Heritage Hotels of Asia: Southeast & East Asia is the second volume in a two-volume set. Volume 1 describes the arrival of Europeans in India, and the subsequent evolution of the modern hotel. This second volume follows the Europeans as they journeyed beyond India in search of trading wealth, establishing colonies as they went and founding new towns, cities, and even countries.

The opening of the Suez Canal, the development of steamship design and the building of railway networks ushered in luxury travel, and the era of the grand hotel began. Hotels, rather than simply providing accommodation for travellers, were becoming centres for colonial society. New architectural and construction techniques were creating ever grander hotels. Today's trend towards conservation and heritage tourism means that many still exist and are cherished as cultural landmarks.

Together, the two volumes present detailed historical narratives, architectural profiles, and the stories of the people who built, owned, and operated these hotels, celebrating the enduring romance of travel across Asia.