The Fairmont San Francisco

The Fairmont San Francisco provides the consummate stage for important West Coast gatherings. Groups meet in the Garden Room, for instance, where the delegates of 40 countries met to draft the United Nations charter. They attend galas in the Venetian Room, where Tony Bennett sang “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” for the very first time. And, from the top of Nob Hill, they take in glorious views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

In 2001, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts restored its flagship property to the tune of $85 million. The project recaptured the near-century-old glamour of the city’s grand dame while providing everything expected by today’s modern travelers.

In 2007, the hotel renovated its meeting spaces, from ballrooms for conventions to intimate spaces for smaller groups. In 2008, all 591 guest rooms received a soft goods renovation. The renovation went on to add the new Caffé Cento, and renovated and relaunched the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar, where the exotic tropical decor comes complete with the occasional rain storm. Gold Key and Gold Platter Awards, along with AAA Four-Diamond and Mobil Four-Star Awards, attest to the ongoing standard of excellence.

Delegates between sessions find inspiration in Heritage Hall, which traces the hotel’s history through rare photos and memorabilia. Those with even more time to spare explore the city with ease: San Francisco’s three cable car routes stop right outside the front door.

"BOOK IT, BANK IT" at The Fairmont San Francisco

"Meetings That Matter"

"Buy One, Get One Free"

“30% off Standard Group Rates”

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Posted Nov 17, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed SAN FRANCISCO, April 9, 2009 - With the launch of the "As You Wish" campaign, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is rolling out the red carpet for groups convening at its exclusive collection of hotels and resorts in the Western United States.

Celebrated properties such as Fairmont San Francisco is offering planners the opportunity to select six value-added meeting options of their choice.

In addition, groups can take advantage of exceptional guestroom rates. Guestrooms start $179 plus tax at Fairmont San Francisco based on availability.

"We believe in creating a partnership with our clients. We certainly appreciate their business, especially in this economic climate, and it is our mission to produce memorable meetings and events while being sensitive to budget concerns. It's all about added value," states Thomas Klein, regional vice president and general manager of Fairmont San Francisco.

"As You Wish" is applicable to new group bookings with a minimum of ten rooms per night and cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Meetings must be booked by December 31, 2009 and take place by December 31, 2010, based on the availability of dates.

For a comprehensive overview of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts' meeting offerings, visit www.fairmontmeetings.com or call Global Events and Meetings Solutions, a dedicated number for meeting planners at 1-866-662-6060.

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is a celebrated collection of distinctive hotels, which includes iconic landmarks like Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Québec City, Kenya's Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club, and London's The Savoy, reopening later this year following an extensive restoration program. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travelers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Situated in some of the most exclusive and pristine areas in the world, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont's portfolio includes 56 world-class hotels, with plans to develop over 30 new properties in the coming years in destinations as diverse as Shanghai, The Philippines and India. Posted Aug 12, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed SAN FRANCISCO -- The Fairmont San Francisco has united a five-star design team led by Champalimaud to revitalize the iconic Penthouse as the world's ultimate suite. Created in the Roaring Twenties by famed American archeologist and art historian, Arthur Upham Pope, the Penthouse, valued at $20 million, embodies the opulence and distinctive design of a singular period during which the United States reigned as the world's wealthiest nation. The landmark restoration project will begin in early-August 2009 and is scheduled for completion in mid-September 2009.

Spanning the entire eighth floor of the historic Main Building of The Fairmont San Francisco, The Penthouse offers 6,000 square feet of luxury. The suite features three large bedrooms, a living room with grand piano, a formal dining room seating 60 people, a kitchen, a two-story circular library crowned by a rotunda where a celestial map is rendered in gold leaf against a sapphire sky, a billiard room covered in Persian tile from floor to vaulted ceiling, and an expansive terrace with sweeping views of San Francisco. A secret passageway concealed behind bookshelves on the library's second floor lends a sense of intrigue to the fabled suite.

The suite's impressive art collection will feature original works by David Hockney and other contemporary artists as well as a grouping of exquisite Chinese porcelain vases.

A coterie of dedicated personnel; including a round-the-clock butler and team of housekeepers, a chef, a masseuse, a personal trainer and a chauffeur; will stand ready to pamper guests of this extraordinary suite and are included in its price tag of $15,000 per night.

