Last Word: Aman 
Done Deal

So the saga is finally over. In February, it was announced that a U.S.-based private investor group, Peak Hotels & Resorts, had purchased Amanresorts for $358 million in a joint venture with the group’s founder, Adrian Zecha. So this remarkable company, it seems, is secure; Zecha himself is still in charge; and a further $500 million has apparently been set aside for property enhancements and brand development. I have followed this story with consuming interest because collectively, Amanresorts properties have come to define the modern luxury hideaway. And for more than 20 years, they have been beloved of Hideaway Report subscribers. No other resort group generates remotely the same degree of feverish interest and speculation. On my recent trip to Brazil, I was told with breathless excitement that an Aman was shortly to open in Angra dos Reis near Rio. Having made inquiries, I found this to be incorrect, or at least no debut is imminent. But among true believers, new Amans are sighted with the frequency of Elvis. Fortunately, some of the rumors do have substance, and later this year, an Amanresort really will open in Tokyo. I look forward to bringing you a report.