Hotel Missoni Kuwait

September 2010 will see the debut of the second property for the exciting new hotel brand. A partnership between Missoni and the Rezidor Hotel Group, Hotel Missoni Kuwait channels the unique style of the Milan-based fashion house. And with extensive facilities, this destination resort is sure to delight visitors to Kuwait City.

Decorated in pure Missoni glam (just check out the colorful prints and designer furniture in the photos), the hotel overlooks the turquoise Arabian Sea from its perch in central Kuwait City. It’s all about the Missoni lifestyle, meaning the restaurant, Cucina Missoni, whips up Italian family recipes from Mama Missoni in an open-style kitchen– served on china from Missoni homewares. Hotel Missoni KuwaitA few dishes to tempt the tastebuds: Barolo & Castelmagno cheese risotto, seabass baked with a salt crust, and roast rabbit served with polenta & radicchio. The hotel will also offer the Choco Café, inspired by the Italian passion for coffee. (A hopping scene and bar alternative in non-alcoholic Kuwait.)

What’s more- the Hotel Missoni Kuwait will be home to a 13,000-square-foot Six Senses Spa and an outside pool tiled in the signature Missoni stripe. While sipping a drink on the glamorous pool terrace, take in endless vistas across the Arabian Sea.

Hotel Missoni Kuwait

A little bit about the 169 rooms and suites: All of them have sea views, Missoni linens and scented toiletries, and complimentary Internet access. Designed with gold, turquoise and beige accents, the contemporary rooms stress a combination of form and function, equipped with all the latest technology. Top digs: The Presidential Suite boasts a sprawling outside terrace.

Next up for Hotel Missoni? New openings in Cape Town, Oman, and Brazil.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba: Set for 2012 opening

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. and the Government of Aruba announced plans to open The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, an exclusive 320-room oceanfront resort situated on the Caribbean island’s famed Palm Beach. The resort will offer several restaurants, a luxurious spa, two swimming pools and a 24-hour casino. In addition to spacious rooms and suites, the hotel will include The Ritz-Carlton Club Level, a private floor accessible only by elevator key, offering light fare and dedicated concierge service throughout the day.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, projected to open in late 2012, will be the seventh location in The Ritz-Carlton portfolio of award winning Caribbean properties, joining existing hotels in St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, Mexico and The Bahamas.

“Aruba is an island destination with growing appeal to discerning travelers from Europe and the United States. Its stunning beaches and majestic views make the island one of those exceptional places in the Southern Caribbean, blending serenity and scenic attractions our guests seek when planning a vacation,” said Ezzat Country, senior vice president, Southeast Region, Caribbean and Latin America, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “It is an extraordinary location for luxury development on the island,” added Country.

“I am thrilled to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company on such an exciting project that will set a new standard for luxury travel to the island,” commented Walter Stipa, developer for The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. “I am confident that The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba will be a highly successful endeavor for all partners involved,” he added.

Newly elected Prime Minister Mike Eman stated, “In all honesty, the credit for this project should go to the former administration. Due to a rapid expansion of hotels and condominiums over the last 20 years we are concerned that we are left with too few vacant public beach areas,” said Eman. “The fact that we are looking at the addition of such a prestigious hotel as the Ritz Carlton reduces this pain for us. We hope to work closely with Mr. Marriott to achieve the vision of our new government that will put more emphasis on sustainability and durability in the development of our tourism industry for the people of Aruba and our visitors alike,” Eman added.

Located off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is renowned for miles of white powder sand beaches and crystal blue water that boasts a warm tropical climate year-round. The 21 mile-long island is situated on the southern part of the Caribbean Sea and features many diverse influences as a result of its rich history. The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is located in Palm Beach, home to some of the island’s finest beaches. Lush tropical surroundings and a balmy temperature allow for swimming, sunbathing and relaxation by the water. The resort will bring a new level of elegance in accommodations and amenities to the island.

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY, L.L.C.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 73 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More  than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates; Dove Mountain, Tucson, Arizona; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Lake Tahoe, California. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the UK 0800-234-000, in Ireland 00800-2413-3333, in Belgium 0800-77269, in France 0800-907203, in Spain 00800-2413-3333 or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:  MAR)

Constance Ephelia Resort Seychelles

“Spa attitude”, A thousand and one reinvigorating care

Accommodation and architecture:
An encounter with the thousand and one beauties of the Seychelles. Oriented towards the Spa activity, this Resort has open the 1st of Febryary 2010 in Mahé, on the site in Port Launay, the main island of the archipelago, draws its inspiration from the diversity of the Seychelles and expresses generously its wide range of dream accommodation and multi-facetted spa.

