Best of Both Worlds
From Ibis Hotels’ economical comfort to Sofitel’s French elegance, Accor offers unparalleled hospitality
| Text : Rebecca Lo | Photography courtesy of Accor Asia Pacific |
Dubai’s Charm industry
Burj Khalifa continues to be a record breaker | Text : Apple Mandy |
The world of Accor in Asia Pacific is more robust than ever. Despite the recent economic downturn, Accor plans to open 40 hotels throughout the region in 2010 alone. In Hong Kong, a new Ibis is already under construction in Sheung Wan, and is slated to welcome guests in early 2012.
“The Ibis in Sheung Wan will be the largest in Asia with 550 rooms,” says Michael Issenberg, Accor Asia Pacific’s chairman and chief operating officer. Speaking at an event held in Novotel Century Hong Kong, Issenberg was optimistic about expansion plans for Pullman, Mecure, Sofitel and Ibis within China. In addition, he stressed the need for giving back to the local community through the Chi Heng Foundation in Hong Kong. The initiative will employ local HIV-positive and AIDS infected women to produce eco bags for sale throughout all Accor hotels in greater China. Proceeds will go back to the community to assist AIDS-affected children. “It’s about social responsibility,” stresses Issenberg.
“Our first China property opened in 2004,” recalls Gilles Larrivé, senior vice president with Ibis Asia. “Today Ibis is completed accepted as an international brand. 95% of our guests are Chinese.” The bulk of Ibis customers are
| Text : Rebecca Lo | Photography courtesy of Accor Asia Pacific |young, tech-savvy business travellers who enjoy wireless internet in all of the hotel’s bars and restaurants. Chinese guests also love the soundproof rooms and central air found in all the guestrooms—which means a greater level of comfort for reasonable rates.
The largest international French hotel brand, Sofitel is proud of its European heritage. It shows in the properties’ subtle French interior design and in small touches such as French greetings. “Our French roots are in our style and image,” says Markland Blaiklock, senior vice president with Sofitel Asia Pacific. “It is our DNA and what our guests appreciate.” Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the first branded Legend luxury hotel after a three-year renovation programme, will set the standard for other outstanding heritage properties. “The property is a destination unto itself,” Blaiklock believes.
With the wealth of choices available through Accor, the most difficult part will be selecting your next holiday getaway destination.
Dubai’s Charm industry
Burj Khalifa continues to be a record breaker
| Text : Apple Mandy |
Since the inauguration of the world’s tallest structure, Burj Khalifa, on January 4, 2010, Dubai has once again captured people’s attention and made an impression around the world.
Formerly Burj Dubai, now Burg Khalifa, it is located in downtown Dubai next to the world’s biggest shopping mall — Dubai Mall. Burj Khalifa combines a luxury hotel and lavishly designed residential apartments, with the residences located between levels 19 and 108. For those who want to live in a more luxurious setting, The Armani Hotel offers one- and two-bedroom luxurious apartments. A perfect hotspot investors and tenants should definitely snap up one of the apartments, with prices 50 percent lower than at peak in 2008.
The Burj Khalifa is a stunning high-rise residential development that offers panoramic views of downtown Dubai and a comfortable lifestyle.
ENGEL & VÖLKERS Team Dubai Madinat
Toll Free: +971 4 800-ENGEL (36435)
Email: DubaiMadinat@engelvoelkers.com
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