The Kessler Collection’s Castle Hotel on Orlando’s International Drive Rebranded

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The Kessler Collection, a portfolio of boutique four and five-diamond quality properties located in Florida, Georgia, Colorado and New Mexico, and IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) announced the transition of The Castle Hotel to a Holiday Inn Resort as of Nov. 1, 2010. Located in the heart of Orlando, on the famed International Drive, the rebranded Holiday Inn Resort Orlando – The Castle provides guests with a magical experience, full of enchantment, starting with the hotel’s storied history. Built as the first Kessler Collection property in 1995, The Castle Hotel fulfilled the childhood wish of Mr. Kessler’s daughter, Laura, to have her very own princess castle.

Holiday Inn Resort Orlando – The Castle also offers business travelers brand new “Smart Rooms” a concept developed by IHG. Smart Rooms are available for a $20 upgrade and feature Brother Five-In-One machines with printer, scanner, copier and fax plus use of Roomlinx, featuring business tools that allow sophisticated travelers the chance to leave their personal laptops at home.

“The Kessler Collection’s commitment to providing guests with the highest level of service and attention to detail blends well with our relaunch of Holiday Inn hotels across the country,” said Gina LaBarre, vice president, Brand Delivery, The Americas, IHG. “This is a wonderful property that has become a favorite of both leisure and business travelers since it opened in 1995.”

The agreement between IHG and The Kessler Collection is a testament to the strength of the $1 billion Holiday Inn relaunch. First announced in 2007, the relaunch program creates a more contemporary brand image as part of the drive to increase quality and consistency across the global portfolio. The program focuses on arrival and welcome services, as well as guestroom and guest bath comfort. The global estate of more than 3,400 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties are expected to relaunch by the end of 2010, and nearly 2,800 hotels have already been relaunched to date.

Featuring 216 guest rooms and suites just steps from world-class dining, shopping and entertainment Holiday Inn Resort Orlando – The Castle combines artistic flare and playful luxury within its medieval-inspired walls. From the rare doll collection and castle creatures to the medieval architecture and authentic Austrian castle detailing, the hotel creates an atmosphere guests of all ages are sure to love. The hotel also features newly renovated guest suites of regal décor, a heated outdoor pool with a fountain and stunning rooftop terraces fit for a princess to await her prince. Guests enjoy a menu fit for a king at Castle Café, serving fantastic cuisine from the daily continental breakfast with made-to-order omelets to in-room dining options for those who wish to stay within their chamber. Additionally, Jester’s Poolside Lounge offers plenty of food and beverage choices for guests to enjoy under the sun.

Daniel Fountain / 19.11.2010

Editor, Hotel Designs

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