Accor to manage new Sofitel in Macau

Accor has been awarded the management contract for Sofitel Macau@Ponte16 in one of Macau’s most significant and historic precincts.

The hotel is being developed by Pier 16 – Property Development Limited as part of an estimated HK$2.4 billion (US$300 million) total investment completed in two phases, with a casino development targeting operation by the end of 2006, and the Sofitel Macau@Ponte 16 scheduled to open in late 2007.

Built around the remaining façade of Pier 16, the 17-storey Sofitel Macau will have 440-rooms, two restaurants and two bars, swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, business centre, and a 700 sqm multi-function conference room plus additional meeting rooms. The hotel will also have a Sofitel Club Lounge and Sofitel Club Executive floors.

The Ponte 16 site is located in the Inner Harbour of Macau’s Pier 16, one of the oldest districts in the former Portuguese enclave. Architectural design of the Sofitel and the entire development will reflect the city’s colonial past, to blend harmoniously with the ambience of the ‘Historic Centre of Macau’, China’s 31st World Heritage Site.

The development will echo the Inner Harbour area’s historical relics and heritage, protecting landmarks such as the Old Clock Tower, the focal point of project. Sofitel Macau@Ponte 16 will be on the right side of the Clock Tower, the left side will house retail shops, restaurants, a Cineplex and massive casino complex. Cobblestone streets will connect the different sectors of a project site which covers over 23,000 sqm. A promenade will be built along the Ponte 16 waterfront to provide a venue for outdoor performances and other recreational activities.

Sofitel Macau@Ponte 16 will be within walking distance to the ‘Historic Centre of Macau’, which is a living representation of the city’s original settlement, encompassing its architectural heritage interwoven in its streetscapes and piazzas. These provide a link to a succession of over twenty monuments, including St Dominic’s Church, the Ruins of St. Paul’s, sections of the Old City Walls and the Mount Fortress.

Accor Asia Pacific Managing Director, Michael Issenberg, said, “Macau International Airport is quickly becoming a major gateway to China as well as a regional hub for Asia because of the competitive landing fees.”

According to Mr Issenberg, the recent announcement of two new Macau-based carriers focusing on domestic and regional routes could attract a new generation of potential customers to Macau.

“Macau’s image as a leisure destination is maturing, with more higher-yield and repeat visitors attracted by the dramatic development and top-class gaming and entertainment available,” he said.

“The vast interest in historic cities bodes well for Macau, and with the developers commitment to maintaining the historic integrity of the waterfront district, we believe the Sofitel will attract strong interest from visitors from around the world seeking all the modern attractions that Macau offers, combined with historical ambience and character.”

Macau received over 19 million total visitors during 2005 including more than 1 million international passengers at Macau International Airport, an increase of 21% over 2004.

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