The Claremont's upgrade is a reflection of the increased quality of the hotel’s business class accommodation, which underwent a significant renovation in the second half of 2010 at a total cost of over £1 million. The new rooms sport super king sized beds with Tempur mattresses, wet rooms and cutting edge entertainment technology including iPod docking facilities and BluRay enabled flat screen televisions, and have been aimed at business travellers in particular.  Each room cost in excess of £37,000 to fit, compared to an industry average of £15,000.

Angela Byrne, the Quality and Service Manager at Isle of Man Tourism, commented on the upgrade: “We would like to extend sincere congratulations to The Claremont Hotel and all of the staff there.  The upgrade is recognition of the investment that Sleepwell Hotels have made in both the property and the staff there and we are glad they have done it; hotels that go the extra mile benefit the Island as a whole.”

Mark Wilson is the Managing Director of Sleepwell Hotels, owners of The Claremont.  He commented: “While I believe we now have the best business class accommodation on the Island, I think that this upgrade really reflects the efforts of our staff above all else.  I am truly proud of the consistently hard work of all the staff here, their attention to detail and their commitment to maintaining high standards.  We couldn’t be happier that that has been recognised.”

Further to the upgraded rating, recent research by The Claremont Hotel has shown that the refurbishment has substantially increased the business that they are receiving.  In the first quarter of 2011 room occupancy has seen a massive 14% increase on the same period last year.  The new figure is a great achievement for the Douglas based hotel, given that the travel and hospitality industries have suffered in the tough economic climate of recent years.

Mark also commented on the increased levels of business: “It seems that our investment in the premises is really paying off, with much higher occupancy rates than last year.  Last year’s refurbishment was actually only stage one of a longer term plan and we have now started design work on stage two.  The second stage will involve redesigning the ground floor, lounge and reception areas as well as the remaining sea view rooms.”

The hotel has also collected reviews from guests who have used the new rooms, and the feedback has been very positive.  Features which guests have consistently highlighted about The Claremont include its location, the sea views, the quality of the Coast Restaurant on the ground floor and the friendliness of the staff.

Photograph: Front Row Ian Stephenson newly appointed General Manager of The Claremont Hotel receives the new four star plaque from Angela Byrne, Quality & Service Manager, Tourism Division, Department of Economic Development, along with key staff from The Claremont celebrating the occasion.