INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Meliá Hotels International, Best Western Hotels & Resorts and IHG are making strides in the expansion of their global presence. Here’s a look at what’s happening with the brands:
Meliá Hotels International
Meliá Hotels International has signed Meliá Shanghai Parkside, a new property located within the core area of Shanghai International Tourism and Resorts Zone. This marks the group’s ninth property in China and second in Shanghai, further underscoring the brand’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the country.
The new Meliá Shanghai Parkside, developed by Shanghai Shendi Garden Investment & Construction Ltd., a full subsidiary of Shanghai Shendi Group Co. Ltd., taps directly into the fast growing demand for travel accommodation and F&B facilities from business & leisure tourists to this booming area in Shanghai, according to the company.
Scheduled to open in early 2018, the hotel will have 88 guestrooms in the first phase. Located right off the main entrance of Shanghai Disneyland, the site can be accessed via metro Line 11. Also, it is a short distance from Pudong International Airport.
Best Western
Best Western Hotels & Resorts is continuing its global expansion with the addition of three new affiliated hotels in the country of Georgia.
The openings of Best Western Kutaisi, Best Western Plus Bakuriani and Best Western Plus Batumi are part of the company’s strategy to expand in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Georgia. All three properties target different markets and are distinctive as one is a city-center property, one is a ski resort and the other is a seafront hotel.
“These three new openings are driven by a strong demand for business and leisure travel as the tourism boom in Georgia continues. It is a very promising market for travel and tourism and we definitely see the potential for further expansion opportunities in this region,” said Suzi Yoder, SVP of international operations, Best Western Hotels & Resorts. “The new openings offer very exciting and yet such different destinations to choose from for an unforgettable trip, whether it’s business or leisure.”
IHG
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has opened its first hotel in Rayong, Thailand— Holiday Inn & Suites Rayong City Centre. The property has 64 extended-stay suites in addition to its 224 guestrooms. It is located along Sukhumvit Rd. a short distance from U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport.
“Rayong is one of Thailand’s fastest growing provinces and a booming industrial hub. In the last few years, we have seen a growing demand for internationally branded mid-scale accommodation from travelers, who want a comfortable stay close to the industrial areas and ports,” said Leanne Harwood, VP of operations, South East Asia and Korea, IHG.