Originally Posted by
TRAVELSIG
At this point, it is not clear if the Asolo hotel will stay Sheraton or not. There is talk of a restoration- in which case it is possible it would move into the Luxury Collection- or move to another luxury brand such as Boscolo- of course the unknown is what, specifically are the terms and conditions of the sale from a Starwood branding point of view for the Asolo hotel- but it is a strange branding for this hotel to be a Sheraton- for those of you who have been there you probably can understand that it is not the best possible match. FYI, another luxury hotel will be opening in Asolo projected 2009- a restored villa which is amazing by any description-probably the best in the area- no decision yet as to branding (rumor about Aman but only pure speculation).
I completely agree -- there is no question that the Villa Cipriani does not fit the Sheraton portfolio. It is the finest Sheraton I've ever experienced, bar none. And when you consider that the Sheraton Padova is right down the hill -- both ends of the spectrum are covered in two properties that are within 50 miles of each other. (Pathetic brand management, if you ask me.)
So even though the Villa Cipriani is one of the best Sheratons in the world, given the new competition coming to town, a renovation is in order if they want to compete. The rooms and beds are a bit tired, and could definitely benefit from an upgrade. What's extraordinary about this hotel is the location, the town, the grounds and the staff. Taking the rooms to the next level would take the property to the next level.
When you consider what would likely be spent on the upgrade, and no doubt the result, the property moves even further away from the Sheraton brand. While the Luxury Collection brand is a possibility, I personally find it the weakest of the 'luxury' class. If I owned the place, I'd be actively considering alternatives. So, while it would sadden me to see it leave SPG, like you,
TRAVELSIG, I can certainly understand why the owners might go that route.
This might just call for an 'emergency' trip this fall.
