Hotels & Hospitality News

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ATLANTA - U.S. hotels are forecast to enjoy their fourth consecutive year of profit growth in 2007. By the end of 2007, the average hotel in the nation is projected to achieve an operating profit of $15,996 per available room, up 9.8 percent from the year-end estimates for 2006. This forecast is based on an analysis the results of 2006 edition of Trends in the Hotel Industry published by PKF Hospitality Research (PKF-HR), an affiliate of PKF Consulting.

"By year-end 2007, unit-level hotel profits will have increased 59.8 percent from the depths of the industry recession in 2003. This is comparable to 60.4 percent pace of profit growth we observed during the first four years of the recovery from the 1991 recession," said R. Mark Woodworth, president of Atlanta-based PKFHR.

"However, since the 2001 to 2003 downturn was so severe, the forecast profit level of $15,996 per available room for 2007 is just slightly above the $15,674 mark achieved in the pre-recession year of 2000."

"News of a nominal-dollar profit recovery is certainly welcome. However, in real dollars, most owners and operators will still be 21 percent behind where they were in 2000. For those property owners that have been riding the ups and downs of the lodging cycle since the year 2000, their smile will not totally return until real profits have fully recovered, which might not be until the end of this decade," Woodworth concluded.

The 2006 Trends in the Hotel Industry report marks the 70th annual review of U.S. hotel operations conducted by PKF. This year's sample draws upon yearend 2005 financial statements received from approximately 5,000 hotels across the country. Profits are defined as income after management fees, property taxes, and insurance, but before capital reserves, debt service, rent, income taxes, depreciation, and amortizationPKF-HR is forecasting a 6.0 percent increase in total hotel revenue from 2006 to 2007. Rooms revenue is projected to grow by 4.9 percent, the result of a 0.6 percent decline in occupancy, but a 5.5 percent increase in ADR. The catalyst of the outlook for profit growth is the efficient mix of occupancy and ADR that is driving the growth in Revenue per Available Room ("RevPAR"). Previous studies by PKF-HR have found that hotels are most profitable when ADR increases dominate RevPAR growth. ?Since we are approaching the peak of the recovery cycle, it is natural to start seeing ADR growth, as opposed to occupancy gains, dominate increases in RevPAR,? Woodworth noted. "In 2005, 57.5 percent of the hotels in our Trends database saw their RevPAR increase propelled by gains in ADR. This measurement is forecast to grow to 75.0 percent in 2007."

Another factor influencing the positive outlook for profits in 2007 is the forecast gains in other hotel revenues. "An additional benefit for hotels is the anticipated re-emergence of revenues from sources other than the rental of guestrooms.

Historically, we have seen the growth in sales from the food, beverage, retail, recreational, and other operated departments exceed the pace of growth of rooms revenue as hotels approach peak performance," Woodworth explained. For 2007, PKF is forecasting the combined growth of revenues from other operated departments and miscellaneous sources to be 6.0 percent. This is greater than the 4.9 percent gain in rooms revenue projected for 2007.
Expenses Mute Profits

A big area of concern for hoteliers is the growth in operating expenses. For 2007, the cost of operating a U.S. hotel is forecast to increase 4.5 percent, a full one and a half percentage points above the estimated pace of inflation. Historically, hotel operating expenses have increased greater than the pace of inflation. "Fortunately, hoteliers have been able to mask the impact of rising costs by boosting room rates and growing revenues. Since the hotel industry is so labor intensive, it has not enjoyed the benefits of automation to the same degree as other industries," Woodworth noted. From 1959 through 2005, inflation has averaged 4.2 percent per year. Concurrently, expenses have increased at a 4.5 percent annual pace, while revenues have grown at a 4.3 percent per annum.

At 44.4 percent of total operating expenses, increases in labor costs certainly influence the profitability of hotels. However, labor is a semi-variable expense and can be controlled by management to some degree. Of more concern to hotel operators are the rises in selected fixed operating costs. "Property taxes, utilities, management fees, franchise royalties, and insurance are either contractual in nature, or legislated by the local municipality. These are the expenses exhibiting the greatest growth. Unfortunately they are also the expense items that management has least control over," Woodworth said.

PKF Hospitality Research offers a variety of reports and tools that can assist hotel managers prepare their 2007 budgets. These include the annual Trends in the Hotel Industry report, Hotel Outlook forecast reports for 52 U.S. cities, and customized Benchmarker financial analyses.

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PARSIPPANY, N.J. - In a move that will create one of the world's largest publicly traded hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation will spin off from Cendant Corporation on Aug. 1 and begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WYN. Wyndham Worldwide, which became a member of Standard & Poor's S&P 500 index this week, is a global leader in leisure travel accommodations and a major provider of products and services to business-to-business customers. Its three business segments include:


Wyndham team members applaud the start of trading under the symbol WYN.


Wyndham Hotel Group, one of the world's largest hotel franchisors and a provider of hotel management services;

RCI Global Vacation Network, operator of the world's largest vacation exchange network and one of the largest vacation rental networks; and Wyndham Vacation Ownership, the world's largest developer of vacation ownership resorts in terms of owners and resorts.

"This is an exciting day that immediately establishes Wyndham Worldwide as a leading, pure-play hospitality business with a strong and diverse portfolio of global brands that are widely recognized by consumers, business travelers and partners," said Stephen P. Holmes, Wyndham Worldwide chairman and chief executive officer.

Wyndham Worldwide meets the diverse needs of today's travelers by offering accommodations in more than 100 countries on six continents, from economy roadside motels and suburban midscale hotels to upscale center-city hotels and from country vacation rental properties to vacation ownership resorts in major destinations.

"Wyndham Worldwide has a deep and broad market presence, a long operating history and an extremely experienced management team," Holmes said. "We anticipate enhancing shareholder value by continuing to focus on the evolving needs of travelers and offering the greatest choice in business and leisure accommodations, destinations and experiences."

The NYSE listing follows completion of the distribution of all Wyndham Worldwide common shares to Cendant shareholders at a ratio of one Wyndham Worldwide share for every five Cendant (NYSE:CD) shares held on July 21, 2006.

As one of the world's largest hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE:WYN) offers individual consumers and business-to-business customers a broad suite of hospitality products and services across various accommodation alternatives and price ranges through its premier portfolio of world-renowned brands. Wyndham Hotel Group encompasses more than 6,300 franchised hotels and 525,000 hotel rooms worldwide. RCI Global Vacation Network offers its more than 3 million members access to approximately 55,000 vacation properties located in more than 100 countries. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its network of more than 140 vacation ownership resorts serving more than 750,000 owners throughout North America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. Wyndham Worldwide, headquartered in Parsippany, N.J., employs approximately 28,800 employees globally.

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BETHESDA, Md. - RLJ Lodging Fund II, LP ("RLJ Fund II"), an affiliate of RLJ Development, LLC ("RLJ") controlled by Robert L. Johnson, founder of BET and owner of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats, announced that it has acquired 23 hotels from White Lodging Services Corporation ("WLS") and its affiliates for $390 million. The acquisition of these 23 hotels represents the second closing of a portfolio transaction encompassing 100 hotels for a total acquisition price of $1.7 billion announced earlier this year. The first closing of 63 hotels for $1 billion closed in mid June. The remaining 13 hotels, which are currently under construction or recently opened, are scheduled to close over the next 6 - 18 months.
WLS will retain management of the hotels under long-term management agreements. The hotels, which consist primarily of Marriott and Hilton brands, will continue to operate under the same affiliations with long term franchise agreements. In addition, RLJ will become one of the largest Marriott franchisees in the United States with 90% of the WLS portfolio properties affiliated with the Marriott family of brands.

"We are thrilled to close these 23 hotel properties, bringing our total portfolio to 118 hotels, nearly $2.5 billion in assets," stated Robert L. Johnson, CEO and Chairman of RLJ, "In addition, we are excited about continuing and expanding our relationship with the White Lodging organization."

Bruce White, Chairman and CEO of WLS, stated "this transaction is consistent with White Lodging's objectives to create value in our operating company, generate liquidity for accelerated future growth in addition to an active development pipeline already in place totaling over forty projects, and to provide a foundation for long term stability. We are pleased to expand on our existing relationship with RLJ, who we have come to respect as consummate professionals, and look forward to continued growth as we work together to enhance the value of this high quality portfolio."

Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr., President of RLJ added, "We are pleased to complete Phase II of the WLS transaction, bringing the total closed to date at 86 hotels for $1.4 billion. The WLS acquisition is consistent with our strategy to invest in upscale, focused service hotels with premium brands in desirable markets."