This new generation of Resort is betting on the development of tourism in the Seychelles.

The Spa which extends on 7,000m2 is reminiscent of a garden of delights.
The concept of the “Shiseido Pavilion” here unravels itself on a grand scale. The Spa conceived in harmony with the natural setting proposes various islets of beauty, pleasantness and wellness. The Spa Spirit / Shiseido Pavilion unfolds step by step for the fortunate guests of the ten “Spa Villas”. Each one is an invitation to let oneself go, to surrender and embark on a sumptuous pleasure trip for the five senses. From the futile to the useful… one has all the time to pamper one’s beauty in order to better arouse the emotions. Ephélia also vouches to awaken the senses.

The concept of “Spa Villas” is innovative in the archipelago and in the whole of the Indian Ocean: a room with the cosy
minimum opens out spaciously on a bath-room with sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, mini-bar, hi-fi and couch so as to drift in that universe of beauty where self-respect is experienced in all privacy. But the greatest factor of disorientation in this comforting universe is without doubt the private pool contoured like a long ribbon between the bed and a teak bridge which beckons one to relaxation and repose.

The strong points:
An immense spa immersed in lush nature. 7,000m2 are here dedicated to well being. Unique “Spa Villas” with private pools, sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, space for rest and an incomparable refinement for rejuvenation. A broad scope hotel where the human element always remains a priority. A full-fledged conference centre, quite a rarity in the Seychelles !

Central Reservations
Fax: (230) 402 2616 – Email: resa@constancehotels.com
www.constancehotels.com or www.epheliaresort.com

Hotel Eden Roc - Ascona

The arrival of spring at Lake Maggiore: twice as heavenly this year thanks to the new Eden Roc Spa.

Spa Opening Offer in April and May including three nights’ accommodation, breakfast, dîners and massage from CHF 930 ( EUR 600) per person.

After the icy months of winter, the yearning for the first heralds of spring and the warming rays of sunshine grows stronger from day to day. For guests who choose Lake Maggiore and the five-star Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona, Switzerland, this April or May, spring will be twice as heavenly this year: on the one hand, outdoors in the picturesque setting with the camellias glowing in the lush green bushes, and on the other, in the new Eden Roc Spa. Interior designer Carlo Rampazzi spent six months redesigning the hotel’s wellness area and lavishly decorating it with themes inspired by the wealth of flowers to be found in Ticino. Guests have access to the outdoor pools and numerous loungers alongside the lake from all parts of the 2,000 square metre relaxation area. To mark the opening of the spa, the hotel is offering a special three-night package including breakfast, dinners and a 50-minute spa massage from CHF 930 (EUR 600) per person in April and May.

Hotel Eden Roc - Ascona

The spa area on which more than 150 industrious workers were engaged starting in October 2009 forms a harmonious entity with the hotel, into which it has been integrated, and is a fitting tribute to the lakeside setting. Wherever they may be in the spa, guests enjoy a view of the water – whether from one of the eight whirlpool recliners in the hydropool, from the treadmill in the fitness area or from the walkway joining the sauna and water worlds. The latter shimmers in the colours of Lake Maggiore from blue to grey while a Kneipp path has been created using stones from the nearby River Maggia. The spacious sauna world offers not only a steam bath, sanarium and Finnish sauna but also an exclusive private ladies’ area. As the dominant theme for the furnishing of the seven treatment rooms for massages, baths and beauty care, Ascona interior designer Carlo Rampazzi chose the incomparable floral diversity to be found in Ticino.

The Spa Opening Special Offer applies from 5 April until 28 May on request and subject to availability. The Hotel Eden Roc’s direct telephone number for reservations is +41 (0)91 785 71 71.

For more information visit www.edenroc.ch

Now Resorts & Spas

AMResorts Unveils New Lifestyle Resort Brand: Now Resorts & Spas to Offer Unlimited-Luxuries and Enriching Experiences; First Resort Set to Open in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

Now Resorts & Spas, a new brand of luxury lifestyle resorts, has launched to provide guests the ideal vacation environment to relax and reconnect in a spectacular setting. The announcement was made by Alex Zozaya, president of AMResorts, provider of sales, marketing and resort brand management services.

