Virtuoso® Welcomes Mandarin Oriental, Paris Into Its Prestigious Preview Program

NEW YORK, May 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtuoso® is pleased to welcome the first French hotel into its exclusive Preview program – Mandarin Oriental, Paris – opening in summer 2011. Under the expert supervision of one of the city's most recognized General Managers, Philippe Leboeuf, and ideally located on Rue Saint Honore in the heart of Paris, the 138-room and suite property marries Parisian style and sensibility with Mandarin Oriental's famed service. Mandarin Oriental, Paris joins an impressive roster of hand-selected Preview hotels, each of which is granted access to the assets and enviable membership of luxury travel network, Virtuoso.

Located within walking distance of Place Vendome and the Jardin des Tuileries, Mandarin Oriental Paris boasts one of the best addresses in the city. Parisian style is evident throughout, no more so than in the hotel's unique terraced Garden where 32 trees and 100 shrubs create an oasis of calm for guests to relax in, beside a wall of Periwinkles which appears from floors one through eight. The much-coveted property will also offer a 10,000-square-foot spa with indoor swimming pool and the culinary prowess of renowned Executive Chef and Culinary Director, Thierry Marx.  

"It's an honor to welcome such an exquisite property to Virtuoso's Preview program," said Albert Herrera, vice president of hotels, destinations and tours for Virtuoso. "Even before the hotel has opened its doors, it is clear to see why Mandarin Oriental, Paris has already created a buzz in Paris. Virtuoso clients will love its poetic Garden, creative cuisine, fabulous location and the level of service that is globally synonymous with the Mandarin Oriental experience."

In addition to the superb location and chic Parisian design, Virtuoso's well-heeled clientele will appreciate the blending of the building's traditional Art Deco facade with today's most advanced technology throughout the hotel. The rooms are also some of the largest in Paris, a city not traditionally known for its spacious accommodations.

Foodies will enjoy the hotel's three sumptuous dining establishments, under the careful direction of Executive Chef and Restaurant Director, Thierry Marx. The hotel's gourmet restaurant, which seats an intimate 45 diners, will introduce Thierry Marx's contemporary and innovative cuisine. The hotel's traditional French restaurant, Le Camelia, will feature one dedicated Asian Counter, and offer all-day dining with both indoor and outdoor garden seating. Finally, the hotel Bar will be a hub of dining activity, day and night, with an extensive cocktail list and selection of fine wines.

An impressive 10,000-square-foot spa, featuring a 50-foot-long swimming pool surrounded by seven exclusive Spa Suites, brings Mandarin Oriental's signature spa rituals to Paris. Guests will embark on a tranquil journey that is defined by the length of time they wish to spend pampering themselves, rather than a specific treatment. In this idyllic setting, each Suite benefits from its own private steam shower and dressing room. The Spa also offers guests a steam room and 1,300 square-foot fitness center with the very latest in workout technology.

By participating in Virtuoso Preview, Mandarin Oriental, Paris is now positioned amongst the world's best hotels and resorts. Access to Virtuoso's marketing and branding initiatives, attendance at conferences and events, and training opportunities will allow Mandarin Oriental, Paris to educate Virtuoso's elite membership during its pre-opening stages and crucial first year of operation. Additionally, Preview participation ensures Virtuoso's advisors see exclusive selling advantages for a full year through the special amenities offered and VIP treatment their clients receive at Mandarin Oriental, Paris upon opening.

For more information, please visit: www.mandarinoriental.com/paris.  

Launched in February 2010, Virtuoso Preview has previously welcomed Coworth Park, The Chatwal New York, the Armani Dubai, St. Regis Bahia Beach-Puerto Rico, Montage Deer Valley and 45 Park Lane as participants.

About Virtuoso

Virtuoso® is the industry's leading luxury travel network.  This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 300 agencies with more than 6,000 elite travel specialists in 22 countries in North and South America, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, as well as over 1,000 of the world's best travel providers and premier destinations.  The network's member agencies generate over $5.1 billion annually in travel sales, making the group the most powerful in the luxury travel segment.  Their relationships with the finest travel companies provide the network's affluent clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Virtuoso is the exclusive network of travel services and benefits provided by MasterCard® for participating World Elite MasterCard® programs. For more information, please visit www.virtuoso.com.  To see Virtuoso's latest video content, visit http://www.youtube.com/user/VirtuosoTraveler.

SOURCE Virtuoso(R)