The hotel was extremely fortunate and was largely undamaged during Tropical Cyclone Nargis, which hit the region on 3rd May 2008.  The hotel, which closes annually over the low season for essential maintenance work on its antique teak structure, suffered minimal damage to the roof, windows and extensive gardens, all of which have been restored in time for the reopening. 

During and immediately after Cyclone Nargis, the Governor’s Residence opened its doors to local residents seeking shelter, and set up an ongoing programme to donate medicine, clothes and food to those worst affected by the storm.

The Governor’s Residence has started to receive future bookings, showing hope that tourism will return to the region.

Ends/..

Notes to Editors: 
Orient-Express Hotels set up a charity appeal to assist in the immediate delivery of aid relief to the worst affected victims of the cyclone.  The appeal has been very well supported and some US$50,000 has so far been dispersed to a number of relief agencies including MERLIN, Save the Children and World Vision.  The primary beneficiary of the Orient-Express Hotels Burma Cyclone Appeal is a UK registered charity, the Shelterbox Trust, which has an established network in Myanmar effectively distributing emergency aid.

The Road To Mandalay, Orient-Express’ river cruise ship in Myanmar, was damaged and is currently undergoing a period of repair and reconditioning and our cruises will recommence on August 26th 2009

The Road To Mandalay’s onboard Doctor, Dr Hla Tun, has been visiting the Delta every week since the cyclone and together with an assistant has been treating up to 400 patients on each trip. 

For further press information please contact:
Vicky Legg         
Director of Public Relations    
Orient-Express Hotels    
Tel: 020 7921 4067   
Fax: 020 7805 5938   
Email: vicky.legg@orient-express.com    
 
Louise Toye
PR Executive
Orient-Express Hotels
Tel: 020 7921 4069
Fax: 020 7805 5938
Email: louise.toye@orient-express.com
Web: www.orient-express.com