July 28 (SeeNews) - U.S.-based multinational hospitality operator Marriott International said it signed an agreement with Albanian developer Vlora Marina Residences to build a waterfront hotel and branded apartments in the port city of Vlora through a 100 million euro ($109 million) investment.
“The development will involve a 150-key hotel and 160 branded residences with an optional rental pool programme available,” Silvija Lovreta, senior director southeastern Europe international hotel development at Marriott, said at the signing ceremony in Tirana on Thursday.
The five-star Vlora Marriott Hotel will feature indoor and outdoor pools, along with a private beach area. The area of the branded residences, available for private ownership, will range from 75 to 200 square meters, offering the residents access to the hotel's gym and other facilities.
“The hotel will be located at the centre of one of the country’s most prominent tourism destinations, close to a new airport, which is under development, making it easily accessible for tourists,” said Ardiana Sokoli, deputy president for real estate business at Albania's Balfin Group, a shareholder of Vlora Marina Residences.
Vlora Marriott will be the hospitality chain's second hotel in Albania, after the company opened a five-star hotel in Tirana in March.
“Marriott believes in the touristic potential in Albania, and we will be looking for opportunities to grow in the country,” Silvija Lovreta said.
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