Marriott & #39;S Renaissance Mumbai Starts Operations From Today

US-based Marriott International is kick staring its five star hotel -- Renaissance Mumbai Hotel and Convention Centre -- with a soft opening on tomorrow.

In the last 12 months, Mumbai has seen the addition of two new properties including the Le Meridien at the international airport and Lakeside Chalet Marriott Executive Apartment at Powai Lake. While ITC's Grand Maratha at the international airport had a soft opening in January 2001.

The 286-room Renaissance Mumbai Hotel and Convention Centre has been set up on the banks of Powai Lake. Says John Toomey, director marketing for Marriott Executive Apartment and Renaissance, "What differentiates Renaissance from the current crop of hotel is the fact that it is attached to the biggest convention centre in the western part of the country."

 

The hotel's attached convention centre is spread over 60,000 square feet. Its Grand Ballroom, measuring 13,000 square feet can accommodate upto 2,500 guests.

"The hotel's sophistication and resort style, uniquely coupled with modern convenience, energises travelers with discriminating tastes. From the anticipated arrival at our exclusive entrance to the convenience of express checkout, our helpful and courteous staff meets guests' needs with enthusiasm and we would offer a special opening rate of $169," said Rajeev Menon, general manager.

Adds John, "The initial response to the convention centre has been encouraging as we have started booking major conventions." Renaissance will be playing host to the Travel Agents Associations of India convention in September 2001. The Neurocon 2001, an international conference for neuro-surgeons, will also be held at Renaissance in December 2001."

In India, the Marriott chain has introduced three brands -- JW Marriott (5-star deluxe hotel), Marriott executive apartment and Renaissance (business hotel).

John says, "Within a short period of two years, Marriott will have three properties in Mumbai and we are looking at India very seriously." Marriott is also setting three hotels in Chennai and the work has already commenced.