From royalty to rock stars, the world's elite have called The Penthouse home. President John F. Kennedy, Prince Charles of Wales, Mikhail Gorbachev, King Hussein of Jordan, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands as well as Mick Jagger, Elton John, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and Marlene Dietrich are just a few of the suite's famous guests.

The Penthouse offers an unparalleled pedigree among hotel suites today. As the home-away-from-home for U.S. Presidents and world leaders, the suite has witnessed history-changing events and served as the meeting place for leaders of the Big Four as they prepared to draft the United Nations Charter at The Fairmont in 1945. Plus, it's breathtakingly beautiful, comments Regional Vice President and General Manager Thomas Klein.

Following its restoration, The Penthouse will offer one-of-a-kind accommodations for today's most discerning traveler as well as the ultimate venue for important events, including extraordinary weddings. If only these walls could talk,� concludes Klein.

CHAMPALIMAUD HEADS GRAND RESTORATION
Champalimaud, a leader in hospitality interior design and architecture, will create a luxurious marriage of East meets West in The Penthouse, utilizing the Moorish influence of the billiard room and terrace as its inspiration and adding dramatic design elements such as a hand-painted silver and black Chinoiserie wallcovering to the palatial dining room. Modern sophistication and a transitional mix of styles will combine with storied old-world glamour to create a suite of timeless elegance.

The Penthouse of The Fairmont San Francisco is like no other hotel suite. This mansion in the sky is a perfect example of the grand and richly detailed residences that were built for families of San Francisco's great fortunes almost a century ago. In designing The Penthouse, we have inherited a rich history and the eclectic and sophisticated tastes of the suite's original owners and those who lived here,� comments Alexandra Champalimaud.

Dan Stewart is the project manager for The Penthouse restoration. His design dream team includes Miele and Snaidero-USA, which will work in tandem to create a stunning state-of-the-art kitchen. Miele will install professional grade energy-efficient kitchen appliances and Snaidero will transform the space with sleek Italian cabinetry to complement the kitchen's new checkerboard marble floor.

Kallista, a division of Kohler, will give a fashionable makeover to faucets and fixtures in the suite's four bathrooms, including the master bathroom which will now be illuminated by a vintage leaded-glass skylight.

A PENTHOUSE IS BORN
In 1926, John S. Drum, president of the American Trust Company, persuaded the owner of The Fairmont to construct a grand residence atop the hotel, which Drum could lease for $1,000 per month.

Arthur Upham Pope, a pioneering scholar on Persian art and architecture, designed The Penthouse and his exotic influence can be found in striking details throughout the suite.

John Drum lived in The Penthouse until 1938. The next resident was Maude Flood, heiress to a mining fortune. She resided in the suite for nearly 30 years. Benjamin Swig, a former owner of The Fairmont, lived in The Penthouse from 1966 until his death in 1980. In 1981, The Penthouse was opened to the public as one of the world's most exclusive suites. Posted Feb 2, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed In 1884, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts was founded on an enduring connection to the land and communities where we do business. In 1990, we proactively launched our industry-leading Green Partnership program, a comprehensive approach to reducing our impact on the environment. This commitment to minimizing our hotels footprint on the planet is a key component of our operating philosophy, which is formalized in our Environmental Policy.

The Green Partnership allows Fairmont to meet and exceed guest expectations of operational sustainability and responsible tourism, because the environment isnt just something thats out there"its where we live, work and play each day.

Fairmonts Green Partnership focuses on improvements in the areas of energy and water conservation, waste management, and innovative community outreach programs involving local groups and partnerships"please read below for this hotels initiatives that operate under the Green Partnership program.

Leadership Through Innovative Programs

Eco-Meet: Fairmonts Eco-Meet program offers planners the opportunity to minimize the ecological footprint of meetings and events through the reduction of waste and conservation of valuable resources. The program can be tailored to the individual needs of the client through four key components"Eco-Accommodation, Eco-Cuisine, Eco-Service and Eco-Programming.

