Amsterdam, often dubbed the Venice of the North, is a city with endless appeal. There are world-class museums, stylish boutiques, and a burgeoning restaurant and cafe scene to get stuck into – all framed around postcard-perfect, winding canals. When it comes to bedding down, Amsterdam’s boutique hotels reign supreme in the Dutch capital, rather than flashy five-star players taking centre stage. Instead, the city’s grande dames are independently owned, and jostle for attention with slick contemporary players and hip new boltholes housed inside historic canal houses or restored Art Deco landmarks. The city is compact and most stays are centrally placed, so you’ll be within easy walking distance of the sights from most of the addresses we’ve rounded up below – even the fresh arrivals on the fringes of town are just a breezy bike ride away if you’re embracing the traditional Dutch mode of transport.
Kurnool: Democratic Youth Federation of India district president Raghavendra and secretary Abdullah urged district collector P. Ranjith Bhasha on Monday to take strict action against hotels violating hygiene and quality standards. They submitted a memorandum during the public grievance redressal programme.
They alleged that several hotels across the district are neglecting cleanliness and serving substandard food, posing serious health risks to the public. Many people are suffering from gastric ulcers and other health issues, they said, adding that even doctors have warned against eating food from such establishments.
The DYFI leaders also criticised hotel owners for charging arbitrary prices and exploiting customers. They pointed out that meat is being stored for several days in refrigerators and cooked using adulterated oil in many places. Stating that many hotels are ignoring government norms, the DYFI delegation demanded immediate inspections and strict action.
Industry veterans create alternative and flexible
franchise models for urban, suburban markets.
BLUFFTON, South Carolina – Franchisor Landingplace Hotels
has launched two midscale, conversion-focused brands: Landingplace Suites,
which bridges the gap between extended-stay hotels and furnished apartments,
and Landingplace Select, a select-service brand designed for short-term,
high-traffic stays.
Founded by hospitality veterans Jeremy Bratcher and Jacob
Amezcua, Landingplace Hotels bills itself as a next-generation hotel
franchisor built by operators for operators. They offer flexible,
cost-efficient PIP standards, lean operations and flexible conversions and new
builds in the midscale market.
Development is focused on urban and suburban markets with
strong business, medical and university demand, where brand saturation limits
new entry and creates a need for flexible, financially viable alternatives.
A representative said there are no deals for either brand done,
but the franchisors have received inquiries from a wide
range of markets: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Texas, Oregon and generally
throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic.
The suites product offers flexible 30-plus night stays
without leases and amenities include activated outdoor spaces, community rooms,
food trucks and live music to create a lifestyle-driven experience.
Landingplace Select is a select-service brand designed for
lean operations, pay-per-use housekeeping and an expanded grab-and-go market.
Simple, modern design and smart tech is built for flexibility and simplicity.
Inventory is distributed across platforms like
Apartments.com, Furnished Finder, Airbnb and Zillow. Each property uses
HotelKey for its PMS, FLYR for AI-powered revenue management and Amadeus
iHotelier for full-channel distribution. Guest-facing tools include Nonius and
Yuvod TV for streaming, The Guestbook rewards program and Cvent
Transient leads help properties increase loyalty and drive more revenue
per stay.
Bratcher has held senior roles with IHG Hotels &
Resorts, Spinnaker Resorts, MCR Hotels, Island Hospitality, GF Hotels, and
Starwood Hotels. Amezcua’s background includes leadership at 3M and Experian,
as well as experience with multifamily value-add and hotel conversion projects.
The leadership team includes Stacy Bedsole, executive vice
president of Brand & Marketing; Glenn Miller, executive vice president of
Commercial Strategy; John Kelly, executive vice president of Franchise
Operations; Orlando McRae, director of Design & Construction; and Gus
Stamoutsos, senior vice president of Franchise Development.
Home»TRAVEL NEWS» Accor’s Emblems Collection Expands in Italy: Three New Luxury Hotels Set to Open in Siena, Umbria, and Apulia by 2026
Monday, July 28, 2025
Accor’s Emblems Collection, a prestigious luxury lifestyle brand, is making significant strides in Italy with the announcement of three new properties set to open in 2026. This major expansion marks a pivotal chapter in the brand’s growth, bringing bespoke luxury and immersive Italian heritage to iconic destinations in Siena, Umbria, and Apulia. Through a strategic partnership with AG Group, renowned for its high-end hospitality expertise, the Emblems Collection is poised to redefine Italy’s luxury tourism landscape.
The three hotels—each carefully designed to preserve the authenticity and soul of their surroundings—highlight the essence of the Emblems brand: a blend of heritage, intimacy, and modern luxury. From Siena’s historical palazzo to the tranquil hills of Umbria and the serene beauty of Apulia, these new properties promise to offer discerning travelers a truly unique and sensory experience of Italy’s timeless charm.
Key Highlights:
Siena: Palazzo Sozzini Malavolti to become a 38-key luxury hotel near Piazza del Campo.
Umbria: Relais San Clemente, a former Benedictine convent, to offer 51 keys and a spa surrounded by 40 hectares of parkland.
Apulia: Masseria Furnirussi in Salento, set within Europe’s largest fig orchard, featuring 60 suites and private pools.
Partnership: Collaboration between Accor and AG Group, led by Andrea Girolami.
Introduction: Accor’s Luxury Emblems Collection Expands in Italy
Italy, renowned for its rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes, is about to witness a new wave of luxury with the expansion of Accor’s Emblems Collection. The brand’s latest strategic move will see three properties opening in Siena, Umbria, and Apulia by mid-2026, thanks to a partnership with AG Group, a leading name in the luxury hospitality sector. This expansion not only underscores the brand’s commitment to offering personalized, high-end experiences but also demonstrates its dedication to preserving Italy’s iconic cultural heritage.