Set to open January 25, 2010 in Mexico’s famed Riviera Maya, the first property, Now Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, is the latest addition to AMResorts family of upscale resort brands, which also include Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts, The Zoetry Collection, Secrets Resorts & Spas and Dreams Resorts & Spas. Now Resorts & Spas will treat every guest to Unlimited-Luxury(R), where everything is included. The signature vacation concept caters to couples, friends and families with desirable locations, elegant accommodations with stunning ocean views and first-class amenities and services.

While every property will offer a unique flavor, look and experience, overall brand features will be shared. These include: Finely appointed, oversized guest rooms and suites with ocean views and private terraces, wireless internet access, flat screen TVs with surround sound systems, daily refreshed mini bars, 24-hour room and concierge services, multiple gourmet dining offerings and full-service spa and fitness facilities. Wedding services and honeymoon packages also will be available at every resort.

According to Zozaya, Now Resorts & Spas will foster a sense of understated luxury and comfort that, combined with the most sophisticated amenities and activities, will redefine how guests stay and play.

The First Now Resorts & Spas

Now Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa basks in the Caribbean sun near the quaint fishing town of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, 12 miles south of Cancun International Airport. Officially designated as a “National Park,” the resort is surrounded by nature, including private access to a long beach.

The property’s oceanfront setting and local surroundings inspired national and international designers to create warm and subtle textures in every space, including the 550 luxury suites. Room categories include: Jr. Suites, Family Suites, Preferred Club level.

Guests also can find a wide range of top-quality culinary experiences within the resort’s seven a la carte gourmet restaurants. Its five bars serve a varied selection of premium and local beverages (no reservations or wristbands required).

Couples with children will appreciate the resort’s signature Explorers’ Club, which caters exclusively to younger guests ages 3-12 with dedicated facilities and fully-supervised activities. Daily, teen-focused activities also will be available.

For those seeking relaxation, the spa offers a sublime atmosphere combining hydrotherapy and signature treatments. Treatment rooms, multiple private massage rooms, a hydrotherapy area featuring indoor Jacuzzis and showers, sauna and steam bath, complete the stimulating and peaceful experience. The spa also features a full service salon offering hair treatments, waxing, and manicure and pedicure services.

Now Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa provides the perfect romantic setting for a destination wedding.

Other in-resort amenities include: Three swimming pools with breathtaking views, six sport courts, motorized water sports, superior entertainment, meeting rooms, a theatre, business center, and a variety of stores.

Zozaya is confident that the time is right to introduce the Now Resorts & Spas brand. “Our success with other brands, ranging from major awards and recognition to high occupancy rates and repeat guest ratios, encouraged our continuous growth. Significant positive awareness among agents and consumers and strong distribution channels should be key factors in our success,” he said.

To learn more about Now Resorts & Spas visit www.nowresorts.com.

About AMResorts

AMResorts (www.amresorts.com) is the provider of sales, marketing and brand management services to four brands of exclusive resort properties in Mexico and the Dominican Republic: ultra luxurious Zoetry(TM) Wellness & Spa Resorts (www.zoetryresorts.com; 888-4 ZOETRY); adults-only Secrets(R) Resorts & Spas (www.secretsresorts.com; 866-GO SECRETS), luxurious Dreams(R) Resorts & Spas (www.dreamsresorts.com; 866-2 DREAMS) and Now Resorts & Spas (www.nowresorts.com). Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts is a member of Leading Small Hotels of the World and Preferred Boutique(TM). Secrets and Dreams Resorts & Spas are members of Preferred Hotels(R) & Resorts. Vacation packages for these resorts are available online, via toll-free brand phone numbers and through leading travel professionals in North America, Mexico, and Europe.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Dramatically poised along the shores of the beguiling man-made island the Palm Jumeirah, and overlooking the magnificent Dubai coastline, is the extraordinary Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. Scheduled to open in 2010, the hotel is an exclusive haven of tranquility and luxury, where you will experience the island’s pristine beauty alongside the city’s cosmopolitan charms.

Designed to resemble the breathtaking palaces of Rajasthan, the hotel’s intricate architecture will evoke the splendour of a bygone era. The detailed facades, archways and domes will be interspersed with courtyards, expansive gardens and well-appointed spaces to create a sublime and luxurious ambience. Elegant luxury rooms and suites will offer world-class amenities and spectacular vistas of the glimmering sea and city harbor. The Taj Exotica Resort & Spa will also feature a selection of the finest restaurants and bars, an eclectic choice of retail outlets, a host of recreation facilities and the renowned Jiva Spa.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa will be managed by Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, known across the world for its landmark hotels, unmatched service and legendary hospitality that is over 100 years old.