At The Fairmont San Francisco:
Banquet menus highlight organic and sustainable offerings and feature biodynamic wine pairings.
Meeting attendees can enjoy an elegant spa-like water presentation rather than bottled water.
Meeting planners can select hemp linens and sustainable centerpieces.
Recycled notepads and pencils are available.
Restrooms can offer cloth rather than paper towels.
Recycling bins can be placed in all meeting rooms.
Meeting rooms feature dimmers to control levels of light.
The hotel can help coordinate volunteerism within the community for groups.
The hotel offers unique programs such as the Farmers Market Coffee Break, complete with cloth grocery bags.
Waste analysis can be provided for meetings and events.
The Fairmonts Heritage Hall allows guests to walk through time and discover the storied history of the landmark hotel and San Francisco; a podcast is available to narrate this tour.
Guests can make the most of their leisure time with the Insiders Guide to San Francisco podcast which is available on the hotels website.
An Eco-Guide to San Francisco is available at the Concierge Desk.
The hotels town car is a Lexus hybrid vehicle.
The Fairmont San Francisco, as well as all Fairmont properties within California, offers complimentary parking to guests driving hybrid vehicles.

Carbon Management Program: Fairmont has introduced an Energy and Carbon Management Program in support of our Climate Change Strategy, that allows us to monitor, track, and report on our progress toward achieving significant CO2 reductions at all of our locations worldwide. We also partner with like-minded companies who provide products and services that improve our operational efficiencies. These proactive steps will reduce carbon output and help mitigate the effects of global warming.

At The Fairmont San Francisco:
The hotel offers a carbon calculator to estimate the carbon footprint of an event or meeting and the option to purchase carbon offsets to deliver a carbon-neutral event.

Green Cuisine: Fairmont is committed to purchasing local, organic, Fair Trade and sustainable food products wherever possible, including utilizing organic or biodynamic wines, local purveyors and on-site herb gardens.

At the Fairmont San Francisco:
Whenever possible, the culinary team buys ingredients from within the surrounding 150-mile radius.
All of the hotels menus comply with the standards set by the Monterey Aquarium Seafood Watch program.
The hotel has recently introduced a green menu within its in-room dining menu. This organic, sustainable menu selection changes with the seasons and the availability of local produce.
The Fairmont offers a wide selection of organic wines by the bottle and glass in all of its restaurants and food & beverage operations.

Waste Management
Paper, packaging and garbage are a reality of our lives, and of any business. Fairmont has consistently cut these side effects of our operations. While effective waste management comes with challenges, such as operating in communities without recycling facilities, we continue to reduce and divert waste and identify other eco-friendly opportunities.

Initiatives at the Fairmont San Francisco include:
Leftover nonperishable food items are donated five times a week to Food Runners, which provides food to shelters and the needy.
The hotels composting program produces high-quality compost from excess food scraps and kitchen waste. This program has significantly reduced the amount of waste that would be diverted to landfill.
Kitchen grease is converted to bio-diesel fuel.
Housekeeping donates all linens no longer used by the hotel to homeless shelters and other charities, thereby, reducing the amount of garbage that would be diverted to landfill.
All half-used amenity bottles (shampoo, etc.) are donated to the Salvation Army.
The hotel encourages its purveyors to use recycled products and will not use products that do not meet its green standards.
Paper, plastic, tin, cardboard and aluminum are recycled.
A recycling program is available in all guest rooms.
Interdepartmental correspondence is distributed on two-sided paper.
Recycled paper is made into scratch pads for use by hotel colleagues.
Housekeeping provides cloth dry cleaning bags to all managers in order to reduce waste.
The hotel offers limited printed collateral. The majority of Sales and PR materials has been converted to electronic format and is available online.

Energy and Water Conservation
To conserve energy and cut greenhouse gas emissions, Fairmont has introduced compact fluorescent light bulbs where possible. Most hotels now have water-efficient showerheads and tap aerators, and we continue to replace all toilets that have a flush capacity over 2 gallons (7.6 liters). Guests can do their part by choosing to participate in the towel and sheet exchange program offered at all Fairmont properties.

