LONDON, April 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Whiteley, London's first department store, has been reimagined as a landmark residential and hospitality destination. Marking the pinnacle of its eight-year transformation, councillors, residents, stakeholders, professional teams, neighbours and The Whiteley Community Foundation, gathered to celebrate the grand opening of this magnificent storied building. The show-stopping event, attended by over 600 guests was hosted by MARK and C C Land.
The momentous celebration was held in The Whiteley's palatial atrium beneath a grand pavilion, to honour the achievements and broad neighbourhood regeneration created by this 1,000,000 sq. ft. scheme. Beneath the building's iconic dome, its courtyard was transformed into a striking circular bar, where guests enjoyed masterfully crafted cocktails whilst immersing themselves in the evening's world-class entertainment. With a captivating performance by renowned singer-songwriter Rag'n'Bone Man, followed by a dazzling set from London-based DJ Sally K, the evening was an unforgettable celebration. Adding to the spectacle, aerialist performers glided gracefully through the atrium's soaring voids and a semi-circular stage served as the event's focal point, showcasing a film by the team behind The Whiteley's transformation.
Originally completed in 1911 by William Whiteley, Whiteley's department store was once a global emporium. Today, The Whiteley's regeneration breathes new life into this historical icon whilst forming the cornerstone of Queensway's ambitious £3 billion revival. The Queensway Steering Group - a collective of local landowners - is driving a transformative vision for the street, reshaping it into one of London's most dynamic new neighbourhoods. This ambitious rejuvenation includes major public realm improvements such as widened pavements, extensive regreening and upgraded tube stations. Additionally, the introduction of new pavilions for all-day outdoor dining, public art installations and a brand-new entrance to Hyde Park - set for completion this year - will all solidify Queensway's reputation as a vibrant hub.
The founding force behind The Queensway Steering Group, The Whiteley is leading the way in redefining the area, establishing it as a sought-after destination for both visitors and residents alike. Central to Queensway's transformation is The Whiteley's curated selection of commercial tenants. In addition to the UK's first Six Senses hotel, other notable brands that will call The Whiteley home include an Everyman Cinema, a Third Space gym and a new restaurant by Pachamama Group. The first retail tenants will open in summer 2025.
The residential offering at The Whiteley seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary design, within a collection of newly constructed buildings set behind a historic façade. Foster + Partners' architectural masterplan provides a grand canvas for 139 unique homes which are all aesthetically connected by exquisite detailing and natural light. Nestled amongst restored original architectural features, including a majestic glass dome and an iconic clock tower, residences range from studios to five-bedroom apartments and a collection of townhouses and penthouses. With 70% of the apartments now sold, The Whiteley is already home to many residents as owners began moving in from late 2024. This enclave just north of Hyde Park is now setting sales records, with The Whiteley achieving an average of £3,600 per sq. ft., and a 200% premium over the surrounding Bayswater area, according to Savills. Proving a popular choice for both domestic and international buyers alike, the scheme has seen significant interest from British, American, Asian and European buyers.
Beyond the residences, purchasers at The Whiteley enjoy access to an impressive 60,000 sq. ft. of exclusive amenities. These include a 20-meter swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym, a padel court, children's playrooms, a library, and a world leading spa. Additionally, à la carte services including grocery stocking, wine sommelier expertise, as well as pet care and dog walking, set an unprecedented global standard for residential living.
With a gross development value of over £1.5 billion, The Whiteley has firmly established itself as the transformative project in London, not only redefining the landscape of Queensway but also setting a new benchmark for luxury living in the city. The celebratory event, supported by influential groups including Westminster City Council, and SEBRA was a defining moment, ushering in a vibrant new chapter in The Whiteley's remarkable history.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
The Grand Opening of The Whiteley Ushers In A New Era For Queensway
The Grand Opening of The Whiteley Ushers In A New Era For Queensway
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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular year-end travel choice for families in the region and beyond. Based on searches made between September and November 2025 for stays during December 2025 and January 2026, Agoda recorded a 30% increase in family travel interest to Vietnam compared with the same period the previous year.
Agoda data shows that Vietnam is attracting more international families than ever this winter holiday season. South Koreans take the lead as the top market interested in traveling to Vietnam in December and January, with families from India, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia rounding out the top five. Notably, Agoda reported that Indian families showcased the highest growth in travel interest to Vietnam during this period, with a 186% increase in searches. Malaysians also, are expressing strong growth in interest, with a 74% increase in searches, highlighting Vietnam's appeal as a family destination in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Families are choosing Vietnam for its storied culture and cuisine, diverse landscapes, and abundance of family-friendly resorts and attractions.
