News

Lithuanians traveling in Southern Europe and city visitors are well acquainted with the aperitivo culture, so the new bar concept will be designed in a way that guests feel as if they’ve stepped into a bar for friends – a place where they will want to relax with a cocktail after work, before an event, or simply enjoy the views of the Old Town in the heart of the city while sipping on a morning cup of coffee, waiting for a meeting.

Marius Jakulis Jason, the owner of the hotel, says that Radisson Collection Astorija is constantly growing and changing: “The guest is always at the forefront, so by investing in the hotel’s spaces and their renovation, we aim for even higher levels of service and comfort. I believe the new bar will become not only an attraction for the hotel but also for the whole city,” shares the entrepreneur.

The new bar will become the new face of the Radisson Collection Astorija. It will not only be a place for gourmet aperitifs but also a social hub for the city, inviting guests to drop by and spend time with the best cocktails and snacks. The goal is to challenge the longstanding belief that hotel bars or restaurants are only for guests staying at the hotel. This bar will be for any local resident or visitor who wants to enjoy a warm drink during the day or refresh with an exclusive aperitif in the evening.

“We plan to host various events in the new bar space for both hotel and city guests. We also expect the bar to become the ideal spot for both business meetings and gatherings with family and friends – a place where every guest can enjoy drinks, snacks, top-notch service, comfortable and stylish furniture, and through the large bar veranda windows, delight in exceptional views of Vilnius Old Town,” says the hotel’s general manager, Laura Vaitukaitienė.

The bar’s interior design incorporates references to the hotel’s historic past The new bar’s interior is being designed by the famous national architecture and design studio “Yes.Design.Architecture,” whose vision will blend seamlessly into the hotel’s updated design. Along with the bar, the reception area is also being renovated to ensure the hotel’s public spaces exude a unified aesthetic.

“When designing the Astorija bar and lobby area, we aimed to create a space that encourages communication, brings people together, and allows them to spend time comfortably. The central bar, accessible from all sides, will be placed in the veranda zone – exactly where it was during the hotel’s historic times,” shares the architect team.

The hotel will also feature a newly created “lounge” area, which didn’t exist before. The massive, sectional sofa will give guests the opportunity to relax comfortably or settle in while waiting for check-in. The dark, yet subtle, shaded interior will blend harmoniously into the new “Radisson Collection Astorija” design, where mystique and intrigue meet.
“Our goal is not only to restore but also to enhance the historical spirit of the space, adding modernity and functionality,” say the designers working on the new bar project.

The official bar opening is scheduled for the end of March.

Since the end of 2022, Radisson Collection Astorija has been managed by Apex Alliance Hotel Management.

The hotel’s interior update has been entrusted to the London-based architecture firm Vita Architecture, specialising in residential and commercial building design. Lead architect Rūta Benetytė, from Lithuania, takes a creative and practical approach to design functional and aesthetic spaces. The studio focuses on maximising the potential of each space and tailoring solutions to meet clients’ needs.

“The new visual concept is based on Lithuanian botany. The patterns and materials were chosen deliberately to reflect the significance of key plants for Lithuanians. Hotel guests will find oak, rowan, linden, rue, and other important plants gracefully integrated into the interior details. Using only local plants, we’ve created not only a modern and luxurious but also a unique style for the hotel’s location. The new interior is like a book, revealing the connection between Lithuanian culture and nature. When developing the new room concept, we aimed to create a sense of lightness, warmth, brightness, and energy, which we refined together with the hotel owner Marius Jakulis Jason, who draws inspiration from interiors in Miami,” says architect Rūta Benetytė.

“Grand Hotel Vilnius combines a classic luxury and modern lifestyle, inspired by the energy of Miami, but deeply rooted in Vilnius’ history. We are not aiming to replicate Miami—it’s simply an inspiration to create a place where elegance, comfort, and modernity merge into a unique experience. This is a hotel where every moment exudes exclusivity, and the beauty of Vilnius is revealed through a new, vibrant lens of luxury,” says hotel owner Marius Jakulis Jason.

“The new room concept was developed over more than five months. We worked closely with the Hilton team. It was challenging—we had to align many details and explain the history of the Lithuanian people, even ‘defend’ the concept. But although the process took a long time, it was very fruitful, and I can confidently say that we’ve achieved an even better result together. We’ve already approved the materials, and we’ll soon begin the installation of the first room,” says Rūta Benetytė.

The first show room will be completed in May of this year, and changes to the remaining rooms will be implemented by the end of 2026. The renovation will be carried out in phases without closing the hotel completely.

“It’s no secret that more and more tourists are discovering Vilnius, and we believe it will become one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe in the coming years. With the updated interior, we aimed to present Lithuania not through nostalgia, but through modern luxury—authentic yet contemporary, maintaining refined elegance, while reflecting the iconic history of our building, the unique visual identity of Grand Hotel Vilnius, and its values. Every detail of the interior speaks of historical phases but communicates in the language of the modern traveller, inviting them to experience an unforgettable stay,” says Sigita Rudzevičienė, General Manager of Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton.

“The hotel’s interior changes represent the second phase of this luxurious hotel’s renovation. In the first phase, we changed the hotel’s brand, introducing the luxurious Curio Collection by Hilton to the Baltic states and performing minor decorative construction work. Along with the brand, we chose new hotel operators, the Apex Alliance Hotel Management group. Together, we aim to increase the hotel’s value and attractiveness for visitors,” says Laurynas Antropikas, manager and partner of 1AM Luxury Hotels fund.

he event was led by Reigo Ahven, a renowned event host, and featured a unique musical performance. Liisi Koikson and DJ Sander Mölder performed songs, inspired by Marie Under’s poetry, which were specifically created for the event. Guests also had the opportunity to tour the hotel, explore its unique design and amenities.

