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Journalism of Courage
The dreaded R-word seems to have hit the pricey indoors of even the world’s top-notch luxurious hotels — one has been put on block by its current owner who happens to be Prince of Saudi Arabia,while some others are toying up with recession-themed ideas to keep afloat.
As if looking desperate to get business in today’s tough times,hotels are offering special packages where guests are being asked to “help with dishes” for a couple of free drinks or to wear a bankrupt-looking outfit for 15 per cent discount.
The owners who probably do not believe in such innovative schemes are looking to just move out by selling the hotel.
British daily ‘The Times’ reported that Fairmont Raffles Hotels International,a byword for colonial grandeur and where Saudi Prince Alwaleed has a controlling stake,is on look out for potential buyers.
The report said that “(the) industry insiders insist that the Prince is keen to raise funds by selling parts of his huge hotel empire. While his 45 per cent holding in Four Seasons,the luxury operator,is said to be sacrosanct,there are strong rumours that he may be willing to entertain offers for his 33 per cent stake in Mövenpick Hotels,the Swiss chain.
“Some say that,for the right price,he would even consider selling The Savoy,in London,which is due to reopen at the end of the year after a 100 million pound refurbishment.”
Fairmont Raffles Hotels International is said to be a global leader in the luxury hotel segment with 123 hotels,including 32 wholly and partially owned properties and 91 managed hotels across the world. The company operates under four brands; Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc,Raffles Hotels & Resorts,Swissotel Hotels and Delta Hotels Limited.
Elsewhere,the Keating Hotel in San Diego,a high-end boutique hotel in the US,is offering a ‘spring recession special’ package and recently also sought to cash upon the buzz created by the controversies like Madoff ponzi scandal and the hefty bonus payouts at firms like AIG.
The Spring Recession Special,which began on March 15 and is available through April 30,has some usual discounts like one complementary cocktail and third night free after paying for two nights of stay at the hotel.
But there is also some additional benefits on platter — where the hotel is offering two drinks for free if the guests help with the dishes.
Besides,”you can also save 15 per cent off your dinner if you come in wearing a barrel or your best recession outfit,” the hotel offers.
