Travelore News: Why Three Iconic Paris Hotels Just Lost Their "Palace" Status

In the world of ultra-luxury travel, there is five-star hospitality, and then there is "Palace" status. Granted exclusively by the French tourism board (Atout France), the Distinction Palace is the holy grail of hotel ratings—a title reserved for establishments that represent the absolute pinnacle of French elegance, history, and flawless service.

But a major seismic shift has just hit the luxury sector. For the first time since the accolade was established in 2010, the Palace Commission has stripped the title from legendary properties.

While the headline-grabbing news focuses on the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme and the Mandarin Oriental Paris, a third legendary French property—the historic Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz—was also downgraded. Effectively, the Hyatt group took a double blow, losing two Palace distinctions in a single wave.

Here is a look inside the dramatic shakeup rocking the City of Light's hospitality scene.

The Fallen Icons: What Happened?

To maintain a Palace distinction, hotels are re-evaluated every few years. The standards are unapologetically brutal. If a property slips on maintenance, fails to refresh its guest experience, or stops innovating, the commission will pull the plaque.

The three casualties of the 2026 review failed to meet the required criteria for distinct reasons:

Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme: Located on the ultra-prestigious Rue de la Paix, the Park Hyatt has long been a favorite for corporate titans and affluent travelers. However, the commission penalized the property for a lack of renewal and insufficient restoration. Guests and insiders had recently noted that the rooms and tech were beginning to feel dated compared to newer, hyper-polished competitors.

Mandarin Oriental Paris: Situated on Rue Saint-Honoré, the Mandarin Oriental’s situation is a bit different. The hotel is actually closing for over a year to undergo a massive, top-to-bottom transformation of its rooms, suites, public spaces, and spa. Because it will be out of commission and unable to serve guests up to standard during this time, it has lost the status for now—though a play to regain it post-renovation is almost guaranteed.

Hôtel du Palais (Biarritz): Outside of Paris, this imperial palace (originally built by Napoleon III for Empress Eugénie) was downgraded because major parts of the property—specifically the spa, the breakfast room, and the north wing bathrooms—were left out of its recent multi-million-dollar renovation project.

Note: All three properties still retain their prestigious five-star ratings. They are still elite, spectacular hotels—they just no longer belong to the ultra-exclusive "Palace" club.

What It Takes to Be a French "Palace"

The Palace distinction isn't just about having high thread-count sheets. To even apply, a hotel must meet strict baseline metrics:

Rooms must be a minimum of 26 square meters (approx. 280 sq. ft.)—a massive footprint by Parisian standards.

The property must feature a world-class spa, valet parking, and a high ratio of suites.

Once the baseline is met, a 14-member jury from the worlds of art, literature, culture, and business evaluates the "soul" of the hotel. They look for an exceptional location, deep historical heritage, high-level gastronomy (usually Michelin-starred), and highly personalized, bespoke service. ---

The New Shape of Paris Luxury

With the official "Palace Collection" announcement coming on June 2, Paris will temporarily drop from 12 officially recognized Palaces down to 10.

The Remaining Paris PalacesHotel

Vibe / Highlight

Four Seasons George V - Legendary floral displays & multi-Michelin-starred dining

Cheval Blanc Paris - Contemporary Art Deco luxury right on the Seine

Hôtel de Crillon - Historic grandeur overlooking Place de la Concorde

Plaza Athénée - Haute couture energy on Avenue MontaigneLe BristolClassic, old-world Parisian elegance and a famous resident cat

La Réserve Paris - The smallest Palace; feels like an ultra-private club

Other reigning Paris palaces include Le Meurice, The Peninsula, Shangri-La, and the Hôtel Lutetia.

The Lesson: Luxury is Never Permanent

This historic downgrade serves as a stark reminder to the hospitality industry: Prestige is never permanently acquired. The ultra-luxury market in Paris has intensified fiercely over the last decade. With newer, ultra-modern heavyweights like the Cheval Blanc raising the bar, and long-standing rumors that elite properties like The Ritz Paris or the Bvlgari Hotel might be gunning for official Palace status next, no one can afford to rest on their laurels.

In the luxury world, if you aren't constantly evolving, you are falling behind.

Mandarin Oriental, Soho Beach House Reopening On Caribbean Island Of Canouan

It was one of the most devastating storms in the Caribbean in recent memory, as powerful as it was swift. Hurricane Beryl blew through the southeastern Caribbean in July, leaving devastation in its wake, particularly on islands like Union Island and Carriacou.

The only Mandarin Oriental in the Caribbean is reopening.
While the recovery of the Grenadine islands is still in process, one bright spot has emerged in the recovery effort: the reopening of three of the area’s top resorts, in an important boost for the local economy and the people who live and work there.

The Canouan Group, which has two resorts on Canouan Island in the heart of the Grenadines, has announced that both of its luxury resorts are reopening in the next month or so.

That includes the Soho Beach House and the Canouan Estate Resort and Villas, both of which are reopening to guests on Oct. 10.

The island’s most notable hotel, the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, will be reopening for operations in mid-November, a spokesperson for the property told Caribbean Journal.

The rebound “highlights Canouan’s resilience and its ongoing commitment to strengthening the island infrastructure against future natural disasters.”

To that end, the company said it would be allocating a portion of all future guest revenues to a new “Canouan Residence Fund,” which will focus on bolstering the island’s defenses for future storms.

