One of Myanmar’s most renowned heritage buildings will once again be open to the public, following a six-month-long renovation of its interiors. The Strand Yangon, which first opened more than a century ago, is set to reopen on November 15, 2016 with restored rooms and furnishings, and updated with modern air conditioning systems and in-room technology.
“The Strand Yangon was one of the first luxury colonial outposts to open in South East Asia, founded in 1901 by the famous hoteliers, the Sarkies brothers, and it remains one of the most architecturally beautiful landmarks in the region,” said Olivier Triquand, vice president, The Strand Hotel & Cruise. “This latest project has preserved the heritage at the heart of the hotel and honours The Strand’s part in Myanmar’s history, whilst creating a more relaxed, refined and glamorous setting for 21st century travellers and explorers.”
In addition to the upgraded tech features, the hotel’s teak panelling, antique bedsteads, traditional Myanmar lacquer ware and marble flooring have been restored by local artisans to reflect the property’s original architecture. The property’s 31 rooms and suites have also been outfitted with vintage textiles and original artworks.
The Strand’s bar, which has served prominent individuals including actor and director Orson Welles and author Rudyard Kipling for more than a century, is also being renamed. The new The Sarkies Bar at The Strand Hotel has been given a high-end club-like overhaul with leather seating, and features a new menu of cocktails and single-malt whiskies.
Meanwhile, the hotel’s The Strand Restaurant has received a new executive chef, Christian Martena, who has trained within a number of Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe along with setting up his own restaurant in Bangkok. Set to open on December 1, the restaurant will include a menu featuring local produce and spices.
The renovation of The Strand is part of a move by the hospitality company to refresh and revive the brand and follows the launching of the company’s 28-cabin The Strand Cruise ship on the Ayeyarwady (Irrawady) River ten months ago.
