She is the CEO of BDPST Koncept, part of the BDPST development group owned by her husband, István Tiborcz, which acquired the legendary hotel in 2022.

The Gellért is the symbol of rebirth and high-quality tourism, she said, as BDPST will bring back the 1920s, and bring rich Asian tourists to Budapest.

Orbán said Tiborcz’s company decided after lengthy and thorough professional consideration to entrust Mandarin Oriental with operating the hotel.

The new Mandarin Oriental Gellért will be a luxury hotel designed to attract high quality upscale guests from overseas, she said. High quality tourists prefer to stay longer in the city and spend more money, she added.

As the American market is dominated by the Four Seasons, the best hotel in Budapest, the Gellért would like to lure Asian tourists instead, said Orbán.

Renovations began at the end of October. The new facility will have 134-room luxury rooms and 34 suites.

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the owner and operator of award-winning hotels, resorts, and residences. For over 60 years, Mandarin Oriental has played a leading role in the luxury hotel industry.

Their long history dates back to 1963 when they opened their flagship hotel, named Mandarin, Hong Kong. Evolving from their initial Asian roots, they have grown into a global brand, currently managing 38 hotels and 10 residences in 25 countries. Reflecting the Eastern heritage, local culture, and unique design of Mandarin Oriental, the group has become synonymous with luxury and excellence.

The CNBC American news television channel, primarily focused on economic and financial news, as well as stock market and market events, ranked Mandarin Oriental at the top of the list of Best Luxury Hotel Brands.

Laurent Kleitman, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s Chief Executive, explains:

“We will take the same meticulous approach in Budapest as we have with our other historic properties, ensuring that we honour and respect local artisanal craftsmanship and Hungarian cultural heritage, while incorporating the finest luxury, contemporary comfort and sustainability standards for which Mandarin Oriental is renowned.”

 “We are excited to be bringing Mandarin Oriental to Hungary for the first time, and to witness this true legend of European hospitality rise again, enabling future generations of discerning travellers to craft their own stories and experiences from within its famous walls. Mandarin Oriental Gellert, Budapest, together with our property in Prague and our recently announced project in Vienna, will form a compelling trinity of destinations for our fans in central Europe,” continued Laurent Kleitman.

The hotel possesses unique features not only in Hungary but also in Europe. In addition to the Art Nouveau atmosphere, its own thermal spring, and the motto “Nothing is impossible at the Gellért Hotel,” the hotel will continue to emphasize gastronomy.

In homage to Károly Gundel, who led the hotel’s restaurant between 1927 and 1947, turning it into the culinary stronghold of Budapest, the hotel will focus on providing exceptional culinary experiences.

In the future, alongside diverse wellness services, the Gellért Hotel will feature a unique rooftop pool with a retractable glass roof, a thermal water pool, a cold plunge pool, and an outdoor relaxation area. Additionally, a rooftop bar will offer panoramic views of the Pest side of the city and the Danube.

Click here to know more about the project

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