The 328-room Crowne Plaza Paris Republique opened, owned by Westbridge, it is the fifth Crowne Plaza in France and the second in Paris, alongside the Crowne Plaza Paris Champs Elysees.

Built in 1865 during Napoleon III’s reign, the building boasts the classic Parisian Haussmann-style exterior and a historic inner courtyard. Its bar, 10 Bar, offers views directly onto the Republique square while its new restaurant, 10 Restaurant, serves French cuisine under the direction of chef David Desplanques, formerly of Robuchon and Ducasse.

For business guests, its 18 meeting rooms cover 815m², with 16 providing natural daylight. Located metres from the Republique metro station and within minutes of many of Paris’ key attractions, it is just three stops from the Gare du Nord, home to the Eurostar terminal and with high speed trains to both Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports.

The 162-room Crowne Plaza London Kensington, owned by Lum Chang (London) ltd, is scheduled to open on 21 April after an £8 million refurbishment.

Located opposite Gloucester Road tube station, the property’s Victorian facade contrasts with its contemporary interior. Here guests can relax in the Traffic bar or StreetSide restaurant, serving modern British cuisine, or recharge in the fitness suite.

The meeting centre incorporates five naturally lit rooms, two of which overlook the hotel’s secluded one acre landscaped garden. The centre provides 271m² meeting space, with the largest room seating 110 delegates theatre-style.

In addition to 31 club rooms the hotel will also have 20 split-level suites, all offering exclusive club lounge access. Divided into four categories, these will include seven Junior Suites, four Syndicate Suites (designed to allow meetings for up to six people), five Superior Suites and four seasonally-themed Deluxe Suites, including skylights and balconies overlooking the private garden.

IHG’s President Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), Kirk Kinsell, said: “Opening new properties in the heart of two of the world’s most vibrant capital cities is testament to the strong reputation that Crowne Plaza has amongst business travellers.”

“Since introducing Crowne Plaza to this part of the world more than 20 years ago it has become one of the world’s fastest growing upscale brands for travellers. Now more than ever, our guests continue to look for a great value place to stay that combines comfort with contemporary style. With their high levels of comfort, service and facilities, these two new properties will certainly help our guests enjoy a productive stay when visiting Paris and London.”