At the Fairmont San Francisco, energy and water conservation projects include:
The Fairmont provides complimentary parking to guests who drive hybrid cars.
The hotel outsources its laundry service to a company that recycles approximately 72 percent of the water. In addition, the vendor uses organic chemicals rather than traditional bleach in the washroom because it is easier for the sewer plant to treat the organic chemicals.
Ice machines are now cooled by air not water, saving approximately 8,000,000 gallons of water per year.
Occupancy sensors are installed in many locations to control unnecessary use of lighting.
In meeting and banquet venues, HVAC (heating, ventilating & air conditioning) are controlled via computer to correspond with events.
New energy-efficient ovens heat within 10 minutes rather then 30 minutes and are shut off until needed.
New better-insulated hot transport boxes are used in the hotels banquet operations in order to conserve energy.
Housekeeping uses eco-friendly cleaning products, which are better for the colleagues and have less impact on the environment when they are washed down the drain.

Partnerships and Affiliations
Our affiliations highlight our commitment to the environment, and also help promote unique Fairmont eco-experiences. The growing number of partners and associations who share our vision include The World Heritage Alliance for Sustainable Tourism, WWF (Climate Savers Program), The International Tourism Partnership, The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, The United States Environmental Protection Agency (ENERGY STAR program), The Hotel Association of Canada (Green Key Eco-Rating Program) and the National Geographic Society.
Local projects are tailored to address environmental issues specific to the hotels location, and showcase each Fairmont's unique environmental strengths and connection to their community.

On a local level, The Fairmont San Franciscos partners include:
Lexus Hybrid Living " In partnership with Lexus, the hotel has created the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite which offers the ultimate eco-luxurious accommodations. Now through December 30, 2009, guests at The Fairmont San Francisco can enjoy the Eco is the New Chic package featuring one-of-a-kind accommodations in the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite, use of the Lexus LS 600h L, complimentary parking and a bottle of organic wine upon arrival. This exclusive package is available for $869 plus tax per night. For more information, visit www.fairmont.com. To book the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite, please call 415-772-5147.
California Coastal Cleanup " In 2008, more than 1,000 California Fairmont Hotels & Resorts colleagues, friends and family members gathered along the beaches, shorelines, and inland waterways of the state to clean the areas during the California Coastal Cleanup.
Business Energy Coalitions " The Fairmont participates in the Business Energy Coalition load shedding program. The program unites Bay Area businesses that successfully lower their electrical consumption in order to prevent power outages and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. The program also reduces the need for the construction of additional power plants.
Doctors without Borders " Eyeglasses that remain in the hotels lost and found storage for more than one year are donated to Doctors without Borders.
La Casa de Las Madres " Employees organize ongoing food and clothing drives and donate the items to La Casa de Las Madres, San Franciscos largest domestic violence shelter for women and their children. In addition, when remodeling or refurbishing areas, the hotel donates furniture, restaurant and kitchen items to La Casa and other non-profit organizations.

Awards & Accolades
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Green Partnership Program continues to be recognized by a number of international organizations including the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Ad Age and Strategy magazines.

The Fairmont San Francisco has received the following awards:
Sunset Magazine recognized the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite at its annual Celebration Weekend in 2008.
2008 PG&E Award for Practicing Smart Energy Management for a Healthy Energy Future
City of San Francisco's Golden Dumpster Award for recycling and waste minimization efforts Posted Feb 2, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed SAN FRANCISCO " When The Fairmont San Francisco opened its doors more than a century ago, the landmark hotel forged an enduring commitment to the city it calls home and the community it serves.

Through the decades, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has cultivated a tradition of environmental stewardship. Several of Fairmonts Canadian resorts, such as: The Fairmont Banff Springs, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, are actually located in national parks. They were

As the flagship property for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, The Fairmont San Franciscos green practices include:

The Fairmont participates in the Business Energy Coalition load shedding program. The program unites Bay Area businesses that successfully lower their electrical consumption in order to prevent power outages and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases. The program also reduces the need for the construction of additional power plants.

The hotel outsources its laundry service to a company that recycles approximately 72 percent
of the water. In addition, the vendor uses organic chemicals rather than traditional bleach in the washroom because it is easier for the sewer plant to treat the organic chemicals.

Occupancy sensors are installed in many locations to control unnecessary use of lighting.

In meeting and banquet venues, HVAC (heating, ventilating & air conditioning) are controlled via computer to correspond with events.

