IZMIR, Turkey, May 6, 2008. Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has opened a new deluxe hotel in Turkey beginning of May 2008: the Swissôtel Grand Efes, Izmir - a member of "The Leading Hotels of the World". Following in the wake of the three Swissôtels in Istanbul, Ankara and Göcek, the new 5-star hotel will extend the portfolio of the international hotel chain with Swiss heritage in Turkey.

The Swissôtel Grand Efes, located in the heart of the city, is within walking distance of the major business and shopping districts and the Adnan Menderes Airport is a mere 15 kms from the hotel. With 402 elegantly appointed guest rooms including 55 specially designed suites, the Swissôtel Grand Efes features state-of-the-art technology and exclusive amenities and services catering to the needs of discerning guests, be they traveling on business or pleasure. Guest rooms offer spectacular views over the Aegean Sea, the landscaped gardens or the bustling city.

"We are delighted to having added the Swissôtel Grand Efes, Izmir to our collection of Turkish properties", commented Meinhard Huck, President Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, on the recent opening. "Thanks to the success of our three existing hotels in Turkey, the Swissôtel brand is already very strong in Turkey and known for delivery of exceptional standards in hospitality. We are honoured that the owner, Izmir Büyük Efes Otelcilik Ve Turizm A.S., has entrusted us to manage this important landmark property."

Michael Schauss, the German born Executive Chef, has worked for some of the finest establishments around the globe and now brings his culinary talents to Izmir. Together with his highly experienced brigade, he presents a selection of traditional Turkish and contemporary cuisine in a variety of exciting new restaurants. Café Swiss offers Turkish delicacies and Swiss cuisine from the Italian, French and German regions of Switzerland. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features live action cooking stations in a stunning large show kitchen.

The 9th level of the hotel provides guests with the finest dining and entertainment experiences in the city. Equinox is an elegant restaurant where guests can enjoy modern style preparations of meat and fish while being dazzled with the spectacular panaromic views of Izmir Bay. Situated adjacent to Equinox, the Sky Bar offers stylish, fabulously presented cocktails in a club-like atmosphere with music direction from Suat Ateþdaðlý, one of Turkey's premier DJs. The former Aquarium Restaurant is now revitalized and features large "port-hole" windows into the waters of the swimming pool. A relaxed indoor, outdoor venue, the restaurant specializes in fresh grills coupled with an extensive selection of local and international beers.

Located within the Swissôtel Grand Efes, the Grand Efes Convention Centre has an impressive mix of flexible Meeting rooms, Boardrooms and Ballrooms which can accommodate approximately 3,000 guests in total, with 10 to 1,200 guests in any one particular venue. All function rooms are equipped with the latest technology and our professional meetings and events personnel will ensure that your meetings, events and conferences are planned and executed flawlessly. The Convention Centre also houses an Exhibition area of nearly 1,500 sq meters which can be divided into two sections whilst delegates also have the convenience of the hotel undercover parking area with a capacity of 250 vehicles.

Amrita Spa & Wellness, the first Spa in Turkey with a membership of "The Leading Spas of the World", will serve hotel guests and various levels of Spa membership will also be available to the local community. The full service Spa lies on 5,500 square meters and offers soothing mind and body therapies, combining Asian treatments with Western technologies. Other facilities include steam bath, an ice cave, Jacuzzi, VIP Suite, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, traditional Turkish Bath, outdoor tennis court and extensive fitness areas.

"We are very happy and proud about the recently opened hotel and to be part of this charming city known for its rich culture and heritage", adds Stuart Chase, General Manager of the hotel. "We believe our hotel will become an icon for Izmir."