The Top Trump? Luxury New York hotel set to open

The Trump SoHo New York is set to open April 9, signaling the Trump group's determination to continue building a name for itself with ultra-luxury travelers.

The collection, run by Donald Trump and three of his children, currently boasts just four properties in New York, Chicago, Las Vegas and Waikiki.

The Trump SoHo, a 46-storey, 391-room glass tower in the center of downtown Manhattan, may be the most impressive property in the portfolio so far - and the group isn't finished yet. Later this year, it will open a new property in Panama, before expanding into Canada in 2011.

"2010 is a key year for Trump Hotel Collection as we open our first location outside of the U.S. and bring a new level of luxury hospitality to Downtown New York," said Trump's Jim Petrus earlier this year. "In addition, we've just begun an extensive renovation of our flagship on Central Park West. Trump Hotel Collection is committed to delivering the best hotel experience anywhere in the world, from cutting?edge architecture and interior design to The Spa at Trump and the signature services of the Trump Attaché."

With other projects "in development" in Dubai, Cap Cana, Scotland and New Orleans, Trump clearly believes that there is a strong market in the ultra-luxury services it offers. The largest penthouse suite of the Trump SoHo, on the top floor of the hotel, is reportedly the largest penthouse suite on the East Coast.

Trump describes the two-storey lobby of the hotel as "reminiscent of hotels of the early 20th century," lauding the hotel's library and exclusive Fendi Case furnishings.

The 11,000 square foot (1,021 square meter) spa features an outdoor pool deck and bar, while the penthouse rooms come with a chef upon request - just in case the hotel's 24-hour room service doesn't cut it.

For guests looking to escape their rooms, the hotel offers the three-storey Italian restaurant Quattro Gastronomia Italiana, which has proved popular in other Trump properties.

As the economy recovers, Donald and Co. are betting that they can woo luxury travelers with their strong brand name, although initial reports suggest that sales of the condominiums in the complex have been slower than expected. In summer, luxury hotel chain InterContinental will open a 36-storey Manhattan tower of its own in Times Square, adding 607 guestrooms to the already burgeoning New York hotel market.

For luxury travelers on a budget though, this competition could mean a bargain - Donald Trump Junior recently stated that the hotel will open with rates of around $389 (€291), which he hopes will rise to around $500 (€374) by fall.

http://www.trumpsohohotel.com/