Hong Kong's luxury hotel sector shows signs of recovery, with first-half average daily rates exceeding 2018 levels, according to STR data.
Hong Kong's luxury hotels have surpassed pre-pandemic room rates, reaching HK$2,169 in 2025, a 1% increase from 2018 levels. This outpaces the overall hotel market, which saw rates drop 8% from 2018. The trend continued into Q1 2023, with luxury ADR up 12.3%.
Paris is significantly expanding its district cooling network, Fraîcheur de Paris, to combat intensifying heatwaves and the urban heat island effect. The system uses chilled water from the Seine to cool thousands of buildings, aiming to triple its size by 2042 and offer a more energy-efficient alternative to individual air conditioning units.
France has awarded its prestigious "Palace" label to 33 luxury hotels, a distinction granted by the government agency Atout France for three years. Minister Serge Papin highlighted this as the "Palme d'Or of French hospitality," emphasizing the sector's excellence and expansion, with average night costs in these establishments rising 79% since 2019.
Phu Quoc's US$5.2 billion summit project, including airport overhaul and infrastructure, faces significant delays 18 months before the November 2027 event. Shortages of workers, materials, and unfinished construction plague the development.
