Former state-run hotel relaunches as Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi an

　　Accor has opened its first ever Sofitel Legend hotel in China.

　　The Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an originally opened in 1953 as a state-run hotel for visiting Chinese leaders and foreign dignitaries. Guests have included former Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai, French President François Mitterrand and US diplomat Henry Kissinger.

　　The building was revamped by Hong Qing of the Northwest Institute of Architectural Design, before reopening in late April 2014 as a 71-room luxury hotel.

　　“We are excited to see the opening of Sofitel Legend in Xi’an after extensive renovation and preparation over the past 28 months,” said Michel Molliet, vice president of Sofitel Greater China. “The People’s Grand will add value to the brand and further reinforce Accor’s presence in Xi’an. We promise a high-level of product and service experience in this legendary setting.”

　　Set within 40,000m² of landscaped gardens in the city’s Renmin Square, the hotel offers a range of luxury facilities including a private health club, swimming pool and spa, an Italian restaurant, top-floor bar and even a private museum. The building is also linked to the neighbouring convention centre and theatre.

　　Sofitel Legend People’s Grand Hotel Xi’an becomes the first Sofitel Legend hotel in China and only the second in Asia, following the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. The brand is designed for hotels set in buildings with historic value.