Press Kit
Transcription
Press Kit
Press Packet RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS...A BRIEF TIMELINE TO RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS 1887 – Raffles Hotel Singapore opens, offering 10 rooms in an old bungalow-style building overlooking the beach and the South China Sea. It soon becomes – and remains – the most fabled hotel in the Far East, with a guest list that reads like a Who’s Who. Over the next 10 years the hotel is sensitively extended, the famous Palm Court and The Bar & Billiard Room are added. 1899 – The three-storey Main Building, in late Victorian Italianate Revival style, with electricity throughout, a 500 capacity dining hall and 23 more guestrooms replaces the original bungalow and immediately becomes a Singapore landmark. Raffles earns the status ‘Grand Hotel’. 1902 – In August the last tiger to be shot in Singapore was pursued to Raffles Hotel and was finally apprehended whilst hiding under the billiard table in the Bar & Billiard Room. 1912 – Raffles’ owner, Tigran Sarkies dies. 1915 – The Singapore Sling is introduced by the Raffles Hotel barman, Ngiam Tong Boon. 1920 – The large open-sided Ballroom is added to the front of Raffles Hotel, adding a new dimension to entertaining and is voted “The Coolest Ballroom in the East.” This takes Raffles into a new era, to become the most popular place in town. 1920s & 1930s: The beginnings of the ‘tourism industry’ in Singapore and Malaya. The Hotel publishes its own guidebooks and continues to play host to the rich and famous, including Charlie Chaplin, Maurice Chevalier, Fran Buck and Jean Harlow and playwright, novelist and actor, Noel Coward. Somerset Maugham visits several times raffles.com 1 - legend has it that he worked all mornings under a frangipani tree in the Palm Court, writing the gossip and scandal he overheard at dinner parties into his short stories. 1933 – Facing bankruptcy during the Great Depression, Raffles Hotel is reorganised into a new company. A Swiss hotelier, Teddy Troller takes up the position of General Manager. 1941 – World War II engulfs Singapore. British families make their way down the Malaya Peninsula with the Japanese in pursuit and congregate at Raffles. 1942 – Singapore surrenders to Japan as British colonials gather at Raffles Hotel to dance, and sing “There’ll always be an England”… Raffles Hotel passes into Japanese hands with the fall of Singapore and is renamed Syonan Ryokan, suffering five years of occupation. 1945 – Japan surrenders as the Allied Forces and Singapore returns to British control. Raffles Hotel becomes a temporary transit camp for released prisoners of war. The hotel is now a shadow of her former self, but reopens for business. 1953 – The Raffles Grill is renamed the Elizabethan Grill to mark the coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II. The 1950s see Hollywood royalty, such as Ava Gardner and Elizabeth Taylor among the famous who visit Raffles. 1987 – Raffles is officially declared a National Monument on her 100th anniversary. 1989 – Raffles International Ltd was formed as the hotel management arm of Raffles Holdings Limited. 1989 – Raffles Hotel closes to enable complete restoration. The multi-million dollar project returns Raffles to its elegant 1910s and 1920s look. 1991 – Raffles Hotel Singapore reopens on 16 September after a complete restoration that lasted two and a half years. 1997 – Raffles restores and re-opens two landmark hotels in Cambodia – Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh (below: under construction in 1929 and today) and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap. 2 2006 – Raffles debuts in China with Raffles Beijing Hotel. 2006 – Raffles Hotel hosts HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh during their state visit to Singapore 16-18 March. 2007 – Raffles takes its expansion to the Middle East with the opening of Raffles Dubai. 2010 – Growth in Middle East with the opening of Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia in August. The group also makes its French debut with Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris in October - a next-generation Palace hotel, re-opened after a dramatic and complete two year transformation. 2011 – Raffles’ first resort in the Indian Ocean, Raffles Praslin Seychelles, opens in February 2011, and with it, the first Raffles Spa. November: Refurbishment is completed at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor , Siem Reap in Cambodia, including the transformation of the large garden villas in Siem Reap; the updating of the guestrooms at both hotels; and a subtly refreshed lobby, bar and private rooms and ballroom in Phnom Penh. 2012 – September 11th: TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge stay at Raffles Singapore, during their eight-day tour of Malaysia, Singapore, the Solomon Islands and Tuvalu to mark HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. September 16th: Raffles Hotel celebrates her 125th anniversary with a year of celebrations. December: Raffles Hotels & Resorts expands its portfolio to nine properties, with the opening of Raffles Makati in Metro Manila. 