Read on to explore more 2021 news from Accor:
Hotel Openings
Accor’s global pipeline encompasses more than 208,000 rooms across 1,192 hotels (as of Q3 2020). Here is a look at major 2021 openings in North America.
Fairmont Century Plaza (Spring 2021) - Century City’s iconic hotel will emerge as a fully reimagined landmark for the city of Los Angeles. After a highly anticipated USD $2.5 billion redevelopment of famed architect Minoru Yamasaki’s mid-century modern hotel, Fairmont Century Plaza has been completely reimagined by Yabu Pushelberg to include 351 guest rooms and 49 suites, all with private balconies. The destination will offer four restaurant and bar concepts: Lumière helmed by award-winning Executive Chef Jason Franey, The Bar at Century Plaza, Café Vignette and Pool Bar, all of which pay homage to the hotel’s storied past while looking forward to a reimagined future as the place to see and be seen in Los Angeles. Fairmont Spa Century Plaza is set to be a 14,000 square-foot showpiece, with state-of-the-art facilities, experiential showers, sanarium, Himalayan salt room, aromatherapy steam room, and hammam.
SLS Cancun Hotel & Residences (February 10, 2021) - The 6th SLS hotel and first SLS in Mexico, SLS Cancun Hotel & Residences is set to make its grand debut with 45 suites and 130 residential units in Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Designed by award-winning architect and designer, Piero Lissoni, SLS Cancun Hotel & Residences will encompass a vibrant private beach club and poolside scene, a luxurious spa, and internationally acclaimed dining at Leynia. The destination will also feature a private Marina and 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course.
SLS Harbour Beach Residences (Q2 2021) – Neighboring SLS Cancun Hotel & Residences, this luxury, beachfront residential tower is also designed by Piero Lissoni and offers 121 one- to four-bedroom residences with private elevator access and floor-to-ceiling views of the marina and the Caribbean Sea. Homeowners are given access to a range of luxurious amenities including the marina, 18-hole golf course, children’s playroom, theater room and fitness center and spa.
Novotel Mexico City Toreo (Spring 2021) – Accor will be welcoming its third Novotel in Mexico, following Novotel Monterrey Valle and Novotel Mexico City Santa Fe. The Mexico City hotel is located in Naucalpan de Juarez neighborhood, offering 168 rooms and Heliana, a gastronomic restaurant showcasing Mediterranean flavors.
Novotel Insurgentes WTC – Mexico City (late 2021) – The fourth Novotel to make its debut in Mexico, Novotel Insurgentes WTC will be adjacent to one of the most important business centers nationwide, the World Trade Center, which before COVID-19 received approximately four million visitors each year and where more than a thousand national and international events are held. The property will boast 106 innovatively designed rooms. In addition, the hotel will have a new concept of open kitchen restaurants.
Hotel Renovations
Here’s a look at the biggest and brightest renovation projects set to be unveiled in 2021.
Fairmont Olympic, Seattle (2021) - With its priceless downtown location, rich character and history, impressive conference spaces, inventive food & beverage and legendary service, Fairmont Olympic is Seattle’s iconic hotel. This storied 96-year-old landmark is evolving for a new era as it is currently undergoing a grand-scale renovation. The completed project will showcase a fully transformed lobby experience for guests and locals, a new culinary flagship and modern classic bar. The renovation extends to all key event spaces, setting the perfect stage for momentous celebrations. Spanish design studio Lázaro Rosa-Violán (LRV) created the vision and interior design for The Olympic Hotel which celebrates its storied grandeur yet featuring a lush new vision of Seattle luxury.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler* (January 2021) - After an extensive eight month, CAD $14.2 million renovation and expansion, Fairmont Gold boasts the ultimate ‘next level’ experience for the discerning traveler. Designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates in San Francisco, the renovations include a dramatically expanded 3,300 square foot Gold Floor Lounge and an extended collection of 96 elegant guest rooms and Suites. In addition to the extravagant culinary offerings carefully curated by Executive Chef Isabel Chung, the lounge boasts an innovative beverage program that showcases two signature cocktails – a Gold Lounge Martini and an exclusive barrel-aged French Canadian Old Fashioned. Local Whistler distiller, Montis, has also crafted a unique chocolate blend liquor specially for the Fairmont Gold Lounge.
Fairmont Washington D.C. (January 2021) - The 413-room luxury hotel located adjacent to historic Georgetown, recently completed a USD $2-million renovation and rejuvenation of its 30,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Inspiration for the design was the hotel’s botanically-filled courtyard. A secret garden theme was woven into the spaces, an unexpected escape that is engaging and relaxing for all seasons.