The idea, the property told Caribbean Journal, is cultivating “a future that not only meets the demands of our guests but also safeguards our community and the environment.”

Ahead of the reopening of the resorts, “select services” are already open and operating, including restaurants, gyms, tennis courts and the kids club on Canouan.

“The speed of the recovery shows the strength of the infrastructure and the unwavering dedication of all those involved,” said Batu Erem, CEO of the Canouan Group.

Of course, Canouan wasn’t alone. Here’s more if you want to help nearby islands like Union Island (here’s how to help), and Petite Martinique and Carriacou in Grenada.

https://www.caribjournal.com/author/alexander-britell/

Mandarin Oriental Launches Fans Of M.O. Guest Recognition Programme

Hong Kong- Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is well known for delighting guests with personalized, intuitive service. Now guests will be even better recognized by joining Fans of M.O. and receiving an elevated range of privileges designed to surprise and delight, whenever they stay at Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world.

With the user experience top of mind, joining Fans of M.O. is simple either online or at check-in. Members enjoy complimentary wi-fi, a welcome amenity and exclusive offers at Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world. By listing additional preferences, guests can further personalize their stay to ensure maximum comfort.

Guests who join Fans of M.O. and book their stay directly through the Group’s website at mandarinoriental.com, will not only be assured of the best and most flexible rates, but can also choose two additional privileges to enjoy during their stay. These may include early check-in, late check-out, a dining or spa credit, daily breakfast, a room upgrade, streaming wi-fi access, pressing services or a celebratory treat.

“We are delighted to launch Mandarin Oriental’s unique guest recognition programme, Fans of M.O., which we believe offers our guests a range of appealing and engaging benefits designed to make each and every stay with us a memorable one,” said Michael Hobson, Chief Marketing Officer for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. “Our mission has always been to delight our customers, and this programme allows us to personalize each visit and anticipate guest needs, at every Mandarin Oriental destination,” he added.

For more information on how to become a Fan of M.O., visit mandarinoriental.com/fans-of-mo

ABOUT MANDARIN ORIENTAL HOTEL GROUP

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from its Asian roots into a global brand, the Group now operates 31 hotels and eight residences in 21 countries and territories, with each property reflecting the Group’s oriental heritage and unique sense of place. Mandarin Oriental has a strong pipeline of hotels and residences under development, and is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

Hottest, Quirkiest And Most Fun New Hotel Amenities Revealed

Mini-bars and free toothbrushes are passé. The travel experts researched hotels to find the hottest, quirkiest and most fun new hotel and resort amenities. These properties do it better!

Sleep better:

With hotels in Seattle, San Diego, San Francisco, Portland and Chicago, Pineapple Hospitality group offers its guests The Naked Experience™ which provides a great night’s sleep and the freedom to get comfortably naked – just like at home. Inspired by traditional European hotel bedding, each Pineapple Bed comes with two individually folded duvets to allow each sleeper to snuggle into a whole new level of comfort with every stitch of super-soft bedding. Extra goodies include fluffy robes and slippers, and a top sheet and blankets in case traditional bedding is preferred.

Drink better:

Soda anyone? No thanks! The Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas recently installed a Moet Champagne vending machine. Guests can purchase a $20 voucher from the front desk at check in. If you’re not into the bubbly you might like Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa’s newest offering, “Straight from the Tap” IRD Growler Fills. Guests can choose from eight different local craft brewers and have draft beer poured directly in their rooms. The growlers are 32 oz. and insulated so they don’t need refrigeration.

Look better:

The Hotel Crescent Court in Uptown Dallas launched a “Dressing-Room to Guest-Room” in partnership with its luxury retailer, Stanley Korshak. Guests are offered in-room selections of couture clothing, shoes and accessories, where they can try-on and purchase the upscale apparel. Unwanted items can be sent back and an on-call tailor is available.

The KimKimpton Mason & Rook Hotel, Washington D.C. has partnered with luxury brand Shinola to offer a Watch Butler service for guests, who may select and borrow at no cost a handmade Shinola watch during their stay. At the Kimpton Gray Chicago, guests can spiff up their look by purchasing a Tie and/or Pocket Square from the front desk or their guestroom minibar.

