Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Press Kit 2014

CONTENTCONTENTCONTENTCONTENT

1- The Principality of Monaco 2- The History of Hôtel Métropole

3- A new concept is born: 2004-2014

4- Gastronomy & Concept

5- Rooms and Suites 6- Métropole ESPA 7- Events / Incentives 8- Awards 9- The Attitude to Luxury 10- Additional Information

Charming

Unique

Festive

Luxury

The Principality of Monaco is situated on the Côte d’Azur, between France and Italy. The state has enjoyed a strong heritage ever since it became an international attraction, following the rule of Prince Charles III in 1860. The privately owned Hôtel Métropole first welcomed guests in 1886 and quickly became synonymous with the glamour of Monte-Carlo. In close proximity to the luxurious

amenities of Monaco, Hôtel Métropole

Monte-Carlo sits next to the Casino de

Paris, Café de Paris, luxury shops and

beautiful surrounding gardens, as

well as being a destination that has

access to the sea and the snowy

mountains. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo also

offers access to cultural excursions

such as the Prince’s Palace, the

Oceanographic Museum, the New

National Museum of Monaco, the

Exotic Garden, the Japanese Garden

and the Palais des Congrès. For

relaxation, Hôtel Métropole Monte-

Carlo is in close proximity to private

and public beaches as well as

neighboring cities (Menton,

Roquebrune, Eze, Cap d'Ail, Beaulieu,

St Jean Cap Ferrat ...) providing all the

charm of the Riviera.

In the spring and summer months,

Monaco is active with galas,

performances of the Ballets de

Monte-Carlo, concerts and

international festivals. Most

notable is the Formula 1 Grand

Prix, which takes place in June in

the heart of principality, attracting

thousands of people. Hôtel

Métropole Monte-Carlo is lucky

enough to be situated with a clear

view of the city circuit from its

luxurious balconies for guests to

enjoy the race in comfort.

Monaco key figuresMonaco key figuresMonaco key figuresMonaco key figures: • An area of 2.2 km2 with 3829 m of coastline, the second smallest country in the world • A difference of 165 m between the sea level and the highest point of the Principality • A population of 32,000 people, representing 125 nationalities • An average temperature of 20 °C all year • 16 museums and monuments and eight parks • Cultural and sporting events each week • More than 40,000 people work every day in the Principality within

5000 companies, which include major international brands • An attractive economic destination

2 2 2 2 –––– THE HISTORY OF HOTEL METROPOLE MONTETHE HISTORY OF HOTEL METROPOLE MONTETHE HISTORY OF HOTEL METROPOLE MONTETHE HISTORY OF HOTEL METROPOLE MONTE----CARLOCARLOCARLOCARLO Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo’s historic location was once owned by Pope Leo XIII. The plot of land was purchased in

1886 by the “Monte Carlo Hotel Company Ltd” and the property was built in 1889. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo

became a haven for affluent travellers, providing a discreet location which combined luxurious charm and comfort. Set in the heart of Monaco and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Hôtel Métropole was built in a Belle Époque Style. The hotel quickly became the benchmark of Monaco for the international elite, which included the English aristocracy who were famous for their elegance and taste. The hotel’s success continued until the thirties, when the global economic crisis slowed down the momentum. In 1980 the Lebanese promoter Mr. Nabil Boustany, a lover of the Principality, bought Hôtel Métropole and began major renovations whilst renaming the hotel ‘The Metropole Palace’. In September 2003, the hotel closed for interior and exterior works before being reborn as Hôtel Métropole Monte Carlo in July 2004. Following the renovations, Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo reopened in 2004 with an elegant contemporary design, which combined the glorious history of the hotel with a fresh Mediterranean feel. This continues to exude through the hotel’s concept, decor and the high-level of service offered. The name of the hotel promotes the destination and the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo logo conveys the hotel’s standing on the world’s stage. The medal symbolises strength and the travelling vessel emphasises a dynamic and consistently stylish brand which overcomes the changing tides. The spirit of Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is in line with the charms of southern France and Italy. Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is the destination of the ‘Carré D’Or’; a place to see and be seen.

3 3 3 3 –––– A NEW CONCEPT IS BORN: 2004A NEW CONCEPT IS BORN: 2004A NEW CONCEPT IS BORN: 2004A NEW CONCEPT IS BORN: 2004----2014201420142014 In 2003, Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo selected leading names in design, gastronomy and well-being to begin a new chapter for the hotel.

