How Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Are Soaring Thanks to Design Hotels’ Explosive Expansion in China!

Published on December 15, 2025

How Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Are Soaring Thanks to Design Hotels’ Explosive Expansion in China! As China emerges from the pandemic and reopens its doors to international tourism, luxury travel is experiencing a surge like never before. Leading the charge are airlines such as Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific, who are not only expanding their routes but also capitalizing on the booming demand for high-end travel experiences. This surge in luxury tourism is being fueled, in part, by the expansion of Design Hotels, a collection of boutique, design-forward hotels that has been rapidly growing across China. With new properties opening in key cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, Design Hotels is offering travelers unique, immersive stays that go beyond the typical hotel experience. The growth of these properties is having a ripple effect across the hospitality and airline industries, creating new opportunities for both. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are reaping the rewards, seeing increased demand from travelers eager to fly to China and indulge in luxury accommodations. The synergy between airlines and hotels in the region is reshaping the future of luxury travel, with more connections, more choices, and a focus on providing the ultimate experience for the modern traveler.

How Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Are Soaring Thanks to Design Hotels’ Explosive Expansion in China!

The world of luxury travel is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with airlines and hospitality chains collaborating in ways never seen before. As travelers seek unique, curated experiences beyond conventional hotels, major airlines like Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are capitalizing on the rising demand for premium boutique stays. A key player in this shift is Design Hotels, a luxury hotel collection that is making waves across the Asia-Pacific region, especially in Greater China.

Design Hotels is expanding rapidly in China, adding new properties to its portfolio, bringing fresh opportunities for tourists, airlines, and the hospitality sector alike. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific, two of the world’s leading airlines, are benefitting directly from this expansion as they cater to growing numbers of affluent travelers flocking to the region. The interplay between these airlines and Design Hotels is creating an environment where travel options are growing, offering convenience, style, and luxury at every turn.

Design Hotels’ Expansion in China: The Luxury Travel Revolution

In 2025, Design Hotels, known for its boutique, design-driven properties, has entered a new phase of growth, focusing heavily on Greater China. This marks the brand’s strategic return to China, a market it exited back in 2020 due to the pandemic. Now, as China reopens and tourism begins to soar again, Design Hotels is taking full advantage, opening several new hotels across major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu.

With each new property, Design Hotels is not just adding another high-end hotel to the list; it’s providing travelers with exclusive and immersive experiences. Whether nestled in the heart of bustling cities like Shanghai or tucked away in scenic locations like the ArcadiaPlace in Lugu Lake, Sichuan, these properties offer more than just a place to stay—they offer a journey. This is precisely what luxury travelers crave today: an authentic experience combined with top-tier service and the finest accommodations.

As Design Hotels strengthens its foothold in China, airlines like Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are benefiting. Travelers eager to stay in these world-class properties also need top-notch flights to get there, and both of these carriers have risen to meet this demand.

Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Lead the Charge in China

Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are two of the most respected names in aviation, known for their world-class service, punctuality, and premium travel experiences. As China reopens to international tourism, these airlines are seeing a surge in demand, and much of it is driven by the growing presence of luxury hotels like those in the Design Hotels collection.

Qatar Airways has long been known for its commitment to luxury, with its fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft offering an unmatched level of comfort. With the expansion of Design Hotels in China, Qatar Airways has seen an increase in business and first-class bookings. Travelers heading to Design Hotels in China often choose Qatar Airways for its seamless connections through Doha, one of the busiest international hubs. The airline’s well-connected routes, combined with exceptional in-flight service, make it a top choice for high-end travelers. Qatar Airways’ commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with the standards set by Design Hotels.

Cathay Pacific, based in Hong Kong, has a natural advantage when it comes to flights to and from China. As one of Asia’s top airlines, Cathay Pacific has strengthened its position by offering a wide range of premium services and exclusive routes into China’s most important cities. The airline’s flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and other cities are increasingly filled with luxury travelers eager to experience Design Hotels’ offerings. The synergy between Cathay Pacific’s reputation for excellence and the high standards of Design Hotels makes for a compelling reason for affluent tourists to choose this combination.

The Rising Demand for Luxury Tourism in Greater China

Greater China, consisting of mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, is seeing a remarkable surge in luxury tourism. In 2025, China is projected to account for the largest share of global tourism, with international arrivals expected to rise by nearly 10% year-on-year. Luxury tourism, in particular, is on the rise, with affluent travelers increasingly seeking bespoke experiences that go beyond the ordinary.

