Discovering Capella: The Hidden Gems of the Asia-Pacific

Introduction to Capella Hotels & Resorts

Recently, I've been delving into a few small luxury hotel groups around the world, and Capella Hotels & Resorts caught my attention. My recent experience there left me truly impressed. Capella stands out as one of the most intriguing hotel brands I want to explore further.

Though Capella has a limited number of hotels, the quality is exceptionally high, often ranking at the top among local hotels. The brand primarily operates in the Asia-Pacific region but is expected to expand to other areas next year, which I'm eagerly looking forward to.

The Unique Appeal of Capella

Capella Hotels & Resorts has built an impressive reputation over the past few years without needing a vast number of properties or a long history like some of its competitors. Both the brand and each of Capella's properties have received numerous awards, truly deserving of their efforts. Capella was founded in 2001 by Horst Schulze, who also co-founded Ritz-Carlton in 1983.

In 2017, Capella was sold to the Kwee family of Singapore, leading to significant transformations within the brand. Many former hotels, such as Breidenbacher Hof Düsseldorf and Rosewood Washington DC, were once part of Capella and have since been reimagined with a fresh look.

Capella's Design Philosophy

I really admire Capella's design philosophy - "design with a vision intertwined with genuine hospitality." Each Capella property boasts a unique and distinctive style, creating unparalleled experiences. They place great emphasis on connecting with local communities and cultures, employing staff known as “Culturists” to develop activities related to local heritage.

Capella is also renowned for its restaurants and bars, ensuring that both travelers and locals find these spaces appealing. Each property features a “living room” area, accessible to all guests, offering complimentary drinks throughout the day and wine with snacks in the evening.

Notable Capella Locations

Currently, Capella has 10 properties in the Asia-Pacific region. While the number is small, each location delivers a unique and memorable experience. They are planning to expand to several new locations in Europe in the coming years, which is truly exciting.

Capella Singapore, located on Sentosa Island, is the brand's flagship property, opening its doors in 2009. This 112-room resort is built on a historical foundation dating back to the 1880s. Recently, Capella Singapore was named one of the 50 best hotels in the world for 2024.

Additionally, Capella Bangkok just opened in 2020 along the Chao Phraya River, featuring 101 rooms, all with stunning river views. Capella Ubud in Bali offers a luxurious glamping experience with just 23 tents nestled in the mountains.

Capella in China

Capella Shanghai is housed in restored shikumen-style townhouses, giving guests a resort-like feel in the heart of the city. Here, guests can enjoy 55 villas and suites, complete with high-quality relaxation services.

Capella Tufu Bay in Hainan opened its doors in 2019, making it an ideal destination along the eastern coast of China. All rooms face the sea, emphasizing relaxation and wellness.

The Vision of Capella

Capella pursues a clear vision: to combine tradition, exploration, and uniqueness to create the perfect experience for every guest. They invite renowned architects to design their locations, ensuring their restaurants exude freshness and creativity.

The vibe of Capella feels distinctly different; I think it's reminiscent of the early days of the Aman brand, but with a stronger focus on urban properties rather than countryside resorts. I'm genuinely curious and excited to experience more of Capella's locations in the future.