About RLJ Development, LLC. RLJ Development LLC is one of The RLJ Companies' portfolio companies controlled by Robert L. Johnson. RLJ Development is a privately-held real estate investment company founded and led by Robert L. Johnson and Thomas J. Baltimore, Jr. is the largest African-American hotel investment company in the U.S. with 118 hotels worth $2.5 billion. The RLJ Lodging Fund II, LP is a private equity real estate fund with commitments from institutional investors including several major public and corporate pension plans, and financial institutions. This transaction marks the second acquisition for the RLJ Lodging Fund II, LP. www.rljhotels.com.

About White Lodging Services Corp. Established in 1985 and headquartered in Merrillville, IN, White Lodging Services is an award-winning, fully integrated hotel ownership, development, and operating company - a recognized leader that has defined and cultivated the ability to achieve consistent, sustainable growth among mid-to-large scale hotels across the country. Their current portfolio of 106 hotels in thirteen states encompasses representation of premium brands including Marriott, Renaissance, Residence Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Homewood Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. The company also has more than 40 projects presently under development. www.whitelodging.com.

About The RLJ Companies. The RLJ Companies ("RLJ"), founded by Robert L. Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television, provides strategic investment and direction in and for a diverse portfolio of companies in the financial services, real estate, hospitality/restaurant, professional sports, film production, gaming and recording industries. The RLJ Companies' core businesses include: RLJ Development, a privately held hotel real estate investment company, RLJ Urban Lodging Fund and RLJ Lodging Fund II, both of which are private equity real estate funds, the three together have over $2.5 billion in combined assets; RLJ Asset Management Group, which includes RLJ Select Investments, LLC, a hedge fund of funds joint venture with Deutsche Bank AG and RLJ Equity Partners, LLC, a private equity fund formed in partnership with The Carlyle Group; NBA Charlotte Bobcats, WNBA Charlotte Sting and Charlotte Arena Operations; Caribbean Gaming and Entertainment (C.A.G.E.), a video lottery terminal company; RolloverSystems, Inc., a retirement services company, and Three Keys Music, a jazz recording company.

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Orlando - Hard Rock International announced that Hard Rock and the Spanish hotel company Sol Melia have agreed to a mutual termination of their 2003 strategic alliance for the joint development of hotels under the Hard Rock brand. This joint decision reflects the new brand strategies for both companies.
Hard Rock International commented that over the last year, the strategic focus was revised to reacquire and reassemble cafe, hotel and gaming intellectual property and operational rights in order to address and improve brand oversight and development. Following the recent re-acquisition of rights in both Australia and the Middle East, this transaction with Sol Melia will help Hard Rock International further this objective while developing closer operational ties with partners.

Sol Melia commented that it will continue developing lifestyle hotel products and concepts, with projects including the introduction of new branding and experienced-based hotels. In addition to the Paradisus and Melia brand, Sol Meli? will introduce a new, vibrant concept in prime city and resort destinations, starting with Madrid, Barcelona, Cancun and Los Cabos in Mexico. The Reina Victoria hotel in Madrid, currently under refurbishment, will contribute the design experience of the new generation of Sol Melia's properties.

Both companies commented that during the term of the joint venture a prolific exchange of experiences has been developed that will be used by both to drive their businesses going forward.

About Hard Rock International

With 122 high-energy Hard Rock Cafes, seven Hotel & Casinos and two stand-alone Casinos in 42 countries, Hard Rock International is one of the world's most globally-recognized brands. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning Web site. Hard Rock International, Inc. is owned by The Rank Group Plc (RNK.L).

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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Westin Hotels & Resorts is marking the six-month milestone of its smoke-free conversion in North America with Breathing Lights(SM) installations in its lobbies nationwide. The artistically designed projections count the number of fresh breaths taken by each Westin guest each day.


Westin became the first major hotel chain to convert all of its smoking rooms in North America to smoke-free late last year, investing more than $3 million in its smoke free initiative. The move comes as part of Westin's commitment to guests' personal well-being and the brand's positioning around Renewal. Since then, Westin hotels in Australia, Fiji and Scotland have also become smoke-free.

The Breathing Lights projection on a wall or other hotel space features a blue light that pulses at the average speed of healthy human breathing, every 4.4 seconds. For a period of three months, each breath will tick up a counter displayed in the center of the projection, representing the number of fresh, smoke-free breaths taken in the hotel that day. On average, one person takes 11,520 breaths each day. Simultaneously, the counter will track the number of days Westin hotels have been smoke-free.


Westin went smoke-free to reinforce our brand positioning around personal renewal and for our guests, who overwhelmingly prefer a smoke-free environment when traveling, said Sue Brush, Senior Vice President at Westin. The Breathing Lights display provides a tangible reminder of our smoke-free decision, and shows that as time passes, the benefits of going smoke-free accrue. It's a beautiful and highly visual way to communicate our promise to provide our guests and associates a healthy, refreshing haven.

Westin Hotels Commemorates Its Own Smoke-Free Milestone
Westin hotels announced its intention to go smoke-free in December 2005. During the conversion, all 3,900 former Westin smoking rooms in the U.S., Canada and Caribbean underwent an extensive cleaning process that included replacing all soft goods, deep cleaning and treating all hard surfaces, walls and carpets to eliminate allergens, replacing air filters and deep cleaning all air conditioning units. This process was completed on February 1, 2006.

Westin hotels went smoke-free in response to guests, who are increasingly adopting healthy lifestyles and demanding a smoke-free hotel in which to renew their mind, body and spirit while traveling. Internal consumer research conducted in 2005 found that 92 percent of Westin guests in the U.S. were requesting smoke-free rooms at booking. The Westin brand's research also found that 80 percent of consumers prefer when restaurants and other indoor public spaces are free of cigarette and cigar smoke.

In the six months since Westin became 100% smoke-free, the results have been overwhelmingly positive:

• Westin invested more than $3 million in its smoke-free initiative including converting its hotels.
• The American Heart Association recently signed a contract returning to Westin hotels as a customer after five years.
• Over 40 individual hotels and one national hotel chain have gone smoke-free since Westin hotels announced its policy.
• The success of the Westin smoke-free policy is spreading abroad. Westin hotels in Australia, Fiji, and Scotland have all gone smoke-free.
• In a survey of Westin guests, 68% of respondents agreed that all hotels should eventually be smoke-free.

Guest response has been enthusiastic. One Starwood Preferred Guest member sent Westin hotels feedback that is typical: I want to applaud Westin for making the bold move to become the first hotel chain to go smoke-free. I am a registered nurse that works with people with lung disease everyday, and have found it to be very frustrating for them when making travel arrangements...thank you so much for making this monumental decision that will affect the health of your patrons.

Westin Hotels & Resorts, with 125 hotels and resorts in 31 countries and territories, is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT). Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 850 properties in more than 95 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, W, Le Mridien and the recently announced AloftSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts.

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Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. — Silversea Cruises, known for its exotic worldwide itineraries, luxurious all-suite accommodations, gracious service and sumptuous gourmet cuisine, has announced a unique hospitality training partnership with The Leading Hotel Schools of the World.

Founded by The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. (an organization representing over 420 of the world's finest hotels, resorts and spas), Niagara University in Niagara Falls, New York, and Hotelschool The Hague, The Netherlands, The Leading Hotel Schools of the World is a network of the world's premier hotel schools that provides the most advanced and comprehensive education available to the hospitality industry. Silversea is the first cruise line to utilize a customized training program developed in partnership with this prestigious organization.

"To maintain our commitment to superlative service, we know it's essential to offer our staff a truly topnotch training program that fosters the development and retention of hospitality leaders and innovators," said Albert Peter, Silversea's chief executive officer. "Silversea and The Leading Hotel Schools of the World share a passion for service excellence, and this partnership will allow us to work together to take the training of our staff to the next level."

Added Peter, "Accountability and consistency is the cornerstone of superior customer service. With our new training programs and strategic alliances in place, our valued travel partners can be confident that their clients will always receive the high level of service and attention to detail we promise to deliver."

In conjunction with the new alliance, Silversea has hired additional onboard staff to coordinate the new training program, including a new fleet director of employee relations and a crew relations manager. The company is also sending three of its hospitality staff to Hotelschool The Hague this summer for a management development program, which will be the first phase of an ongoing process of both on-site and off-site educational seminars and fresh initiatives aimed at developing hospitality leaders who can continually reinforce and strengthen the line's commitment to delivering a luxury cruise product of unsurpassed quality.