Compact fluorescent lights are installed in all guest rooms and many public spaces.

The hotel utilizes low flow toilets.

The Fairmont uses nontoxic cleaning products.

Paper, plastic, tin, cardboard and aluminum are recycled.

Ice machines are cooled by air not water.

The hotel encourages its purveyors to use recycled products and will not use products that do not meet its green standards.

The Fairmont provides complimentary parking to guests who drive hybrid cars.

Leftover nonperishable food items are donated twice a week to Food Runners, which provides food to shelters and the needy.

The hotels composting program produces high-quality compost from excess food scraps and kitchen waste. This program has significantly reduced the amount of waste that would be diverted to landfill.

The hotel has recently introduced a green menu within its in-room dining menu. This organic, sustainable menu selection changes with the seasons and the availability of local produce.

The Fairmont offers a wide selection of organic wines by the bottle and glass in all of its restaurants and food & beverage operations.

Kitchen grease is converted to bio-diesel fuel.

Eyeglasses that remain in the hotels lost and found storage for more than one year are donated to Doctors without Borders.

Employees organize ongoing food and clothing drives and donate the items to La Casa de Las Madres, San Franciscos largest domestic violence shelter for women and their children. In addition, when remodeling or refurbishing areas, the hotel donates furniture, restaurant and kitchen items to La Casa and other non-profit organizations.

### Posted Feb 2, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed Luxury hotelier and leading luxury automaker create the ultimate cosmopolitan experience for environmentally aware travelers

SAN FRANCISCO, CA" April 7, 2008 " Eco-savvy travelers can now enjoy luxury, style and a commitment to sustainability when they visit two premier hotels. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Lexus are partnering to unveil two Lexus Hybrid Living Suites geared for eco-conscious visitors, with the first to launch at The Fairmont San Francisco, followed by The Fairmont Washington, D.C. in conjunction with Earth Day 2008.

Guests can sleep, eat and drink sustainably in these unique suites, with every aspect of the room meticulously planned for the eco-minded traveler, incorporating ideas and products from Lexus Hybrid Living partners (lexus.com/hybridliving). Complimentary use of a Lexus LS 600h L awaits the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite visitor who wishes to explore the area in the comfort of a low-emission luxury car that spoils the driver, not the environment.

Lexus has long been the leader in luxury hybrid vehicles, but we have extended our commitment to the sustainable lifestyle through Lexus Hybrid Living. It showcases people and products dedicated to minimizing their impact on the earth without sacrificing style and comfort, said Dave Nordstrom, Lexus vice president of marketing. Our partnership with Fairmont helps Lexus bring that thought process to life with amazing eco-luxury suites in both San Francisco and Washington, D.C.

Fairmont has truly been a pioneer in the responsible tourism arena, and its now part of our DNA, said Jeff Senior, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. Not only do we implement programs to reduce, reuse and recycle, but we look to be better neighbors in our communities through local initiatives. Partnerships with like-minded companies such as Lexus allow us to not only practice responsible operations but offer our guests stylish and sustainable experiences unique to our brand.

Famed eco-designer Kelly LaPlante, of LAs Kelly LaPlante Organic Interior Design (kellylaplante.com), is responsible for the design. Organic materials and rapidly renewable resources, such as bamboo, have been used in the creation of the suite. Highlights of the dcor includes furniture by Kelly LaPlante and the Kenneth Cobonpue collection, eco-friendly fabrics by Q Collection, an organic mattress system by Suite Sleep, bedding by Coyuchi Organic, organic towels and robes by Nandina, environmentally friendly paint provided by Benjamin Moore Aura, and pillows and comforters by Sleep & Beyond. Lexus has installed a custom coffee table, designed by LaPlante, utilizing pieces of leather recycled from Lexus vehicles. Additionally, the designer worked with local antique dealers to secure select pieces of furniture that are both unique and sustainable by nature of their re-use.

The Lexus Hybrid Living Suite at The Fairmont San Francisco features wrap around windows offering guests postcard-worthy views of the city including the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Chinatown. The windows of the corner suite have been designed to allow natural light to stream in, reducing the need for artificial lighting and marrying sumptuous eco-friendly quarters with the beauty of the outdoor environment. All fixtures in the room utilize compact fluorescent lights, also found throughout the hotels 591 newly renovated guestrooms and suites.

