Carlson Rezidor, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups worldwide, and the leading international hotel operator in Russia/CIS, and Golden Palace Hotel LLC, the leading hotel operator in Armenia, jointly announce the Radisson Blu Hotel, Yerevan. The upper-upscale hotel is scheduled to open in early 2016. With this signing Carlson Rezidor adds a new country to its growing portfolio in Russia/CIS & Baltics. All across the region, the group operates and develops more than 70 hotels and 17,000 rooms.

"We are delighted to arrive in the key market of Armenia. Historically, the tourism industry was always one of the most important sectors in the country. Today, the government actively supports national travel and tourism – making it one of the fast growing industries in Armenia", commented Wolfgang M. Neumann, President & CEO of Rezidor. "Carlson Rezidor is now present in all countries of the Caucasus and set for further growth in the area", added Neumann.

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Yerevan is currently undergoing renovation and extension works: the Interior Design is overseen by ARA Design International (London), the kitchens are upgraded by K3 (Germany), and the overall project consulting is headed by AW Project (Russia).

After completion of works, the hotel will offer 140 rooms; all with Radisson Blu signature services such as free high speed internet access. Further infrastructure will comprise an all-day restaurant with a large outdoor terrace, a roof terrace grill restaurant with a panoramic view on the city and the Mount Ararat, a lobby bar, 500sqm meeting space, parking bays and an upscale fitness & spa area of more than 1000smq designed and equipped according to international standards. Hotel demand will be mainly driven by the corporate and government segment (several embassies are located nearby), the Yerevan EXPO Exhibition Centre, and the Demirchyan Arena, Sports & Music Complex. The nearest international airport is located 16km away.

The history of Yerevan dates back to the 8th century BC. Today, Armenia's capital city has a population of 1.1mio. Since the early 2000s Yerevan has been undergoing major transformation and seen new construction. The city's economy is diversified – from agricultural production to information technology and manufacturing.

About Golden Palace Golden Palace Hotel LLC

Golden Palace Hotel LLC owns the only officially certified 5 star hotel chain in Armenia. In 2005 the company opened its first property – Golden Palace Hotel Yerevan, which will be re-branded as Radisson Blu. The hotel is located in one of the most picturesque areas of the city – on the Nork height next to the Victory Park, offering 5 star hotel services, but also breathtaking panoramic view of the city. In 2013 Golden Palace Resort and SPA GL, was opened in the most famous ski resort center of Armenia – Tsaghkadzor. 50 km to the North from Yerevan stands for its modern and luxurious amenities and its unique location directly at the ski slope. Golden Palace Hotel LLC has been the leading hotel operator in Armenia for the last 10 years. More information at: www.goldenpalacehotel.am