For further information, contact our pre-opening office.
Dubai: sales.palmdubai@tajhotels.com

One & Only The Palm, Dubai

Close associates of the past ten years, His Highness Sheikh Bin Saeed Al Makthoum and Sol Kerzner, CEO and Chairman of Kerzner International, announced today the opening of their new project, One&Only The Palm, for 10 October 2010. Following two years of planning, with construction well underway, they recently met to review the progress of this luxury resort in Dubai.

‘The ongoing success of One&Only Royal Mirage and our most recent project in Dubai –Atlantis, The Palm, continue to show the strengths of this destination”, said Sol Kerzner. We believe the government’s continuous commitment to developing tourism in the region combined with all the destination has to offer, its constant innovation and its easy international access  make this the perfect place for us to expand the One&Only portfolio.’

Located on one of Dubai’s most ambitious project developments – The Palm Jumeirah – the resort’s external architecture will blend Moorish and Andalucian influences, while the interiors will display contemporary, chic living environments, promoting a sense of understated elegancy with privacy being of the utmost importance. Surrounded by lush landscaped gardens, the resort will provide an oasis of tranquillity amid cosmopolitan Dubai.

One & Only The Palm, Dubai

Comprising of 100 keys, guest accommodation at this intimate resort is composed of 35 suites and apartments within the grand Manor House, six independent low- rise mansions with eight to ten suites and exclusive two and three bedroom beachfront villas.  Stunning and spacious with every modern amenity, guest rooms and suites will embrace a stylish modern design with an elegant palate of rich fabrics in hues of turquoise and purple. Sumptuous bathrooms will feature oversized, freestanding bath tubs and rain showers with the finest inlaid marble from Italy and Spain. All accommodation will offer outdoor terraces or private pool and each suite, apartment and villa will also be indulged by the discreet and attentive services of a dedicated butler, 24 hours a day.

The Grand Palm Suite will occupy350 square metres on the top floor of the Manor House, overlooking the 850 square metres pool or the resort’s private harbour.

In the Conservatory – open throughout the day – floor-to-ceiling windows will create a decidedly elegant and inviting ambience. Silver leaf and cut quartz crystal will accent the Arabian design as chefs prepare delicacies from the Orient and the Middle East at two live cooking stations.  Deep earth tones, rich marble floors and an intricately patterned crystal ceiling will provide an atmosphere for evening dining on contemporary Italian cuisine.

Offering panoramic views of the Gulf and beyond, the striking Marina Restaurant with al fresco dining will open onto a fashionable over water chill-out lounge with daybeds, beachside tables and bar. With an energised vibe moving from day into night, this ultra-chic venue is adjacent to the marina, enabling guests entry by private yacht or One&Only water taxis.

One & Only The Palm, Dubai

For true leisure, guests will be able to indulge in world-class sailing or be thrilled by nearby adrenaline-packed water parks. For relaxation, they may bask in the sun on oversized daybeds or in one of the six private cabanas by the 850 square metre pool, stroll along the private beach or unwind in the freestanding 2,400 square metres spa, fitness and beauty complex. Set amidst outdoor gardens, courtyards and its own pool, the One&Only Spa – under the expertise of ESPA – will offer rejuvenating treatments in one of the eight private treatments suites, a fitness centre featuring state-of-the-art equipment by Technogym and Kinesis studio, tennis court, A Mani:Pedi Studio by Bastien Gonzalez as well as a pampering beauty salon.
With its enviable location on the peninsula of Palm Island crescent with striking views of new Dubai’s skyline, guests will be able to either indulge in an exclusive island feel getaway or choose to be whisked away by the resort’s private water taxis or limousine to Dubai’s most coveted experiences, be they golf at award-winning courses designed by the greatest, awe-inspiring shopping featuring the latest collections or dining and entertainment at the most sought-after of venues with the likes of Nobu and Ronda Locatelli at Atlantis, The Palm, and Tagine, Nina, the Roof Top and Kasbar at One&Only Royal Mirage to name but a few.

For more information visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com

Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa, Koh Samui

Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas has announced its continued global expansion with the unveiling of Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa, Koh Samui, as the brand’s seventh Thai property and their second to grace Samui’s shores.

With exotic touches that open a window into the life of the island’s original Chinese merchant settlers, and occupying an enviable beachfront position just north of Chaweng Beach, the resort’s exotic location is just a convenient 6 kilometres from Samui International Airport.  Anantara Lawana offers total immersion in scenic tranquility and leisurely luxury, whilst the hustle and bustle of Chaweng town’s shopping and nightlife scene is just a stone’s throw away for those who prefer to explore the heart of the island’s action.