Where The Rich Will Travel In 2016

By Chris Fair

It makes sense that the wealthiest among us would travel the most, but just how much the top 5% of households travel may surprise you.  For the new Resonance 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report, we interviewed 1,667 U.S. travelers in the top 5% of households (household income of at least $200k or net worth of $2 million+) with 724 travelers falling in the top 1% (household income of $400k+ or net worth of $8 million or more) - the wealthiest 1% in the country. Our goal was to find out where the richest among us want to travel, their preferred hotel brands and the activities in which they participate while on vacation. We found that the wealthiest 5% take an average of 14.3 trips per year compared to just 4.8 by the average U.S. traveler (about half for business and half for leisure). With an average expenditure of $3,115 per person per vacation and an average of 2.9 people per household, that adds up to spending of more than $390 billion per year just on leisure travel alone - making wealthy U.S. travelers the most lucrative leisure market segment in the world. So where are they planning to spend that time and money in 2016? While Mexico, Canada and Europe are the most popular international destinations among both wealthy and general U.S. travelers, Caribbean destinations such as the Bahamas, Anguilla and the U.S. Virgin Islands stand out when it comes to attracting the top 1% of U.S. travelers. Top 10 Vacation Destinations for the Wealthiest 1% of Households 1. Mexico (26%)  2. Canada (24%) 3. Italy (24%) 4. England (22%) 5. France (22%) 6. Germany (14%) 7. Bahamas (14%) 8. Anguilla (13%) 9. Australia (12%) 10. U.S. Virgin Islands (11%) The key to attracting the wealthy is offering hotel brands that resonate with them –  both the top 5% and top 1% rate “upscale/luxury hotel or resort” as their preferred type of accommodation – and then providing exciting and experiential activities.  In Anguilla, where Resonance is currently marketing a Viceroy property, the government has focused almost exclusively on the development of luxury resorts, likeViceroy Anguilla, CéBlue Villas and Beach Resort, Malliouhana Resort, and the Zemi Beach House, which will open in February 2016 with beachfront residences starting at $2.1 million. And these efforts are paying off. Total visitor arrivals to Anguilla increased by 17 percent from 2013 to 2014 and new projects like The Reef by CuisinArt, Manoah and Solaria contributed to a 38 percent increase in construction as they prepared for their openings. For a country that relies so heavily on tourism – ranking 7th globally for Travel and Tourism’s total contribution to GDP – Anguilla needs to attract a high net worth travel market if it is to maintain market share in the highly competitive Caribbean market.   Similarly, Mexico attracts the luxury crowd thanks to established and highly rated resorts like Four Seasons and St. Regis in Punta Mita and the re-opening of high end resorts in Los Cabos that closed following 2014’s Hurricane Odile. The cliffside Resort at Pedregal on the southernmost tip of Cabo debuted a new champagne terrace overlooking the Pacific; One&Only Palmilla reopened after $140 million of renovations; and Montage Los Cabos will open its doors in 2017 boasting a 1,400 acre luxury community with 122 guest rooms, 52 ownership residences and a main pool spanning two levels overlooking the Sea of Cortez. And not to be over looked, Ritz-Carlton’s Reserve (a luxuriously experiential offering) is also preparing to open in Los Cabos in 2017. Features include a desert botanical theme park, fisherman's wharf, a 500-slip marina, and two private championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman.  According to our study the hotel brands most highly regarded by the Top 5% of U.S. Travelers are: 1. Ritz-Carlton (82%)  2. Four Seasons (81%) 3. Peninsula (81%) 4. Mandarin Oriental (74%) 5. Aman (72%) 6. Montage (72%) 7. St. Regis (70%) 8. Viceroy (68%) 9. Waldorf Astoria (67%) 10. Fairmont (60%) President and CEO of top-ranked Ritz-Carlton, Simon Cooper, told Bloomberg that the key to the brand's success is to develop such a strong emotional engagement between hotel staff and guests that a guest won’t even consider staying anywhere else.  “It’s all about people. Nobody has an emotional experience with a thing. We're appealing to emotions,” Simon says. Cooper told Forbes that Ritz-Carlton’s appeal also comes from being more than a hotel company.  “Whether you are spending a night, spending a week, buying five weeks of fractional ownership or buying a lifetime in the Ritz-Carlton, we feel that we represent lifestyle, that we have moved beyond being just a hotel company.” However, the hospitality field is increasingly crowded with lifestyle brands, and Ritz-Carlton, like all others, need to continue to distinguish themselves.   To learn more about the destinations the wealthy plan to visit in 2016, the brands favored by the Top 1%, the activities and experiences that resonate with them and the distinct types of luxury travelers we’ve identified, you can purchase our new 2016 U.S. Luxury Travel Report here.

Major Luxury Hotel Openings To Watch For In 2016

From a new Four Seasons Hotel in NYC, to the highly anticipated re-opening of two iconic Parisian landmarks and Shanghai Disney, 2016 will be a big year for the luxury hotel market.

AMERICAS

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown (pictured above)

In South Tribeca – a block from the World Trade Center and minutes from Wall Street or SoHo – Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown adds its classic NYC profile to the world’s most famous skyline. A city stroll from gleaming fashion arcades, or gastropubs and eateries on historic streets, Four Seasons introduces a level of luxury alive with Downtown’s creativity, confidence and 24/7 vitality. Enjoy a hand-tailored New York experience in an ambience that’s vibrant and fun.

The James Hotel, West Hollywood

The James Los Angeles, the first new ground-up hotel in West Hollywood in approximately 30 years, will be comprised of 286 rooms, two restaurants, rooftop and lobby bar and approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting space – with spectacular views of the Los Angeles area. The boutique property will open in the heart of Sunset Strip at the corner of Sunset and La Cienega Boulevards. The LA location will be the third for the brand after locations in Chicago (Magnificent Mile) and New York (Soho).

SLS Las Vegas

SLS Las Vegas, a resort featuring more than 1,600 rooms and suites, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, features some of Las Vegas’ hottest nightlife and culinary venues, and is situated in the North Strip, a bourgeoning neighborhood between the heart of The Strip and the up-and-coming Downtown district. SLS Las Vegas is now accepting reservations.

EUROPE

Ritz Paris

The ultra-luxury hotel has been undergoing renovations since July 2012, the biggest makeover in the hotel's 117 year-old history. The Ritz Paris is reborn and invites you to experience anew the City of Light. Now freshly restored, its grand décor and intimate salons welcome guests to rediscover a unique atmosphere and the inimitable French art de vivre. The refurbishment includes a new spa by luxury fashion brand Chanel, called "Chanel au Ritz Paris." The hotel is accepting reservations for stays starting March 14, 2016.

