LONDON—InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a management agreement with Lao International Development Co. Ltd. to open the first InterContinental hotel in Laos. Set to open in 2021, the new-build InterContinental Vientiane will join Crowne Plaza Vientiane to be the second hotel managed by IHG in the capital city.
The hotel will feature more than 400 rooms in the upcoming World Trade Centre—a mixed-use complex being developed by Lao International Development Co. Ltd. Slated to be the city’s commercial hub when it opens, the complex will also include a large retail mall, medical center, conference center, office tower and residential towers. Located a short distance away from Wattay International Airport and adjacent to Lan Cang Ave., Vietnam St. and French St., the hotel is proximate to the prime minister’s office, international embassies and major convention centers.
“Laos is currently one of the region’s fastest growing nations with close to five million international arrivals each year and future infrastructural and industrial developments underway to continue boosting economic growth and attract foreign investment,” said Leanne Harwood, VP of operations, IHG, South East Asia & Korea. “It is well on its way to becoming one of the region’s busiest business and tourist destinations and it’s a great time to be bringing the InterContinental brand into the country to tap on this potential.”
The hotel will offer the brand’s signature Club Lounge, a swimming pool, spa and fitness center. F&B venues will include a specialty restaurant and a variety of international cuisines at an all-day dining restaurant, including a lobby lounge and bar.
“In looking for a hotel management partner we were seeking one with a strong track record in operating hotels in new markets and a well-known premium hotel brand to complement the mix of offerings which would draw business and leisure travelers to stay with us when they travel,” said Xiao Long, CEO, Lao International Development Co. Ltd. “The InterContinental brand is known around the world for delivering great, high-quality experiences with world-class service and we are very pleased to partner IHG to develop what we are confident will be one of the most highly sought after hotels in Vientiane.”