3. MEET THE LOCALS

Eco hotel SALT has opened in Mauritius with plans to “connect modern explorers with meaningful travel experiences”. Staff are encouraged to invite guests out of the hotel as they see fit – perhaps to a traditional feast with their family, a wedding, or to their friend’s pottery studio. An opening in Sichuan, China, follows next year.

The idea that a “hotel can be more than just a hotel” is the ethos behind Life House. There’s an app for guests who want to meet other people staying at the hotel, as well as locals who can take guests to the best spots. The first hotel will open in a tropical mansion in Miami’s Little Havana in spring. recently unveiled 14-bedroom Townhouse Residences, with room service available from the Michelinstarred Galvin brothers’ restaurant.

This spring, Bistrotheque makes a first foray into hotels by opening London Warehouse, with 166 suites above an all-day restaurant.

In Los Angeles, Four Seasons has confirmed its first residential project in North America, opening in autumn near Beverly Hills. The 59 homes will have access to an on-site theatre, private kitchen, pool and gym, plus 24-hour concierge. And Marriott International is collaborating with rental company Hostmaker on home-sharing. Its guests can rent a Parisian loft with Eiffel Tower views or a mid-century apartment in Rome.