Hotel de Crillon, Paris

Since 1758, Paris has sparkled with the grandeur and magic of the Hôtel de Crillon. Over the course of the last three centuries, the Hôtel de Crillon has witnessed the reign of two French kings, the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Empire and the birth of the League of Nations. Built to captivate, the hotel’s majestic architecture has dazzled generations of visitors and played host to some of history’s greatest French and international events. For the reopening in 2016, the hotel will celebrate the beginning of a new era.

Il Sereno Lake Como, Italy

Scheduled for opening in Spring 2016, the sister hotel to Le Sereno on St. Barth's has been years in the making. Il Sereno will be located on a bluff on the eastern shore of the lake, next to the village of Torno and six miles from the city of Como. One of the best perks will be the hotel’s private dock, so that guests can arrive in style aboard the hotel’s wooden boat- a custom-built water-limousine. In-demand designer Patricia Urquiola was recruited to decorate the 34 suites. Il Sereno will have a 60-foot infinity pool and a terrace restaurant that’s destined to be the place to see and be seen.

AFRICA / MIDDLE EAST

The Oberoi Marrakech

The Oberoi, Marrakech is a luxury spa resort nestled within twenty five acres of fragrant citrus orchards and ancient olive groves. Located just 20 minutes south of the city center, the resort is a haven of peace and tranquility, blessed with magnificent views of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The Oberoi, Marrakech will be opening in the third quarter of 2016.

Four Seasons Abu Dhabi, UAE

The first Four Seasons in the Emirati capital will be 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, in the heart of the new Central Business District. The striking new building is on a prime stretch of waterfront adjacent to the new ADGM Square complex, home of the new Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. A retro-modern Chicago steakhouse, a cocktail bar, and a poolside restaurant with sweeping views overlooking the sea are among an array of dining options planned. The building will also house 124 private and serviced residences.

St. Regis Cairo, Egypt Opening October, 2016

The St. Regis Cairo draws guests to the heart of Egypt’s modern metropolis on the north end of Corniche Road. With sweeping views of the Nile River and proximity to fine shops, restaurants and the pyramids, the hotel reigns as Cairo’s finest address. Michael Graves’ contemporary design embraces traditional architectural flourishes and graceful geometric lines throughout the hotel’s restaurants and lounge, pools, spa and 23,000 square feet (2.155 square meters) of meeting and conference space.

Cousine Island Seychelles

Cousine Island will reopen in April 2016 and introduce a new Presidential Villa as well as a tailored Guest Ambassador program to support the island’s ecosystem platform. The first exclusive eco-luxury private island in the world to adopt a conservation-based management structure, all revenue generated by Cousine Island's accommodation will be reinvested for long term sustainability, conservation and biodiversity.

ASIA

Wynn Palace Cotai, Macau

Scheduled to open on June 25, 2016, the $4.1 billion Wynn Palace will feature 1,700 rooms, an 8-acre Performance Lake, air-conditioned SkyCab, gaming space, meeting facilities, spa and salon, luxury retail and fine dining.

Mandarin Oriental, Bali

Located on the southern Bukit peninsula, the luxury hotel group's newest property will be built on elevated terraces to offer commanding views of the Indian Ocean. The resort will be comprised of 97 villas, each with a private pool and 24 guestrooms. The signature restaurant will be a cliff-top, cantilevered dining space with sweeping ocean views. Guests will also be able to indulge in luxurious spa services that include Balinese treatments.

Rosewood Phuket

The exquisite, secluded Emerald Bay is an ideal setting for Rosewood Hotels & Resorts to debut its first Asia resort. Rosewood Phuket’s innovative architecture with subtle Thai influences will blend organically and sensitively into the hillside forest landscape while uninterrupted views of the Andaman Sea will be visible from 71 spacious villas and 32 residences. Four restaurants will include a rustic Thai seafood restaurant on the beach, built with recycled teak wood; a casual poolside seafood eatery, a bistro and a terrace bar. They will be complemented by an array of recreational options: Sense spa; four swimming pools; health club with gymnasium; yoga pavilion; sea sports pavilion and tennis court. The Pavilion will be a residential-style space for meetings and functions while a wedding pavilion steps from the beach will host up to 200.

Shanghai Disney Resort

The opening of Disney's third theme park in Asia after Hong Kong and Tokyo is expected to open in Spring 2016. When it does, the park will also open the doors to two highly anticipated themed hotels, The Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and a Toy Story Hotel. At the Art Nouveau-inspired Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, guests will be greeted by bronze statues of Micke

Source: www.luxurytravelmagazine.com

Travelore Hotel News: Mandarin Oriental Announces New Hotel And Residences In Boca Raton, Florida

An illustration shows the planned Mandarin Oriental, Boca Raton hotel and The Residences at Mandarin Oriental. The development is expected to open in 2017 in downtown Boca Raton.

 (SB Architects / Courtesy)

 Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new luxury hotel and branded residences currently under development by Penn-Florida Companies in Boca Raton. Scheduled to open in late 2017, the project provides the Group with a unique opportunity to further extend its reach in this key tourism and business destination in southern Florida.