In related moves, the company recently revamped its onboard guest satisfaction questionnaire and hired an outside firm to monitor the results of the survey. Leading Quality Assurance, a consulting service affiliated with The Leading Hotels of the World, has been enlisted to implement a stringent "secret shopper" inspection process, and benchmark and critique the company's performance. A new quality assurance auditor has also been appointed to ensure the ultra-luxury line's exacting standards are maintained throughout its fleet of four ships.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard four intimate vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, and Silver Whisper, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. For the ninth year, Silversea was named "Number One" small-ship line in the 2005 "Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. For the sixth time, Silversea was selected "World's Best" small-ship line in the 2004 Travel + Leisure readers' poll.

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NEW YORK - Year-to-date, a record 355 hotels have applied for membership in The Leading Hotels of the World, the highest number ever in the company's 78-year history.
"This is an indisputable indication of the vibrancy of our business," commented Paul M. McManus, president and chief executive officer. "The hospitality industry has traditionally turned to The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. for its exceptional value and unrivalled brand recognition, yet the number of applicants this year has been remarkable."

Of that group of hopeful applicants, only 24 -- a mere 7 percent -- have been accepted, due to the company's exacting level of quality and service standards.

Mr. McManus added, "In the face of stepped-up activity in mergers, acquisitions and re-flaggings, customers and hoteliers alike seek the support and promise of a strong and proven brand. Our success throughout nearly eight decades of marketing innovation and business development has made The Leading Hotels of the World the brand of choice for the international luxury market."

Production figures for the first six months of the year bear this out. Through June, room night sales totaled 852,000, an increase of 2 percent over 2005. Despite recent geopolitical developments, the luxury segment of the travel industry remains robust, and the company benefits from solid, ongoing client loyalty among both member hotels and consumers. Voice reservations sales were very brisk, increasing by nearly 6,000 room nights or 4.4 percent over the previous year, and Internet transactions rose by 13 percent.

The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. also continues to generate among the highest average room rates for its members. In the first half of 2006, ADR rose from USD 387 to USD 405. Group business has been especially strong with the ADR for group bookings rising from USD 336 to USD 341. Total group sales revenue increased by USD 1.1 million for the first half of the year.

In conclusion, Mr. McManus noted, "Throughout our history, our mission has been to anticipate and surpass the expectations of the sophisticated traveler, and to ensure that our member hotels are best positioned to take advantage of those demands and trends."

"The ever-increasing interest in membership in our organization and the strength of the figures for this year thus far, underscore the fact that our company and its services are more relevant than ever to the luxury hotelier in today's exceptionally competitive atmosphere."

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PARSIPPANY, N.J. – In response to new airport security rules banning liquid items from carry-on luggage, Wyndham Hotels and ResortsTM today announced it would come to the rescue of arriving guests who were forced to forfeit their toothpaste, contact lens solution, drinking water and other sundries.

This initiative, to be implemented Sunday at all Wyndham hotels, expands upon the brand's longstanding guest service program, We Remember What You Forgot, which supplies travelers with the personal products they most frequently forget to pack, according to Peter Strebel, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts president.

Arriving guests will be offered complimentary bottled water, contact lens solution, hair spray, hair gel and all of the 17 other items available to guests through the We Remember What You Forgot program, including toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant and other personal care products.

"No one knows better than Wyndham hotels how to respond to travelers' needs," said Peter Strebel, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts president. "We pioneered the concept with our Wyndham ByRequest® program, which welcomes frequent travelers with the amenities, services and refreshments they specify, and the We Remember What You Forgot program."

The Wyndham ByRequest program offers its members hundreds of options including a welcome snack and beverage, preferred pillow type and favorite newspaper. Members also enjoy the "best available room" upon arrival, express check-in and guaranteed late check-out, free local and long distance calls, free high-speed Internet access, free copies and faxes, online receipts of their bill and 500-plus frequent flyer miles or Membership Rewards points from American Express. Guests can further personalize their stay by utilizing the support of a dedicated Wyndham ByRequest manager available at every hotel.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE: WYN) based in Parsippany, N.J., offers upscale hotel and resort accommodations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. All hotels are independently owned and either franchised or managed by an affiliate of Wyndham Hotels and Resorts.

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Signing 101 new member contracts between January 1 and July 31 of this year, Americas Best Value Inn is continuing its long held title as The Fastest Growing Hotel Chain in the United States.
The brand, with over 650 locations throughout North America, just celebrated its seventh birthday and is well on its way to its goal of 700 locations by the year's end.

"To have almost 700 locations in only seven years of operation is unprecedented in the lodging industry," said Roger Bloss, CEO and Founder of Vantage Hospitality Group, the 12th largest hotel company worldwide and parent company of Americas Best Value Inn and The Lexington Collection.

Seven seems to be a lucky number for Americas Best Value Inn. Not only is the brand celebrating its seventh birthday and 101 new contracts in just seven months, but the original seven partners who started the brand in 1999 are still together and continue to oversee their respective divisions.

Based on the Freestyle Lodging Membership Model, developed by Bloss, Americas Best Value Inn is a membership brand, offering hotel owners an affordable alternative to franchising through low, flat monthly fees, short-term contracts, choice of amenities, and a voice and a vote in the brand's policies. In 2005, members received an overall average system ROI of 629 percent.

Building on the success of Americas Best Value Inn, Vantage applied the Freestyle Lodging Membership Model to its upper-mid to upscale brand, The Lexington Collection. Focusing on three and four star hotels, The Lexington Collection premiered to the public in the second quarter of 2006 and currently has 12 properties open or under contract throughout the United States.

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John Hutton, a design industry icon and one of the most celebrated designers of furniture, textiles, lighting and accessories this country has seen, died unexpectedly on August 17th in New York.

A Master of aesthetics and considered a "National Treasure" by the New York Times, Hutton was noted for his sense of proportion, sophistication, and elegance developed from his student days at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology where he studied art history and interior design developing respect for classical 18th Century French design. His collaborations as a designer are memorable today as they were yesterday.

In 1978 through 1997 while Design Director for Angelo Donghia creating contemporary, yet classical interior collections, Hutton had already achieved cult status throughout the design community. But the longest and most prolific collaboration was the friendship and professional relationship developed with David and Ann Sutherland that spanned a quarter of a century. With over 20 furniture and textile collections attributed to his name, John Hutton's inspiration, together with David Sutherland's vision, transformed the way we view outdoor living spaces.

Hutton was also the design inspiration behind many of the collections from Perennials Outdoor Fabrics leading an outdoor revolution that has enhanced individual lives throughout the world. His own signature collections of furniture and textiles were a direct attribute to his much-loved innate classical style—Collection Pierre, Hutton Home Lighting and John Hutton Textiles recently introduced in Europe and the United States to flattering reviews.

"The John Hutton designs that are represented in the Sutherland and Perennials collections will remain the heart of our business, and will be our company's classics. John had prepared new designs yet to be introduced that will be further confirmation of his talent," confirmed David Sutherland.

Hutton's genius for design is unmistakable. Known from Bangkok to Paris, Sydney to New York and all across America, John Hutton was a much loved and admired friend to many, a husband and a father. During the last decade Hutton divided his time between his home in Nancy, France and New York where he leaves behind a wife, Brenda, and two sons, Douglas and John, and many extraordinary friends and individuals throughout the world.

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The Mid-Year 2006 USRC Hotel Investment Survey indicates that discount rates and capitalization rates for both limited-service and full-service hotels have continued to be aggressive, but have moderated somewhat from very strong levels seen in our last survey conducted approximately six months ago. While still very strong due to a healthy investment environment and continued anticipated growth in the industry, investment parameters have moderated slightly due to slightly increasing interest rates and some perceived risks from higher energy and labor costs.

Our Mid-Year 2006 survey indicates that investors continue the trend of requiring higher capitalization rates for limited-service hotels as compared to full-service hotels. The direct capitalization rate for full-service hotels of 8.1% in the Mid-Year 2006 survey is slightly higher than our previous survey six months ago, but still lower than any previous survey.

Despite some recent modest increases, interest rates remain low by historical standards. This continues to offer very attractive leverage opportunities for hotels, particularly among some securitized lenders for better quality assets. However, rising interest rates have marginally weakened this advantage. Secondly, with several years of solid income growth, the industry is perceived today as a lower risk, higher growth segment, virtually a 180-degree reversal from the sentiment in 2001/2002. Finally, the industry's investment parameters continue to be strong due to the continued participation of institutional investors, who have recently seen hotel yields as an attractive alternative to even more aggressive investment parameters in other real estate segments.


