The 328-room Crowne Plaza Paris République opened today. Owned by Westbridge, it is the fifth Crowne Plaza in France and the second in Paris, alongside the Crowne Plaza Paris Champs Elysées.
The 162-room Crowne Plaza London Kensington, owned by Lum Chang (London) Ltd, is scheduled to open on 21 April after an GBP8 million ($11.8 million)refurbishment.
Built in 1865 during Napoleon III’s reign, the building that houses the Republique boasts of classic Parisian Haussmann-style exterior and a historic courtyard. Its bar, 10 Bar, offers views directly onto the République square while its new restaurant, 10 Restaurant, serves French cuisine under the direction of chef David Desplanques, formerly of Robuchon and Ducasse.
The London property’s Victorian façade 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.
Intercontinental Hotel Group, the company which owns the Crown Plaza brand,
introduced Crowne Plaza to Europe more than 20 years ago.
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.
Following significant upgrading work, both Crowne Plaza hotels have converted from Holiday Inn hotels and are operated under franchise agreements. Holiday Inn Paris République opened in 1982 while Holiday Inn London Kensington opened in 1991.