Fairmont Le Château Montebello (January 2021) - Brainstorm, create, meet, rejoice – Fairmont Le Château Montebello’s 3 newly converted meeting spaces increase the resort’s total current banquet and convention space to over 30,000 square feet. Click here for booking information.
Fairmont Royal York (April 2021*) - After over five decades as one of Toronto and Canada’s most treasured and award-winning cocktail bars, The Library Bar is thrilled to begin its next chapter, and is one of the final assets to the hotel’s recent multimillion dollar renovation. Guests can expect one of the most renowned cocktail menus in Canada, curated by the hotel’s resident Director of Mixology, Rus Yessenov. Library Bar will also have its own vodka and gin in partnership with local Niagara distillery, Dillon’s. With any great cocktail menu comes a paired food menu that the hotel’s Executive Chef, JW Foster, is hard at work on to bring his strong Canadian sustainable point of view to the new Library Bar. *Tentatively – pending Public Health & Safety guidelines.
Fairmont San Jose (Spring 2021) - Located in the hub of technological innovation, Fairmont San Jose will lift the curtain on an impressive USD $10 million dollar renovation project this spring, which includes upgrades to the iconic lobby space and the launch of a new lounge bar and dining experience aptly named Arca. Further paying tribute to the city’s Spanish roots, the name Arca is an iteration of the Spanish word arco meaning arches--a nod to the architectural design by Rockwell.
Wellness News
In late 2020, Accor launched comprehensive, in-room restorative wellness programming at select North and Central America properties through an exclusive partnership with wellness technology company Three Sages. The partnership gives Fairmont, Sofitel and Swissôtel guests the opportunity to unwind and reset through complimentary yoga, stretching, breath-work, mindfulness and sleep practices, all available on the in-room entertainment system, from the comfort of their hotel room. Focusing on restorative content, the initiative highlights mindful movement to make guests feel less stressed, more relaxed and at ease while traveling. Each video connects guests to nature, taking guests on a journey through spectacular outdoor backdrops from some of the most awe-inspiring locations, such as parks in Ojai California to isolated locations in Joshua Tree National Park.
Weddings & Elopements
In the time of COVID-19, smaller, more intimate weddings are on the rise and here to stay. Here’s a look at select nuptial offers for micro-weddings, elopements and minimonies.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa’s “We Still Do” wedding package includes an intimate ceremony on the hotel’s picturesque Creekside Lawn for up to 10 guests and the option to come back in 2021 and receive USD $1,000 off your reception site fee. The offer, which starts at USD $3,700, also includes a professional wedding coordinator to assist in planning, officiant, guitar or harp for the ceremony, personal flowers for the wedding couple, sparkling wine sabering, sparkling wine toast, toasting glasses for the wedding couple to keep, exclusive access to photo locations throughout the resort and a take-away wedding cake.
Fairmont Copley Plaza invites couples who dream of a luxurious ballroom wedding to book a Minimony Package, which starts at USD $1,500 for up to 10 guests and includes a ballroom rental, a floral arch and gold chivari chairs, complimentary WiFi to stream-in friends & family at home, a champagne toast and mini-tiered wedding cake following the nuptials, and discounted room rates the couple and guests. Plus, a celebratory return stay in 2022 on the date of the couple’s one-year anniversary.
Fairmont Olympic, Seattle offers micro-wedding and minimony experiences starting at USD $1,500 in one of their elegant ballrooms or penthouse suite. The offer includes room rental, sparkling wine toast, one hour exclusive access to take photos throughout the legendary hotel and dedicated hotel representative. Additionally, the amount spent on this package can be credited toward a future wedding package to celebrate with all of your loved ones.
Fairmont Vancouver Airport, invites couples to celebrate their day in style with a luxurious elopement. From an intimate vow-exchange or a micro-celebration with a few close friends and family, this exclusive package offer includes a stay in the property’s largest and most luxurious suite, an intimate ceremony setting, celebratory dining, champagne, and romantic touches for their important day. Couples can also opt for exclusive use of the property’s 14th floor lounge – with a luxurious residential feel and floor to ceiling windows overlooking YVR’s active runways and the North Shore mountains, it’s the perfect space for an intimate reception.
