Lausanne (CH), Golden Tulip Hospitality Group concretizes its goals to expand in the South American market: The group is taking over Golden Tulip Porto Bali and planning four upcoming hotels in Curitiba.

In 2008 Golden Tulip Hospitality Group’s expansion in Brazil accelerated at a substantial rate, proving the group’s capacity to insert itself permanently into the South American market. In the course of October 2008 Golden Tulip Hospitality Group signed five new contracts for franchised properties in Brazil. Golden Tulip Porto Bali opened its doors as per October 1st, while Tulip Inn São José dos Pinhais, Tulip Inn Santa Felicidade, Tulip Inn Batel and Tulip Inn Campo largo, all four in Curitiba, will start to be operated by the group by November 15th. With this step the group’s Brazilian portfolio totals 22 properties, of which 9 have been added only in 2008.

With the take over and rebranding of Mercure Porto Bali as of October 1st, Golden Tulip Hospitality Group is asserting its presence between São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro. The hotel enjoys the advantages of a 20.000 m2 area in the beautiful municipality of Angra do Reis. 150 Km southwest of Rio de Janeiro, Angra do Reis is famous for its picturesque coastline comprising the Bay of Ilha Grande, a pristine setting of more then 360 islands, countless beaches and waterfalls. The 139 apartments offer a unique view on the Botinas Islands, the touristic icon of the region. The resort will be adapted to fit the demands of corporate clientele, but will preserve nonetheless its several leisure facilities, which include a pier for exclusive use of the guests, swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, fitness, wireless internet, aquatic sports, restaurants and bars. The Golden Tulip Porto Bali is located at Estrada Das Marinas, 111, Angra Dos Reis, Brazil.

Hans Kennedie, President & C.E.O. of Golden Tulip Hospitality Group comments: “Concerning worldwide expansion, it has been our main target to intensify the acquisitions in Brazil in 2008. We can proudly state that we reached this goal. The next step will be to expand as well in other South American countries”.

Peter van Voorst Vader, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Golden Tulip Hospitality Group Americas adds: “With these new acquisitions in Brazil our brand is working towards the goal of achieving countrywide presence. Now we can proudly count on 22 properties in the country and more have to come in the very near future”.