 treatment rooms and a 24-hour FIT gym, providing a sophisticated wellness experience rooted in local traditions.
Sapphire Sands Villas
Sapphire Sands Villas, a new beachfront villa retreat set directly on Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay Village, is slated to open in February 2026. The project is by Bay Gardens Resorts Group and will be located on Reduit Beach, one of the island’s most iconic stretches of sand. Designed in modern Caribbean style with thoughtful comfort, the property offers nine three-bedroom villas totalling 27 keys, each of which can be converted into one-, two- or three-bedroom accommodations. They feature fully equipped kitchens, spacious living rooms, contemporary finishes, sweeping oceanfront views, and private balconies. Select ground-floor villas also include private plunge pools, perfect for a secluded dip just steps from the beach.