The project comprises two adjacent towers located in downtown Boca Raton, surrounded by the city’s most affluent, residential neighborhoods and a short walk from miles of pristine beaches. The buildings will form part of an upscale mixed-use development that will include 65,000 square feet of luxury lifestyle retail as well as a world-class private club offering social, fitness and championship golf amenities.

Mandarin Oriental, Boca Raton will feature 158 well-appointed rooms and suites, all with magnificent ocean or city views, and designed in a sophisticated and contemporary style, with exacting attention to detail that is reflective of the Group’s oriental heritage.  TheResidences at Mandarin Oriental will be located in the adjoining tower, connected by sky bridge to the hotel, and will provide 100 of the most luxurious and desirable private homes in South Florida.

SB Architects have been selected for the hotel and residential components of the project and the design will reflect a sense of sophisticated, urban resort living that pays tribute to the Mediterranean-influenced architectural heritage of Addison Mizner, for which the city is particularly well-known.

Mandarin Oriental, Boca Raton will offer some of the finest dining in the region including a signature rooftop restaurant with an outdoor terrace and bar providing spectacular ocean, golf course and city views. There will also be a chic lobby lounge, a Mandarin Oriental cake shop, and a spacious club lounge. Extensive banqueting and meeting space will include an expansive 4,500 square-foot ballroom and a variety of adaptable conference rooms.

In keeping with the Group’s award-winning spa concepts, a spacious Spa at Mandarin Oriental will offer holistic rejuvenation and relaxation, together with a state-of-the art fitness center and a rooftop pool providing guests with outstanding views.

“We are delighted to be opening a new luxury hotel in south Florida’s key tourism and commercial district, and look forward to bringing Mandarin Oriental’s legendary levels of hospitality to this exciting project,” said Edouard Ettedgui, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental. “This new development complements the award-winning Mandarin Oriental, Miami, and will provide a sophisticated and elegant retreat for guests and residents alike,” he added.

The project is being developed by Florida-based Penn-Florida Companies, a full service owner and developer of high-profile real estate for almost 30 years. “Penn-Florida is excited to be partnering with Mandarin Oriental to create a hotel and residences that will set new standards of luxury and sophistication in Boca Raton,” said Mark A. Gensheimer, President and CEO of Penn-Florida Companies. “Via Mizner will be one of the premier mixed-use projects in the country, and the arrival of Mandarin Oriental will raise the bar for hospitality and contemporary living in South Florida,” he said.

Located in Palm Beach County, Florida, Boca Raton’s warm tropical climate and coastal setting make it a popular tourism destination. There are a range of golf courses, pristine beaches and parks, together with myriad cultural and recreational activities to enjoy. The city is a gateway to Latin America and other international destinations, and is serviced by multiple international airports. With a sophisticated infrastructure, Boca Raton is also renowned as a national corporate and regional business center.

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from a well-respected Asian hotel company into a global brand, the Group now operates, or has under development, 47 hotels representing 11,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 21 hotels in Asia, 10 in The Americas and 16 in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates or has under development, 17 Residences at Mandarin Oriental connected to its properties

Survey: Mandarin Oriental And Ritz-Carlton Are The Most Expensive Luxury Hotels In The USA

The seven priciest city hotels in the United States are all located in Manhattan. A recent survey conducted by Luxury-Hotels.com Luxury-Hotels.com has put The Ritz-Carlton and the Mandarin Oriental at the very top of the rankings among these luxury establishments.

The survey compared luxury hotels based on their cheapest available rate for a double room during the month of October 2015. The website select October as its comparative basis because hotel rates in the majority of U.S. cities, including New York City, reach their highest average levels during that month.

The Ritz-Carlton and the Mandarin Oriental, both located one block from the United States’ most visited urban park, Central Park, share the top of the rankings. A minimum nightly rate of $995 for a double room put them in the survey’s number one spot. The Baccarat Hotel, also located in Midtown Manhattan, takes the third spot, at only five dollars cheaper.

The most expensive city hotel outside of NYC is located in Los Angeles. With a minimum nightly rate of $800, the Montage Beverly Hills ranks eighth most expensive overall in the nation. Just one dollar cheaper per night, the SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand is Las Vegas’s most expensive hotel.

The following table shows the 10 most expensive city hotels in the United States. The prices listed indicate the cheapest available rate for a double room during the month of October 2015.

1. Mandarin Oriental (New York) $995
1. The Ritz-Carlton Central Park (New York) $995
3. Baccarat Hotel & Residences (New York) $990
4. The St. Regis (New York) $945
5. The Plaza Hotel (New York) $893
6. The Peninsula (New York) $845
7. Park Hyatt (New York) $834
8. Montage Beverly Hills (Los Angeles) $800
9. SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand (Las Vegas) $789
10. The Lowell (New York) $785

For the full rankings of the survey and for more information about its methodology,click here.

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech Now Open

 Mandarin Oriental is delighted to introduce the Group’s legendary hospitality to Morocco with the opening of Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech.

The elegant and contemporary resort is set among 20 hectares of landscaped gardens filled with the scent of 100,000 roses, with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Located just 10 minutes’ drive from the heart of the city and the historic Medina, the hotel offers 54 private villas inspired by Berber and Moorish influences, all with secluded walled gardens, swimming pools and hot tubs, extensive areas for sunbathing and shaded alfresco dining. A further nine spectacular suites, seven with their own rooftop plunge pool, feature panoramic vistas of the gardens and the surrounding countryside.

