Belgrade-based Crown Plaza meets deadline - Reconstruction is nearing an end, hotel enters pre-opening stage July 1

Works in the former Continental in Novi Beograd do not stop. Currently, central hall interior and mezzanine is being arranged. There are intensive works in the spa zone, pool and conference rooms. Builders do not move to the stage of "more sensitive" works, i.e. furnishing of rooms interior, suites, restaurants and other facilities at the hotel. Grand Opening is scheduled for the end of the year, and as Zivorad Vasic, the General Manager in Belgrade-based Crowne Plaza says, it is evident the deadline cannot be compromised.

- Reconstruction of the Continental is a huge architectural-design and construction project. Considering the fact that only works on dismantling the hotel implied constant engagement of 400-500 workers on a daily basis within three months, you can assume how precisely dynamics of other works must be carried out. Serious approach in this reconstruction can be seen by selecting assistants engaged from the beginning. In the first place it is London-based architectural bureau Virgile & Stone, which traditionally carries out all the IHG group projects, then Turner Constructions, a leading U.S. company for construction supervision and many other national quality associates.

As Vasic says, the most difficult part of the job was finished: facade of the first to the eighth floor was set, with triple energy-saving glass, brand new ventilation and air conditioning systems have been installed, strong and weak currents electrical installations have been replaced.

(Works do not stop)

- We are now at the stage of performing internal works. Ceramic tiles, sanitary, carpets are being set.

Vasic points out the reconstruction is carried out competently, professionally and absolutely in the dynamics delegated during the project development.

- Visits and supervision of management of Intercontinental Hotels Group are an integral part of monitoring the progress and quality of works, and so far we have received only the highest grades and praise for the current situation. Taking into account all these parameters, we are confident that it will be a grand opening at the end of the year as planned. Straight after that, we are expecting the first guests to enter Crowne Plaza Belgrade.

July 1, the hotel entered the so-called "pre-opening" stage, our source says, adding that Tamara Obradovic, the Sales and Marketing Manager and her team has been working on a process of already received inquiries, but also on new bookings.

- I especially want to point out that their demands for rooms and banquet space booking have already been provided by all those who seriously plan their corporate and private parties and events. The hotel has already been booked for longer periods in the 2014 year for certain important congress events.

Collocutor of ekapija is adding that he is indeed happy that the large number of young people as well as those with serious experience in the hospitality industry, have shown interest in a career in the Crowne Plaza.

- On the other hand, processing and selection of 2,500 applications for the job is a very serious and responsible task. Our main goal is provide Crowne Plaza with the best team possible. In order to make it happen, the selection of candidates goes through several stages. We know what are the requirements for certain positions and these standards will be strictly adhered to. I will personally participate in interviews because I want to make direct contact with potential associates. The first recruiting stage has passed, and taking into account the quality of the candidates I can say that the new team of Crowne Plaza will be very professional, efficient and able to make each customer satisfied and make him come back to our hotel.

When asked "what's the biggest change former hotel guests will notice," Zivorad Vasic said that despite the fact that hotel retains its distinctive exterior, because it is one of the monuments of the city of Belgrade, the moment the first guests enter the Crowne Plaza and who previously visited Continental, they will see huge changes.

- The space will be completely differently organized which will provide a special effect of openness, width and elegance. Modifications in space will enable better functionality and organization so that the building could further adapt to modern trends. One of the most visible changes will certainly be additionally constructed circular staircase. Thus, primary link between the level of the hall and the mezzanine, which was lacking in the previous project will be achieved.

Stambol Gestamov will continue to manage the kitchen who will as one of the top chefs open Crowne Plaza.

- The hotel will have two restaurants, All day dining and Fine Dining, it will offer the largest and finest banquet space in the region, so we are primarily oriented to large events - conferences, corporate meetings and personal celebrations. In this context, our culinary team needs support. In addition to traditional quality culinary offer we have already been recognized for, a new concept of preparation and presentation of food, typical of luxury hotels in world capitals will be introduced.