2013: January 1st: Peter French assumes the role of President, Raffles Hotels & Resorts. June: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris is granted the official “Palace Distinction” – one step higher than five stars. The hotel joins an elite band of just six Paris hotels to hold this highly-coveted badge of distinction. September: Raffles’ first resort in China, Raffles Hainan, opens. The opening is a milestone for China’s southern tropical Hainan Island, billed as China’s answer to the French Riviera and a rising star in the luxury tourism market. 2014: September 1st: Raffles Istanbul opens bringing the number of Raffles hotels to eleven. 2015: Raffles Jakarta celebrates its March 2015 opening in the heart of the city’s golden triangle. The hotel’s 173 luxurious rooms and suites are some of the largest in Jakarta. 3 2015: Raffles Hotels & Resorts celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the world-famous Singapore Sling. Raffles Singapore the flagship of the Raffles Hotels & Resorts collection; Each hotel with its own story to tell and every one an oasis for the well-travelled Raffles Hotel, then… …and now ABOUT RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Raffles Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel brand with an illustrious history dating back to 1887 when the world-renowned Raffles opened its doors in Singapore. Today, the remarkable collection includes twelve extraordinary properties in locations as diverse as Paris, Istanbul, and the Seychelles, with many more in development in exciting destinations such as Warsaw and Jeddah. Whether it’s a secluded resort or a lively citycenter, each Raffles promises an oasis of calm and charm and a compelling mix of cultures and styles, and has its very own story to tell. Part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global company that also operates the Fairmont and Swissôtel brands, Raffles is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. For more information or reservations, please visit raffles.com. For further information: Patricia Courtney FRHI Hotels & Resorts 416/874-2417 [email protected] 4 RAFFLES FACT SHEET OVERVIEW: Raffles Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, luxury international hotel company which currently has 12 luxurious properties, from secluded resorts to city hotels in key destinations around the world. The company is embarking on a new phase of expansion, with openings in - amongst other locations – Poland and Saudi Arabia, scheduled over the next two years. HISTORY: 1887 – Raffles Hotel Singapore opens, offering 10 rooms in an old bungalow style building overlooking the beach and the South China Sea. It soon becomes - and remains - the most fabled hotel in the Far East, with a guest list that reads like a Who’s Who 1989 – Raffles International Ltd was formed as the hotel management arm of Raffles Holdings Limited 1991 – Raffles Hotel Singapore reopens on 16 September after a complete restoration that lasted 2 ½ years 1997 – Raffles reopens two landmark hotels in Cambodia – Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap 2006 – Raffles debuts in China with Raffles Beijing Hotel 2007 – Raffles takes its expansion to the Middle East with the opening of Raffles Dubai 2010 – Growth in Middle East with the opening of Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia in August. The group also makes its French debut with Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris 2011 – Raffles’ first resort in the Indian Ocean, Raffles Praslin Seychelles, opens in February 2011 and with it, the creation of the first Raffles Spa raffles.com 5 2012 – Raffles celebrates its 125th anniversary across its hotels and resorts around the world. The year ends on a high note with the opening of Raffles Makati, Makati City’s first luxury hotel opening in 18 years. 2013 – Raffles opened its second property in China in September 2013. Raffles Hainan is located at Clearwater Bay, the new hotspot on the southeast coast of Hainan Island – China’s answer to the French Riviera and a rising star in the luxury tourism market. 2014 – Raffles opened its first property in Turkey in September 2014. At the heart of the new Zorlu Center, Raffles Istanbul offers a new perspective on a timeless city. 2015 – Raffles Jakarta celebrates its March 2015 opening in the heart of the city’s golden triangle. The hotel’s 173 luxurious rooms and suites are some of the largest in Jakarta. 2015 – Raffles Hotels & Resorts celebrates the 100th anniversary of the iconic and signature cocktail, the Singapore Sling RAFFLES TODAY: With a compelling mix of cultures and styles, every hotel in the Raffles family has its own individual personality, with its own story to tell and its own sense of place. However, each one is proud to draw on the tradition of Raffles – to offer a luxuriant and welcoming oasis where travellers can rest, recuperate and enjoy, complemented by service that is thoughtful, discreet and graceful, to ultimately deliver ‘emotional luxury’ to its well-travelled guests. The Travellers’ Palm (above) is the symbol of Raffles Hotels & Resorts’ oasis. Legend tells that this spectacular tree was a welcome sight to travellers of old; water stored in the base of its leaves quenched their thirst and the orientation of the leaves in an East-West direction provided an informal compass to guide them. Today’s guests find a modern interpretation the Traveller’s Palm in the pin worn by every employee of Raffles Hotels & Resorts – a potent reminder to both guests and staff of the spirit of hospitality and sanctuary that is alive and well at every Raffles hotel. WEBSITE: www.raffles.com KEY PEOPLE: Peter French, President Diana Banks, Vice President, Raffles Brand 6 PARENT COMPANY: Raffles Hotels & Resorts is part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hotel company with over 130 hotels & residences worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont, Raffles and Swissôtel branded residences, estates and luxury private residence club properties. MEMBER HOTELS: The Raffles brand was expanded beyond Raffles Hotel Singapore in 1996. The portfolio of award-winning hotels includes: 1. Raffles Singapore 2. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia 3. Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh, Cambodia 4. Raffles Beijing Hotel, China 5. Raffles Dubai, United Arab Emirates 6. Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia 7. Raffles Praslin, Seychelles 8. Raffles Paris – Le Royal Monceau 9. Raffles Makati, Philippines 10. Raffles Hainan, China 11. Raffles Istanbul, Turkey 12. Raffles Jakarta, Indonesia FUTURE PROJECTS: 1. Raffles Warsaw, Poland 2. Raffles Citystars Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt 3. Raffles Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ACCOMMODATION: Currently 1,990 rooms across 12 hotels and resorts RAFFLES BUTLERS: American women expect to find in their husbands a perfection that English women only hope to find in their butlers…” -- so said W. Somerset Maugham, the famed playwright and novelist, who was a regular guest of Raffles Singapore. He would be pleased to know that the tradition is alive and well at every Raffles hotel today. Raffles butlers are the living embodiment of bespoke service. From in-room registration on arrival, to packing those extra purchases skilfully on departure, nothing is impossible, and no job is too small, for a Raffles butler. Professionally trained, thoughtful and discreet, their aim is to make every guest’s stay as seamless and memorable as possible. RAFFLES SPA: Raffles Spas are an oasis set within each of its hotels where guests can escape, indulge, and ultimately, achieve inner tranquillity. Each spa is an extension of the hotel, offering a full-service, holistic experience that 7 is unique and reflective of the local culture. Raffles spas provide a revitalizing refuge that is contemporary, diverse and luxurious, where carefully selected treatments are offered to guests. The subtle yet exquisite lotus flower represents the spas for its aesthetic beauty and as a symbol of the rejuvenation guests experience on their spa journey. This flower’s daily regenerative ritual— breaking through fresh air at sunrise, and retreating into water at night— is emulated at Raffles Spas through a balance between exertion and relaxation with fitness programs and full-body treatments. AWARDS & ACCOLADES: Raffles is consistently ranked among the world’s top hotels in the annual Condé Nast Traveller Awards. Its philosophy of individual of service and excellence has earned its hotels and resorts an impressive array of international accolades, including Condé Nast Traveller World’s Best Places to Stay and Travel Leisure World’s Best Awards. ### ABOUT RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Raffles Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel brand with an illustrious history dating back to 1887 when the world-renowned Raffles opened its doors in Singapore. Today, the remarkable collection includes twelve extraordinary properties in locations as diverse as Paris, Istanbul, and the Seychelles, with many more in development in exciting destinations such as Warsaw and Jeddah. Whether it’s a secluded resort or a lively city-center, each Raffles promises an oasis of calm and charm and a compelling mix of cultures and styles, and has its very own story to tell. Part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global company that also operates the Fairmont and Swissôtel brands, Raffles is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. For more information or reservations, please visit raffles.com. For further information: Patricia Courtney FRHI Hotels & Resorts 416/874-2417 [email protected] 8 THE RAFFLES COLLECTION Every Raffles hotel is an oasis for the well-travelled; a meeting point for many cultures, a place infused with influences, where stories are told and legends are made. Everyone is made to feel welcome and understood, valued and cared for. We believe that true luxury is not just about what people get from us, it’s about how they feel – we call this ‘emotional luxury’. - Peter French, President, Raffles Hotels & Resorts Raffles Hotel, Singapore – Opened in 1887 Singapore's fabled Raffles Hotel immediately conjures up romantic images of intrepid travellers. An extensive refurbishment in 1991 beautifully restored the suites, famed Billiard Room, Long Bar, Courtyard, Writers Bar and Tiffin Room. Tropical gardens occupy more than a quarter of the entire estate, providing a tranquil contrast to the bustling city beyond. One of the most unforgettable features is the famous Raffles Butlers. Professionally trained, thoughtful and discreet, their aim is to make every guest’s stay as seamless and memorable as possible. Raffles Dubai, UAE – Built in the shape of an Egyptian pyramid, the luxurious Raffles Dubai is ideally located just 10 minutes from Dubai International airport, the business district, shopping and tourist attractions. An elegant blend of Middle Eastern and Asian design, infused with the four harmonious elements of Life: Earth, Air, Fire and Water. With eight restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa, botanical garden, adjoining Wafi lifestyle and shopping centre and the glamorous People by Crystal nightclub, Raffles Dubai is a destination in its own right. Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris, France – Reopened in October 2010 as a new generation Palace hotel, after a dramatic and complete two year transformation by designer Philippe Starck. Art is key here and the intention is to give the feel of staying with a particularly creative friend. As one would expect, food and drink are an art form here too – from the buzz of the Long Bar on the ground floor, to both Michelin-Star restaurants, La Cuisine for gourmet French food and Il Carpaccio for the best Italian in Paris. And don’t even think of turning down a creation by pâtissier Pierre Hermé, the Picasso of patisserie. Then visit the ethereal white spa – Spa My Blend raffles.com 9 by Clarins. Raffles Praslin, Seychelles – Opened February 2011, Raffles Praslin is spread over 30 acres with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, lush greenery and secluded beaches. Ideal for families and couples alike, with exquisite, spacious villas with private plunge pools, Raffles Butler service, countless outdoor dining options and the Sugar Palm Kids Club. Home to the first ever signature Raffles Spa, which embraces the philosophy of transformation. There are 13 treatment pavilions – six of which are open-air – set among natural rock formations, a full spa menu and bridal beauty services. Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia – In the very heart of Makkah, in the Abraj Al Bait Complex, the hotel’s suites – all with legendary Raffles Butlers – have extraordinary panoramic views of the Grand Mosque and the Ka’aba below. King Abdulaziz Gate, the main entrance to the Grand Mosque, is just steps away. Inside lies the spiritual heart of Islam, the Ka’aba – or House of God – said to have been built by Abraham and his son Ishmael around 2000 BCE. Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Undoubtedly the most distinguished hotel in Phnom Penh, Le Royal has been at the heart of the city’s story for over 80 years. In 1997 the hotel reopened following a careful restoration incorporating local Khmer art into the hotel design. Enjoy a Femme Fatale, the signature cocktail named in honour of Jacqueline Kennedy in the historical Elephant Bar before savouring the Royal Duck carved tableside at the highly acclaimed Restaurant Le Royal. And don’t forget to check the colour of the doorman’s trousers: at both Raffles Siem Reap and Phnom Penh the doormen wear coloured trousers for each day of the week, following a similar tradition in the royal palace so the king need only look at staff to know what day of the week it was. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia – In the centre of town and spread over 15 acres of private gardens, the fabled Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is in a class of its own for luxury, charm and service. Behind the elegant colonial façade, the cool uncluttered lobby is connected by Art Deco black-and-white tiled halls to the guestrooms and restaurants in either direction. Following a meticulous refurbishment in 1997, a new conservatory, wing, 3 villas and new spa were added – all set in lush, tropical gardens. For a one-of-a-kind unforgettable experience, be sure to book a private dinner at one of the magnificent temples of Angkor. 10 Raffles Makati, Manila, Philippines – In Makati City, the fastest growing cosmopolitan centre in Metro Manila, a striking new 30-floor tower is home to Raffles Makati, opened February 2013. The 32 room all-suite luxury hotel on the 9th-11th floors, in addition to 110 Raffles Residences available for extended stays, are designed by Singapore-based Bent Severin & Associates. In keeping with the vibrancy of Manila, bright colours have been chosen for the fabrics and Philippine inspired artistic accents – a ceramic pot, a bright painting, a woven basket – brings a dash of local joie de vivre to the interiors and a sense of place. The entire hotel is filled with a spectacular collection of original art, commissioned from local artists. Raffles Hainan, China - On the country’s largest tropical island in the South China Sea, with long stretches of pristine sandy beaches and year-round sunshine. China’s answer to the French Riviera and a rising star in the luxury tourism market, Hainan is known to many as “the Cannes of the East”, a strong rival to resort destinations such as Bali and Phuket. With a beachfront location at Clearwater Bay, Raffles Hainan has 299 rooms and 32 villas, all with private balconies and ocean views. Rooms are split between two wings – one designed in a Balinese style and the other inspired by Asian ethnic hill tribes. A large signature Raffles Spa and various restaurants will sit alongside Hainan’s homage to the famous Long Bar. Raffles