Food & Beverage News
Restaurants continue to think outside the box to adapt to pandemic behavior and needs. Here’s a peek at new culinary programs, dining venues and cocktail destinations.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Nestled in a fairytale setting of twinkling lights and snow-blanketed trees near the base of Blackcomb Mountain, Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s Snow Globes are nothing short of magical. A locally inspired, 5-course gourmet menu expertly curated by Chef Derek Bendig and paired with featured beverages from partners Stella Artois, Fever Tree, Roche Winery & Vineyards and Blasted Church make these outdoor dining domes most sought after culinary experience of the season. Photos: here.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald is pleased to announce that Chef Jiju Paul has joined the team as Executive Chef. Chef Paul is a Certified Chef de Cuisine (CCC) from the Canadian Culinary Institute, member of the Canadian Culinary Federation- Edmonton Chapter and also has his Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Certification from Alberta Innovation and Advanced Education. Chef Paul has a 13-year history with Fairmont Hotels as well as 18 years of experience in hotels across Canada, United Arab Emirates, and India.
Fairmont Banff Springs
Fairmont Banff Springs is launching a new private outdoor dining experience available to hotel guests on February 8, 2021. Surrounded by panoramic views on the picturesque Upper Garden Terrace, the 360 Dome will feature rustic décor with wintry accents and are available to reserve for a unique five-course dining experience. The 360 Dome will be available for small groups and is CAD $210 per person.
The “Castle in the Rockies” has also launched a heightened In-Suite Dining Experience where guests can enjoy a private five-course dinner or a private family style brunch in the comfort of a specially prepared suite or their own guest room. Executive Chef Robert Ash’s five-course gourmet menu is paired with two complimentary cocktails and a bottle of sparkling wine for CAD $399 per couple. The In-Suite Brunch includes make-your-own mimosa ingredients and features brunch favourites such as eggs benedict and buttermilk pancakes for CAD $199 per couple.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
New in late 2020, The Den at Orso is an intimate wine and cocktail bar that serves as the perfect, upscale start to an evening of dining at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Guests are invited to enjoy an aperitivo from the creative cocktail menu or sophisticated Italian wine list, then sample a carefully curated stuzzichini menu prepared by Orso Trattoria Head Chef, Gabriel Uggenti. Fresh ingredients are brought in from Italy to make this a truly authentic experience. Click here for the full menu. Please note, the restaurant is temporarily closed based on current provincial restrictions.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has also partnered with Veuve Clicquot to offer the most unique picnic experience in Jasper. Guests can pick up a gourmet lunch to go and enjoy a romantic outing in the expansive Jasper National Park, celebrate the completion of a rewarding snowshoe adventure or admire the view from wherever they are with a glass of champagne in hand. Click here for the full menu and email here to reserve.
To warm up a cold winter’s day, Fairmont Le Château Montebello is introducing Sha Guo: a new seasonal pop-up dining concept. Offered in the hotel’s grand dining hall Aux Chantignoles, the pop-up restaurant will showcase specialties from China and across Asia, in a traditional one pot style. Please note Aux Chantignoles is temporarily closed based on current provincial restrictions.
Packages & Promotions
Accor properties across North America are offering innovative packages, partnerships and promotions to celebrate all of life’s milestone’s in luxury and style.
Fairmont Vancouver Airport
With Canadian travel restrictions still in effect, Fairmont Vancouver Airport invites guests to satisfy their travel cravings with a vacation to nowhere. In partnership with Fairmont Mayakoba, this staycation experience recreates some of the resort's signature offerings, transporting guests to Mexico without ever leaving the airport. Themed accommodations, private pool time with poolside cocktails, a chef-prepared themed dinner, late check-out and more. Plus, each stay enters travellers into a draw to win a 4 night stay with breakfast at Fairmont Mayakoba.
Deemed “the heart of BC’s Pacific Flyway”, Richmond is a major north-south stop for migratory birds on their way between Alaska and Patagonia. In partnership with Destination British Columbia, Tourism Richmond and the BC Bird Trail, Fairmont Vancouver Airport has curated the Pacific Flyway Adventure stay offer. Whether guests are seasoned birders or just taking off, the Pacific Flyway package helps travellers discover some of the best birdwatching opportunities in North America. The hotel offers private guided birding and photography tours with naturalist and award-winning nature photographer, Liron Gertsman.
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has partnered with Iconic Wineries of British Columbia to create overnight stay packages as part of their CheckMate Artisanal Winery and Martin’s Lane Winery virtual wine tasting experiences. These virtual events will take place on Friday evenings through February and March, with the option to add an overnight stay experience. Each wine tasting is priced at CAD $100 and includes a bottle of wine and admission to the live virtual wine tasting experience. For an additional CAD $229 attendees can add an overnight stay at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, have the wines shipped directly to the hotel and enjoy a chef-curated cheese pairing board and complimentary overnight parking.
