Qatar Airways introduced 15 new destinations in 2011, a move that plays heavily into the importance of London’s Heathrow airport as the hub of the airline’s European operations. In order to reinforce that position the airline recently announced the opening of a brand-new passenger lounge. The Premium Lounge at Terminal 4 is the second such passenger lounge from Qatar Airways, and the first of its kind in Europe.

The most significant difference between the Premium Lounge and those offered by competing airlines is the atmosphere. Rather than have the look and feel of a typical airport lounge, designers created the space to feel more like a luxury resort. The lounge includes private showers with brand name toiletries, hotel quality towels, heated floors, and other amenities. Throughout the space guests will enjoy free WiFi connection, a fully equipped business center, and power outlets at every seat.

Guests can also enjoy drinks at the Martini Bar and light meals in the delicatessen. Qatar Airlines even went so far as to hire the best talent from five-star hotels to staff their kitchen space. The entire lounge is meant to reward loyal customers with the luxury travel experience they deserve.

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Marriott International is adding to their newest luxury brand, according to an announcement made by the company on in January. The new brand, created in a joint effort with New York’s Ian Schrager Company, is known as EDITION.

Five separate EDITION hotels are slated to open within the next couple of years in New York, London, Bangkok, Abu Dhabi, and Miami Beach. A sixth property is planned for opening no later than 2015. In addition, management contracts have been signed for hotels in Los Angeles and India.

The first addition to EDITION to open is expected to be the New York property. It will be located in the historical Clock Tower Building on Madison Avenue. Marriott acquired the building from Africa Israel USA for some $165 million. It should be ready for opening later this year.

The signature of the EDITION brand is personalized, unique, and cutting-edge design created by Ian Schrager for each individual hotel. No two EDITION properties will be alike. Each one will be designed to complement the city where it’s located, with thoughtful elements that combine an artistic modern touch with the unique aspects that set the target city apart. Special attention will be paid to the amenities, dining and nightlife, and services the sophisticated traveller has come to expect from Ian Schrager.

For more information visit the Edition hotels website.

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Tverskaya is perhaps the most famous street in all of Moscow. But it also happens to be home of the brand-new InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya Hotel. After a 10 year absence from Russia, InterContinental Hotels Group makes its return with a luxury property designed to give business and leisure travellers and experience which incorporates all Russia is. Just minutes from Red Square and the Kremlin, the hotel projects an image of classic Russian design combined with a new embrace of contemporary influences.

InterContinental Moscow Tverskaya offers a total of 203 rooms including 16 junior and senior suites. There are also three penthouse suites where luxury meets culture in one of Russia’s most important forms of art: ballet. Each of the suites honours one of that country’s most famous dancers — Isadora Duncan, Vaslav Nijinsky, and Galina Ulanova. In all of the rooms guests will be treated to traditional Russian tastes perfectly accented with cog-shaped reading tables. The design is stylish and sophisticated yet purposely reflective of the city’s industrial heart.

Although the hotel is now open for business it is not yet complete. A luxury spa is slated to open during the first quarter of 2012 along with the hotel’s gym facilities. For banqueting and meeting purposes there are 10 meeting rooms with a total of 600 square meters. The main ballroom provides for weddings, corporate events, and private dining, while the normal dining needs of guests are provided through the main restaurant featuring traditional Russian and European cuisines.

Rates start at over $400 per night.

Intercontinental Moscow Tverskaya
Tverskaya Ulitsa 22
Moscow, 125009
Russia

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The American-based Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will be making its Austrian debut during the second quarter of 2012, after being selected by Verny Capital to operate a newly acquired property located within Vienna’s historic Ringstrasse district. The announcement further solidifies the working relationship between Ritz-Carlton and Verny Capital, following the Verny acquisition of the Ritz-Carlton Moscow this past May. Verny Capital officials chose Ritz-Carlton because of their reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.

The new hotel will be situated inside two historic, 19th-century palaces which have long been protected under Austrian preservation laws. The area in which the palaces are located is one of cultural and historic significance in part of what’s considered Vienna’s “old city.” Although specific plans have not yet been announced, it’s expected that the hotel’s 202 rooms will incorporate the city’s rich heritage as a centre for Europe’s classical music scene. Very near the site is a selection of other historically important buildings erected during the late 19th century. The location of the hotel provides easy access to all the most important sites Vienna has to offer.

Beyond the historic importance and cultural influences, the hotel is also expected to be a classic example of Ritz-Carlton’s world renowned service. The company has already voiced its commitment to making a stay at the hotel a memorable one for all guests. That said, we would expect spacious and well apportioned rooms, the best amenities, concierge service, fine linens, tasteful furnishings, and more.

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W Paris – Opéra is being designed in a partnership between Rockwell Group Europe and W Global Brand Design. It will take full advantage of the historic nature of the building to create an atmosphere of sophistication, which plays off of the designation of Paris as the City of Lights. At the centre of the design is a spectacular backlit wall that undulates throughout the core of the building with displays of The Spark; digital patterns creating abstract images that continuously change.

