NEW YORK, February 12, 2008 – Relais & Châteaux, the exclusive collection of 470 of the world’s finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 55 countries, will open Maison des Relais & Châteaux in midtown Manhattan on February 13. This is the organization’s third Maison and the first in North America; the flagship opened in Paris in 2002 and the London boutique made its debut in December 2007.
Guests visiting the New York City boutique will be invited to discover Relais & Châteaux through a mini-theatre featuring the Association’s story. The Maison will also house a state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen where world-renowned chefs from Relais & Châteaux properties will be featured. A Library of the Five Senses will offer the works of several Grands Chefs Relais & Châteaux including Patrick O’Connell, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Daniel Boulud, and more. Brochures will be available for each property along with à la carte sample itineraries for guests to research and book travel. Additionally, guests visiting the Maison will be able to purchase gift certificates, redeemable worldwide, and obtain information on spa, fine dining and golf amenities and packages at member properties.
“The opening of the Maison in New York City signals Relais & Châteaux’s growing presence as a global association with properties and restaurants located all over the world including North America,” said Jaume Tàpies, International President of Relais & Châteaux. “The Maison allows us to bring alive the Relais & Châteaux brand in this very important global metropolis and share the unique qualities, character and ideals that define our properties and restaurants.”
The organization’s New York City boutique launch is part of a dynamic marketing strategy in the 10 major markets of Relais & Châteaux. Following the Maison opening in New York, three new Relais & Châteaux offices are set to open in Switzerland, the Benelux countries and in Singapore in 2008.
Maison des Relais & Châteaux in New York City is located at 10 East 53rd Street (off Fifth Avenue) and welcomes the public Monday - Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To contact the Maison des Relais & Châteaux, call 212-319-4880. In addition to being available in the Maisons, gift certificates are also available for purchase online or by calling 877-334-6464.
About Relais & Châteaux
Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 470 of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 55 countries. Established in France in 1954, the Association’s mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character. Furthermore, Relais & Châteaux is also a family of hoteliers and Grands Chefs from all over the world who share a passion for, and a personal commitment to, ensuring their guests are privy to moments of exceptional harmony. To choose Relais & Châteaux is to experience an unforgettable celebration of the senses. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers a chance to explore the Route du Bonheur and discover a special place in a variety of destinations. The Relais & Châteaux signature reflects this ambition: “ALL AROUND THE WORLD, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD.” For information or reservations, call 800-735-2478 or consult the Web site at www.relaischateaux.com.
