Soviet splendor

I had the pleasure of touring the newly opened Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya today with the hotel's marketing and public relations manager, Svetlana Kislova. This incredible renovation project has been open less than two months.

Originally built as one of the Stalinist "Seven Sisters" skyscrapers, the former Leningradskaya Hotel opened in 1954, and was a three-star property with Soviet-style furnishings and rooms until it closed for a complete renovation in 2006. Now, the 273-room property combines the best of historical and modern, with a luxurious feel. Interesting details abound, from the German lion statues in the lobby to the world's longest chandelier to the lovely gym/spa/pool area that was constructed out of the building's former bomb shelter. Photos follow.