DESIGN ACTORSDESIGN ACTORSDESIGN ACTORSDESIGN ACTORS

Jacques GARCIA, Interior Architect Jacques MESSIN, Garden Designer Internationally renowned architectural and interior designer, Jacques Garcia, was selected to recreate the interiors and the exterior landscaping of Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo as part of the property’s multi-million pound renovation. Garcia, who has redesigned hotels in Paris, Geneva, New York, Beirut and Marrakech, has also transformed the 141-room hotel from an old world luxury property typical of Monte-Carlo, into a hipper, more contemporary location unlike any other in the Principality. Jacques Garcia adapted his “Signature Designs” to produce a warm, Mediterranean interior for Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo, which was dissimilar to all his previous hotel work.

Jacques Messin, a Parisian Garden Designer, has

worked in the botanical industry for over

twenty years. His wealth of knowledge was

created through several years of higher

education; beginning at the School of

Architecture, moving onto the Institute of

Political Studies, and finally the University of

Paris.

Messin uses the three major tools of landscaping

perfectly; the pen, the spade and the secateurs.

In his career he has worked on the Parisian

terraces, France’s private gardens, and in the

gardens of prestigious castles.

EleganceEleganceEleganceElegance

MediterraneanMediterraneanMediterraneanMediterranean

Didier Gomez, Interior Designer Didier Gomez designed Yoshi, the hotel’s second restaurant by Joël Robuchon. His previous work included the decor of Asian inspired restaurants, "The Mood" in Paris, as well as his collaborations with prestigious brands such as LVMH, Vivendi, Ferragamo, Céline, Jean-Paul Gautier, Yves Saint Laurent and Armani. In 2008, Yoshi opened at the Hôtel Métropole. The dining room opens onto a Japanese inspired garden designed by Jacques Messin. The Garden Designer worked closely with Didier Gomez to create a real transitional space between the interior and exterior of the restaurant, creating harmony with the surrounding environment.

ModernModernModernModern

WelcomingWelcomingWelcomingWelcoming

6

GASTRONOMIC ACTORSGASTRONOMIC ACTORSGASTRONOMIC ACTORSGASTRONOMIC ACTORS Joël ROBUCHON, Creator of the Restoration’s Concept Christophe CUSSAC, Executive Chef

Joël Robuchon, one of France’s most celebrated

Michelin-starred chefs, was born in 1945 at Poitiers.

Following his extensive studying and research in the

culinary field, he has received several awards, such as

the "Chef of the Century" by Gault Millau and the "Best

Restaurant in the World" by the International Herald

Tribune. He currently hosts several television shows in

France As a teacher and innovator, Joël Robuchon has

constantly created iconic recipes for the public. An

musician at heart, Joël Robuchon considers his cooking

like music, an art that includes technical rigor. His creations come with the help of Robuchon’s

protégée, two Michelin-star Executive Chef, Christophe

Cussac. With his vast experience of preparing

Mediterranean cuisine, the two chefs collaborate to

create a menu that boasts classic dishes blended with

contemporary flavours and Mediterranean styles. In 2004 he developed with Christophe Cussac and team an original and innovative concept for the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo. Joël Robuchon now has restaurants in Hong Kong, New

York City and Macau, two restaurants in Paris and

London, three in Tokyo, one in Taipei, Singapore and

Las Vegas and three in Monte Carlo in the Hôtel

Métropole Monte-Carlo.

Christophe Cussac is Joël Robuchon protégée. He

worked alongside Joël Robuchon in several well-

established properties, before moving onto the Cussac‘s

family hotel in Burgundy. Cussac finally became a chef

in the restaurant at the Hotel La Reserve in Beaulieu-

sur-Mer, where he was awarded two Michelin-stars as

the Executive Chef from 1997 to 2004. Following this,

he joined Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo as Executive

Chef overseeing the restoration process and being

present for the re-opening and of the hotel.

«We cannot cook if we do«We cannot cook if we do«We cannot cook if we do«We cannot cook if we do

not like people » Joël not like people » Joël not like people » Joël not like people » Joël

RobuchonRobuchonRobuchonRobuchon

WELLBEING & ATMOSPHERE ACTORSWELLBEING & ATMOSPHERE ACTORSWELLBEING & ATMOSPHERE ACTORSWELLBEING & ATMOSPHERE ACTORS Susan Harmsworth, Chief Executive & Founder of ESPA

After 30 years in the business, Susan Harmsworth has become an internationally renowned in the spa industry. With her extensive knowledge, she creates concepts, the designs, the projects, the products and the treatments in order to offer the most luxurious well-being experience possible. Here are some destinations in which ESPA is also associated with: the Spa at Gleneagles by ESPA in Scotland, ESPA Life at Corinthia Hotel London, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, ESPA at Ritz Carlton Moscow, The Peninsula Spa by ESPA New York and The Ritz Carlton Spa by ESPA Hong Kong. The Métropole ESPA Monte-Carlo opened in April 2006 and exudes the philosophy of the ESPA brand and the hotel. This guides the concept, architectural design, management, products and the treatments at the Métropole ESPA.