“What a rollercoaster journey it has been—opening Hampton by Hilton Tallinn has been challenging, but incredibly rewarding! Thanks to an amazing team, supportive owners who believed in me, and a great management company that trusted my expertise, we’ve had a fantastic start. The overwhelming interest in our new hotel, combined with the strong support of our loyal partners, made the launch more successful than expected. I am grateful for this journey and excited for what’s ahead,” says General Manager Toma Torsekė.

This milestone would not have been possible without the key stakeholders and partners:

• Owners GVP Invest Estonia, Sigitas Daugnoras, Sigitas Butkus, Mindaugas Šimkus, Artūras Kojala, Mindaugas Bagdonavičius and Renatas Vaitkevičius;
• Merko Ehitus, the construction company behind the beautiful new building;
• General Manager Toma Torsekė whose leadership and dedication guides the team.

This opening marks Apex Alliance Hotel Management’s first managed hotel in Estonia, showcasing an exciting expansion into a new market and reinforcing our commitment to growth across Europe.

We proudly awarded 17 outstanding individuals, alongside 4 hotels whose achievements have set the highest standards in hospitality.

This event wasn’t just about recognising success—it was about showcasing the power of teamwork, a shared vision, and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellence. Here’s to the spirit of Apex Alliance that drives us to continue raising the bar, year after year.

This year the event was held at Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton, which provided 5-star service.

The Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort, first established in 1877, boasts 6 distinct buildings, a renowned SPA & Wellness Centre, along with extensive facilities such as tennis courts, event spaces and diverse dining options. The resort is planned to feature 143 rooms and suites, each designed to offer spectacular mountain views and ultimate comfort.

Before reopening the luxurious 5-star property and welcoming our first guests in 2025, the hotel’s facilities will be enhanced, the guest experience elevated, all while preserving its rich heritage and timeless charm.

„Acquiring the Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort is a significant milestone for Apex Alliance. This landmark property will not only strengthen our presence in the European hospitality market, but also set a new standard for luxury and excellence in the Swiss Alps. Our goal is to maintain the resort’s historical essence while introducing modern amenities that provide an unparalleled guest experience year-round,” says Vytautas Drumelis, Partner at Apex Alliance.

Apex Alliance Hotel Management has been announced as the official hotel operator. Our company’s portfolio will include 19 hotels by the end of 2024, with 2 new hotels scheduled to open in Venice, Italy, and Tallinn, Estonia.

“We are pleased to announce the acquisition of the renowned Waldhaus Flims Wellness Resort, a strategic addition to our portfolio of properties with deep heritage and distinctive character. We see tremendous potential in revitalising this iconic resort to meet the increasingly sophisticated demands of modern travellers. Together with Apex Alliance, we are committed to transforming Waldhaus Flims into a premier destination that harmonises luxury, relaxation, and adventure amidst the stunning alpine landscape of Flims-Laax-Falera.” said Karina Paval, Vice President of Paval Holding.

“Apex Alliance Hotel Management is well-known for its solid experience in the field of hotel management and offers high standards of quality. That’s why we chose them to manage this Marriott hotel’s day-to-day operations. We are sure that their professionalism and experience will ensure that our guests can have the best in service and comfort,” says Anastasija Pociene, head of Lords LB Special Fund IV.

“We appreciate the trust that our new partners, Lords LB Asset Management, have placed in Apex Alliance Hotel Management by selecting us to manage this ambitious new project,” says Apex Alliance’s Partner Augustinas Barauskas.

We look forward to a successful collaboration on this exciting project and a seamless hotel opening!

With nearly two decades of experience in the hotel sector and international recognition, Sigita Kreivenaite – Rudzeviciene aims to foster innovation and contribute to high standards in the hospitality business. She has previously managed Courtyard by Marriott Vilnius City Center for five years and won the title of the most successful tourism service provider in Lithuania in 2021.

Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton will open in May 2024 and replace the Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius. It will be the 16th hotel managed by Apex Alliance Hotel Management in Europe and the 7th Hilton hotel in the company’s portfolio.

Nestled in Vilnius’s historic former telegraph building, the hotel marks the first of its kind in Lithuania and the Baltic states. Led by Apex Alliance Hotel Management and investor Marius Jakulis Jason, this collaboration promises a unique blend of luxury and cultural immersion for guests, accentuating the city’s rich heritage. With plans to invigorate the region’s hospitality sector, Apex Alliance expands its European portfolio, celebrating this milestone alongside esteemed partners and collaborators.

The event included an Inspirational Session, Town Hall, Gala Dinner, and Awards Ceremony. Participants from 5 countries attended, including General Managers, Apex Alliance Cluster, company owners, colleagues, and representatives. The event was hosted at The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection. 18 speakers, 85 guests, 100 viewers, 41 nominees, and 12 awards were presented. 8 awards were given to those who showed dedication and excelled throughout the year, while 4were given to hotels for 2023 achievements.

“I am thrilled to contribute to the unique evolution of the company, benefiting owners, investors, other stakeholders, and employees. I will focus on infusing the management company with innovation, best-in-class management practices, a collaborative approach, and cultivating strong brand awareness within the industry. Together with the company’s team of professionals, we will nurture a culture rooted in our core values and ethos,” says Mr. Valentini.

“My dream is to expand the established reputation of Apex Alliance Hotel Management, positioning it as one of Europe’s leading hotel management companies.”

We wish our new CEO great success!