Orient-Express to launch associate hotel program

Orient-Express Hotels Ltd., owners or part owners and managers of 45 luxury hotel, restaurant, tourist train and river cruise properties operating in 22 countries, has launched the Orient-Express Associate Hotels program. At the same time, Orient-Express announced that the founding member of the new program is the iconic HÒtel du Palais, Biarritz, France. “The Associate Hotels program is an opportunity to enhance our portfolio of iconic travel experiences by partnering with independently owned and/or managed luxury hotels,”said David Williams, chief marketing officer, Orient-Express. “In return for providing access to our highly valued international sales force and strategic marketing channels, this initiative enables us to curate new destinations for our guests to discover. Our boutique collection is uniquely positioned to work with like-minded hoteliers who wish to preserve their established individual brand reputation, but who share the vision of the Orient-Express umbrella brand, offering an equal standard of authentic experience, revenue return and service as our owned properties.”Associate hotels will have access to Orient-Express’ full suite of sales, marketing and public relations support in 17 key geographic markets, global voice reservations and dedicated distribution under the Orient-Express GDS code “OE,”and a fully aligned online presence with next generation web sites. Available strategic partnerships include the Bellini Club, Orient-Express’ preferred agent program.