Expansion in Vientiane marks IHG’s ‘arrival’ in Lao People’s Democratic Republic, claiming presence in all capital cities across IndoChina; Phu Quoc Resort will be the fourth Crowne Plaza property in Vietnam
IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced the signing of agreements with leading Vietnamese conglomerate, the BIM Group, for two new-build Crowne Plaza properties in Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) and Phu Quoc, Vietnam, both scheduled to open in 2015. Both projects will add about 600 rooms to IHG’s portfolio.
As the first IHG-managed property in Lao PDR, Crowne Plaza Vientiane will mark the hotel group’s strategic presence in all capital cities in IndoChina – in addition to Hanoi, Vietnam and Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Resort will be the brand’s fourth property in Vietnam.
"The BIM Group is a strategic partner for IHG in the fast-growing IndoChina market. The group’s success in the various businesses speaks highly of its leadership and influence, complementing IHG’s strength and development plans in the region,” said Jan Smits, Chief Executive Officer, IHG Asia, Middle East and Africa. “The debut of the first Crowne Plaza hotel in Vientiane will further invigorate tourism in this part of the world. Crowne Plaza Vientiane aims to generate a new buzz and create additional employment opportunities in this upcoming travel and business destination, as well as provide a comprehensive range of services and products for the MICE sector.” BIM Group’s business interests encompass hotel development, real estate, infrastructure development and construction, and transportation, amongst others.
Crowne Plaza Vientiane
The 200-room Crowne Plaza Vientiane will be positioned on a 2-hectare prime area within the city centre of Vientiane, capital of Lao PDR. It will be located along Rue Samsenthai, adjoining the junction of Rue Setthathilath where the prominent statue of King Fa Ngum stands. Fa Ngum was the first king and founder of the Laotian Kingdom of Lan Xang.
Located along the Lao PDR-Thailand border, Vientiane is an important gateway and business destination in IndoChina. The city hosts local, regional and international firms, embassies, local government offices, as well as global organisations such as the Asian Development Bank, the UN and the World Bank. It is also a popular transit point for leisure travellers en route to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO world heritage site, and other popular destinations throughout Lao PDR and the rest of IndoChina.
Source: Vientianetimes.org 2014
