Does anyone has further informations? On my way to Roma I was a little bit in hurry, so I wasn't able to check what's going on.

Yes, this is relatively "easy". The train Florence to Rome is about 1 hour 40 minutes. You will need reserved seats. The hotel concierge can get you tickets if you need a 1-way.

You will then transfer trains in Rome/Termini on the Leonardo Express for another 30 minute train ride.

The "uneasy" part is dragging your luggage around. The Leonardo Express Termini to FCO is very reliable - and so is the Florence to Rome train, but I'd buffer in time for the unexpected.

Dear Forstbetrieb,

I am writing regarding your reservation at The St. Regis Florence.
The re-opening was scheduled on the 1st of May, however during the time of renovation we had a delay of works which has been confirmed just now. In order to ensure that all service and St. Regis standards are fully implemented in order to meet the guests expectations, we have decided to postpone it to May 12th, 2011. All bookings will be re-directed until May 11th to the Westin Excelsior Florence, a historical five star Palace, located just opposite to The St. Regis Florence, on the banks of the river Arno.
Having been selected one of the best hotels in the Europe in the Cond� Nast Traveller�s in 2009 and 2010 Gold lists, the Westin Excelsior represents a majestic 5 Star Deluxe hotel, a sister property of The St. Regis Florence with the highest service level.

In addition I inform you that we will upgrade your reservation for a Deluxe to a Premium Deluxe Arno view and will do our best to make your stay most memorable.

You can find all information and pictures regarding The Westin Excelsior Florence at http://www.westinflorence.com/.
The new confirmation number for the Westin Excelsior is XXXXXXXX.
I remain at your disposal,


XXXXXXX

Well, I guess we knew it was coming.. Sounds like you are going very soon - we don't leave until the 18th. Would you mind posting back you experiences when you return? I don't trust the May 12th date either..

Robin

Sorry, but I have cancelled the stay.

Can't say I blame you - the rooms we have reserved at the ST.R are 850E per night, equivalent at the Excelsior are 450E, and there is nothing at a higher level that I can see. I just hope they are open and actually READY for business when we arrive - am worried about services, etc not being available or construction in progress. Have you cancelled your entire trip to Florence or are you staying elsewhere?

Robin

I am staying elsewhere, but not in Firenze. Forte dei Marmi.

BTW: Have had a long time ago booked stay for 580 � including breakfast. Even for free I would not stay at the Westin, but that is my problem! Old story...

Just wondering if the "stealth" May 13 opening is still going to happen in 2 more days? St. Regis, Florence, why do you not update your website with any further information?

We had a one night booked for May 3 at the St. Regis Florence and received the same email as Forstbetrieb. Although disappointed, we had a great stay at the Westin Excelsior Florence. The St. Regis across the street looked like it was almost ready so hopefully they will be open when you arrive.

OK, Starwood Lurker, would you please find out for us and post if this property is now OPEN and if the remodel is completed. Trying to plan a May visit, and the remodel uncertainty has us thinking of looking elsewhere.

This hotel opened yesterday...just as they said they would in their email to Forstbetrieb. As far as I know, that means the remodel is complete as well.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Social Media Specialist
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

[email protected]

Thank you!!!!

Robin

Good news. Look forward to some TR w pics in the near future of the property. ^

This hotel appears to be unavailable for most of summer. I haven't been able to bring up any price/point quote on spg.com for any of the summer dates I've tried. Any advice?

In 2011 this hotel was closed, refurbished and re-branded the St. Regis Florence. You can find the new thread devoted to the property here.

-AZ