Park Plaza Hotels to open two hotels in Croatia

Park Plaza Hotels, owner and operator of upscale and lifestyle hotels, has announced the start of the rebranding of two Resort Hotels of the Arenaturist group, one of the leading hospitality companies in Croatia. After extensive renovations, Park Plaza Histria Pula and Park Plaza Verudela Pula are set to open their doors in May 2012.

The properties are located on the south coast of Croatia's Istrian peninsula and are currently undergoing an extensive 25 million euro renovation to bring them into line with Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts' brand standards.

"Croatia is a fast growing holiday and group incentive destination offering ample natural and cultural diversity with strong Mediterranean influences. We are proud to enter into our first resort venture in Croatia with our upscale Park Plaza Hotels & Resorts brand." commented Boris Ivesha, President and CEO of Park Plaza Hotels.

The 241-room Park Plaza Histria Pula will feature a brand new reception and lobby area, contemporary and airy guestrooms, a new restaurant, conference centre including two state-of-the-art boardrooms and wellness and fitness facilities including indoor pool, sauna and treatment rooms. The outside area will also see a transformation of the landscaping, an upgrade of the Yacht Club, beach area and hotel parking. The interior design and architecture is directed by London based Scott Brownrigg.

Under the creative direction of local designers - Studio 92 and Studio Kaic - renovations at Park Plaza Verudela Pula include a full redevelopment of its 385 apartments, the reception area and the main restaurant. Other facilities to receive an upgrade are the outdoor swimming pool, the kids club, shopping zone, parking and landscaping.

In April 2008, Park Plaza Hotels became a shareholder in the Arenaturist group and won the management agreement for the entire portfolio which includes eight hotels, five apartment complexes (with a total of 2,868 rooms) and seven campsites.