As for the hotel rooms themselves, the five-story property will feature a total of 91 guest rooms. Among them will be W Paris – Opéra’s 20 luxury suites and two others is being billed as “Extreme WOW Suites.” All of the hotel’s rooms include three and a half meter ceilings, a spacious and sophisticated design, and unforgettable views of the local neighborhood and the Opéra Garnier. Adding to ambience will be some of the historical elements of the building, which will remain intact throughout the hotel’s public spaces. Guests will enjoy gorgeous stained glass windows, exquisite fireplaces, marble staircases, and second-floor mosaic flooring.

The Parisian reputation as one of the most exciting places to be for fashion was part of the inspiration for choosing the site of W Paris – Opéra. W Hotels hopes their first venture into Paris will provide an exciting experience full of energy and vibrancy guests will not soon forget. To that end, everything about the hotel is meant to capture the attention of guests and stimulate them to experience all that is Paris.

http://www.whotels.com/parisopera

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The Armani Group has announced the opening of its second hotel – this one in the fashion-rich city of Milan. It follows closely on the heels of the brand-new hotel chain’s first property, the Armani Hotel Dubai. While Dubai property focused on luxury in a modern, art deco world, the Milan property is a step back in a unique package which combines luxury, old world Italian elegance, and Giorgio Armani’s personal sense of sophistication. It is a hotel designed not only for international travelers on holiday, but also the world’s top business representatives coming to the city. Armani Hotels are operated in partnership with Emaar Properties PJSC

The lovely 95-room property sits atop the historic Manzoni 31 building where Armani’s signature first store is also located. The hotel features three room options including Armani Deluxe, Armani Signature, and Armani Presidential suites. The presidential suites are by far the most sought after ranging up to 2,162 square feet, spread across two floors and joined by an impressive staircase. Among the modern and sophistication design elements are a one-way glass shower enclosure, cupboards that recede and disappear into the walls, and a unique front vestibule separating the bedroom area. Guests are sure to appreciate the sophisticated neutral colors, elegant furnishings, and the abundance of Asian limestone in the bathrooms.

The hotel includes a spa on the eighth floor complete with a 24-hour fitness gym, heated pool, six treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, and a world-class combination of treatments designed for both beauty and ultimate relaxation. One floor below is the Armani Ristorante, Armani Lounge, and Armani Bamboo Lounge. The restaurant features classic gourmet Italian from a first-rate chef, complete with a private wine list and a handful of exclusive tables right in the kitchen. Both the seventh and eighth floors also serve as the best place to view the city of Milan. Completely enclosed in glass, visitors will see awe-inspiring views in every direction.

The Armani Hotel Milano officially opened on November 10, with a star-studded guest list numbering 300 celebrities.

Rates start at over $700 a night.

Armani Milano
Via Monzoni 31,
Milan, Italy

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The beautiful city of Florence recaptures a bit of former glory in the Starwood Hotels & Resorts restoration of one of its most historic and grand buildings. Starwood has just completed a 10-month renovation of the former Grand Hotel Florence, which they previously operated under their The Luxury Collection brand. With the renovation complete the new property is now known as the St. Regis Florence.

The St. Regis Florence occupies what was once the first luxury hotel in the city designed in 1432 by architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Starwood has returned the building to its former glory careful to preserve both the heritage and historical significance of the structure. The renovation is part of a $100 million effort by Starwood to renovate their most desirable properties across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

The St. Regis Florence is a truly Italian hotel featuring 81 rooms, 19 suites, and a special designer suite from Bottega Veneta. All guest rooms feature luxury appointments, custom furniture, gloriously beautiful paintings, frescoes, and chandeliers, and unique names of noted Italian artists and nobility. Furthermore, each room is decorated with sophistication and elegance, in one of three color themes: Florentine, Medici, and Renaissance. As for the property’s public spaces, guests will appreciate fine antiques and handmade engravings scattered throughout the hotel.

For the ultimate in relaxation Starwood has included Europe’s first IridiumSM Spa with three luxury treatment suites featuring Florentine marble, beautiful custom mosaics, walls incorporating gold and silver, and Jacuzzi tubs.

The St. Regis Florence is located in the heart of the city and includes what may very well be one of the most acclaimed restaurants and lounges. Etichetta Pinchiorri combines a sophisticated cuisine with a very impressive wine list, all in the space reminiscent of early 19th century Italy.

Nightly rates start at just over $300 depending on the season.

The St. Regis Florence
Piazza Ognissanti 1
Firenze, 50123, Italy
Phone: (39)(055) 27161

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The Dorchester Collection is known around the world for offering the finest luxury hotels with elegance and style. The newly-opened 45 Park Lane in London is the newest member of the Collection, featuring 45 rooms and suites centred on fine art and guest relaxation. The hotel’s Penthouse Suite boasts 1830-square feet of spacious indulgence complete with London panoramas on a wraparound terrace. All the remaining guest rooms feature a view of Hyde Park.

