Ritz-Carlton debuts in Hungary

Marriott’s Ritz-Carlton brand has opened its first property in Hungary’s capital Budapest. The hotel is housed within a building dating back to 1914, which is located on Elizabeth Square overlooking St Stephens Basilica. The property previously operated under Starwood's Le Meridien brand, and has undergone refurbishment before being rebranded (see news May 2015). The Ritz-Carlton Budapest features 170 rooms and 30 suites, with a club level on the 8th and 9th floors offering complimentary food and drinks throughout the day. Facilities include Deak Street Kitchen offering Hungarian-inspired dishes and al fresco terrace dining, The Kupola Lounge for breakfast and lunch beneath the buildings stained glass cupola, a ballroom and five meeting rooms, and a spa and fitness centre with indoor pool. Original architectural details have been retained including statues on the exterior walls, combined with contemporary interiors inspired by “the cool colours and swirling water of the Danube River”. Ritz-Carlton recently added Geneva’s Hotel de la Paix as a partner property (see news October 31, 2015). ritz-carlton.com Mark Caswell