Guests in San Francisco and Washington will enjoy a Green Guide, as well as an audio podcast, during their stay. The guides recommend environmentally friendly activities in the destination, including suggested highlights found on the Lexus Hybrid Living website. From eco-friendly bath amenities to mini-bars stocked with local biodynamic wines, organic farmstead cheeses and other delicious treats from each region, the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite will provide an unforgettable taste of the green life.

Now through December 30, 2008, guests at The Fairmont San Francisco can enjoy the Eco is the New Chic package featuring luxurious accommodations in the Lexus Hybrid Living Suite, use of the Lexus LS 600h L, complimentary parking and a bottle of organic wine upon arrival. The exclusive package is available for $869 plus tax per night. For more information, visit www.fairmont.com. To book the Lexus Hybrid Living suite, please call 415-772-5147.

LEXUS HYBRID LIVING
As the only luxury automotive company selling low-emission hybrid vehicles, Lexus is a leader in offering products that minimize the impact on the earth without sacrificing style and luxury. Lexus is bringing like-minded individuals and companies together through its Hybrid Living initiative, a series of events and a web portal that showcases luxury products made with sustainability top-of mind. Lexus Hybrid Living helps to define and inspire a new eco-luxury lifestyle by featuring furniture, fashion, art, food, architectural structures and other products that are kinder to the environment. For more information, please visit www.Lexus.com/hybridliving.

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is an extraordinary collection of luxury hotels, which includes iconic landmarks like The Fairmont Banff Springs, Fairmont Monte Carlo and New York's The Plaza. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travellers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Situated in some of the most exclusive and pristine areas in the world, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont's portfolio includes 55 distinctive hotels, with plans to develop over 20 new properties in the coming years in destinations as diverse as Beijing, Abu Dhabi and South Africa.

Fairmont is owned by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, a leading global hotel company with over 85 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swisstel brands. The company also owns Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com.

###

Contacts:
Lexus
Nancy Hubbell (310) 468-7633 nancy_hubbell@lexus.com
Patrick Courrielche (323) 906-0724 patrick@inform-ventures.com

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Lori Holland (212) 715-7098 lori.holland@fairmont.com
Samara Diapoulos (San Francisco) (415) 673-5634 samarapr@aol.com
Diana Bulger (DC) (202) 457-5019 diana.bulger@fairmont.com Posted Jan 26, 2009 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed Jimmy Palmer brings 15 years of experience in senior leadership roles at five-diamond and five-star hotels and resorts around the world to his new position as Hotel Manager of The Fairmont San Francisco, the flagship property for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

Most recently, Palmer served as the Corporate Director of Rooms for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts in the Middle East, where unprecedented levels of luxury and guest service have created the seven-star distinction as the new gold standard of hospitality.

While based in Dubai from 2007 through late-2008, Palmer authored 13 design briefs for new and rebranded properties in the Middle East and Africa. He also developed service standards for these premier hotels and resorts, with the firm belief that a hotels most valuable asset is its people.

His guiding principle is to create unforgettable structures that are designed to provide ultimate comfort and service to guests. For example, the design brief for The Fairmont Makkah in Saudi Arabia calls for 72 elevators so that guests can quickly leave the hotel when called to prayer in Islams holiest city.

Palmers projects also included The Fairmont Palms and Kingdom of Sheba, at Palm Island in Dubai as well as other hotels and resorts under development in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Egypt, Muscat, India and Africa.

In 2004, Palmer joined Fairmont Hotels & Resorts as the Director of Housekeeping for The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess where he was promoted to Director of Rooms in 2005.

He began his career in hospitality with the venerable Four Seasons brand. From 1994 to 2004, he held positions of increasing responsibility both in the United States and internationally. He also served on the opening team for various Four Seasons five-diamond hotels in the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean.

Palmer received a Master Certification in Financial and Strategic Management from Cornell University, an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Colombo University in Bogot, Colombia and a diploma from the California Hotel Association.

Born in San Andres Island, Colombia, Palmer was a member of the Colombian National Basketball Team for seven years and represented his country in many international events including the World Basketball Cup, the World University Games in Zagreb and various South American cups. He later played professionally with the Solent Stars club in England.

