DESIGN
The hotel ’ s 31 light and airy rooms and suites have had their traditional décor complemented with vintage-inspired textiles and original artwork .
Christian Martena , last year and worked with him on the design and concept of our F & B outlets and the functionality of the new kitchens beyond ,” Vielle says .
HOTEL OF THE FUTURE According to Trinquand , high net worth business and leisure travelers are increasingly opting to stay at a hotel like The Strand , which isn ’ t part of a chain and satisfies their interest in the rich culture and history of Myanmar . “ Our guests typically come from the U . S ., Australasia and Europe ,” he says . “ However , we are seeing a strong growth in guests from Southeast Asia due to the increased appeal of the country , easier visa formalities and better regional air routes .”
November and December 2016 saw the hotel doing an average rate above US $ 440 . “ We hope to grow our average room rate for full year 2017 to above US $ 500 , which will be helped by the addition of the pool and spa in November 2017 ,” Trinquand adds .
Ultimately however a lot rests on service . After all , The Strand was known for its signature butler service and intuitive service , yet , getting skilled workers has become increasingly difficult with manpower supply lagging behind the furious growth of hotel construction in the city . Trinquand says the hotel is lucky in that most of its team has worked at the property for 15 years or more . During the hotel ’ s closure , all associates were given extensive service training and language courses .
From opulent baths to teak wood flooring , ceiling fans , chandeliers , lacquer wood furniture and Burmese antiques , suites retain The Strand ' s heritage architectural details .
Suites continue to be attended by the hotel ’ s team of highly trained butlers .
40 hotelsmag . com May 2017