Béatrice Ardisson, Sound Designer

Béatrice Ardisson is the Sound Designer and Sound Manager of the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo. In order to compose a sleek and contemporary musical atmosphere for Garcia Gomez, Robuchon and Cussac to work in, Béatrice Ardisson handles the ambience.

In the 1990s, Beatrice Ardisson worked for the show Paris Dernière, created

and produced by Thierry Ardisson and distributed in the United States, Spain,

and in French stores, such as Colette in Paris. Ardisson also installs sound

systems in prestigious venues such as the Louis Vuitton shop and Jules & Jim in

Paris.

Since 2004, Béatrice Ardisson has followed the spirit of Hôtel Métropole Monte-

Carlo. The chic and sensual ambience is based around the 'Riviera Glamour'

concept, created through a synergy of music from the 50s to the present day.

4. Gastronomy & Concept4. Gastronomy & Concept4. Gastronomy & Concept4. Gastronomy & Concept The gastronomy at Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is world-class. Lead by Michelin-starred chef Jöel Robuchon and his protégée Christophe Cussac, the kitchen work together to create a menu that boats classic dishes blended with contemporary flavours and Mediterranean styles. Restaurant Joël Robuchon

His inspiration for Restaurant Joël Robuchon Monte-Carlo

is to craft a comfortably stylish dining venue that is

unrivalled in the Principality and that invites patrons to

return time and again. To achieve such an effect,

Robuchon has created an open kitchen that is intended to

illuminate guests’ dining experience as well as an on-site

bakery that ensures only the freshest breads and pastries

are being served.

The Restaurant Jöel Robuchon was awarded its first Michelin star in 2006 and a second in 2007, for its original Mediterranean styled cuisine, as well as the professional team lead masterfully by Joël Robuchon and Christophe Cussac.

Le Lobby Bar du Métropole Monte-Carlo

The Bar at the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is situated

between the Lobby and the Restaurant. The Architect

Decorator Jacques Garcia created the living space for

guests to relax with friends and family.

The Lobby Bar is decorated with elements relating to the

Mediterranean Palace and the Riviera. The walls are lined

with bookshelves and ivory navigation devices. The Bar is

created from brass and mahogany dating from the

eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

The bar’s musical atmosphere is created by Béatrice

Ardisson who provides guests with a varied styles and eras

of music dependant on the time of day.

The Lobby Bar at Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is the perfect destination for a coffee meeting, light lunch or afternoon tea, as well as offering a wide selection of cocktails for a pre-dinner drink.

Sparkling

Warm

Unique 10101010

YOSHI, the Japanese restaurant For over 30 years, Joël Robuchon passion for Japan has

been evident with cultural delicacies being prominent

within the menus of his six French dining establishments.

By opening YOSHI, Jöel Robuchon could focus on his love

of Asian gastronomy with his own unique creations. Located in the heart of the hotel’s grounds, YOSHI, which

means "kindness" in Japanese, offers a healthy, modern menu

created by the Japanese chef Takeo Yamazaki under the

guidance of Jöel Robuchon and Executive Chef, Christophe

Cussac. YOSHI was designed by the French interior designer Didier

Gomez, out of respect for both the Japanese influences

and the elegance of the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo.

Gomez created a restaurant with a minimalist and cozy

style, using bright colours and noble materials.

The restaurant has capacity of 40, as well as offering

guests access to the Japanese-style garden designed by

Jacques Messin. Messin worked closely with Didier Gomez

to create a transitional space between the interior and

exterior of Yoshi, creating harmony with the urban

environment.

ODYSSEY by Joel Robuchon & Karl Lagerfeld With a tranquil terrace surrounding the pool, Odyssey is a haven of

relaxation in the heart of Monte-Carlo. Guests will discover a unique

environment where design, cuisine and glamour meet over a dinner

or aperitif at the hotel’s third restaurant by Chef Joël Robuchon – the

only hotel in the world with three restaurants by the renowned

Michelin starred chef. The menu will highlight quality seasonal

produce full of Mediterranean flavours.

At sunset, Odyssey transforms from an oasis of tranquillity to a

magical evening destination where the pool sparkles with

underwater stars. The bespoke mural by Karl Lagerfeld, illustrating

the mythological Journey of Ulysses, provides a spectacle of its own as

the glass panels are gradually illuminated from a discrete lighting

system intensifying as the sunlight dims.

