On 28 August, opening as the first historically restored luxury hotel in Tianjin, Astor Hotel introduced to the city’s public a new hotel concept where comfort is taken to higher levels. Astor has an outstanding history of 147 years to receive luxurious guests such as prime ministers and presidents.
The building first opened as a hotel in 1863 and then passed through a restoration beyond its former glory before being re-opened by the management of the Starwood Hotels and Resorts Group.
The opening ceremony started with a press conference about the importance of the hotel for the city’s history, then the process of renovating the building followed by an explanation of the hotel’s concept. Media from all over China were present.
The chairman of Tianjin Tourism Group was the first to give his speech followed by Qian Jin - Senior Vice President of the China-Taiwan Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Afterwards, Nelli Yong - Vice President and Brand Manager for the Asia-Pacific Starwood Hotels added a few words. At last Martin Verpoorten - General Manager of Astor Hotel ended the press conference by ushering the invited into the beautiful Victorian Garden. The ceremony was concluded with the pop of champagne bottles.
A tour to the Hotel Museum impressed all with its historical value and beauty of displayed relics. Once the tour commenced, a sumptuous buffet in one of the hotel’s many restaurants was served to guests. The Hotel preserved its former classic style with its historical design and many original antiques except for the Hai He River Wing which displays a more contemporary design and is highlighted with its oversized bathrooms.
Astor has always been considered a landmark of Tianjin and is again restored to its former beauty. It will continue as an important landmark of Tianjin evoking luxury comforts of the past.
