Raffles Tianjin, the tallest penthouse hotel in China's up-and-coming northern financial hub, Tianjin, is nearing opening with a dynamic leadership team headed by veteran hotelier Gilbert Madhavan.

The luxury hotel is scheduled to open by March 2010 atop Tianjin Centre, in the heart of the city's business and financial district.

"China is an important strategic market for growing Raffles Hotels & Resorts' presence," says Raffles President John Johnston. "Tianjin was a key target for our brand expansion, as a fast-growing city with an exciting future."

Occupying the top 36-50 floors of the Tianjin Centre's West Tower, Raffles Tianjin features 116 luxury rooms (including 22 elegant suites) that are among the largest in the city -- beginning with oversized Grand Rooms close to 700 square feet, more than double the size of a standard Tianjin hotel room.

Rooms feature luxurious living areas adorned with contemporary Chinese furnishings adding modern sophistication and residential charm. Elegant motifs of China Rose, the flower emblem of Tianjin City, feature as part of the hotel décor, reflecting a sense of belonging in the vibrant city.

Unique guest services are a hallmark of the Raffles brand. ‘Guests' are even referred to as ‘residents', and enjoy the legendary Raffles Butler service round-the-clock.

A 24-hour Business Concierge assists with residents' requests both within the hotel and across the city, from selecting culturally appropriate gifts for a meeting, or arranging for a professional translator or city guide.

Raffles Tianjin features five exclusive restaurants and lounges including CitySpace Rooftop Bar with dramatic panoramic views, Qing Palace Chinese Restaurant, SóU Rooftop Restaurant, serving Japanese and European cuisine, as well as Opera Café and a Lobby Bar.

Unsurpassed banqueting, conference and corporate event facilities include a Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 400 guests.

Also showcased is Raffles Spa, a sanctuary of indulgence, rejuvenation and serenity. Raffles Spa will feature 10 treatment rooms, a foot reflexology lounge, yoga room and a heated swimming pool.

Located along the prime shopping belt of Binjiang Avenue, above its own designer shopping mall, Raffles Tianjin is just a stroll from two metro stations, and 20 minutes from Tianjin Railway Station, connecting to the 30-minute high speed railway to Beijing. Tianjin Binhai International Airport is only 30 minutes away, with connections to major cities in China and worldwide destinations.

Raffles Tianjin is Raffles Hotels & Resorts' second hotel in China, following Raffles Beijing Hotel.