Orient-Express Hotels on Tuesday announced the launch of the Orient-Express Associate Hotels program with the founding member becoming the Hôtel du Palais, located in Biarritz, France.

Exterior of Hôtel du Palais

　　Orient-Express Hotels on Tuesday announced the launch of the Orient-Express Associate Hotels program with the founding member becoming the Hôtel du Palais, located in Biarritz, France.

　　Associate hotels will have access to Orient-Express’ full suite of sales, marketing and public relations support in 17 geographic markets, global voice reservations and dedicated distribution under the Orient-Express GDS code “OE”, and a fully aligned online presence with next generation websites. Available strategic partnerships include the Bellini Club, Orient-Express’ preferred agent program. Each agreement will be based on a combination of fees and commission, according to an OEH spokeswoman.

　　The Orient-Express Associate Hotels program is by invitation only and partner hotels are selected according to criteria, including having an established and iconic reputation, being a market leader in their respective destination, being a complementary fit with the existing Orient-Express portfolio, and meeting very high independently assessed quality standards.

　　While the OEH spokeswoman said that there is no target number for Associate Hotels, the company anticipates taking on a small handful of members each year.

　　“The Associate Hotels program is an opportunity to enhance our portfolio of iconic travel experiences by partnering with independently owned and/or managed luxury hotels,” said David Williams, chief marketing officer, Orient-Express. “Our boutique collection is uniquely positioned to work with like-minded hoteliers who wish to preserve their established individual brand reputation, but who share the vision of the Orient-Express umbrella brand, offering an equal standard of authentic experience, revenue return and service as our owned properties.”