THE ORNATE LOBBY AT THE RAFFLES THE PALM, DUBAI

Raffles Hotels & Resorts is expanding worldwide, and by the end of this year the brand will have added to its distinguished portfolio no less than four spectacular properties. August witnessed the opening of India’s Raffles Udaipur (top right), a palatial property set on a 21-acre private island in Udai Sagar Lake. Surrounded by spectacular hills and a view of a 400-year-old temple in the background, the property offers 101 rooms, each with a private pool. This summer also saw the soft opening of Raffles Al Areen Palace, in Bahrain. This serene sanctuary, close to the island’s protected wildlife park and reserve, has 78 opulent pool villas, and one of the largest spas in the region. Looking ahead, the 450-suite Raffles at Galaxy Macau (top left) is scheduled to open within the second half of 2021, while Q4 will witness the launch of the Raffles the Palm, Dubai (below) – an expansive property located on the world’s largest man-made island and archipelago, which boasts 389 luxurious rooms, suites, and villas, each with a balcony and sea-view terrace.