Jeffrey H. Walker, MAI, CHME is Principal and Managing Director at US Realty Consultants, Inc. He is a 1985 graduate of James Madison University and has been involved in the hotel and restaurant industry since the 1970?s, spent much of his career with Hyatt Hotels and Resorts, and has been a hotel consultant since 1992.

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Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (NYSE:WYN) today announced that it is receiving $760 million in proceeds from Cendant Corporation upon closing of the sale of Cendant's Travelport business. Wyndham Worldwide intends to use the proceeds from the Travelport sale to pay down the Company's debt as follows:

The immediate pay down in full of its revolving credit facility with a $310 million balance
The immediate pay down of $375 million on its interim loan facility with an anticipated additional pay down of $75 million at the end of August
Wyndham's borrowings at the end of August, excluding approximately $1.3 billion of securitized vacation ownership debt, are expected to be approximately $1 billion, consisting of:

Term loan with a $300 million balance
Interim loan facility with a $350 million balance
Existing bank borrowings and capital leases related to our business segments of approximately $360 million
The Company is rated Baa2 by Moody's and BBB by Standard & Poor's.

Wyndham Worldwide intends to begin an immediate stock repurchase program, which was announced on August 17, 2006, of up to $400 million of its common stock. The amount and timing of specific repurchases are subject to market conditions, applicable legal requirements and other factors, and the repurchases may be conducted in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions.

"The repayment of the Company's outstanding debt provides added flexibility, allowing us to preserve borrowing capacity and enhance liquidity," said Stephen P. Holmes, Wyndham Worldwide chairman and chief executive officer. "With the Travelport sale now complete, we are able to pursue our stock repurchase program, which we believe will both enhance shareholder value and demonstrate our confidence in the long-term value of Wyndham Worldwide."

As one of the world's largest hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide offers individual consumers and business-to-business customers a broad suite of hospitality products and services across various accommodation alternatives and price ranges through its premier portfolio of world-renowned brands. Wyndham Hotel Group encompasses more than 6,400 franchised hotels and 535,000 hotel rooms worldwide. RCI Global Vacation Network offers its more than 3 million members access to approximately 55,000 vacation properties located in more than 100 countries. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its network of more than 140 vacation ownership resorts serving more than 750,000 owners throughout North America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. Wyndham Worldwide, headquartered in Parsippany, N.J., employs approximately 28,800 employees globally.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, conveying management's expectations as to the future based on plans, estimates and projections at the time the Company makes the statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release include statements related to the Company's intention to use the Travelport proceeds to pay down existing debt, expected debt levels after such use of proceeds, the impact on the Company of such debt repayment, future purchases by the Company of its common stock, the timing and form of those purchases, and the impact on the Company of its planned repurchase program.

You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward looking statements include the Company's ability to complete transactions related to debt repayment and changing market conditions, as well as those specified in Wyndham Worldwide's Form 10-Q, filed August 18, 2006, including under headings "Risk Factors," "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." Except for the Company's ongoing obligations to disclose material information under the federal securities laws, it undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events.

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Warwick, R.I. - DiLeonardo International, ranked the world's fourth largest interior architectural design firm, has announced the appointment of James Lehouiller to the position of President. He replaces founder and CEO, Robert J. DiLeonardo, PhD, who will now direct his full attentions to design and client services.
Mr. Lehouiller, a graduate of the University of Vermont, has been with the company since 1994, most recently serving as Executive Vice President. He also becomes a partner and principal in the firm along with Mr. DiLeonardo, Ms. Lia DiLeonardo and Ms. Giana DiLeonardo.

"The future of hospitality design holds many challenges for client and designer, alike," noted Lehouiller, "To meet those ever-changing needs, we have assembled a roster of some of the most gifted designers, architects and planners from around the globe.

"Armed with this great talent, we look forward to the challenge of advancing the firm's reputation for exceeding client expectations and maximizing their return on investment with the fresh ideas, visionary concepts and continued excellence that have been our hallmarks."

In passing the baton, Mr. DiLeonardo expressed his confidence in the new leadership and the prospects for his more focused role. "For many years, James' exceptional talent and business acumen have been integral parts of our success and growth.

"I am supremely confident that the daily management of our global interests is in the most capable hands, allowing me to focus my full attentions on my true passion - hands-on design and the continued development of cutting-edge concepts for the hospitality industry."

Founded in 1971, the firm's portfolio of completed projects is a visionary collection of over 1400 resorts, hotels, casinos, conference centers and restaurants located around the globe. With world headquarters located in Rhode Island, the company's global network includes design offices in Hong Kong, Dubai, Shanghai, Orlando, Los Angeles and the Philippines.

Among its many and most notable current projects are a billion-dollar contemporary tower in Las Vegas, a multi-use resort in the Dominican Republic, an urban hotel in Xian, China, and a hotel skyscraper and luxury residences in Dubai.

[abadani69]

رييس اتحاديه* هتل و هتل آپارتمان*هاي استان تهران گفت: در صورت تاييد آيين*نامه* پرداخت عوارض شهرداري به صورت اقساط پنج تا 10ساله در شوراي شهر تهران*، ساخت و نوسازي هتل در اين استان، توسعه مي*يابد.

محمد علي فرخ مهر، در گفت*وگو با خبرنگار گردشگري ايسنا،، تسريع در تاييد آيين نامه*ي پرداخت عوارض به شهرداري در اقساط بلند مدت 5 تا 10 ساله را از سوي شوراي شهر تهران خواستار شد و افزود: مجلس شوراي اسلامي*، قانون پرداخت وجوه هتل سازان به شهرداري براي تغيير كاربري، عوارض و... از روز بهره برداري از هتل در اقساط پنج تا 10 ساله را تصويب كرده و هم اكنون شوراي شهر تهران بايد اين آيين نامه*ي اجرايي را تاييد كند.

وي خاطرنشان كرد: عمر ساختمان*هاي هتل در تهران و ساير شهرهاي كشور طولاني است و عمده*ي هتل*ها قديمي*بوده و شرايط مناسبي ندارد.

رييس اتحاديه* هتل و هتل آپارتمان*هاي استان تهران تصريح كرد: شوراي شهر بايد بررسي و تاييد اين آيين نامه*ي اجرايي را در اولويت قرار دهد، چرا كه اين مساله در ساخت هتل تاثيرگذار است.

وي اظهار كرد: عوارض شهرداري وقتي براي هتل بالا است، هتل داران و سرمايه*گذاران توانايي پرداخت آن را ندارند، مگر اين كه آيين نامه*ي اجرايي پرداخت عوارض مصوب مجلس، سريعتر اجرايي شود.

فرخ مهر افزود: در صورت اجرايي اين آيين نامه، سرمايه گذاران كه مجبور نيستند، عوارض شهرداري را از زمان ساخت پرداخت كنند، براي هتل سازي ترغيب مي*شوند و صنعت هتل در كشور شكوفا خواهد شد.

رييس اتحاديه* هتل و هتل آپارتمان*هاي استان تهران پرداخت عوارض را براي هتل داران و سرمايه گذاران اين بخش مهم دانست و گفت: سازمان ميراث فرهنگي و گردشگري زمينه و امكانات را براي سرمايه گذاري در هتل فراهم كرده و شهرداري نيز موضوع هتل*ها را در اولويت قرار داده، ولي نحوه*ي پرداخت عوارض براي اين بخش مشكل ايجاد كرده است.

فرخ مهر با بيان اين كه در صورت تاييد و اجراي اين آيين نامه، سرمايه گذاران براي هتل سازي اقدام مي*كنند، تصريح كرد: اگر اين آيين نامه امروز تاييد و اجرا شود در روز جهانگردي ( پنجم مهر ماه ) كلنگ 20 هتل به زمين زده مي*شود و اين آمادگي در سرمايه گذاران و هتل سازان وجود دارد.

[abadani69]

همزمان با هفته*ي دولت دو پروژه*ي گردشگري شامل يك هتل و يك مجتمع بين راهي در استان كردستان افتتاح مي*شود.

علي فعله*گري - معاون گردشگري سازمان ميراث فرهنگي، صنايع دستي و گردشگري كردستان - در گفت*وگو با خبرنگار گردشگري ايسنا با اعلام اين خبر افزود: هتل سه ستاره*ي نوروز در شهرستان مريوان و مجتمع خدمات بين راهي در محور سنندج، ايوان دره و در نزديكي روستاي باقرآباد دو پروژه*اي هستند كه در هفته*ي دولت به بهره برداري خواهد رسيد.

وي ياد*آور شد: هتل سه ستاره*ي شهرستان مريوان توسط بخش خصوصي و ارايه*ي 200 ميليون تومان تسهيلات بانكي از محل اعتبارات بنگاه*هاي كوچك ورود بازده استان تجهيز شده است.