Beijing, China – First opened in the 1900s as the Grand Hotel de Pékin, the hotel’s classic French-Orient colonnaded façade is an enduring symbol of Beijing’s history. In 2005 Raffles Hotels & Resorts began restoration work, adding a new wing, and the hotel re-opened as Raffles Beijing. Nine of the 171 rooms have been named after former guests of the hotel: the Henri Cartier-Bresson Suite, the George Bernard Shaw Suite and the Charles De Gaulle Suite. At Jaan, Beijing’s most exclusive French restaurant, the original 1920 timber sprung dance floor evokes the glamour of the decade. Raffles Istanbul, Turkey – Opened September 2014, Raffles Istanbul offers a new perspective on a timeless city, at the heart of the new Zorlu Center, a next-generation bazaar where high fashion, performance, fine food and the arts converge. The 181 rooms and suites have sleek modern interiors and the hotel has a large collection of contemporary art, much of it speciallycommissioned from local artists. The Raffles Spa offers signature treatments by Organic Pharmacy and the rooftop pool has unforgettable views over the Bosphorus. The hotel has two fabulous restaurants including Arola by Michelin starred chef Sergi Arola and three glamorous bars one of which is the Long 11 Bar, an Istanbul twist on its Singapore original - the place to be seen. Raffles Jakarta, Indonesia - A beacon above the thriving commercial hub of Kuningan, the hotel is exclusively linked to Ciputra Artpreneur Centre, a landmark development dedicated to the celebration of art and theatre, at the heart of Jakarta’s golden triangle. The hotel’s 173 luxurious rooms and suites are set to be some of the largest in Jakarta. Floor to ceiling windows frame views of this energetic, bustling capital city. The guestrooms are an interpretation of the artist’s retreat, with rich Indonesian aesthetics and supreme comfort, each one a tranquil sanctuary. ### ABOUT RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Raffles Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel brand with an illustrious history dating back to 1887 when the world-renowned Raffles opened its doors in Singapore. Today, the remarkable collection includes twelve extraordinary properties in locations as diverse as Paris, Istanbul, and the Seychelles, with many more in development in exciting destinations such as Warsaw and Jeddah. Whether it’s a secluded resort or a lively city-center, each Raffles promises an oasis of calm and charm and a compelling mix of cultures and styles, and has its very own story to tell. Part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global company that also operates the Fairmont and Swissôtel brands, Raffles is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. For more information or reservations, please visit raffles.com. For further information: Patricia Courtney FRHI Hotels & Resorts 416/874-2417 [email protected] 12 THE LUXURIOUS SPAS OF RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Pampering Relaxation at its Finest From an Egyptian Gold treatment in Dubai to a Pearl treatment in the Seychelles to an Oriental Soul massage in Istanbul, Raffles Spas serve as personal oases where guests can escape, indulge, and ultimately achieve inner tranquillity. Each spa is an extension of the palatial hotel that surrounds it, offering full-service, holistic experiences that are unique and reflective of the local culture. Guests can expect a personalized journey that engages the senses and mixes the latest in luxury spa treatments with traditional and local methods. Philosophy At Raffles, true luxury is not just about what a traveller does, but also how they feel. Raffles spas provide a revitalizing refuge that is contemporary, diverse and luxurious, where carefully selected treatments are offered to discerning guests. The subtle yet exquisite lotus flower represents the spas for its aesthetic beauty and as a symbol of the rejuvenation Raffles spa goers experience on their spa journey. Raffles admires the regenerative daily ritual of this flower— breaking through fresh air at sunrise, and retreating into water at night. It is this symbolic balance between relaxation and exertion that leads to true inner harmony. Spa Products Spa products are carefully selected to surpass the high standards of Raffles worldclass clientele, reflecting elegance, opulence, and whenever possible environmental sustainability. Spa specialists receive the finest training when handling products and understanding the unique properties each brings to the Raffles Spa experience. Examples of spa products include Gazelli Skincare at Raffles Istanbul and My Blend by Clarins at Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris. To indulge in a true Raffles experience guests are offered the best products and treatments that are true and authentic to the local destination. An excellent example of this guiding principal is Raffles Singapore which utilizes a mix of aromatherapy, naturopathy, ayurvedic medicine, botanical and marine sciences to provide a natural and balanced product range. Similarly, Raffles Siem Reap Spa offers the best in both Western and native Cambodian treatments. All Spas combine modern treatments and technology with the authentic local culture and customs of the region. raffles.com 13 Raffles Wellness/Amenities