MIAMI—Today, Melia Hotels International announced its next major launch: ME Miami, the ME by Melia brand’s first property in the United States. This new bay-front property, slated to open in spring 2015, makes its way to one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and the U.S. headquarters of Melia Hotels International.
“We are incredibly excited about the launch of ME Miami and are thrilled to begin this project in one of the most iconic cities in the United States, with its strategic location and all the offerings the city of Miami has to offer,” said Gabriel Escarrer, CEO and vice chairman of Melia Hotels International.
Under the ownership of the private-equity, alternative investment manager CGI Merchant Group, the downtown property will take over the current location of Casa Moderna Hotel on Biscayne Boulevard.
ME Miami will boast 129 rooms, two rooftop pools, and more than 5,000 square feet of renovated space that will be converted into new food and beverage facilities with dining and event spaces. All public and private spaces, including a spa, will be completely remodeled. Furthermore, ME’s Aura Managers will be onsite as experts on downtown Miami and its cultural offerings.
One of the property’s signature food and beverage amenities will include the first ever STK Rebel, a casual version of the traditional steakhouse, which will include indoor and outdoor dining options.
“The opening of ME Miami represents a significant undertaking for CGI, one that spanned two years and comprised a substantial financial commitment, a tremendous amount of resources, as well as exhaustive due diligence to find a partner befitting of such a significant project for downtown Miami,” said Raoul Thomas, chief executive officer of CGI Merchant Group.
“The city truly sits at the crossroads of two great hemispheres. Given Melia Hotels International’s extensive experience in Europe and Latin America, and Miami being the ME by Melia brand’s first foray into the U.S., it was the optimum choice. We are proud of this partnership and know it will bring great value to the City of Miami and the residents of The Marquis Tower, as Miami stands as one of the most attractive gateway cities in the U.S.”
The announcement of ME Miami follows the summer 2014 launches of ME Mallorca and ME Ibiza as well as the ME London opening in 2013. The brand will continue to expand with the development of three future properties in crucial markets including ME Milan Il Duca and ME Caracas, both slated to open in 2015, and Zaha Hadid’s ME Dubai slated to open in 2016.