به گفته*ي معاون گردشگري سازمان ميراث فرهنگي، صنايع دستي و گردشگري كردستان، مجتمع بين راهي محور سنندج، ايوان دره نيز 200 ميليون تومان از محل اعتبارات دولتي با سود هشت درصد دريافت كرده است.

به گفته*ي فعله*گري، اين دو پروژه توسط مسوولان استاني و با حضور استاندار كردستان به بهره برداري خواهد رسيد.

[abadani69]

همزمان با هفته*ي دولت سه هتل دو ستاره در شهرستان*هاي ايوان، چوار و دهلران استان ايلام به بهره برداري مي*رسد.

فريدون محمدي - رييس سازمان ميراث فرهنگي و گردشگري ايلام - با اعلام اين خبر به ايسنا، گفت: اين سه هتل با مشاركت بخش خصوصي و ارايه*ي تسهيلات بانكي دولتي احداث شده است ظرفيت مناسبي را به واحدهاي اقامتي استان اضافه مي*كند.

وي ادامه داد: هتل شجريان در شهرستان چوار در فاصله*ي *٢٥ كيلومتري ايلام، هتل و تالار شهرستان مريوان و مهمان پذير سعيد در شهرستان دهلران در هفته*ي دولت و با حضور مقامات استاني بهره برداري مي*شود.

رييس سازمان ميراث فرهنگي، صنايع دستي و گردشگري ايلام، در خصوص علت عدم احداث هتل*هاي سه و چهار ستاره در اين شهرستان*ها اذعان داشت: متاسفانه ساخت هتل به دليل جمعيت اندك اين مناطق و همچنين عدم توريست پذيري مناسب، توجيه اقتصادي ندارد،* به همين دليل سرمايه گذاران از ساخت هتل*هاي بزرگ استقبال چنداني نمي*كنند.

به گفته*ي محمدي ساخت هتل دهلران با *٥٠ ميليون تومان، هتل چوار *٣٠ ميليون تومان و هتل ايوان *٤٠ ميليون تسهيلات بانكي احداث شده اند.

[abadani69]

NEW YORK – August 28, 2006 – Today, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts announced the opening of its StayFit@Hyatt 24/7 gyms. Guests at properties across North America and the Caribbean are now able to access the gyms, which feature state-of-the-art Life Fitness® equipment, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To celebrate the launch, celebrity fitness expert Gunnar Peterson will host Hyatt's "Escape the Rat Race" Stay Fit 24/7 Challenge and share tips on how business travelers can maintain their workout regimes while on the road. The challenge kicks off with a tag-team fitness obstacle course at New York's South Street Seaport.

"My clients are always traveling and have demanding schedules, so my goal is to offer fitness strategies they can employ no matter where they are or when they find time to exercise," says Gunnar Peterson, whose clientele includes Jennifer Lopez, Penelope Cruz, Ben Affleck and Debra Messing. "It's common for my clients to be working out late at night or before sunrise when on set, which is similar to what other business travelers encounter when traveling across time zones or after a long day of meetings. That's why the convenience of 24/7 facilities like StayFit@Hyatt gyms are ideal."

Gunnar Peterson is the expert when it comes to knowing the workout challenge woes that his clientele face while they're on the road for business and/or on the set. In fact, nearly one-half of travelers polled by USA Today felt that they were in worse shape because they lack the time or the means to exercise properly during travel. However, it is possible to keep in shape while traveling with Gunnar's simple travel fitness tips:

Schedule Your "Fitness Meeting": Maintain your wellness routines when on the road by planning ahead and scheduling workout times as you would a business meeting. If it's in your PDA calendar, you'll be more inclined to find the time for the gym. Be sure to plan ahead and ask about your hotel's fitness and dining offerings, and pack your exercise clothes.

Find Your Rhythm: Got jet lag? Research has shown that exercise helps to reset circadian rhythms and is one behavior to help your internal clock get back in sync. And when done earlier in the day, exercise can even help you sleep better at night.

Taking melatonin a few days before your trip has been shown to be effective in overcoming jet lag, but ask your doctor before trying anything new. Also, when crossing time zones, be careful with your caffeine intake.

The Time Zone Challenge: Business travelers' workouts often suffer from the impact of crossing different time zones as that can change their usual exercise schedules. If you're not used to exercising early in the morning or late in the evening, try to stick as close to your normal exercise schedule as you can, even if it means reducing the intensity of the workout because you have to be able to meet your work commitments. Also, the benefit of staying at a hotel with a 24-hour gym, like Hyatt's StayFit@Hyatt 24/7 gym, is that it allows you the flexibility of working out whenever you need to.

If you're working out in the morning, try multi-joint exercises to wake up your body and your brain and to get the most done when the majority of people have less time. Multi-joint exercises include squats and dumbbell lunges followed by an upper body move, such as a dumbbell curl or lateral raise.

Make sure you don't exercise too close to bedtime and also allow yourself time to eat post-workout so that your body has something to work with.

Take 30: Make a deal with yourself to go to the gym for at least 30 minutes. Chances are, after 30 minutes, you'll feel better and stay longer…especially if you know you're exercising off that client dinner you just consumed.

If you only have 30 minutes, try this mini-routine: start with the Life Fitness Chest Press, followed by the Life Fitness Leg Press, followed by crunches on a stability ball. Repeat that sequence three to five times. With your remaining time, do the elliptical cross-trainer. Two days later, invert the order and start with the elliptical cross-trainer, then move through your exercises.

Keep It Safe: Another advantage of a 24-hour hotel gym is the safety and convenience when in an unfamiliar city. Runners can log their miles indoors on the treadmill in a climate-controlled, secure environment, especially if you want to run in the dawn or dusk hours. If you are more familiar with the neighborhood, but may need a little assistance, StayFit@Hyatt gyms provide GPS-tracking that not only monitors your heart rate, but also helps guides you back to the hotel to avoid getting lost.

Exercise Experimentation: If you don't have a gym membership at home, take advantage of your hotel gym facility and experiment with new routines that you would not get to do otherwise. You may even adopt a new love for fitness!

Try a machine that you may not have access to at home. This way both your muscles and yourmind get something out of the new setting.

If You Can't Beat 'Em, Join 'Em: Consider moving your business meeting into the gym! There's a growing trend of business meetings at the gym, so why not kill two birds with one stone? It's the healthier version of the business meal or cocktails. Hey, it's just an idea!


Make sure you hydrate: You're losing water while you read this! To get the most out of your workout and the most out of your business, I want you to think about keeping your tank on full.

The "Escape the Rat Race" competition is modeled after obstacles business professionals can encounter while traveling. Each team will go through a series of travel fitness scenarios as they race against the clock to be crowned "the most fit business travelers." Scenarios include: sprinting through the airport when their departure gate has been changed, crunches to keep their waistline slim after an over-indulgent client dinner and climbing the stairs when the elevator is out and the meeting is on the tenth floor. The winning participants will each receive a $1,000 Hyatt gift card, and all competitors will receive Samsonite black label Pro-DLX business essentials travel bags.

"At Hyatt, we understand the stress of business travel and the importance of upholding one's daily routine even when away from home," says Gordon Tareta, assistant vice president of spas for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. "Now, with 24/7 StayFit@Hyatt gyms, no matter what time guests arrive at their hotel, they can still enjoy the great workout they have at home and have access to state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment anytime, any day."

Survival of the Fittest - StayFit@Hyatt

Hyatt's new 24/7 gyms are an extension of the dynamic StayFit@Hyatt program launched in late-2005, which caters to fitness-conscious business and leisure travelers. In addition to offering 24/7 gyms featuring the latest high-tech cardio and strength-training equipment from industry leader Life Fitness, regularly scheduled exercise programs, and knowledgeable support staff on-site, StayFit@Hyatt also offers guests in-room, on-demand yoga videos through an exclusive partnership with Yoga Away; a 24-hour-a-day, seven day-a-week StayFit concierge service that provides workout attire upon request in under an hour; and complimentary GPS forerunner armbands to help runners and walkers easily monitor their heart rate, course and distance as well as provide easy navigation back to the hotel.