Guests of the hotel and members of ESPA will have exclusive access to

Odyssey throughout the day with the restaurant offering light dishes

from 12pm to 3pm. Joël Robuchon has prepared a menu including a

range of signature dishes, such as the Avocado, the Black Pepper

Burrata and Tomato with Basil Leaves, the Skewers of Grilled Salmon

with Mango Tagliatelle, the whole baked Saint-Pierre, Virgin dressing

Herbs and fresh Fruits and red fruits in the Croque Sugar, Fruit Purée

and Light Cream. Savoury and sweet refreshments for to enjoy

throughout the afternoon will also be available at the alfresco

restaurant, such as the "Club" Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Rapee,

The Tiramisu Mascarpone and Cacao, the hand-made Lemonade and

the fruity granita.

Discover Odyssey by Day & Night and the Métropole ESPA this summer, combining world-class wellness, design and gastronomy within the heart of Monte-Carlo.

5. ROOMS & SUITES5. ROOMS & SUITES5. ROOMS & SUITES5. ROOMS & SUITES With constant focus on guest comfort, the hotel conveys timeless, understated opulence with a chic decor throughout its rooms. The elegant interior of the hotel is combined with top or the range technology with each room offering high speed Internet access and two phone lines / fax assistants beside a spacious desk to accommodate all business and leisure travellers alike. A top of the range mini-bar and safe are also provided within all rooms. Rooms are accompanied by deluxe bathrooms, designed with a modern, light and spacious ambiance in harmony with the style of the rooms. Practical and luxurious, the bathrooms offer a shower with massage jets, a separate soaker tub and double sinks.

La Suite « Carré d’Or »

A symbol of luxury and charm, the Suite Carré d’Or at the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo offers a unique experience. Located on the top floor of the Hotel, the 260 sq. metre apartment and terrace offers unrivalled views of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, its gardens and the Mediterranean. During their visit to the Suite Carré d’Or, guests have exclusive access to Karl Lagerfeld’s Odyssey, as well as enjoying the hotel’s extensive luxurious facilities.

Designed by the illustrious designer Jacques Garcia, the Suite is decorated with Louis XVI furniture, majestic art objects and an impressive library. Garcia’s signature style at the Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo is through his woodwork, parquet and ivory decoration.

The apartment provides guests with an impressive master bedroom, dressing room with vanity cupboard and a luxurious bathroom. Equipped with Bang & Olufsen TV in the bedroom and bathroom, the Suite Carré d’Or reveals a beautiful contrast between traditional and modernity. The Suite also offers a second deluxe room making this apartment the perfect place for families or friends who want to experience a luxurious stay in Monaco.

6666---- METROPOLE ESPA MONTEMETROPOLE ESPA MONTEMETROPOLE ESPA MONTEMETROPOLE ESPA MONTE----CARLOCARLOCARLOCARLO

The Métropole ESPA at Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo opened in spring

2006 as the only ESPA in France. ESPA is world-renowned in the

luxury industry following its eight partnerships with high-end

establishments. ESPA focuses on the rediscovery of ancient therapies and uses 100%

natural products to relax the body and mind. The luxurious spa by

ESPA provides a haven of tranquillity with many blissful signature

treatments available in its 10 treatments rooms including 2 VIP suites.

In addition, the spa also offers a ‘heat experience’ with saunas and

steam baths. The spa experience is extended by the wellbeing concept of Odyssey where guests can relax on the terrace by the pool or enjoy light Mediterranean dishes on offer in the restaurant created by Joël Robuchon and Christophe Cussac.

Wellbeing

100% natural

Holistic treatments

7777---- YOUR EVENTS, SEMINARS, GROUP AND BANQUETSYOUR EVENTS, SEMINARS, GROUP AND BANQUETSYOUR EVENTS, SEMINARS, GROUP AND BANQUETSYOUR EVENTS, SEMINARS, GROUP AND BANQUETS The following list details the offering from Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo for the organization of events and incentives:

The hotel is located in the heart of Monte Carlo, in the "Carré d'Or" on the Place du Casino 133 rooms including 64 Suites decorated in a Mediterranean style and equipped with the latest technology A destination of flavours with two Michelin-starred restaurants: Joël Robuchon Restaurant (two Michelin-stars) with a modern cuisine and YOSHI (one Michelin-star), the first Japanese restaurant in the world signed by Jöel Robuchon New area designed by Karl Lagerfeld for open

air events including a swimming pool,

gardens and the third Joël Robuchon

restaurant Free WIFI Internet Access in rooms and conference facilities

The Lobby Bar, perfect for coffee meeting, a

light lunch, afternoon tea or pre-dinner The Métropole ESPA Monte-Carlo has 10 treatment rooms, fitness studio and relaxation room Six conference rooms including three new

meeting spaces decorated by Karl Lagerfeld.

