NEW YORK has yet another hotel name change and once again in the five-star category (see last week”s ABTN). The Rihga Royal began operating as an independent hotel on Saturday, 18 June 2005, having concluded its affiliation with the J.W. Marriott Hotel Company on 17June . The move to independent operation is, says the hotel, the first step toward redefining the property in the city”s luxury all-suite market. Located in the heart of midtown's Theatre District, the 54-storey 505- suite hotel, offers guests in-room amenities such as personal training, massage services and exercise accessories. It was recently acquired by affiliates of Blackstone Real Estate Advisors. Blackstone and its affiliates have a history of significantly reinvesting in their assets and dramatically improving services and facilities and the same is anticipated for the Rihga Royal.
http://www.rihgaroyal.com/