Raffles Spas are not limited only to products and treatments— rejuvenation is a full body experience. This is why the spas are equipped with top-of-the-line fitness equipment designed for all-ages and ability levels. Spas feature dedicated wellness professionals who are on hand to guide guests towards their health goals, including personalized nutrition menus. Wellness facilities also feature certified Yoga and Pilates instructors, with classes available individually and in groups. ### ABOUT RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Raffles Hotels & Resorts is luxury hotel brand with an illustrious history dating back to 1887 when the world-renowned Raffles opened its doors in Singapore. Today, the remarkable collection includes twelve extraordinary properties in locations as diverse as Paris, Istanbul, and the Seychelles, with many more in development in exciting destinations such as Warsaw and Jeddah. Whether it’s a secluded resort or a lively city-center, each Raffles promises an oasis of calm and charm and a compelling mix of cultures and styles, and has its very own story to tell. Part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global company that also operates the Fairmont and Swissôtel brands, Raffles is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. For more information or reservations, please visit raffles.com. ### For further information: Patricia Courtney FRHI Hotels & Resorts 416/874-2417 [email protected] 14 NEW HOTELS IN THE PIPELINE FOR RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Singapore – Raffles Hotels & Resorts has confirmed that the company will expand its portfolio over the next few years, with new hotel openings in Warsaw, Jeddah, Sharm El Sheikh and Shenzhen, China. 2017 & Beyond RAFFLES EUROPEJSKI WARSAW, POLAND Raffles Europejski, Warsaw, scheduled for opening in 2017, not only brings a new luxury hotel to this fast changing city, but also heralds the next chapter for one of the city’s most iconic and best loved buildings. Hotel Europejski originally opened in 1857, immediately stepping into the spotlight as one of the most luxurious hotels in the Russian Empire. During World War II, however, it was almost completely destroyed. The current hotel was re-built in stages throughout the 1950s, eventually re-opening in 1962. In the historic district of Warsaw, next to the Presidential Palace, this is a significant restoration of a landmark building. The restoration team has worked closely with the local conservation body and with the utmost respect to ensure the hotel’s heritage and character are preserved. The interiors have been entrusted to the award-winning British design company, Fox Linton Associates, whose work includes One Aldwych and The Wellesley in London (both set in buildings of significant architectural note), Barnsley House in the Cotswolds; Le Gray in Beirut and Carlyle Bay in Antigua, as well as many private residences. Raffles Europejski, Warsaw will offer its guests 103 elegant guestrooms and suites; a restaurant with an outdoor terrace with seasonal menus showcasing Poland’s rich produce and cuisine; a bar and cigar lounge; and a pâtisserie that will evoke Hotel Europejski’s fascinating story, tempting guests and locals with chocolates, cakes, ice-cream and other sweet delicacies. The hotel will also house a spa featuring six treatment rooms. RAFFLES JEDDAH, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA Inspired by rich Arab heritage, and with an enviable location, Raffles Jeddah will feature 181 guestrooms and 188 branded residences. The property will offer special wedding suites for newlyweds, as well as a library, a penthouse-level entertainment suite and a 1,200 square metre (12,900, square foot) spa with eight treatment rooms and a fitness club. The hotel will also have state-of-the-art event and meeting facilities, including a 1,500 square metre (16, 146 square foot) ballroom overlooking the corniche and 1,000 square metres (10, 765 square feet) of meeting space. Guests will enjoy a choice of six restaurants and lounges, including a gentlemen’s only lounge. raffles.com 15 RAFFLES CITYSTARS SHARM EL SHEIKH, EGYPT To complement existing properties in Cairo, Raffles parent company, FRHI Hotels & Resorts, will partner with Citystars on an exceptional flagship project in Sharm el Sheikh. Three new hotels - a Fairmont, a Swissôtel and a Raffles - and a golf course will be built in Egypt’s Red Sea coastal city. Raffles Citystars Sharm El Sheikh will offer its guests 250 superb guestrooms and 50 residential villas facing a private lagoon. A key feature of the hotel will be the 2,500 square metre (26,900 square foot) banquet and conference island, as well as retail souks and “La Croisette” - a leisure and retail promenade - and a Colin Montgomery 18-hole championship golf course. RAFFLES SHENZHEN, CHINA Raffles Shenzhen will be Raffles’ third hotel in China, joining Raffles Beijing and Raffles Hainan. With a scheduled opening of 2019, Raffles Shenzhen will occupy the top floors of an 80-storey tower in the new One Shenzhen Bay development. Set to be a new icon for Shenzhen, the economic centre of southern China, Raffles will bring new standards of luxury and service to the city. With stunning design and architecture by the international firm KPF, One Shenzhen