The architect of the project is Pascal Desprez while the design of Mandarin Oriental, Marra-kech, rustic yet sophisticated, was created by renowned French architects, Patrick Gilles and Dorothée Boissier. With its Berber and Andalusian-Arabic influences, the resort provides re-laxed and stylish luxury for the cosmopolitan traveller. Featuring natural, local materials, the interior and exterior spaces co-exist and benefit from the extraordinary light for which Marra-kech is well known.

Guests at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech will enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars featuring a diverse range of global cuisines. The Mes'Lalla restaurant serves a contemporary take on traditional Moroccan cuisine under the leadership of renowned Chef Meryem Cherkaoui. Le Salon Berbère offers an exceptional view over both the resort’s blue and green pools and the Atlas Mountains, serving traditional Moroccan as well as international breakfast, drinks and light bites throughout the day. Beside the main swimming pool, the Pool Garden offers a re-freshing outdoor environment to enjoy a variety of healthy dishes prepared with locally sourced produce.

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is a unique environment featuring expansive spa suites with private terraces and gardens designed for outdoor treatments. The Spa also in-cludes two luxurious hammams, an indoor heated pool, a fitness centre and a yoga studio, as well as hair and beauty salons.

Guests of Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech will also enjoy direct access to the Golf Royal and Golf Al Maaden courses, while the Amelkis course is also nearby.

“We are delighted to combine the art of oriental hospitality with the generosity and warm welcome for which Morocco is renowned” commented Mark S. Bradford, General Manager. “Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is set to become the region’s most sought after and exclusive resort, offering stylish accommodation and a range of impeccable facilities, all of which are underpinned by Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service,” he added.

To celebrate the opening, the property has developed two tempting offers.Experience Marrakech provides a complimentary third night for every two consecutive paid nights and Delight in Marrakech offers a resort credit of up to EUR 300 per day that can be spent throughout the resort. Both offers provide luxury accommodation, breakfast at Le Salon Berbère and limousine transfers to and from the airport.

For more information and reservations, please visit www.mandarinoriental.com. Reservations can also be made by contacting the Group’s worldwide sales and reservation offices, or by calling Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech at + 212 5 24 29 88 88/ momrk-reservations@mohg.com. This offer is subject to availability and advance reservations are required. Terms and conditions apply.

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is set among 20 hectares of landscaped gardens filled with the scent of 100,000 roses, with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Located just 10 minutes’ drive from the heart of the city and the historic Medina, the hotel offers 54 private villas inspired by Berber and Andalusian-Arabic influences, all with secluded walled gardens, swimming pools and hot tubs, extensive areas for sunbathing and shaded alfresco dining. A further nine spectacular suites, seven with their own rooftop plunge pool, feature panoramic vistas of the gardens and the surrounding countryside. There are a variety of exceptional restaurants and bars, and a world-class spa offering the Group’s renowned signature treatments as well as treatments inspired by Moroccan traditions. The luxury experience is completed by the group’s unparalleled service, allied to the best traditions and hospitality of the Moroccan Kingdom.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from a well-respected Asian hotel company into a global brand, the Group now operates, or has under development, 46 hotels representing 11,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 21 hotels in Asia, nine in The Americas and 16 in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates or has under development, 16 Residences at Mandarin Oriental connected to its properties.

Mandarin Oriental To Debut Ultra-Luxury Property In Marrakech

It’s been years in the making, and now Mandarin Oriental is getting ready to debut an ultra-luxury property in Marrakech. Situated on a 50-acre estate in the Palmeraie outside of the city, the Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech will have 54 Moroccan-inspired villas, each equipped with a large garden, open-air shower, and heated pool. The seven suites will have rooftop pools overlooking the Atlas mountains, while the two Spa suites will each have an infinity lap pool.

The hotel will have five F&B concepts—serving both Moroccan and international cuisine—plus an expansive spa. Covering more than 19,000 square feet, the spa will have a yoga studio, fitness center, and indoor pool in addition to the four treatment rooms and two couple’s suites.

Good to know: The hotel will also be able to host business functions and receptions for up to 1,000 guests.

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is helmed by General Manager Mark Bradford, who previously ran the show at the Mandarin Oriental properties in Jakarta and, before that, Manila. There isn’t an official opening date yet, but we hear that it will be in the second quarter 2015.

Hyatt To Open New York City’s First New 5-Star Hotel In More Than A Decade

The Park Hyatt will be on the lower levels of Extell Development Co.’s One57 condo tower, / Bethany Looi

Hyatt Hotels Corp. is seeking to make its Park Hyatt New York, opening next month at the base of the ultra-luxury One57 condominium tower, Manhattan’s first new five-star hotel in more than a decade.

The 25-floor property is making its debut on West 57th Street in the area known as Billionaires Row for its residential skyscrapers with apartments costing tens of millions of dollars. Plans for the Park Hyatt call for 210 guest rooms starting at $795 a night, spa-treatment suites with private balconies, and amenities such as an indoor pool with underwater speakers that pipe in music from neighboring Carnegie Hall.

Hyatt is seeking a competitive edge in Manhattan, where it already operates seven properties, none rated five stars, said Steve Haggerty, global head of real estate and capital strategy for the Chicago-based company. The new Park Hyatt would be the city’s first hotel with the coveted distinction since 2003, when the Mandarin Oriental opened in the nearby Time Warner Center. Since then, most growth in the city’s lodging market has been in the select-service category, hotels that offer few amenities and cost less to operate.