Designed in contemporary Sino-Thai style and embraced by lush tropical gardens, Anantara Lawana boasts 88 spacious rooms and 34 pool villas.  Offering intimately oriental sanctuaries, refinement is expressed through plush comforts and exquisitely vibrant silks.

Gaze over a tropical paradise from a private terrace.  Take a refreshing dip in the resort’s splendid, wave-shaped, beachfront swimming pool, or romanticise with a loved one in the private pool of an elegant villa.  Extend the island experience aboard a luxury cruising yacht, soak up a mesmerising shoreline on an enthralling guided boat tour, or indulge in an invigorating array of water-sport activities.

Sample the finest wines and international cuisine, enjoying Anantara’s gracious service all the while.  Discover remarkable romance with a unique and exclusive dining experience where Western culinary gems are served in seven private salas on stilts, affording uninterrupted sea views.

Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa, Koh Samui

The luxurious Anantara Spa incorporates 9 en-suite treatment rooms promising pampering journeys encompassing Ayurvedic, traditional Thai and other classic international therapies, as well as blissful personal packages.

Delight in additional facilities including a fitness centre and library catering for every lifestyle need and providing the perfect hideaway balance.
William E. Heinecke, CEO of Minor International, owners of the Anantara brand, comments, “Announcing a second resort on the beautiful island of Koh Samui, as well as our seventh resort nationwide in Thailand is further proof of Anantara’s passion for creating amazing stories for our guests to experience through our growing diversity of unique destination experiences”

Building upon the presence of existing Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas worldwide, Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa in China, Anantara Kihavah Villas in the Maldives and Anantara Al Madina A’Zarqa Resort & Spa in Oman, all due to open in 2010, highlight the brand’s growing network throughout Asia and beyond.

For more information on Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, please visit www.anantara.com & Finest-spa.com

©Amanresorts - Amanfayun

Early next year, Amanresorts will launch its 24th property, Amanfayun. Named for a Tang Dynasty village which once inhabited the site, Amanfayun will offer guests a unique rural retreat on the outskirts of the historic Chinese city of Hangzhou, just a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

Amanfayun lies hidden in a valley to the west of West Lake – an historic site surrounded by fields, temples, groves of bamboo and densely forested hills. The property today consists of a remaining 47 stone courtyard dwellings that once housed villagers who tended the surrounding tea plantations. While the villagers have long since left, the fields still yield some of the finest green tea in China. Amanfayun lies within a pilgrimage circuit of five significant Buddhist temples, currently under review by UNESCO as both a cultural and religious heritage site.

Amanfayun offers 42 rooms, suites and villas, of which sixteen are Village Rooms, nine are Village Suites, 12 are Deluxe Village Suites, four are Village Villas (featuring a duplex configuration with private double massage treatment rooms), and one is the Amanfayun Villa (comprising two king-size bedrooms, a courtyard and a private massage treatment room). Due to the unique nature of the structures, no two rooms are identical. Whilst respecting the integrity of the original village dwellings, all accommodations enjoy the comforts of radiant under-floor heating, air conditioning and Wi-Fi internet connections. All accommodations feature natural finishes, open-grain elm wood furniture including daybeds and dining suites, and dark wood Chinese lattice screens which separate the various living spaces. Fine calligraphy art pieces decorate the walls and a sound system with iPod option is available in all rooms (televisions are available on request). Most accommodation units open onto private or semi-private courtyards with informal outdoor dining and lounge areas.

©Amanresorts - Amanfayun

Central to Amanfayun’s status as a relaxing retreat is the resort’s Aman Spa. Positioned at the northern end of the Fayun Pathway, the Aman Spa consists of five buildings set around tranquil courtyards and surrounded by bamboo groves, tea bushes and Magnolia trees. The Reception is the first building accessed from the Fayun Pathway via a shaded courtyard, and contains the spa library, lounge and consultation area. A wooden stairway leads to the second floor Reflexology Room for traditional foot massages. From the rear of the Reception building, a stone footpath leads to the rest of the spa houses.