About Hyatt Hotels & Resorts:

There are 215 hotels and resorts (over 90,000 rooms) in 44 countries around the world, operating under the Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt and Park Hyatt brands. Currently, there are an additional 31 Hyatt hotels and resorts under development, including 12 new hotels in China. Hyatt Corporation (domestic U.S., Canada and Caribbean hotels) and Hyatt International Corporation (international properties) are subsidiaries of Chicago-based Global Hyatt Corporation. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc. (timeshare and fractional residential product), Hyatt Equities, L.L.C. (hotel ownership), Select Hotel Group, L.L.C. (which owns, operates and franchises AmeriSuites Hotels, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Summerfield Suite Hotels) and U.S. Franchise Systems, Inc. (which franchises Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns and Suites).


About Life Fitness

Life Fitness, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), is the global leader in designing and manufacturing a full line of high-quality fitness equipment for commercial and consumer use. It is the largest commercial fitness equipment provider in the world

and the only fitness equipment manufacturer that has been providing premium equipment for nearly 30 years. Life Fitness' cardiovascular and strength-training products, including the renowned Lifecycle exercise bike, are used worldwide in health clubs, fitness centers and wellness facilities, as well as in homes. The company is headquartered near Chicago and distributes its equipment in more than 120 countries.

[abadani69]

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 29, 2006) - San Diego Magazine today announced the results of an exclusive six-month long survey to identify San Diego1s Best Places to Work and Loews Coronado Bay Resort proudly ranked second in the 3500 or more employees category.
Thousands of San Diego employers and employees were asked to share what makes working for their company special. After a meticulous process, 30 companies, ranging from a 40-person web firm to a giant healthcare corporation, were named San Diego1s best workplaces. Surveys were conducted by Employers Group, human resources professionals who have encouraged California's growth and prosperity for more than a century.

In an industry with notoriously high turnover rates, Loews Coronado Bay Resort was the only hotel to make the list in part to its large number of team members who have worked at the resort for more than 10 years. Confidential surveys revealed that team members of Loews feel like they are a part of "a tight-knit atmosphere" and described coming to work as "leaving one family to come home to another." In addition, the magazine recognized the resort1s training courses, free meals, Good Neighbor Council (a group of employees who volunteer their time to charitable causes in the community), employee-recognition programs and hotel discounts.

"Our team members are our most valuable assets and that's why empowerment and inspiration are words we live by," said Kathleen Cochran, general manager of Loews Coronado Bay Resort. "While we1re not surprised to be recognized as one of the best places to work in San Diego, we are extremely proud."

Surveys were conducted by the Employers Group and included an extensive questionnaire designed to measure company policies and practices in nine categories: work-life balance, employee voice/workplace culture, community involvement, employee turnover, pay, benefits, perks/incentives, training/opportunity for advancement, and diversity.

Over 300 companies filled out at least part of the 402-question survey and a blind-scoring system was used to tally total the scores of the initial survey. The 104 highest scoring companies became semifinalists. For the final round, Employers Group conducted a confidential Employee Satisfaction Survey on a random sampling of employees at each semifinalist company. The sampling was based on company size, and those companies which did not provide at least 75 percent of the Employee Satisfaction Surveys requested were disqualified. Using employees' answers to each of the 12 questions (Strongly agree, Agree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree), a final Employee Satisfaction score was determined.

Confidentiality was a major concern during the survey process. Consequently, no information that would identify an employee or specific company was shared to any third party, including San Diego Magazine. In order to determine final scores and ranking, the company score from the initial survey and the employee satisfaction score were weighted equally and added together. Statistical ties were broken using the highest employee satisfaction score.

In the end, 10 companies from three employee-size categories (small, medium, large) were chosen as best workplaces and received coverage in San Diego Magazine1s September issue. Additional winners in the large 3500 or more employees' category included: Scripps Health, Palomar Pomerado Health, Amylin Pharmaceuticals, National University, Wal-Mart Stores, Watkins Manufacturing Corporation, VA San Diego Healthcare System, City of Carlsbad and America Specialty Health.

About Loews Coronado Bay Resort & Spa

Situated on a private 15-acre peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Bay, guests are just minutes from downtown Coronado, a charming resort village, and a short drive to San Diego1s world-famous attractions. Resort amenities include direct access to the Silver Strand State Beach, three tennis courts, a private 80-slip marina, three acclaimed restaurants, 440 newly-renovated guest rooms and suites, and panoramic views of the San Diego-Coronado Bay. For more information, please call 619-424-4000, 800-23-LOEWS or visit www.loewshotels.com.

About Employers Group

First formed in 1896, Employers Group is part of an elite group of organizations who have encouraged California's growth and prosperity for more than a century. We provide services, such as training, a motivating compensation package, a life/work balance program, risk management guidance, or simply the latest legislative and legal information at prices more competitive than most large consulting or law firms.

About San Diego Magazine

Recognized for almost 60 years as one of the publishing industry1s most influential city/regional consumer titles, San Diego Magazine has an audited circulation of approximately 54,000 readers and has a significant reader-base in some of the country1s most affluent communities, including Rancho Santa Fe, La Jolla and Del Mar. The publication is recognized as the regional authority on topics such as lifestyle, business, real estate, politics and art, and provides irreverent editorial content and eagerly anticipated special theme issues, such as The Best of San Diego, San Diego1s Top Doctors and Best Restaurants. In addition to San Diego Magazine, the company publishes San Diego at Home and Travels quarterly.

[abadani69]

DALLAS - La Quinta announced it opened 31 hotels in the first half of 2006, as a result of its aggressive franchising and corporate development programs. The hotels are located in thirteen states in all parts of the country and added more than 3,400 rooms to the La Quinta system. Additional rapid growth is expected in the second half of the year thanks to an active and expanding pipeline of new properties.
"We are pleased to share these numbers that indicate the pace of La Quinta's growth," said Wayne Goldberg, President and CEO for La Quinta. "Our expansion in the first part of the year is continuing testimony to the value of the La Quinta brand in the marketplace and the positive reception we continue to receive among the development and franchise communities." La Quinta's industry-leading franchise program continued its impressive performance, adding 24 properties in the first half of 2006. Newly opened franchised hotels range in size from 50 to 169 rooms, in markets as diverse as San Diego, California, and Rapid City, South Dakota. (See below for a complete listing of La Quinta properties opened in the first half of 2006.)

Rajiv Trivedi, La Quinta's Executive Vice President for Franchising said, "We are pleased with the results of our franchising efforts, which include the opening of some of the finest properties in the La Quinta system." He concluded, "I am especially glad to note the continued loyalty of our long-time franchisee base, which forms the backbone of our system. Together with all our franchisees, our corporate sales and service teams look forward to operating, maintaining and further expanding the highest-caliber franchise system in the hotel industry."

La Quinta's franchising program was launched in 2000. Since that time, it has grown rapidly and developed some of the most innovative service, support and property performance enhancement programs in the industry. La Quinta now has 176 franchised properties.

La Quinta's corporate development and acquisition program continued strong, adding seven properties in the first half of 2006. Corporate acquisitions included high-profile locations in markets such as Bloomington, MN near the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and Mall of America and Islip, NY less than a mile from Long Island?s MacArthur Airport. In downtown Little Rock, Arkansas, a newly acquired hotel brought more than 200 rooms into the La Quinta system.

Franchise Properties

La Quinta Inn - San Antonio, TX (118 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Moss Point, MS (50 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Douglasville, GA (90 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Vidor, TX (58 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Florence, KY (70 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Columbia, SC (121 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Ripon, CA (60 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Carter Lake, IA (102 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Knoxville, TN (65 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - San Diego, CA (169 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Carlsbad, CA (111 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Latham, NY (78 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Dallas, TX (100 rooms)

La Quinta Inn ? Bishop, CA (60 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Rapid City, SD (100 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Rifle, CO (65 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites -Overland Park, KS (143 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Belton, TX (72 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Monterey, CA (50 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Rochester, MN (94 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - N. Myrtle Beach, SC (82 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Salida, CA (67 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Bakersfield, CA (67 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Bellingham, WA (62 rooms)

Corporate Properties

La Quinta Inn - Santa Ana, CA (181 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Los Angeles, CA (278 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Anaheim, CA (129 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Little Rock, AR (260 rooms)

La Quinta Inn - Myrtle Beach, SC (149 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Bloomington, MN (252 rooms)

La Quinta Inn & Suites - Islip, NY (132 rooms)

About La Quinta

LQ Management L.L.C. is one of the largest operators of limited-service hotels in the United States. Based in Dallas, Texas, the Company operates and provides franchise services to more than 500 hotels in 40 states and Canada under the La Quinta Inns and La Quinta Inn & Suites brands.

[abadani69]

Silver Spring, Md. - Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE:CHH) marked the continued progress of its Suburban Extended Stay Hotel and MainStay Suites brands, with strong segment performance coinciding with the recent signing of an agreement with MCD to develop ten extended-stay properties in Arizona.

