Starwood opens dual-branded ski resort in China

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced the opening of its first dual-branded ski resort complex in Changbaishan, China. Owned by Dalian Wanda Group, Sheraton Changbaishan Resort (297 rooms) and The Westin Changbaishan Resort (262 rooms) are adjacent to the slopes of the Changbai Mountains, one of China’s leading ski areas and famed resort destinations. The highly anticipated opening marks Starwood’s first ski resorts in Asia Pacific, and further lengthens the company’s footprint as the largest international luxury and upper upscale hotel operator in China where the company recently celebrated 103 hotels in operation, with another 100 hotels in the pipeline. The Sheraton and Westin resort complex is close to Yingfu Expressway and just six miles to Changbaishan Airport (NBS). Known for its natural beauty, the Changbai mountain range extends through several countries and is home to 200 animal and bird species. Guests will enjoy downhill skiing on trails surrounded by unspoiled pine forests, as well as ice skating and ice fishing. The resort complex offers more than 3,330 square metres of function and meeting space, including a ballroom, nine smaller meeting rooms, and a spacious pre-function area. Six innovative food and beverage venues, along with a professional catering and meeting team, are capable of organizing functions for all types of occasions. (http://www.starwoodhotels.com)