Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts is planning to expand its presence in Central Europe following the signing of a management agreement for a new five-star hotel in Prague. The Le Royal Meridien Prague will be located in an existing building currently housing a banking operation and is situated in the old part of the town that dates back to the 11th century. The developers are J&T Global, based in Prague and the Belgian company Buelens Real Estate.

When the redevelopment of the property is completed, the hotel, which is due to open early 2009, will have a minimum of 165 rooms, including 18 suites; meeting rooms; restaurant, bar and street cafe; a fitness club and parking facilities.

“We are thrilled to be announcing a new Le Meridien hotel in Prague - especially as this is the first hotel signing for Le Meridien since they become part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts last month,” said Michael Wale, Senior Vice President Le Meridien Operations. “I am sure this newest hotel in our European portfolio will quickly establish itself as one of the premier hotels in this part of the world.”

Starwood’s recent acquisition of the Le Meridien brand, comprising 130 hotels and resorts around the world, provides the hotel giant with a significant presence in Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific. The addition of Le Royal Meridien Prague marks the company’s first property in the Czech Republic and its bustling capital city.
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