Each of the new hotels—Palazzo Sozzini Malavolti in Siena, Relais San Clemente in Umbria, and Masseria Furnirussi in Apulia—brings together historic charm with modern luxury. Set against the backdrop of Italy’s most picturesque landscapes, these properties will provide guests with an intimate and culturally rich escape. The Emblems Collection is known for its focus on local traditions, combining design, history, and sustainability to create an experience that feels deeply connected to its surroundings. This expansion is set to further cement the brand’s presence as a leader in bespoke luxury travel, offering guests an immersive experience in the heart of Italy’s most iconic regions.
A New Chapter for Iconic Italian Destinations
The Emblems Collection’s expansion in Italy comes at a time when luxury travel is evolving to meet the demands of travelers who seek more than just opulence— they desire authenticity, local culture, and immersion in the destination. With this in mind, the three new properties are designed to provide more than a luxurious stay; they offer a journey through Italy’s history, art, and culture.
Siena: Palazzo Sozzini Malavolti
In the heart of Siena, one of Tuscany’s most famous cities, the Palazzo Sozzini Malavolti will be transformed into a boutique luxury hotel with 38 rooms. Located just steps away from the iconic Piazza del Campo, this property blends Renaissance charm with modern comforts. The restoration of the palazzo will showcase its frescoed ceilings, ancient caves, and secret gardens, giving guests a unique glimpse into Siena’s past while enjoying state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel promises an intimate yet luxurious experience, with design elements that celebrate the region’s rich craftsmanship and history.
Umbria: Relais San Clemente
In Umbria, another iconic region of Italy, the Relais San Clemente will offer a peaceful sanctuary amidst nature. Originally a Benedictine convent, this stunning property will feature 51 rooms, including nine private villas. Guests will be able to enjoy the tranquility of the 40-hectare park that surrounds the estate, which will house a spa focused on wellness and spiritual rejuvenation. The property’s centerpiece will be the consecrated chapel dedicated to San Clemente, offering a space of reflection and peace for all who visit.
Apulia: Masseria Furnirussi
The Masseria Furnirussi will bring a slice of Mediterranean serenity to the Emblems Collection, nestled in Salento, Apulia. Surrounded by Europe’s largest fig orchard, this white-stone retreat will offer 60 suites, most of which feature private pools. The hotel’s design will embrace the rhythm of the land, inspired by the local Apulian traditions and architecture. Guests can look forward to immersive experiences that bring the natural beauty of the region to life, from its lush botanical gardens to its historic farmhouses.
A Vision Shared by Accor and AG Group
The partnership between Accor and AG Group is built on a shared vision of redefining luxury hospitality in Italy. AG Group, founded by Andrea Girolami, is a recognized leader in high-end Italian tourism, bringing expertise and a deep understanding of Italy’s unique cultural landscape to the collaboration. By focusing on heritage and intimacy, this collaboration ensures that each property reflects the soul of its location, offering more than just a place to stay—it offers an experience that connects guests to the heart of Italy.
As Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems, explains, “These three properties truly embody the Emblems spirit—places where luxury meets intimacy, where time feels suspended, and where each detail tells a story.” This commitment to storytelling through design and experience is what sets the Emblems Collection apart in the crowded luxury hospitality market.
Emblems Collection’s Global Growth
While Italy marks a key milestone in the Emblems Collection’s expansion, the brand’s growth is far from over. With new properties planned across the globe, the Collection is expanding its footprint to cater to the growing demand for curated, boutique luxury experiences. Other upcoming Emblems addresses include:
Elatos Resort, Greece: A luxury resort blending nature and high-end comfort.
Hotel Bellevue, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: Nestled in the Dolomites, this iconic alpine hotel will offer timeless luxury.
Lucknam Park, United Kingdom: A sprawling estate combining countryside charm with modern elegance.
Rimrock, Banff, Canada: A luxurious mountain retreat with stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
Each of these properties continues the Emblems Collection’s dedication to offering bespoke, luxury experiences in some of the world’s most iconic destinations.
The Growing Appeal of Emblems Collection
Since its launch, Emblems Collection has quickly become a symbol of refined luxury and boutique individuality. It appeals to discerning travelers who seek more than just luxury—they want to feel connected to the place, to its people, and to its traditions. This ethos has resonated with a global audience, and as Emblems continues to grow, it remains committed to offering guests authentic, immersive experiences that are rooted in the culture and soul of each destination.
The brand’s emphasis on heritage, intimacy, and sustainable luxury makes it a standout in the crowded luxury market. With its global expansion and commitment to preserving local culture and history, Emblems Collection is set to become a leader in the future of luxury travel.
Conclusion: A New Era for Luxury Hospitality in Italy
Accor’s Emblems Collection is ushering in a new era for luxury hospitality in Italy. The opening of three new properties in Siena, Umbria, and Apulia will not only offer visitors the finest in luxury accommodations but will also allow them to experience the rich culture and heritage that defines these iconic regions. With its commitment to authenticity, design, and sustainability, Emblems Collection continues to set the standard for boutique luxury in Italy and around the world.
As the brand expands its global presence, it remains true to its founding principles—offering luxury experiences that are intimate, connected, and infused with local culture. For travelers seeking more than just a luxury hotel, Emblems Collection provides an invitation to explore the soul of Italy, one unforgettable experience at a time.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login