Cannes, France – Reported by Elite Traveler, the private jet lifestyle magazine
Fast growing luxury group Jumeirah International announced here during the International Luxury Travel Mart that is is taking over management of Rome’s famous Grand Hotel Via Veneto as of January and it will be re-branded as Jumeirah Grand Hotel Via Veneto.
Following the recent opening of its Frankfurt property, the group will open a third property in London, Grosvenor House Apartments by Jumeirah Living. Other openings in 2012 include Kuwait, Baku, Jumeirah Dubai Creekside Hotel, Mallorca and a second Maldives property which will drive its count of open hotels to 22.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Elite Traveler, Executive Chairman Gerald Lawless enthused about flying the flag in Rome noting that Dubai flag carrier Emirates serves the city with double daily flights and will upgrade one frequency to the Airbus A380 super jumbo. He noted that the property was fully renovated in 2009 so it is in top shape and doesn‚t require any changes or upgrades once Jumeirah takes the keys.
Key features, according to Lawless include that nearly half of the 122 rooms are suites, including a 5,000 square foot Royal Suite featuring two master bedrooms, a dining room with tea corner, a double living room, a studio and four bathrooms plus a 2,500 square foot outdoor terrace overlooking Porta Pinciana with a Jacuzzi.
“Rome doesn’t have high-rise building so the views from the suite are amazing,” Lawless said. “The suite has limited edition Hermes leather chairs, Rubelli tapestry sofas and artwork by Rabarama and is well suited for elite travelers.”
The Dubai-based group has become know for its dining concepts and to that end Magnolia, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant will offer a “gastronomic feast” of “modern Italian cuisine.”
One area of the hotel Lawless believes will have particular appeal is the Sky Bar & Grill, located on the top of the hotel. The space which includes outdoor terrace, he said is perfect for corporate events and private parties.