The Savoy which is one of Britain's most internationally recognized hotels, will benefit from a program of restoration -

This will include upgrading of the magnificent suites overlooking the Thames, renovation of guest rooms, corridors and all public areas and the reopening of the renowned River Restaurant.

The estimated cost of the program, in excess of $200 million USD, makes the restoration of The Savoy, on a per room basis, one of the most ambitious in the history of London.

The date when the hotel will cease taking guest reservations is currently set for December 2007 when the restoration process is scheduled to begin.

Following the unprecedented refurbishment, The Savoy will reopen in 2009.

According to Kiaran MacDonald, General Manager of The Savoy, extensive planning has gone into The Savoy project. "For us, the most important thing was to honor the art deco heritage and traditional English design of the hotel, while upgrading the property to meet the expectations of today's most discerning guests. When The Savoy reopens we hope to set new British standards for excellence in design, décor and personalized service."

The period when the hotel will not be open for guests is currently anticipated at approximately sixteen months. "It was a difficult decision to close down the hotel, but we could not envision disrupting our guests on a daily basis", said MacDonald. "A project of this scope could take much longer if the hotel remained open for business and we wish to stick to a rigorous schedule in order to reopen as quickly as possible. We are confident that our loyal guests, many of whom have a strong attachment to the hotel, will be pleased with the results."

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a company, which currently manages some of the most historic hotels in the world, has chosen designer Pierre-Yves Rochon for The Savoy project. Rochon was chosen for his creativity and proven expertise with luxury hotels throughout North and South America, Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

Throughout the period of the hotel's closure, The Savoy will remain in regular contact with valued guests, event organizers and travel intermediaries regarding the progress on the restoration program.

Until December 2007, The Savoy will continue to take reservations and operate as usual. For further information please contact 44 (0) 20 7836 4343 and ask for reservations.