Six Continents has opened its fifth hotel in Lebanon, the four-star Crowne Plaza in Beirut, and plans further expansion.

Raymond Khalife, president of Six Continents Hotels, Middle East and Africa, said the introduction of the Crowne Plaza brand in Lebanon is part of the process of bringing about the revival of its capital city: 'We're committed to supporting the country's redevelopment, and in particular that of Beirut, and are also looking towards more new projects in Lebanon.'

The 168-room hotel, overlooking the Mediterranean and just 15 minutes from the airport has Crowne Plaza Club floors specially designed for business travellers offering private express check-in and check-out, executive lounge with complimentary breakfast, light refreshments and internet/business facilities.

A hotel fitness centre offers a temperature-controlled rooftop swimming pool, fitness and health club with gym, steamroom, spa pool and massage treatments.

A spokesperson for Six Continents confirmed that Lebanon is 'a major market' for the group. Details of expansion plans are expected when preliminary results are published in early December. Details: www.sixcontinentshotels.com.