Meliá Hotels International has announced the opening of the Gran Meliá Xian, a new flagship hotel for its brands in Asia Pacific, signed back in 2011.

Located in the new district of Qu Jiang, near the ancient city wall and home to all the biggest shopping malls and the convention centre, the Gran Meliá Xian is destined to become the hotel of choice for both business and leisure travellers.

The city of Xi’an is one of the most attractive travel destinations in China, with its natural beauty rich cultural heritage.

Dating back over 3,000 years, Xi’an was the capital of the ancient Chinese dynasties, rivalling the power of Rome and Constantinople.

Strategically located a short distance from the tourist attractions and the major highways, the Gran Meliá Xian offers 389 rooms, including 54 suites, all with large windows and fantastic views of the gardens and lake.

A superior product compared to the existing hotel supply, the hotel combines a dramatic interior and exterior design blending traditional luxury with the flair of Gran Meliá hotels.

The hotel includes Red Level Service, a ‘boutique hotel’ within the hotel for VIP guests.

As noted by the vice chairman of Meliá Hotels International, Gabriel Escarrer: “The opening of the Gran Meliá Xian represents a milestone in our growing presence in China, which will also see hotels launching in the coming months in first-tier cities such as Chonqing, Zhengzhou, Jinan and Tianjin.

“The versatility of our luxury Gran Meliá brand, our leadership as managers of urban and resort hotels, and our passion for service perfectly complement this exceptional and unique hotel.”

The Gran Meliá Xian will be operated under a management agreement and joins the Meliá Hotels International portfolio in Asia which currently stands at 20 hotels open or in the process of opening throughout 2014 and 2015 in China (five), Vietnam (two), Malaysia, and Indonesia (eight).