“There’s a fairly deep demand for this level of luxury,” Haggerty said in an interview from a suite on the Park Hyatt’s eighth floor. “It’s very difficult to replicate in New York City, and there’s a certain barrier to entry.”

Just six hotels that are considered luxury have opened in New York in the past five years, according to lodging-research firm STR Inc. That compares with 51 projects in the three lower- tier categories, which comprise such select-service brands as Holiday Inn, Best Western and Super 8.

Most Expensive

New York was the most expensive U.S. city to stay in this year through May, with rooms costing an average of $241 a night, STR data show. Luxury hotels citywide led the nation in occupancy with a rate of 89.4 percent in May, meaning they sold nine out of 10 rooms everynight.New York’s lodging industry also has been expanding faster than the nationwide pace, with 74 new hotels and more than 13,500 rooms opening since 2006, according to NYC & Co., the city’s marketing and tourism website. About 15,000 more rooms are expected in the next three years, bringing the total to more than 107,000.

“New York City is just hot,” said Jan Freitag, senior vice president at Hendersonville, Tennessee-based STR. “It’s expensive and is at this perfect intersection of transient business demand, group and leisure, and international demand. Everyone wants to come to New York.”

Costly Extras

Only about 10 percent of the city’s hotels are in the luxury category, according to Nikhil Bhalla, a lodging analyst at FBR & Co. in Arlington, Virginia. The properties are less profitable for investors because they offer costly extras such as valet parking, 24-hour room service, multiple restaurants and full-service spas.

The Park Hyatt will be on the lower levels of Extell Development Co.’s One57 condo tower, Manhattan’s second-tallest residential building at 1,004 feet (306 meters). Hyatt and Extell spent an average of $1.8 million a room constructing the hotel, according to Bhalla.

The rooms, ranging from 475 to 2,239 square feet (44 to 208 square meters), were designed to resemble high-end apartments, with floor-to-ceiling windows and wood flooring. Bathrooms are stocked with products by boutique perfumery Le Labo and the mirrors have television screens. Two restaurants, The Back Room at One57 and The Living Room, will be run by chef Sam Hazen, formerly of New York’s Veritas. Walls of a ballroom are covered with 26 tons of back-lit white onyx.

‘Missing Component’

The hotel will be the 34th worldwide and sixth in North America under the Park Hyatt brand, which is the top tier for the company. A five-star property is “a missing component of Park Hyatt’s network,” said Daniel Lesser, chief executive officer of New York-based LW Hospitality Advisors.

“Their guests travel to world capitals and when they come to New York, they want a five-star hotel,” he said. “Hyatt doesn’t want them staying at the Four Seasons and liking it.”

A subset of luxury hotels, mostly located in the heart of large cities, qualify for a five-star rating, the highest by the Forbes Travel Guide. Properties with the distinction include the Peninsula Beverly Hills in California, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago and the Ritz-Carlton New York.

Five Stars

To earn five stars, hotels must provide room amenities including fresh flowers and wine by the glass presented in the bottle and poured by room-service staff, according to Forbes. If there is a pool, guests are greeted and escorted to their chairs and set-up assistance is provided or offered.

Every rated property is visited by an inspector, and those that might qualify for a four- or five-star ranking get a second anonymous inspection, according to Forbes.

New York has eight five-star hotels, with the Mandarin Oriental the only one built in the past 11 years, according to STR. The hotel, located on Columbus Circle with views of Central Park, has suites as large as 2,640 square feet and a spa room with a fireplace and private steam shower.

With other luxury projects under construction, including Marriott International Inc.’s boutique Edition hotel in Times Square and the Baccarat Hotel and Residences on 53rd Street, Park Hyatt will face some competition, according to Bhalla.

“At the moment the demand is all right, but there’s a lot of new supply growth in New York,” he said.

Billionaires Row

Upon completion, Hyatt’s $253 million investment will make it the owner of more than 65 percent of the hotel in partnership with Extell, according to Haggerty.

One57 and other luxury residential skyscrapers being developed on 57th and 53rd streets are transforming an area of Midtown that’s known for its corporate offices, restaurants and tourist destinations. Three blocks east of Extell’s tower, a penthouse is under contract for $95 million at 432 Park Ave. Macklowe Properties and CIM Group’s project has surpassed One57 in height and is slated to reach 1,397 feet when completed.

At One57, more than 75 percent of the units have sold, according to Jeffrey Dvorett, senior vice president of development at Extell. Bill Ackman, founder of New York hedge- fund firm Pershing Square Capital Management LP, is part of an investor group that agreed to purchase one of the apartments, a duplex on the 75th and 76th floors, for more than $90 million.

Recently completed deals at the 90-story tower include a $30.4 million unit on the 61st floor bought by a limited- liability company and a $17.8 million apartment that sold to Richard Kringstein, the CEO of outerwear company Herman Kay Co., city property records show.

87th Floor

One of tower’s 11 full-floor units is still for sale, at $67 million, Dvorett said. The 6,234-square-foot condo on the 87th floor offers views of Central Park, Midtown and Downtown, as far as the eyes can see.

One57 residents will be able to use hotel services, including the spa, with a menu of treatments that changes seasonally.

The Park Hyatt brand was due for an image upgrade and the Midtown hotel provides that boost, said Sean Hennessey, CEO of New York-based Lodging Advisors LLC.