Today, Palmer enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children, reading and, of course, watching or participating in sports activities.

THE FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO
Since 1907, The Fairmont has served as the San Francisco residence for US presidents and world leaders. The hotel offers 591 newly renovated guest rooms and suites with unrivaled views of the San Francisco Bay Area, three distinctive restaurants, a health club and easy access to the citys most popular attractions. The Fairmont San Francisco is located atop Nob Hill at 950 Mason Street. For reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com.

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is an extraordinary collection of luxury hotels, which includes iconic landmarks like Fairmont Le Chteau Frontenac in Qubec City, Fairmont The Norfolk, Nairobi and London's The Savoy, reopening in 2009. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travelers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Situated in some of the most exclusive and pristine areas in the world, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont's portfolio includes 56 distinctive hotels, with plans to develop over 25 new properties in the coming years in destinations as diverse as Shanghai, Morocco and Anguilla. Fairmont is owned by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, a leading global hotel company with 91 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swisstel brands. The company also manages Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com. Posted Dec 23, 2008 by Elite News Team
Subscribe - RSS Feed SAN FRANCISCO -- On December 15, 2008 - Tom Wolfe, chief concierge of The Fairmont San Francisco, was recognized for his visionary achievement as the first concierge in the United States by Les Clefs dOr USA and the Northern California Concierge Association at a special tribute hosted by the landmark hotel.

The Fairmont San Francisco was the first hotel to offer the services of a concierge in the United States. In the 1970s, Wolfe, who trained as a concierge in Europe, set up a concierge desk in the hotel lobby. Because most Americans were not familiar with the concept, he placed a note explaining the concierges role and the ways in which he could assist travelers in each guest room. Wolfe later founded the US chapter of the international organization of hotel lobby concierges, Les Clefs dOr, in 1978.

At the tribute, Wolfe explained, By introducing concierge service to the United States, I feel that I have done what I was put on earth to do. Ever since I was a little boy, I have always been enamored with grand hotels. I am fortunate to have been able to follow my dream and realize my true calling.

He continues, As the first concierge in the United States, mine was a unique vantage point. Having worked in Europe, I knew what was expected of a great concierge. I was able to take this revered European tradition and inject with an Americans can do spirit.

Many of concierges attending the event credited Wolfe as their mentor in a profession that is now an industry staple at upscale hotels nationwide.

ABOUT TOM WOLFE

Tom Wolfe exemplifies The Fairmont San Franciscos dedication to providing exceptional service to its guests. As the founder of Les Clefs dOr in The United States, Wolfe introduced the European concept of concierge service to America in the 1970s. With his traditional European training and American can do attitude, he feels that he offers the best of both continents to the hotel guest.

Wolfes love affair with hotels began when he was a child. His family traveled extensively and he soon became enamored with the ambiance of luxury hotels. He appreciated their beauty and especially liked the feeling of being looked after. A native of New York, Wolfe traveled to Europe after graduating from American University in Washington D.C. His first job was as chef de reception at The Ritz in London. Here, he learned the gracious art of European innkeeping and the significance of a seasoned concierge. He soon aspired to be a concierge but knew that many years of training stood between him and the coveted position.

In 1970, Wolfe began his apprenticeship with The Savoy Management Group at the exclusive Hotel Lancaster in Paris. Just four years later, he returned to The United States to work as the countrys first concierge at The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. He worked with The Fairmont Hotel Company from 1974 to 1981.

Wolfe went on to become resident manager for The Boca Beach Club, part of The Boca Raton Hotel & Club in Florida. In 1982, he returned to San Francisco as chief concierge at the Hotel Meridien (now The Westin San Francisco Market Street).

His pioneering spirit led him to become the first concierge in Japan. From 1985 to 1989, he served as chief concierge and director of international guest relations at The New Otani Hotel and Tower in Tokyo.

In 1989, Ivana Trump appointed him executive chief concierge and director of guest services for New Yorks Plaza Hotel. After working at The Plaza for four years, Wolfe returned to Asia to work as group concierge consultant for Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.

Like Tony Bennett, Wolfe left his heart in San Francisco. In 1995, he returned to The Fairmont San Francisco and, today, continues to exceed guests expectations as the hotels chief concierge. Wolfe speaks English, Japanese, French, Spanish and Italian.

