Wednesday, December 24, 2008: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has expanded Le Meridien’s presence in the Asia Pacific with the debut of three new properties.
The launch of Le Meridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa marks the brand´s second resort in China, while Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort and Le Meridien Chiang Mai further expand the brand´s growing portfolio in Northern Thailand.
The new Le Meridien properties offer a culturally rich environment combined with superior service which is designed to create an unforgettable experience.
"Le Meridien is proud to broaden its reach in Asia Pacific with the addition of these three stunning properties, where guests can enjoy a unique experience that combines contemporary European refinement with distinct Asian influences curated by Le Meridien´s Cultural Curator and a range of established and emerging innovators, part of LM100," said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts and W Hotels Worldwide.
"A favorite among progressive, curious, open minded and forward-thinking international travelers, Le Meridien facilitates guest discovery of a new perspective of the arts, architecture, design, and cuisine at each of its destinations around the world. Hainan Island in China and Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in northern Thailand will certainly provide fertile ground for this voyage of discovery."
"We are thrilled to announce the opening of these three stunning Le Meridien hotels in Thailand and China, two of world´s most exhilarating destinations," said Miguel Ko, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.
"Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are both well known for their stunning landscape and rich cultural offerings while Shimei Bay is an unspoilt getaway for travelers to Hainan Island, with spectacular views of the South China Sea, and surrounded by lush forest and rustic Li minority village. These locations are a great fit with Le Meridien brand, which is committed to providing guests with an interactive and culturally enriching experience."
All three new Le Meridien hotels will feature Le Meridien´s newly introduced Arrival Experience for guests.
Guests will be treated to an exceptional arrival experience from the moment they enter the hotel to when they close the door of their guest room behind them.
The arrival experience includes the Transitional Portal, which is a visual and audio "wall" of sound and art; Sensory Experience illustrated through Le Meridien´s signature scent, sound and use of light; Unlock Art program that includes an artist designed key card that offers access to the guest room and to Le Meridien´s affiliated art organizations; and lastly the Elevated Experience, which transforms the event of riding an elevator into an "elevating experience" through video and sound.
The opening of these three new properties highlights the significant development of the Le Meridien brand in Asia Pacific.
Le Meridien currently operates 23 hotels in the region, including, Le Royal Meridien Shanghai and Le Meridien Cyberport, Hong Kong.