The pandemic may have slowed growth, but the rebound in 2025 is nothing short of spectacular. According to recent data, China’s tourism market is growing faster than ever, with a substantial increase in demand for luxury stays. Design Hotels is poised to capitalize on this shift, offering an unparalleled mix of cultural immersion and modern luxury. This is where airlines like Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific come in, facilitating smooth connections for tourists from around the world to experience the best that China has to offer.

As more international tourists make their way to China, the country’s airline industry is also experiencing growth. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are two airlines that are at the forefront of this recovery. With flights to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, these airlines are helping to bridge the gap between international markets and China’s booming tourism sector.

The Perfect Partnership: Airlines and Hotels

The relationship between airlines and hotels has always been symbiotic. For luxury travel, the stakes are higher. Passengers choose their flights based not only on convenience but also on the level of service and exclusivity they can expect. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific offer precisely this, with a focus on comfort, efficiency, and luxury.

Design Hotels, on the other hand, has created a space where travelers can find not just a place to stay, but a fully immersive experience. The properties in China, ranging from sleek urban hotels to more remote, serene destinations, give travelers an opportunity to engage with local culture while enjoying the finest amenities.

This partnership is a win-win for both the airline and hospitality industries. As more travelers choose these luxury airlines and Design Hotels properties, the industries benefit from increased passenger traffic and hotel bookings. This interconnected ecosystem makes it easier for tourists to travel to China, knowing they can enjoy the highest quality service from both their flight and their stay.

How to Book Your Flight and Stay: The Best Deals for Luxury Travelers

For travelers interested in visiting Design Hotels in China, booking the right flight is crucial. Both Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific offer seamless connections to major Chinese cities, with luxurious services designed to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

Qatar Airways, with its award-winning service and reputation for luxury, flies directly to Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities in China. When booking your flight with Qatar Airways, consider opting for business or first class for an elevated experience. Qatar Airways’ business class service includes fully flat beds, exquisite dining, and exclusive lounges, ensuring that your journey is as comfortable as your stay at Design Hotels.

Cathay Pacific is another excellent option for flights to China, particularly if you’re traveling from the Asia-Pacific region. The airline operates frequent flights to major Chinese cities, with premium cabin options designed for those who value luxury and comfort. Cathay Pacific’s business class cabins feature fully flat beds, advanced entertainment systems, and gourmet meals, ensuring that every part of your journey is extraordinary.

When booking your stay at Design Hotels, you can expect the same level of attention to detail. Each hotel in the collection offers a unique blend of modern design and local charm. Whether you’re staying at a sleek urban hotel in Shanghai or a tranquil retreat in Sichuan, the Design Hotels experience is about luxury, culture, and style. Booking directly with Design Hotels often provides access to exclusive offers and packages, making it easy to plan a luxury trip that exceeds your expectations.

Travel Tips for Exploring Greater China

1. Visa Requirements: Before traveling to China, ensure you have the necessary visa for your trip. Many travelers from Europe, the US, and other regions will need a tourist visa. Plan ahead to avoid any last-minute surprises.
2. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit China is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and the country’s natural beauty is at its peak during these seasons.
3. Cultural Etiquette: China has a rich cultural history, and understanding local customs will enhance your experience. For example, when visiting temples or historical sites, it’s important to dress modestly and be respectful of local traditions.
4. Currency: The local currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB), so make sure to exchange some currency before your trip or upon arrival. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is often required in more remote areas.
5. Stay Connected: Many international websites and apps (such as Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp) are blocked in China. Make sure to download alternatives like WeChat for messaging and using local navigation apps to make your travel more convenient.

Why You Should Book Now: The Luxury Tourism Surge

As China’s tourism industry continues to surge in 2025, now is the perfect time to plan your luxury getaway. Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific are offering unparalleled service to destinations across China, ensuring that your travel experience is as seamless as possible. Paired with the luxurious offerings of Design Hotels, you can expect the best of both worlds: first-class service and unforgettable stays in some of China’s most exciting destinations.

How Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific Are Soaring Thanks to Design Hotels’ Explosive Expansion in China! Discover how luxury airlines and exclusive boutique hotels are reshaping travel in 2025, offering unprecedented experiences for the world’s most discerning tourists.

Whether you’re booking a romantic escape, a cultural adventure, or a relaxing retreat, the combination of Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Design Hotels provides the ultimate luxury travel experience. Book your next trip to China now, and be part of this booming luxury tourism wave.