With increasing wealth in the region, GCC tourists are willing to pay more than other holiday-makers on luxury experiences abroad. A 2014 study by the Travel & Tourism Intelligence Center revealed that GCC outbound expenditure is expected to reach $100 billion by 2018, up from $65 billion in 2013, as the regional population increases trips abroad. Further findings announced during the Arabian Travel Market indicate that GCC tourists spend on average 260 percent more on airfares, with between 40 and 60 percent opting for business class, and a staggering 430 percent more on accommodation than the global average spending, highlighting the demand for luxurious accommodation during holidays among GCC nationals. "GCC nationals, and a high number of GCC expatriates, are accustomed to high levels of luxury available in the region, and are willing to spend more than global averages to maintain this lifestyle while on holiday," said Rui Reis, the general manager of The St. Regis Istanbul, recently launched in March this year. "With Istanbul being a top destination for GCC tourists, The St. Regis Istanbul is in a unique position to offer GCC tourists in Istanbul the same unmatched service and luxury levels that GCC tourists have come to expect from St. Regis. Our commitment to offer our distinguished GCC guests an unforgettable experience is weaved in the fine details of our deluxe rooms, as well as in our carefully selected cuisine offerings," added Reis. According to the leading hotelier, GCC travelers have unique requirements when traveling abroad. GCC guests often travel with families, and require smooth and comfortable travel and check-in services, late dining options with familiar flavors, personalized guest services, and access to high-end shopping outlets and spa experiences. In catering to GCC guests' large appetite for luxurious accommodation, each of the rooms available at The St. Regis Istanbul are styled to reflect timeless elegance and modern convenience, featuring original sculptures and paintings from the Demsa art collection. The guest rooms and suites are fitted with the signature St. Regis beds, topped with 300-thread-count linens and inviting Vakko pillows. Understanding GCC guests' desire for privacy, the spacious Marmara marble bathrooms, with deep soaking bathtubs, rainforest showers, and premium Remède bath amenities allow for a revitalizing experience in the comfort and privacy of guests' rooms. Guests can take the indulgent experience further in our serene Iridium Spa with authentic and traditionally designed private hammams, followed by separate male and female saunas, steam rooms, and rejuvenating ice fountains. The St. Regis Istanbul also offers the hotelier's hallmark Butler service to ensure its GCC guests' receive paramount customer service. The personal butlers at the hotel are happy to assist guests with anything from complimentary garment pressing, to delivery, and luggage packing. With four distinct and pleasant seasons throughout the year, St. Regis Istanbul is conveniently situated in close proximity to some of the leading premium shopping destinations in Istanbul, catering to the GCC guests' interest in fine international shopping experiences. — SG