The 50 m² of Homere salon and two 25 m² living rooms, Penelope and Ulysses, can accommodate up to 20 people each. The

Theatre, the Foyer, and the Salon Mediterranean are also available for eventsDes espaces extérieurs disponibles autours de la piscine pour vos événements privés External spaces are available around the pools for private events A fully personalized service with dedicated staff to cater the event

Personalization

Uniqueness

Discovery

8 8 8 8 –––– AwardsAwardsAwardsAwards 2007 – Restaurant Joël Robuchon obtains his second Michelin-star 2010 – Winner "Best Hotel in the World" by Leading Hotels of the World 2010 – "Best Hotelier of the Year" is awarded to the hotel’s CEO Jean-Claude Messant by Leading Hotels

2010 – Japanese restaurant Yoshi gets its first Michelin-star 2013 – Winner of the "Best Floral Decoration Hotel in Europe" 2013 – Winner of the Leading Business Hotel at the World Travel Awards

9 9 9 9 –––– Luxury AttitudeLuxury AttitudeLuxury AttitudeLuxury Attitude Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo is aware that the key to success is to maintain and constantly enhance close relationships with guests and colleagues alike. The expertise and know-how of its employees exceeds the expectations of customer service, ensuring that guests’ requests are anticipated before they have even been made. As well as constant investments into the product, the hotel invests in its employees to ensure the right attitude is carried out throughout departments to meet with the varied high expectations of cosmopolitan guests. This "Luxury Attitude" program is becoming increasingly popular within the hospitality industry, with top hotels such as Dorchester Collection’s Hôtel Plaza Athénée and Le Meurice in Paris adopting the concept.

Created in 2011, the Metropolitan Institute offers a

training program for members of all teams to

enhance the potential of career progression

throughout departments. From 2012, The

Metropolitan Institute increased its focus from

middle management to more junior employees by

introducing the ‘Young Talents’ program, ensuring

that customer service is perfected within all levels

of experience.

“Luxury Attitude” for every “Luxury Attitude” for every “Luxury Attitude” for every “Luxury Attitude” for every

employees of the Hotelemployees of the Hotelemployees of the Hotelemployees of the Hotel

Hôtel Métropole MonteHôtel Métropole MonteHôtel Métropole MonteHôtel Métropole Monte----CarloCarloCarloCarlo 4 avenue de la Madone BP 19 98 007 Monaco Cedex tél :

+377 93 15 15 15 fax :

+377 93 25 24 44 reservations@metropole.com

www.metropole.com Restaurant Joël Robuchon MonteRestaurant Joël Robuchon MonteRestaurant Joël Robuchon MonteRestaurant Joël Robuchon Monte----Carlo Carlo Carlo Carlo tél : +377 93 15 15 10 fax : +377 93 25 24 44

restaurant@metropole.com Breakfast time:

from 7a.m. to 10 a.m Lunch time: from

12.15p.m. to 2p.m. Dinner time: from 7.15p.m. to 10.30p.m. Fermeture : Mercredi YoshiYoshiYoshiYoshi tél : +377 93 15 13 13

fax: +377 93 25 24 44

yoshi@metropole.com Open from Tuesday to Sunday Lunch time:

from 12.15p.m. to 3p.m. Dinner time: from 7.15p.m. to 10.30p.m.

OdysseyOdysseyOdysseyOdyssey Tél : +377 93 15 15 56 For residents: Open

every day -Breakfast time from 8 a.m. to 11a.m. (US, continental, well being breakfast) -Lunch time from noon to 3p.m. -Afternoon snacking from 3p.m. to 5p.m. -Tea-time until 6p.m. For non-residents: -Dinner time from 7.30p.m to 11p.m (exclusively in summer) Métropole ESPA MonteMétropole ESPA MonteMétropole ESPA MonteMétropole ESPA Monte----Carlo Carlo Carlo Carlo tél : +377 93 15 13 70 fax : +377 93 15 13 71

espa@metropole-espa.com Information PresseInformation PresseInformation PresseInformation Presse Laurence Shukor Public Relations Director Hôtel

Métropole Monte-Carlo

l.shukor@metropole.com

presse@metropole.com tél : + 377 93 15 15 41