The second building is the Bath House. This contains three treatment rooms that allow guests to relax alone or as a couple. Each treatment room features a circular wooden soaking tub, a steam room and double-seated showers. The building adjacent to the Bath House is the Movement Studio. This comprises two levels around a central courtyard shaded by twin Magnolia trees. Entry is via a reception area featuring a fresh juice bar. On the lower level and directly adjacent to the Yongfu Temple wall is a separate Tai Chi, yoga and meditation room. A fully-equipped gym is located directly across the courtyard. A stairway leads to the second level which houses the Aman Pilates Studio. Further along the stone footpath is the Finishing Salon where hair spa treatments, manicures, pedicures and waxing are offered.

©Amanresorts - Amanfayun

The last two-storey structure within the spa complex houses the treatment rooms – three doubles and two singles. Each room features a changing area, steam shower and soaking tub. Massage and body treatments draw from traditional Chinese massage and reflexology, as well as from ancient Asian healing therapies. At the end of every treatment, guests are served fresh herbal tea in their own private relaxation area.

Adjacent to the Aman Spa is the Aman Boutique which carries a fine collection of antiques, jewellery and crafts, as well as an interesting display of silks – the production of which has brought fame to Hangzhou for centuries. Guests interested in the city’s role in the ancient silk trade can explore the silk streets of Xinhua and Jiankang in Hangzhou’s heart, now the largest silk wholesale and retail markets in China.

For more information visit : www.amanresorts.com

HSH PRINCE ALBERT II OF MONACO LAUNCHES MARRAKECH’S PRESTIGIOUS JAWHAR ESTATE

On Monday 9th November 2009, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco officiated at the launch of the Jawhar Estate in Morocco. The Jawhar Estate is part of a planned new luxury district in the Menara area of Marrakech and is being undertaken by development and investment specialist Aerium Atlas Management and will be managed by renowned hotel operator Monte-Carlo SBM.

Scheduled to open in late 2011, the 14 hectare Jawhar Estate (Jawhar means “Jewel” in Arabic), uniquely located in the heart of Marrakech, provides 25 private residences, a 93 all-suite 5-star hotel (Monte-Carlo SBM’s first resort outside of Monaco), a top gastronomic restaurant and a Wellness Centre and Spa; the latter drives the character and offering of Jawhar and will adroitly position the resort as the key destination in the rapidly growing global “healthcare tourism” market.

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco was hosted by Mr Ely Michel Ruimy, Chairman of the Aerium Group, and Mr Bernard Lambert, Chief Executive Officer of Monte-Carlo SBM. Also in attendance were the team involved in the project including luxury resort specialist architects HKS Hill Glazier Studio represented by Luis Zapiain and Luciano Mazza; Sybille de Margerie of SM Design, the well known Paris based hotel designer; France’s foremost landscape architect Jean Mus, Susan Harmsworth, the founder of the international spa operator ESPA and the world renowned Jacques Grange who will design the interiors of the private residences.

Jawhar Residence - Main Pool

In a special VIP presentation suite created on the site of the Jawhar Estate, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco was shown by their hosts the plans and images together with a special visualisation of the Jawhar Estate. To commemorate the historic event, a scroll highlighting the attendance of the Princes at the launch will be laid under the Foundation Stone for the Jawhar Estate.

His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco commented: “It is a real pleasure for me to attend the launch of the Jawhar Estate in Marrakech of a project that symbolises Monte-Carlo SBM’s very first international development. For nearly 150 years Monte-Carlo SBM successfully helped to build and reinforce Monte-Carlo and Monaco’s world renowned reputation for quality, style, glamour and the highest standards of customer service. This launch and project also represent a further step in the development of the warm relationship His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco and myself have enjoyed for a long time. We have both witnessed the blossoming of numerous projects common to both countries in the fields of politics, commerce and the environment. I am delighted that this enhanced phase in the relationship between our two countries has been reflected in the launch of the Jawhar Estate project which brings together the best of Monte-Carlo and Morocco.”

Mr Bernard Lambert, Chief Executive Officer of Monte-Carlo SBM commented: “The Jawhar Estate stands apart due to its outstanding location, landscaping and the magnificent Wellness Centre and Spa. It is where the very best of Monte-Carlo and Morocco is combined with contemporary design and 5-star services, to provide unrivalled chic, elegant and timeless luxury living.”

Mr Ely Michel Ruimy, Chairman of the Aerium Group commented: “We are privileged to have been afforded this opportunity by the Kingdom of Morocco to develop the Jawhar Estate on this historic site. It is our responsibility to ensure that we fulfil the expectations and deliver to the people of Marrakech an exceptional development that will further enhance the prestige of the city and deliver a legacy for its future.”

For more information visit : www.jawharresidences.com