Bay also benefits from a strategic location in the Shenzhen Bay Financial Centre, with direct connections to the new Qianhai Economic Zone. And with the Hong Kong Bridge and border crossing just opposite, Raffles Shenzhen will only be a 30 minutes’ drive from Central, Hong Kong. The hotel will feature 200 spacious and luxurious guestrooms, as well as serviced residences all with expansive views. There will be a choice of four restaurants and bars, private meeting and event spaces for business meetings and social gatherings, as well as a Raffles Spa. Continuing a 127-year tradition, Raffles will bring to Shenzhen the famous Raffles Butlers and the warm, graceful and personalized service for which they are known. ### ABOUT RAFFLES HOTELS & RESORTS Raffles Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel brand with an illustrious history dating back to 1887 when the world-renowned Raffles opened its doors in Singapore. Today, the remarkable collection includes twelve extraordinary properties in locations as diverse as Paris, Istanbul, and the Seychelles, with many more in development in exciting destinations such as Warsaw and Jeddah. Whether it’s a secluded resort or a lively citycenter, each Raffles promises an oasis of calm and charm and a compelling mix of cultures and styles, and has its very own story to tell. Part of FRHI Hotels & Resorts, a leading global company that also operates the Fairmont and Swissôtel brands, Raffles is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles – to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. For more information or reservations, please visit raffles.com. 16 AWARDS AND ACCOLADES Raffles Hotels & Resorts’ philosophy of delivering emotional luxury, thoughtful, welcoming and graceful service has put its hotels and resorts in the spotlight time and time again. Recent awards include: 2015 - Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards Condé Nast Traveler readers recognize five Raffles properties among the top hotels and resorts in the world. Raffles Beijing was recognized as one of the Top Hotels in China. Raffles Singapore and Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris were among the best hotels in Singapore and Paris respectively. Additionally, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Raffles Hotel Le Royal were both highly ranked among the Top 15 Hotels in Southeast Asia. 2015 - TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Nine Raffles properties were recognized with the 2015 Certificate of Excellence award, which honours hotels that consistently receive excellent travel reviews on TripAdvisor. Furthermore, Raffles Singapore, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Raffles Beijing were singled out as Hall of Fame winners after receiving the Certificate of Excellence award for five consecutive years. 2015 - Condé Nast Traveler Hot List Raffles Istanbul is recognized on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2015 Hot List within a year of opening. The property is one of four hotels honoured in the Over-The-Top Luxury category. 2015 - Travel + Leisure It List: The Best New Hotels Readers of Travel + Leisure magazine recognize Raffles Istanbul as an Instant Classic in the 2015 It List: The Best New Hotels, highlighting the hotel’s impressive contemporary art collection and breathtaking Bosphorus views. 2015 - Travel + Leisure 500 World’s Best Hotels Raffles Hotel Le Royal is named among the properties on Travel + Leisure’s 500 World’s Best Hotels in 2015. 2015 - TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards Nine Raffles hotels are winners of the 2015 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards, a prestigious ranking of the world’s top properties based on millions of travel reviews. Among those honoured were Raffles Dubai and Raffles Hotel Singapore, which both raffles.com 17 ranked third in the Best Service category. Additionally, Raffles Makati ranked among the top 10 hotel in the Luxury category. 2015 - Condé Nast Traveler Gold List Raffles Singapore is among the hotels honoured in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2014 Gold List for the second year in a row. 2014 - Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards Condé Nast Traveler readers recognize five Raffles properties among the top hotels and resorts in the world. Raffles Dubai is among the Top 100 Resorts in the World and the Best Hotels in the Middle East & North Africa. Additionally, Raffles Singapore, Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor are all honoured as the Best Hotels in Southeast Asia. 2014 - Condé Nast Traveler Gold List Raffles Singapore is recognized in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2014 Gold List. The hotel is highlighted by Condé Nast Traveler’s editors, writers and network of influencers for demonstrating a high standard of service, luxury and beauty. 2014 - Travel + Leisure (US) World’s Best Business Hotels Raffles Singapore is honoured as one Travel + Leisure’s 2014 World’s Best Business Hotels. Travel + Leisure voted for the property as one of the top three hotels in Singapore for business travelers. 