Raffles International has signed a management contract with…
Raffles International has signed a management contract with Gulsan Insaat, Sanayi, Turizm, Nakliyat ve Ticaret A.S., to manage a new hotel development in Ankara under the Swissotel brand. The deluxe hotel will be named Swissotel Ankara and is scheduled to open in April 2006.
The new Swissotel Ankara marks Raffles International’s further expansion into Turkey. The group already operates Swissotel The Bosphorus in Istanbul and Swissotel Gocek Marina & Spa Resort, with two additional projects currently under development in Bursa and Izmir. With the signing of Swissotel Ankara, Raffles International’s worldwide portfolio grows to 40 hotels and resorts in 35 destinations.
Mr Meinhard Huck, Managing Director of Swissotel Hotels & Resorts, commented: “Turkey’s phenomenal growth in the tourism sector has greatly contributed to the success of our two existing Swissotel properties in Istanbul and Gocek. Riding on this success, we are indeed delighted and look forward to the opening of Swissotel Ankara in the Turkish Capital. Swissotel Ankara will deliver the finest in Swiss hospitality with its exquisite hotel facilities, and warm, efficient service. It will no doubt complement the expected increase in tourist arrivals to Turkey, given the growing demands for more exotic vacations and event venues. We are also honoured that Gulsan Insaat, Sanayi, Turizm, Nakliyat ve Ticaret A.S. has entrusted us to manage its new development in Ankara.”
Mr Sefik Gul, Chairman of Gulsan Insaat, Sanayi, Turizm, Nakliyat ve Ticaret A.S., added: “The Swissotel brand name has gained a reputation in Turkey for offering exceptional standards of hospitality and service. We are confident that Swissotel Ankara, managed by Raffles International under the Swissotel brand, will be a popular accommodation of choice for business and leisure travelers alike. It will also be a very attractive facility which will enhance the hotel landscape of Ankara.”
Mr Michel Van der Elst has been appointed as the General Manager of Swissotel Ankara. Mr Van der Elst has been with Swissotel Hotels & Resorts for many years now and was formerly the Resident Manager of Swissotel The Bosphorus in Istanbul and the Area Controller in the Middle East.
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