TORONTO — Small Luxury Hotels of the World presented some of its top properties at an industry event in Toronto last night.
CEO and Chairman Filip Boyen told travel agents and members of the media that “the quality requirements are much higher than they were before” and that when it comes to the definition of success, “it’s all about quality and not quantity.” As such, Boyen confirmed that SLH’s total number of hotels has dropped to 489 from 520.
“We only sign what we are absolutely comfortable with in terms of luxury standards,” he said.
SLH hotels must have the highest quality of services and amenities to become a member, and are continuously monitored by inspectors. To ensure each property meets company standards, inspectors are former guests and travellers themselves who are accustomed to luxury accommodations.
Participating hotels last night included Pacific Resort Rarotonga, part of Pacific Resort Hotel Group in Cook Islands. The boutique hotel offers 64 rooms on one of the most sought after locations of Muri Beach. The hotel also welcomes families with a complimentary kids’ club and wedding packages with a suggested Polynesian twist. Special offers for agents are available. Visit pacificresort.com.
Also in attendance was Palé Hall Hotel and Restaurant in Wales, the U.K.’s newest five-star hotel. With only 18 rooms, the hotel is not only a refurbished Victorian country house but is also home to owners Alan and Angela Harper. The hotel is furnished with the Harpers’ personal antiques, including items used by Queen Victoria herself. Visit palehall.co.uk.
As a modern hotel in historical Naples, the Romeo Hotel offers clients a Wellness Suite, which is equipped with a whirlpool tub, steam room, shower and exercise machines inside the spacious bathroom. The Garden and Pool Suite, with a 19th-century French marble fireplace, includes a private garden with a jasmine scented gazebo and hot tub. Visit romeohotel.it.
Only steps away from Buckingham Palace, DUKES LONDON is a mix of quintessential British charm and cosmopolitan luxury. It’s mostly known for DUKES Bar, a favourite of James Bond creator Ian Fleming back in the day, where guests can enjoy personalized cocktails and famous martinis. Visit dukeshotel.com.
SLH will be adding eight new hotels in 2017, with more hopefully in Canada, said Boyen, as well as a new loyalty club that will be launched in June. For more information, visit SLH.com.