With fine art as a centrepiece, guests will enjoy the ‘Psalms’ series from Damien Hirst displayed in the hotel restaurant. Ten other leading British artists provide the artwork for guest rooms and the rest of the hotel. The building itself is also a piece of art from internationally known architect Thierry W. Despont. His awe-inspiring art deco and contemporary designs will leave you breathless.

45 Park Lane provides fine dining with the CUT restaurant; an American-style steakhouse from world-famous chef Wolfgang Puck. CUT offers choice steaks in a refined and relaxing environment, with a superb wine list. Future guests will also enjoy Bar 45, plus a hotel library and media room on the mezzanine level; all accessible from a grand spiral staircase rising up from the lobby.

45 Park Lane
www.45parklane.com
45 Park Lane, Mayfair,
London, W1K 1PN

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In July 2011 the contemporary London hotel scene introduced a new type of property unlike anything the industry has seen to date. It is the high-tech lover’s dream, described by the hotel’s owners as “an ultra high-tech urban cocoon.” The new Eccleston Square Hotel was designed by Woods Bagot to facilitate director Olivia Byrne’s vision of uncompromising luxury and technology. Ms. Byrne is a graduate of the highly regarded Ecole Hotelière de Lausanne.

Central to the Eccleston Square Hotel model is the state-of-the-art technology found in each of the property’s 39 rooms. Guests will enjoy the most advanced technology including 46-inch, 3-D flat screen TVs, HD movie channels, 3-D channels, 3-D Blu-Ray players, and the fastest Wi-Fi connections possible. VOIP technology even allows guests to make unlimited free phone calls anywhere in the world.

The technology continues into the little details like controlling the room’s environment. Want to adjust the lighting? How about closing the curtains and turning on a peaceful and soothing soundtrack? It’s all possible with a simple touch of a button, thanks to the hotel’s electronic control system. The iPad2 is also standard in every room, giving guests access to absolutely everything they could want or need, from the privacy of their own rooms. You’ll be able to use the iPad 2 to request room service, book some time at the luxury spa, order shopping guides, or contact the front desk.

The great thing is that the new Eccleston Square Hotel is not all about technology; there’s also plenty of room for luxury. Every room comes equipped with electronically adjustable beds from the world famous Swedish manufacturer Hästens. The beds include multiple massage programs that can be synchronized to music, lighting, or Hästens Mind Spot TV. Walk into the en-suite bathroom and you’ll be delighted to find a rainfall shower, a selection of aromatherapy products, a steam-proof mirror with television, smart glass walls, and plenty of gorgeous marble.

From the time you arrive until the time you depart, you will experience a world-class hotel that combines the best in relaxation, comfort, well-being, and technological advancement. The new Eccleston Square Hotel promises to set the bar for future hotel projects in London and throughout the world.

Nightly rates start at over $400.

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The City of Lights welcomed a brand-new luxury hotel from Mandarin Oriental with a ribbon ceremony late last month. The new Mandarin Oriental Paris is just the latest in a series of wonderful properties the brand is known for. The hotel is situated on the world-famous Rue Saint Honoré and features 138 guest rooms with world-class service and luxury. With Paris being one of the world’s favorite tourist destinations, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has been anxious to have a presence in the city. Now that they’ve arrived, they face stiff competition from other luxury hoteliers in the city.

The location of the new Mandarin Oriental puts it right at the heart of the city’s most sought after retail and entertainment districts. From this region guests have access to the Paris business center and all the major tourist sites the city has to offer. The hotel fits perfectly in its chosen neighborhood with an Art Deco façade, contemporary interior design, and a chic and up-and-coming ambience. The hotel’s redesign was led by legendary architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.

Luxury, class, and elegance are the defining characteristics of the hotel’s guest rooms. The rooms are among the largest in the city and feature plenty of light and open space. The design theme is an unexpected mixture of oriental influences and sophisticated Paris touches that will stir your imagination. Upon entering your room you will be greeted with an environment of tranquillity, peace, and total relaxation.

In terms of amenities, the hotel offers a fabulous indoor garden reminiscent of what one would expect on an Oriental visit. The sights and smells of the garden are designed to provide a sense of tranquillity and inner harmony for complete relaxation. The hotel provides the Spa at Mandarin Oriental complete with full well-being treatments, a fitness centre, and a 14m swimming pool. When it’s time to dine you will have the choice of two different restaurants offering haute-couture and light French cuisines, which were designed by Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku of the Jouin Manku Studio. For dessert, there’s even a cake shop on the premises.

Nightly rates start at over $1,200 a night.

Mandarin Oriental Paris
http://www.mandarinoriental.com/paris/
251 rue Saint-Honoré
75001 Paris

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