Fairmont Waterfront Hotel
Fairmont Waterfront Hotel has teamed up with SKY Helicopters to create the ultimate Vancouver experience. The hotel’s SKY is the Limit Package gives those looking for the perfect mix of adventure and luxury the chance to explore British Columbia’s beautiful backcountry from the comfort of a private chartered SKY Helicopter, and return for the evening to relax and unwind in Fairmont Waterfront’s luxurious accommodations. On their private heli-journey, guests will take with them a chef-curated picnic basket for two while being whisked away to one of several SKY Helicopter remote landing locations throughout the BC backcountry. With rates starting at $1,478, the SKY is the Limit Package offers a taste of adventure combined with lavish luxury.
Fairmont Le Château Montebello
On July 1st 2020, Fairmont Le Château Montebello celebrated its 90th anniversary. Set on 300 bucolic acres overlooking the Ottawa River, this quintessential Canadian bucket-list destination offers year-round activities at its doorstep. Outshined by the pandemic, the celebrations continue this year with several promotions from CAD $90 on Fairmont Le Château Montebello’s prime experiences – lodging, golf and spa. The promotions will lead up to a birthday “redo” this Summer, where guests will be invited to celebrate 90 years of unforgettable memories.
Fairmont Tremblant
The perfect day of skiing is possible thanks to Fairmont Tremblant’s VIP ski day access, starting at CAD $249. Parking valets will take care of vehicles and skis, while guests are given the keys to a room available for the day, where they can order lunch to be delivered at the requested time, with a CAD $50 credit on food and beverage. Guests can collect their equipment, and hit the slopes. Once the ski day is over, guests are given access to the heated outdoor swimming pool, and the hotel valets will store guest’s skis in their trunk and hand over the pre-heated and snow-plowed vehicle to head back home.
Who doesn't dream of a ski-in/ski-out office? At Fairmont Tremblant, high-speed in-room internet access combined with a mountain view makes this entirely possible. The package includes one hour of free training sessions on weekdays. It also includes a discount for spa treatments from the Moment Spa and a credit on food and beverage served in any of the hotel's restaurants and bars, including in-room meals. Remote working has never been so enjoyable!
For those looking for a mountain getaway with all the conveniences of home, this condo getaway is perfect for staying within the family bubble in a vacation atmosphere. Equipped with full kitchenettes where groceries can be delivered in the room before arrival, this package includes valet parking, 30% off on accommodation of three-night stays or more, a CAD $100 credit per room and per stay on the available services offered at the hotel and access to all the free hotel activities (such as family movie nights, games and arcade room, and an all-season heated outdoor swimming pool).
Fairmont Richelieu Charlevoix
This winter the Manoir presents a winter market, where guests can meet artisans, local producers and creators on the Bellerive terrace. How about finally finding the balance between work and escape with an office with views of the St. Lawrence? The "Office with a View!" offer allows guests to stay connected while taking advantage of the many services to make sure down time is also on their agenda.
Retail News
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ new gift bundles feature five different gift categories. The Fairmont Signature Sleep Experience turns your home into a dream come true with hotel favorites including The Fairmont Signature Bed, Duvet (all season), Fairmont Linens (Sheet Set, Duvet Cover, Pillow Sham), Pillows, Towel Set and Le Labo Rose 31 Travel Kit ($4,200.) Fairmont’s Baby Linen Set is the ultimate in comfort for any little one with a sleep set as soft as your baby’s skin ($150, available in US only.) The Fairmont Robe Bundle includes two Fairmont white Gold Floor Robes and two pairs of Fairmont Slippers ($295.) The Le Labo Experience includes shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, shower gel, massage oil, bar soap, hand wash, and hand lotion in Rose 31, Fairmont’s Signature Scent ($355.) Indulge in head to toe comfort with the Towel Bundle and receive 2 bath towels, 2 hand towels, and 2 washcloths to elevate your at-home bath routine ($98.)
ALLSAFE by Accor
Accor introduced intensified hygiene & prevention measures to ensure the safety of all guests. The ALLSAFE label verified by Clifton represents new elevated cleanliness protocols and standards and provides assurance that these standards have been met in Accor hotels.
*Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, this hotel are not currently open to international travelers.