Thomas Klein, Regional Vice President and General Manager of The Fairmont San Francisco, comments, Tom Wolfe is an integral part of the Fairmont legend. He not only raised the bar for service excellence at our hotel but throughout the nations hotel industry. A plaque commemorating Wolfes pioneering role in the hospitality industry has been placed at The Fairmonts front desk in perpetuity.

Since 1907, The Fairmont has served as the San Francisco residence for US presidents and world leaders. The hotel offers 591 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, three distinctive restaurants, a health club and easy access to the citys most popular attractions. The Fairmont San Francisco is located atop Nob Hill at 950 Mason Street. For reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com.

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is an extraordinary collection of luxury hotels, which includes iconic landmarks like Fairmont Le Chteau Frontenac in Qubec City, Fairmont The Norfolk, Nairobi and London's The Savoy, reopening in 2009. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travelers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Posted Feb 29, 2008 by Elite Concierge
Subscribe - RSS Feed Thomas A. Klein brings nearly three decades of hospitality leadership to his new position as regional vice president, California for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and general manager of the brands flagship property, The Fairmont San Francisco.

In addition to managing The Fairmont San Francisco, he will oversee all Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in California; including The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, The Fairmont San Jose, The Fairmont Newport Beach and The Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica.

In his previous leadership roles with international hotel companies, including Swisstel Hotels and Resorts and Raffles International Limited, he developed operational standards for these brands and was pivotal in the acquisition of new properties and management contracts. Having operated premier hotels around the world, Klein brings keen insight into the services and amenities most prized by the global traveler.

I am delighted to join Fairmont Hotels & Resort during this exciting time as the company expands its presence in key destinations throughout the world. I am especially pleased to oversee the iconic Fairmont San Francisco, which has defined hospitality for more than a century, and to guide the landmark hotel to new heights of luxury and guest satisfaction, states Regional Vice President and General Manager Thomas Klein.

Most recently, Klein functioned as regional vice president, The Americas for Swisstel Hotels and Resorts. While serving as general manager of Swisstel Chicago, he oversaw properties in Lima, Peru and Quito, Ecuador. During his tenure in this position, he was appointed Chicagos Hotelier of the Year by the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association and a property within his region, Swisstel Quito, was named the second best hotel in South America by Travel & Leisure in 2006.

As senior vice president, The Americas for Raffles International Limited from 2001 to 2003, he oversaw the operations of six hotels (Swisstel/Raffles) in North America and two hotels in South America totaling 2,800 guest rooms and 3,000 employees. In this capacity, he was actively involved in the successful purchase of Swisstel Hotels and Resorts by Raffles Holdings.

From 1998 through 2001, Klein served as senior vice president, Africa for Movenpick Hotels & Resorts which operates premium hotels throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. At the same time, he acted as chief executive officer and managing director for Karos Hotels Limited, which was publicly listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and of which Movenpick was a majority shareholder.

Previously, he held general manager positions at The Ritz Carlton Sydney (1989-1992); Hayman Resort (1992-1995), a private island resort nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and North Queensland in Australia; and The Palace Hotel (1995-1996) in Sun City, South Africa; before being appointed chief executive officer of Simola Golf & Country Estate in Knysna, South Africa in 1996.

After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Boston University, Klein embarked on a hospitality career with Hyatt Hotel Corporation where he worked in positions of increasing responsibility from 1981 to 1988, when he joined the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC.

Klein was born in Bonn, Germany and lived there until the age of three, at which time, he and his family moved to Australia. He currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area and will soon be joined by his wife and two children. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his family. He also likes to golf and play tennis.

FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is an extraordinary collection of luxury hotels which includes iconic landmarks like The Fairmont Banff Springs, Fairmont Monte Carlo and New York's The Plaza. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travellers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Situated in some of the most exclusive and pristine areas in the world, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont's portfolio includes 55 distinctive hotels, with plans to develop over 20 new properties in the coming years in destinations as diverse as Beijing, Abu Dhabi and South Africa.

Fairmont is owned by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, a leading global hotel company with over 85 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swisstel brands. The company also owns Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com.