Phu Quoc Island leads as the most sought-after destination among international family travelers with a 47% increase in searches, popular for its sandy beaches, calm waters, and nature parks ideal for multi-generation vacations. Da Nang follows with 42% growth in travel interest, noted for its beaches, soft adventure activities, and access to Ba Na Hills theme park. Nha Trang comes in third place, remaining a favorite for its long coastline, family-oriented resorts, and island experiences. In fourth place, Ho Chi Minh City appeals with its vibrant food scene, entertainment complexes, and day trips to the Mekong Delta. In the north, Hanoi continues to draw families with its cultural landmarks, museums, and festive atmosphere, rounding out the top five most family-friendly year-end destinations in Vietnam.
Meanwhile, although Vietnamese families traditionally travel less internationally at the end of the year – typically preferring to wait for the Lunar New Year - China is becoming a noticeable exception. Among the top 20 outbound destinations preferred by Vietnamese families during the December-January period, searches for Shanghai increased 58%, while Beijing increased 59%. This shift is supported by the launch of new direct routes between Hanoi and selected Chinese cities earlier this year, making end-of-year overseas trips more accessible than ever.
Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director at Agoda, said: "It is wonderful to see Vietnam increasingly chosen as an end-of-year holiday destination for families from across Asia and beyond. Agoda's data shows that travelers are recognizing Vietnam's family-friendly appeal, which further strengthen its position on the global travel map. As more families plan their festive-season or year-end getaways, we are delighted to support them through Agoda's simple, intuitive platform and our wide range of stays, flights, and activities."
With over 6 million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable in one seamless itinerary, Agoda helps families plan memorable year-end holidays, whether they choose a peaceful beach break, a cultural city escape, or an international exploration to mark the close of the year.
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Vietnam is becoming an increasingly popular year-end travel choice for families in the region and beyond. Based on searches made between September and November 2025 for stays during December 2025 and January 2026, Agoda recorded a 30% increase in family travel interest to Vietnam compared with the same period the previous year.
Agoda data shows that Vietnam is attracting more international families than ever this winter holiday season. South Koreans take the lead as the top market interested in traveling to Vietnam in December and January, with families from India, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia rounding out the top five. Notably, Agoda reported that Indian families showcased the highest growth in travel interest to Vietnam during this period, with a 186% increase in searches. Malaysians also, are expressing strong growth in interest, with a 74% increase in searches, highlighting Vietnam's appeal as a family destination in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Families are choosing Vietnam for its storied culture and cuisine, diverse landscapes, and abundance of family-friendly resorts and attractions.
Phu Quoc Island leads as the most sought-after destination among international family travelers with a 47% increase in searches, popular for its sandy beaches, calm waters, and nature parks ideal for multi-generation vacations. Da Nang follows with 42% growth in travel interest, noted for its beaches, soft adventure activities, and access to Ba Na Hills theme park. Nha Trang comes in third place, remaining a favorite for its long coastline, family-oriented resorts, and island experiences. In fourth place, Ho Chi Minh City appeals with its vibrant food scene, entertainment complexes, and day trips to the Mekong Delta. In the north, Hanoi continues to draw families with its cultural landmarks, museums, and festive atmosphere, rounding out the top five most family-friendly year-end destinations in Vietnam.
Meanwhile, although Vietnamese families traditionally travel less internationally at the end of the year – typically preferring to wait for the Lunar New Year - China is becoming a noticeable exception. Among the top 20 outbound destinations preferred by Vietnamese families during the December-January period, searches for Shanghai increased 58%, while Beijing increased 59%. This shift is supported by the launch of new direct routes between Hanoi and selected Chinese cities earlier this year, making end-of-year overseas trips more accessible than ever.
Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director at Agoda, said: "It is wonderful to see Vietnam increasingly chosen as an end-of-year holiday destination for families from across Asia and beyond. Agoda's data shows that travelers are recognizing Vietnam's family-friendly appeal, which further strengthen its position on the global travel map. As more families plan their festive-season or year-end getaways, we are delighted to support them through Agoda's simple, intuitive platform and our wide range of stays, flights, and activities."
With over 6 million properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable in one seamless itinerary, Agoda helps families plan memorable year-end holidays, whether they choose a peaceful beach break, a cultural city escape, or an international exploration to mark the close of the year.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Agoda Data Shows Vietnam Rising as a Favorite End-of-Year Destination for Families Across Asia and Beyond
