April 23, 2014 – CALGARY, Alberta – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® (NYSE:HOT) today announced the opening of Aloft Calgary University, the first of its cutting-edge Aloft brand hotels in western Canada. Owned by University Hotels Ltd., the hotel underwent a multi-million dollar transformation prior to conversion. Aloft Calgary University features an urban design aesthetic with 143 stylish guest rooms, 4,000 square feet of meeting space and a lively social atmosphere.
“We are thrilled that Aloft has arrived in western Canada. Calgary is a vibrant city for both students and travelling professionals who appreciate Aloft’s style aesthetic and buzzing social scene,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President, Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “This is the first conversion project for Aloft in the Canadian market which is a significant step for the brand. Conversions are becoming an increasingly important growth channel for Aloft and will help to fuel growth in markets like Canada.”
Adjacent to the University of Calgary campus and McMahon Stadium, the hotel is within walking distance of the LRT line with direct access to downtown Calgary.
“Calgary has evolved to be a leading lifestyle and business destination in Canada, making it the ideal place to launch the sassy, forward-thinking Aloft brand,” said Farrah Bhanji, Managing Director, Aloft Calgary University. “Whether visiting overnight, or for an evening of cocktails and live music, if you like to live, laugh and have fun then Aloft is the place for you.”
The hotel’s signature W XYZ® bar will offer a perfect place for guests to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and catch up-and-coming, local musicians that are part of Aloft’s notable Live at Aloft. Offerings unique to Aloft Calgary University will include a full service day spa, spin studio and specialty restaurant – a casual, fun eatery on the second level of the hotel.
Aloft Calgary University guest rooms will feature the brand’s ultra-comfortable signature platform bed, walk-in shower and custom bath amenities by Bliss® Spa. Free and fast WiFi, plug & play charging stations and links to the guest room’s 42″ LCD TV help to maximize guests’ work and play. Additional facilities will include an indoor Splash pool, Re-charge 24-hour fitness center and flexible meeting space-called Tactic-ideal for both business meetings and social gatherings. Tactic is outfitted with the latest in A/V technology, including a 50″ flat screen with laptop connectivity.
Industry changing initiatives in music, design and technology have positioned Aloft as a must-have brand for the next generation of travellers. Aloft recently announced that select properties will roll out the second phase of Smart Check In, allowing guests to use their smartphones to check in to the hotel and open their guestroom door. This follows on the heels of the original Smart Check In, the first mobile check in using RFID technology to truly bypass the front desk, available at 14 Aloft properties.