2014 - Travel + Leisure (US) World’s Best Hotels Raffles Singapore, and Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor were ranked as two of the World’s Best Hotels by readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine. Travel + Leisure is a top consumer travel publication highlighting authentic and innovative experiences around the world, covering culture, food, style, design, photography and hotels. 2013 - World Travel Awards Raffles Praslin, Seychelles has been named the World’s Leading Luxury Villa Resort. The resort was chosen amongst thousands of resorts worldwide and noted for its exceptional facilities, seamless service and bespoke experiences by tourism and hospitality professionals. 2013 - Travel + Leisure (US) World’s Best Hotels Readers of Travel + Leisure magazine name Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor among Asia’s top 15 resorts. 2013 - Condé Nast Traveler Hot List Raffles Makati is named among the world’s 154 top new hotels. This is the fifth Hot List honour for Raffles Hotels & Resorts as Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris, Raffles 18 Beijing Hotel, Raffles Dubai and Raffles Praslin, Seychelles similarly earned the Hot List accolade within a year of opening. 2013 – Condé Nast Traveler (US) Gold List Raffles Beijing earns praise from Condé Nast Traveler magazine as a “true oasis, with the best location in Beijing” and remains on the list of world’s best places to stay for the 5th consecutive year. 2013 – Condé Nast Traveler (US) Readers Choice Awards Affluent readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine vote Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor among the world’s top 100 hotels. Additionally the hotel is named among Asia’s top 25 hotels alongside Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Raffles Singapore. Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris also makes readers’ choice among France and Monaco’s top 30 hotels. 2013 – Atout France Palace Distinction Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris receives the official “Palace Distinction” by Atout France, the French Agency for Tourism Development, for the next five years. The ‘Palace Distinction’ is one step higher than five stars. The hotel joins an elite band of just six Paris hotels to hold this highly-coveted badge of distinction. It is also the only historic luxury hotel in the capital which holds this status that has recently benefitted from a top-to-toe renovation. 2013 – Michelin Guide Two years after its reopening, Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris is awarded its first two Michelin stars: one for French restaurant La Cuisine, the other for Italian restaurant, Il Carpaccio - the only Italian restaurant in Paris to have a Michelin star. 2013 – Harper’s Bazaar (UK) Travel Hot 100 Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris is acknowledged for its ‘cultural status’, keeping in perfect time with 2013’s trend of culture in travel where hotels celebrate their artistic and intellectual heritage. 2013 – Sunday Times Travel Magazine (UK) Worldwide City Hotel Runner-up in 2012, Raffles Hotel Singapore this year takes the top spot in the magazine’s annual travel awards. 2013 – Travel & Leisure Magazine (China) Best Hotel Group Raffles Hotels & Resorts wins hearts of affluent Chinese travelers and is named Best Hotel Group in China. 2013 – Club Magazine (China) Best Luxury Hotel Brand Raffles Hotels & Resorts is awarded at a star-studded ceremony by Club Magazine, one of China’s most well established luxury magazines, as the top luxury hotel brand of the year. 19 2013 – Voyage Magazine (China) Most Anticipated New Opening Raffles Hainan is named one of China’s top 8 most anticipated new hotel openings for 2013. This is Raffles Hotels & Resorts’ second property in China after Raffles Beijing, slated to open in 2013. 2013 – TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards Travellers on the world’s largest travel site vote 7 Raffles Hotels among their top choices for luxury and service. Flagship Raffles Hotel Singapore is voted #1 in three categories: Top Hotels in Singapore, Luxury Hotels in Singapore and Best Service in Singapore. 2013 – World Travel Awards Travel professionals and consumers name Raffles Makkah Palace as Middle East’s Leading Luxury Hotel. This is the hotel’s third consecutive win at the World Travel Awards. Additionally Raffles Praslin, Seychelles has been named Seychelles’ Leading Hotel for the second year. 2013 – The Daily Telegraph Ultratravel 100 awards Raffles Singapore is named Best in Asia for an unprecedented 6th year. With over half a million copies in circulation, Ultratravel, published by The Daily Telegraph, is an acclaimed luxury travel publication that is referred to by industry peers and consumers for inspiring travel ideas and sojourns. 2013 – Travel Trade Gazette (TTG) Asia Hall of Fame After 126 years, Raffles Singapore proves there is nothing like experience. After being named Best Luxury Hotel for 10 years in a row, from 2002 to 2012, the legendary hotel is inducted into the TTG Hall of Fame at the Annual TTG Travel Awards 2013 Asia-Pacific. 2013 – Elite Traveler 101 Top Hotel Suites Suites from Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh, Raffles Makati and Raffles Dubai are prominently highlighted as among the best in the world. ### Press information: Patricia Courtney FRHI Hotels & Resorts 416/874-2417 [email protected] 20