Landmark additions to portfolio in key markets of Middle East and Asia.

The brand of SLH, announced today a significant addition of four new hotels to its rapidly growing portfolio of independent, privately-owned hotels. This latest expansion is considered a milestone for SLH as it marks the brand's first entry into the Middle East, Hong Kong and the Philippines.

"The Middle East is a market that we have been keen to penetrate for quite some time and we have now found the right hotels in Oman and Dubai to do so." commented Paul Kerr, Joint Managing Director of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. "Also, with interest in Asia constantly increasing, to have a presence in Hong Kong and the Philippines nicely diversifies our portfolio in a key marketplace," he added.

The four new additions to the SLH collection are the Evason Hideaway & Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay in Oman, Desert Palm Retreat in Dubai, Lanson Place in Hong Kong and Discovery Shores on Boracay Island in the Philippines.

New member details and opening dates:

Evason Hideaway & Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay, Oman
Tucked away in a quiet fishing village on the northern tip of the Oman peninsula and backed by mountains which wrap around a secluded 1.6 kilometre sandy beach, the location of Evason Hideaway at Zighy Bay is nothing less than dramatic. When this hotel of uncompromising luxury opens in 2007 it will boast a private marina, as well as 85 pool villas and pool villa suites complete with personal butlers. The hotel will also offer its guests a rather unique mode of arrival - as a companion passenger of a professional paraglider. Definitely not for the faint-hearted! For something a little more sedate, guests will also have the option of a 10-minute speed boat transfer or a scenic drive from the top of the hill overlooking the bay.

Desert Palm Retreat, Dubai
When Desert Palm Retreat opens in October 2006 it will be Dubai's first boutique resort and also SLH's first hotel in the United Arab Emirates. Set in 150 acres of unexpectedly lush, green countryside on a private polo estate, the hotel will set a benchmark for hospitality in Dubai. Accommodation will comprise 13 beautifully appointed Polo Rooms with balcony views over the main polo fields, four one-bedroom pool villas, six three-bedroom Pool Residences and a Presidential Suite. Guests of Desert Palm Retreat will also have the opportunity to admire the owner's collection of priceless art and antiques. The hotel will have a choice of three restaurants offering unsurpassed culinary delights, while an innovative Aquum Spa will complete the experience.

Lanson Place, Hong Kong
The doors of this discreet urban hotel first swung open in December 2005 to reveal beautifully executed contemporary décor throughout every one of the 194 guest rooms, which include six residences and 12 suites. Lanson Place is located on a discreet side street within easy walking distance of three of Hong Kong's most lively neighbourhoods; Central, Wanchai and Causeway Bay providing a welcome and intimate haven away from the hustle and bustle of this vibrant city. First impressions are everything, a philosophy that resonates through the intricate wall sconces and chandeliers commissioned from glassmakers in Murano, Italy located in the lobby. An elegant collection of over 300 individual pieces of original artwork feature throughout this luxurious property.

Discovery Shores, Boracay Island, the Philippines
On the unspoilt shores of Boracay Island in the Philippines, Discovery Shores will be the island's first true luxury resort of international standards when it opens in December 2006. Consistently rated within the top 20 beach destinations in the world, this pristine escape known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters is the ideal getaway for marine enthusiasts. Discovery Shores will showcase its breathtaking location with 67 metres of beach front and 88 units sloping upward from the beach to capture the spectacular ocean views. Guests at Discovery Shores will marvel at a 14 metre waterfall, several cascading pools, and a swim up pool bar, whilst having access to a fitness centre and world-class Mandala Spa.

The Small Luxury Hotels of the World brand is a collection of almost 400 independently-owned exclusive hotels in 64 countries. slh.com.