Marriott is expanding its Courtyard brand in Europe. The US chain has just opened its first mid-range Courtyard property in Moscow and intends to add a further five properties in Europe next year followed by an additional two in 2007.
The 218-room Courtyard by Marriott Moscow City is located at Voznesenskiy Pereulok 7, which is a 10-minute walk from the Kremlin. It's 30km from the city's main Sheremetyevo airport and convenient for Red Square, the GUM department store and the Bolshoi Theatre.
In keeping with the quasi-four star standards now seen in the brand's newer properties, Courtyard's Moscow property features two restaurants, a business centre, health club, 24-hour room service and same day laundry and dry cleaning.
But this particular Courtyard doesn't have the economical rates you would usually find elsewhere. A room shortage in the Russian capital means that Moscow hotels are among the world's priciest. Until January 14, room rates at the Courtyard range between $225 and $345 but from then on you will pay $350 to $400. All rates are subject to 18 per cent tax.
The additional Courtyards planned for next year are in: Prague, Vienna, Munich, Paris (Colombes) and Gelsenkirchen (Germany). Following in 2007 will be two properties in the Czech Republic: Prague and Plzen.
For more information go to www.marriott.com
Report by Alex McWhirter