"Our extended stay division continues to perform strongly, and developers are extremely interested in the segment, as demand continues to outpace supply," said Kevin Lewis, vice president, extended stay brands. "Choice has shown its strong commitment to extended stay with the dedicated infrastructure and programs to support its franchisees. Current and prospective franchisees have been highly receptive to our dedicated brand management, franchise development, franchise services and sales support teams. We view our strategic relationship with MCD as a sign of the market's interest in our extended stay brands. We are very excited to be partnering with such a strong organization to establish a major presence in the growing southwestern market."

Operating performance for Choice's extended stay brands, MainStay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, continues to be extremely strong. Year-to-date occupancy through June 30 for MainStay was 63.7 percent, an increase of 3.1 percent from the prior year. For the same time frame, ADR is up 6.6 percent to $66.48 and RevPAR is up 12.0 percent to $42.33. For Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, year-to-date occupancy through June 30 was 73.1 percent. Over that time frame, ADR was $38.02 and RevPAR was $27.79.

"Of all the lodging companies in the extended stay market, Choice offered us the greatest degree of support and experience in entering what is to us a new segment," said Mike Lee, president, MCD. "We are delighted to move into the extended stay segment, as the market is significantly underserved. Choice has been a very supportive partner for us and we look forward to expanding our base in Arizona, guided by Choice's strong operational and marketing expertise."

Choice's Suburban Extended Stay Hotel is the largest chain of franchised economy extended stay hotels in the U.S. The Suburban brand provides the perfect temporary housing solution, offering full kitchens and economical daily, weekly and monthly rates - as well as discounts for weekly or monthly stays. Choice's MainStay Suites was the industry's first franchised mid-market, extended stay hotel and offers at-home comfort, convenience and affordable rates. MainStay Suites provides residential-style amenities with enough room for an extended stay, with separate areas for dressing, relaxing, sleeping and eating.

Choice Hotels International franchises more than 5,200 hotels, representing more than 430,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 40 countries and territories. As of June 30, 2006, 687 hotels are under development in the United States, representing 53,765 rooms, and an additional 65 hotels, representing 5,993 rooms, are under development in more than 20 countries and territories. The company's Cambria Suites, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Clarion, Sleep Inn, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn, MainStay Suites and Suburban Extended Stay Hotel brands serve guests worldwide.

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با طراحی اکوتوریسم گردشگری روستایی در 365 روستا از 36 هزار روستای کشور به سرمایه گذارانی که تمایل داشته باشند در اکوتوریسم روستائی فعالیت کنند تسهیلات بانکی با بهره 4 درصد اعطا می شود.
دبیر کمیته راهبردی گردشگری روستائی و عشایری سازمان میراث فرهنگی و گردشگری کشورعصر امروز با بیان مطلب فوق در جمع دهیاران استان مازندران در ساری افزود : گردشگری حق طبیعی و مسلم هر شهروند است و در کشور ما گردشگری روستائی سابقه چندانی ندارد.

علی محمد نمازی با بیان اینکه از 16 شغلی که در دنیا ایجاد می شود یک شغل مربوط به گردشگری است اظهار داشت: در سال 2004 ، هفتصد و 62 میلیارد دلار درآمد از این طریق عاید کشورها شد و 53 درصد این درآمدها مربوط به اکوتوریسم روستائی و گردشگری در روستا بوده است..

مشاور رئیس سازمان میراث فرهنگی و گردشگری کشور گفت: 16 روستا با هدف توسعه اکوتوریسم در استان شناسائی شده که از این میان روستاهای گرسماسر رامسر و لاویج نور با اختصاص 20 میلیون تومان در مرحله مطالعاتی خود قرار دارد و پس از مطالعات اولیه با اخذ اعتبار استانی لازم به مرحله اجرا در خواهد آمد.

وی با بیان اینکه هدف از اجرای طرح توسعه اکوتوریسم روستائی حفظ بافت های قدیمی در روستاها است از بخشداران خواست از هر روستا 4 دیپلمه و تحصیل کرده بالاتر را به عنوان راهنماهای تور جذب کنند.

نمازی همچنین از ایجاد 5 کمپ عشایری برای استفاده گردشگران در آینده نزدیک در 5 استان کشور خبر داد.

وی در پایان اظهار امیدواری کرد تا سال آینده گردشگری روستائی در تمام روستاهای کشور رونق یابد و به دهیاران این نوید را داد که هر روستائی که گردشگر بیشتری جذب نماید اعتبار و امکانات بیشتری دریافت خواهند کرد و ازدهیاران فعال اکوتوریسم روستائی تقدیر خواهد شد.

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London, UK -The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) issued a call for entries for the 2007 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. The Awards, now in their third year under WTTC stewardship, promote and reward best practice in Travel & Tourism all over the world.
There are four categories for entry, allowing for applications from tourism destinations, businesses and organization. The categories are:

Destination Award: for destinations of any size which show a commitment to responsible tourism development

Conservation Award: for any tourism organization committed to the protection of natural and cultural heritage

Investor in People Award: for any tourism organization which shows a commitment to human resource development and local community involvement

Global Tourism Business Award: for a tourism business of at least 200 employees operating in more than one destination which demonstrates responsible tourism practices

The Awards are sponsored by several WTTC Members and other organizations, including British Airways, Reed Travel Exhibitions, TAP, Esp?rito Santo Tourism Group and Opodo, as well as by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and Adventure Travel Expo. Media sponsors include BBC World, National Geographic Adventure, E-Turbo, Travelmole and Newsweek.

Jean-Claude Baumgarten, WTTC President, said, "Travel & Tourism represents a huge economic and social importance. WTTC is firmly committed to realizing the industry's potential for growth and ensuring maximum and sustainable benefits for everyone involved. In recent years global consciousness of the importance of tourism has triggered a fresh look at the opportunities it represents and we invite all sectors of the industry to applaud the best practices in tourism, helping the development of sustainable growth in the future."

Costas Christ, Judging Chairman for the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards and an international expert on sustainable tourism, said, "Tourism continues to be an important opportunity for helping to protect the Earth's natural and cultural heritage while also promoting cross-cultural understanding and economic development. By recognizing the best models of socially and environmentally responsible tourism from around the world, the 2007 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards are demonstrating that sustainable tourism practices can be part of business success."

The deadline for entries is 11 December, 2006 and, after a judging process involving 12 tourism experts from around the world and on-site verification visits for finalists, the winners will be announced at a special ceremony during the 7th Global Travel & Tourism Summit held in Lisbon from 10 to 12 May, 2007.

Benefits of winning include a free trip to the 7th Global Travel & Tourism Summit and considerable international media attention and promotion.

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As reported in the IHG Plc. interim results (to June 30, 2006) stock exchange announcement issued on August 22nd, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) [Lon: IHG; NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, is experiencing record development pipeline activity company-wide with exceptional momentum surrounding its Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and Hotel Indigo brands.
"As demonstrated by the 20-year record-high Holiday Inn pipeline, 25 percent jump in Crowne Plaza growth and perpetual interest in Hotel Indigo, IHG continues to attract franchisees and developers who recognize the strength and performance of all IHG brands," said ***k Kinsell, SVP and chief development officer, the Americas, IHG. "The Americas region is experiencing phenomenal overall growth and will continue on this path with its 80 percent contribution to the IHG global development pipeline, which is the largest pipeline of any hotel company worldwide."

The world's most recognized hotel brand, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, is currently experiencing a 20-year record-high pipeline with 182 hotels. With 80 percent of the pipeline comprised of new build, the brand continues to lower the average age of the portfolio while maintaining the brand hallmarks that customers expect and depend upon when they choose Holiday Inn.

Outperforming its segment in RevPAR growth, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts continues to expand its portfolio with 20 hotels (more than 4,600 rooms) in the pipeline to complement its existing 144 hotels (more than 40,000 rooms). In just the last 18 months, the brand has grown 25 percent as a result of new hotels opening across the Americas region.

Consistent with consumer response to Hotel Indigo, the newest member of the IHG family, the brand is well-positioned to meet the growing demand with 17 hotels in the pipeline. The existing portfolio consists of four hotels in the Atlanta, Houston and Chicago markets.

IHG experiences great success in attracting developers not only because of the company's strength in franchising and branding, but also as a result of IHG's proven track record in hotel management. The Hotel Management Group, the America's operations division of IHG, has a management pipeline of more than 4,500 rooms which will join its existing portfolio of more than 43,000 rooms. Most recently, The Hotel Management Group executed contracts for several hotels in cities across the U.S. including Baltimore, Baton Rouge, Houston, San Antonio and Savannah. The Hotel Management Group's latest offering, Performance Advantage, was launched in March 2006. This proprietary hotel management program allows The Hotel Management Group to adapt its management services and contract terms based on the needs of each individual property investor.

