From a new generation of safari in South Africa and Vestige Collection’s first international expansion into Namibia to a decade-in-the-making retreat on Portugal’s Atlantic coast and a pioneering journey through Oman, BIRD reveals the hotels, lodges and destinations set to shape travel in 2027.

Distinct in setting and story, these openings are united by family ownership, thoughtful design and a deep sense of place, with experiences inspired by the landscapes and communities that surround them.

New Openings and Developments

• Khensani River Lodge, South Africa: A community-partnered, nine-suite lodge on MalaMala Game Reserve; the new flagship and sixth addition to the Tengile MalaMala Collection.
• Vestige Collection, Namibia: The Spanish family-run brand takes its first step towards international expansion with four new lodges in northern Namibia.·       Na Praia, Comporta: A decade-long vision from the owner of beloved São Lourenço do Barrocal, realised on Portugal’s Atlantic coast on a peninsula between the ocean and a wild nature reserve.
• The Malkai, Oman: A first-of-its-kind immersion into the Sultanate of Oman, with three intimate tented camps taking travellers from the coastal plains of Barka to the soaring Al Hajar mountains and sweeping Sharqiya Sands.
• Le Rucher d’Evolène, Switzerland: An evolving new hospitality concept breathing fresh life into the historic Swiss Alpine village of Evolène.