THE spectacular Grand Castle Hotel, Xi�an re-opens following an extensive facelift and re-branding which positions it as the most luxurious independent 5-star hotel in China�s ancient capital.

True to its name, the Grand Castle Hotel evokes the grandeur of a palace, and is uniquely designed in the historic architectural style of the adjacent ancient City Wall which the hotel overlooks.

Boasting the tallest atrium lobby in the city famed for the World Heritage-listed �Terracotta Warriors�, the splendid hotel has now soft-opened following six months of renovations. The official Grand Opening is on July 18.

Facing the south gate of the ancient City Wall in the heart of Xi�an�s city centre, it is an ideal base for business, leisure and sightseeing.

The hotel is both surrounded by major shopping malls and offices, and within walking distance of nearby historic sites and famous scenic spots.

The decor of the 338 guestrooms including 40 suites is sophisticated yet traditional � with Chinese style furniture and folklore art alongside modern facilities including broadband internet and 32� LCD televisions, with environmentally-friendly recyclable amenities.

The towering 10-storey hotel features two restaurants � the Yue Chinese Restaurant specialising in authentic Cantonese Cuisine, and the all-day The Verandah Caf� Restaurant, serving an international and Asian buffet as well as a la carte menu.

Six versatile banquet rooms include a 440 square metre pillarless ballroom catering for weddings, social gatherings and medium-sized MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) events. The hotel also features a Lobby Lounge, business centre, hotel shop and Grand Lounge exclusively for Executive Floor guests.

With a strong connection to Japan from previous operator IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, the hotel has Japanese sales staff and speakers throughout welcoming Japanese guests.

Celebrating its re-opening, the hotel is offering special introductory rates for Superior Rooms starting from RMB788, including service charge and complimentary buffet breakfast for one, until July 31, 2008.

�Our vision is to establish one of the leading independent 5-star hotels in China,� said Ip Hon Ming, General Manager, Grand Castle Hotel.

The Grand Castle Hotel, Xi�an is a member of Summit Hotels & Resorts�, which represents over 135 luxury hotels and resorts in more than 40 countries and cities. - end -

For further information, contact: Ms. Francis Lau or Ms. Minnie King Grebstad Hicks Communications Ltd Hong Kong Tel: 852 2810 0532 Fax: 852 2525 7972 Email: francis.lau@ghcasia.com / minnie.king@ghcasia.com