Camino Real To Spend $40 Million On Systemwide Revamp

MEXICO CITY— Camino Real Hotels and Resorts has launched a US$40 million renovation and expansion program aimed at “restoring the companys status and standing as Mexicos leading luxury lodging name.” Under the leadership of Grupo Empresarial Angeles (GEA), the chains parent company, and a new corporate management team, Camino Real Hotels and Resorts has also launched an aggressive domestic and international marketing initiative to increase awareness of the properties with consumers and the travel trade. Elements of the campaign include the opening of a U.S. sales office in Dallas and a new advertising and public relations program. Renovation efforts are focused on a number of Camino Reals key properties including its flagship Mexico City hotel, along with Guadalajara and Acapulco Diamante. Camino Real Hotels and Resorts has 15 properties throughout the Mexico that range from beach resorts to urban hotels. Of the $40 million in renovation projects currently underway, $26 million has been committed to the total refurbishment of the 714-room Camino Real Mexico City property. Meeting and guest rooms are being completely redesigned at a cost of $30,000 per room, include new furnishings,carpets, light fixtures, marble bathrooms with red Mexican marble from the state of Guerrero, the installation of dual phone lines, in-room computer connections with high-speed Internet access and satellite television. The entire remodeling effort, which also includes public spaces, will be completed by mid-2003. The hotel will also be home to a famed New York restaurant. Le Cirque is scheduled to open in October 2002.