Fairmont Port Douglas will feature multiple swimming pools, a day spa and a treetop walk attraction.

We are optimistic about the future of the sector, particularly in the Pacific, as we sit in a strong and beautiful region with great brands. Accor luxury hotels and apartments hold a strong appeal for the domestic / leisure traveller and this will continue. In light of the limitations on international travel and the huge appeal of our region, staycations are becoming increasingly popular. We expect a high demand for luxury, and astute developers and investors will capitalise on this.

Luxury is synonymous with providing guests with a tailored stay, and a luxury hotel is certainly well versed in providing guests with an exclusive, secluded and secure experience. The luxury sector’s strengths are ironically well suited to the travel demands raised by a pandemic, providing the guest with peace of mind.

All Accor properties have enhanced their cleaning protocols to ensure stays are as clean, safe and comfortable as possible. Accor’s ‘AllSafe’ cleanliness program protects guests and staff, while assuring travellers they can feel safe while staying at Accor’s hotels. The program’s measures were developed with the support of Bureau Veritas, a recognised world leader in testing, inspections and certification services.

Lindsay Leeser, Senior Vice President Development and Franchise – Pacific

Through Accor’s innovative partnership with AXA, all Accor properties also offer free-of charge access to expert medical teleconsultations to guests to assist with any medical situations that arise during their stay.

As many people have been experiencing lockdown or restrictions, there is strong desire to seek out experiences and unique getaways. Luxury hotels will be key beneficiaries of this pent up demand as borders start to open up and people are able to travel and seek out luxury hotels and resorts.

We are expecting strong growth. In fact, just recently we announced some new key luxury developments including a five-star Sofitel in Adelaide which is set to open next year and a new high-end luxury Fairmont in Port Douglas. There are more exciting developments in the pipeline, which we will be announcing soon.

For more industry insights into the luxury market, see the October 2020 edition of HM Magazine – CLICK HERE.