New York “is the No. 1 city in the world to have the flagship property of your hotel brand,” Hennessey said. “So it was a great opportunity” for Hyatt.

–With assistance from Nadja Brandt in Los Angeles.

To contact the reporter on this story: Heather Perlberg in New York at hperlberg@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Kara Wetzel at kwetzel@bloomberg.net Christ in Los Angeles.

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Travelore Tips The Top 10 Hotel Restaurants In The World

Expense account or not, it’s always nice to sit down to a great meal when you’re on the road.

After a long day of travel and meetings, it’s a bonus if the hotel you’re staying at has a restaurant serving something beyond the stereotypical “hotel restaurant” food.

Daily Meal’s 2013 list of 101 Best Hotel Restaurants includes many places frequent business travelers already may be familiar with from conventions or other business functions, said Colman Andrews, editorial director of The Daily Meal. “Both business and leisure travelers appreciate the convenience and prestige—with business contacts—of having world-class dining right in their hotels,” he said. “This is especially true of business travelers on tight schedules.”

é by José Andrés at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The top spot on the list went to é by José Andrés, an exclusive dining space in chef Andrés’ Jaleo’s restaurant in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Guests are presented with a “secret,” multicourse tasting menu that, according to The Daily Meal, might include Spanish-influenced signature dishes such as secreto of Ibérico pork with squid and torta pascualete, described as “a type of Spanish cheese—with cotton candy.”

“I always wanted é by José Andrés to be a hidden surprise of Las Vegas,” said Andrés. “To be be able to create this unique experience every night in an intimate room inside Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in the middle of strip is what makes this restaurant very special”.

El Motel Restaurant at Hotel Emporda (Figueres, Spain)

“Hotel Emporda, a bare-bones hotel on the National Road between France and Barcelona, has always had a large clientele of merchants and business people from both sides of the border,” said Andrews. The hotel’s restaurant, El Motel, has been serving contemporary Catalan cuisine since 1961. In addition to a tasting menu and a market menu, the restaurant offers à la carte options and many “simple seasonal specialties like small squid sautéed with garlic and parsley.”

Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace (Las Vegas)

The menu at the two-Michelin star Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace mirrors that of its three-Michelin starred sister Restaurant Guy Savoy in Paris. So there’s no need to fly to France (or learn French) to dine on classic Savoy dishes such as “artichoke and black truffle soup garnished with toasted mushroom brioche and truffle butter.” As a bonus, the restaurant offers great views of the Las Vegas Strip.

Felix at The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong (Hong Kong)

Renowned French designer Philippe Starck designed the Felix, which sits on the hotel’s rooftop and offers both a grand view of the city’s skyline and a menu (displayed on iPads) of modern European cuisine. We suggest you scroll through the list to find signature dishes such as marinated Tasmanian salmon with guacamole.

Emiliano Restaurant at Emiliano (São Paolo, Brazil)

This boutique hotel is popular with business travellers and welcomes guests with a complimentary 15-minute massage in the spa. Service at Emiliano Restaurant is equally attentive, with locally sourced, seasonal cuisine that has “a touch of modern Italian cooking style.” Among the highlights is a five-course tasting menu with dishes such as codfish confit with tomato preserves and shallots and a rack of goat with pistachio crust and eggplant parmesan.

Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel (Carmel, Calif.)

Award-winning executive chef Justin Cogley forages in Monterey Bay for sea lettuces, sea beans and seaweed to include in the dishes on the seasonal menu atAubergine, just five blocks from the ocean. Many of the signature dishes are made with abalone grown locally for the restaurant. “When I came here just a few years ago the goal was for the restaurant to become a destination,” said Cogley, “So I’m so proud that we’re on this list with so many other illustrious properties.”

Livingstone Room at Victoria Falls Hotel (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)

While a jacket and tie are no longer required, the dress code at this still rather formal Colonial-style restaurant with terrace views of Victoria Fall remains “smart,” which means no jeans, sandals, shorts, sneakers or safari gear. In addition to formal British afternoon tea and an à la carte menu, The Livingstone Room offers a seven-course tasting menu with dishes such as Loch Fyne seared scallops with pea purée, herb salad, beet jelly, rocket pesto and a selection of Mozambican and South African cheeses served with raisins, chutney, celery and fruit bread.

Joël Robuchon Restaurant at MGM Grand (Las Vegas)

Considered by some critics as the best French restaurant in the states, chef Joël Robuchon’s 60-seat dining room at the MGM Grand has “knockout (and pricey) tasting menus, including a 16-course dégustation for $435.” They did say pricey.

Epicure at Le Bristol (Paris)

“Le Bristol is one of the more popular hotels for very high-end business travelers—CEOs, etc.,” said Andrews, and the clientele often dines at the hotel’s three-Michelin star restaurant, overseen by chef Eric Frechon and located next to the elegant French-style garden.

Man Wah at the Mandarin Oriental (Hong Kong)

Located on the 25th floor of the glamorous Mandarin Oriental, Man Wah offers panoramic views of Victoria Harbor and the Hong Kong skyline. Chef Man-Sing Lee designed the gourmet Cantonese menu. In addition to the dim sum selection, diners can choose a tasting menu or order specialty dishes such as steamed fillet of spotted grouper with crispy ginger, crabmeat and egg white sauce.

Article sourced from the Daily Meal.