IHG's continued focus on growth is also evidenced in the Americas across the company's other four brands (as of June 30, 2006):

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

With IHG's increased emphasis on the development of its upscale brands, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has seven hotels in the Americas pipeline to complement its existing 48 upper-upscale segment hotels in the region. Americas InterContinental Hotels & Resorts properties which opened in just the last six months include: InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza, Missouri, InterContinental Harbor Court Baltimore, Md. and InterContinental Playa Bonita Resort & Spa, Panama. The InterContinental Boston, Mass. is scheduled to open in Fall 2006. The brand has a total of 33 hotels in the global pipeline to complement its total portfolio of 142 hotels worldwide.

Holiday Inn Express

Holiday Inn Express, the fastest-growing hotel brand in the limited-service hotel category, has 441 properties in the Americas development pipeline. With the highest market share in the U.S. limited service pipeline, the brand continues to open an average of two hotels per week, and has grown to more than 1,460 hotels since its introduction in the early 1990s.

Staybridge Suites

Staybridge Suites reached 75 hotels faster than any other competitor in the upscale extended-stay segment with 92 now open. The brand currently has 19 properties under construction with a total of 98 in the pipeline.

Candlewood Suites

Candlewood Suites has more hotels in the pipeline than any other brand in the midscale extended-stay segment. It has 120 properties with another 103 properties in the Americas pipeline.

With 2,873 hotels (389,722 rooms), IHG?s Americas region has continued its growth momentum at a steady pace from January-June 2006, with the opening of 108 hotels (13,681 rooms). Helping further the success and momentum of its brands, IHG's integrated approach helps unify marketing initiatives so that hotels benefit from each others' efforts and learn from each other - while keeping the brands distinct and differentiated to their customer segments. This is done by offering current and prospective franchisees a multi-brand marketing platform comprised of our Enterprise Values - technology, global reservations centers, global sales, performance support, and Priority Club Rewards; as well as, fostering a collaborative, "Together We're Stronger" relationship with its hotel owners.

Note to Editors:

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC of the United Kingdom [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms. InterContinental Hotels Group owns, manages, leases or franchises, through various subsidiaries, over 3,650 hotels and 540,000 guest rooms in nearly 100 countries and territories around the world. The Group owns a portfolio of well recognised and respected hotel brands including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, Candlewood Suites and Hotel Indigo, and also manages the world's largest hotel loyalty programme, Priority Club Rewards with over 28 million members worldwide.

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Beginning this month guests staying at select Hyatt Hotels & Resorts in North America can check in their luggage and receive airline issued boarding passes before leaving the property for the airport. The cost of the service is $10 per person and includes storage, transportation and check-in of up to two pieces of luggage. The service is made available through Hyatt's partnership with Baggage Airline Guest Services (B.A.G.S.), and is supervised by the Transportation Security Administration.
"Hyatt is delighted to provide another industry leading initiative to reduce hassles for travelers," said Matt Adams, vice president of operations for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. "Combined with boarding pass printing stations in lobbies, web check-in, PDA check-in and check-in/check-out kiosks, Hyatt continues its focus on helping guests ease the burdens of travel."

Depending on location, guests can check their luggage at the hotel up to two hours prior to flight time or as long as 24 hours before departure. Once check-in is complete at a Hyatt property, guests can head to meetings or the airport free of luggage, picking it up at baggage claim in their final destination. Hyatt's B.A.G.S. service processes the luggage through airport security screening.

The service is available with travel on Airtran, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Northwest Airlines, Song, Ted, and United Airlines.

Hyatt properties in Boston, Dallas, Denver, Miami, Orlando, San Diego, Seattle and Tampa will initially offer the service. Throughout the remainder of 2006 and into 2007 additional Hyatt properties will begin to offer it.

About Global Hyatt Corp.

There are 216 Hyatt branded hotels and resorts (over 90,000 rooms) in 44 countries around the world, operating under the Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt and Park Hyatt brands. Currently, there are an additional 32 Hyatt hotels and resorts under development, including 11 new hotels in China. Hyatt Corporation (domestic U.S., Canada and Caribbean hotels) and Hyatt International Corporation (international properties) are subsidiaries of Chicago-based Global Hyatt Corporation. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc. operators of the Hyatt Vacation Club (timeshare and fractional residential product), Hyatt Equities, L.L.C. (hotel ownership), Select Hotel Group L.L.C. (which owns, operates and franchises AmeriSuites hotels, Hyatt Place and Summerfield Suites hotels) and U.S. Franchise Systems, Inc. (which franchises Hawthorn Suites, and Microtel Inns and Suites).

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Embassy Suites Hotels, with more than 180 upscale, all-suite hotels in the U.S., Canada and Latin America, announced today a brand-wide fitness and nutrition initiative, developed specifically for its business traveler guests, called Business Balance, which is scheduled to debut in January 2007.
"Embassy Suites Hotels has surveyed thousands of guests and has found that 25% feel much more stressed when traveling for business," said John Lee, vice president, brand marketing and communications, Embassy Suites Hotels. "Embassy Suites is constantly looking for effective and creative ways to add additional value to guests' stays. Business Balance was developed for guests looking for ways to help stay healthy and fit on the road."

In response to guest demand for in-hotel programs that help business travelers become more productive and energized on the road, Embassy Suites has partnered with Quick Fit author and exercise expert, Rick Bradley, and "15-Minute Gourmet" cookbook author, Paulette Mitchell, to create customized activities and materials suited to particular business activities.

"I'm a frequent traveler and I understand how difficult it can be to find time for yourself while on the road," says Rick Bradley. "It's gratifying to partner with Embassy Suites Hotels so that I can provide guests with easy ways to stay healthy, keep their energy going throughout the day, and feel good while constantly on-the-go."

"I'm proud to be a partner with Embassy Suites Hotels because they are known for serving a great breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day," says Paulette Mitchell. "I look forward to sharing my personal breakfast tips to help guests be smart, focused, and energetic during their business days."

The Business Balance program will include complimentary in-suite television programming, Internet content and other in-hotel information developed in partnership with Bradley and Mitchell and will launch in January 2007, a month with high business-trip saturation and a time when people are resolving to become healthy and fit. The program offers:

- Rick Bradley's 15-minute Work Out sessions available on in-hotel television programming on a complimentary basis allowing guests to use their spacious second room for quick, easy exercises without leaving the comfort of their own suite

- Paulette Mitchell's "What to Eat at 25,000 Feet" nutrition tips will help guests create quick, healthful meals on their way to the airport, train station or drive home

- Each morning, guests will read Paulette's and Rick's coffee cup "Break-Facts," offering tips on how to empower the day through nutrition and exercise

- Embassy Suites' and Rick Bradley's Internet "Bod-casts" will demonstrate quick exercises to rev up energy, stretch tired muscles and improve cardiovascular strength

- Paulette Mitchell has evaluated the offerings at Embassy Suites' cooked-to-order complimentary breakfast and has created the "Eat for Success" guide. The guide will customize breakfast menu plans for different levels of business activity such as:

- What should you eat to be sharp and focused for giving a presentation?

- Are there foods that will give you brainpower and sustain your energy during a day-long meeting?

- What if you were 'over-served' at last night's client dinner - What breakfast choices are best to get you back on track?

Staying Fit in Both Body and Spirit

In addition to two-room suites and complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast, Embassy Suites Hotels features other amenities to keep the business traveler fit in both body and spirit. To help promote a good night's sleep, the upscale hotel brand features the new Embassy Essentials(tm) bedding collection with an entirely new bedding package, including a Serta Suite Dreams mattress, box springs, mattress pad, bed s***t, and jumbo pillows. The beds will be in all Embassy Suites Hotels by year-end 2006.

Staying Fit in Both Body and Spirit

As part of the exclusive agreement between Hilton Hotels Corporation and Precor, the global fitness equipment leader, Embassy Suites has begun installing co-branded state-of-the-art fitness centers at all Embassy Suites Hotels in 2006, with the majority of hotels completed in 2007. The specially designed facilities will utilize Precor-developed strength, cardio and entertainment equipment.

About Rick Bradley

Rick Bradley graduated with honors with a degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Maryland. He also holds a degree in Education and has a national certification in Occupational Health. He has done graduate studies in sports medicine and stress management and was the flexibility coach for the Washington Redskins under the legendary Head Coach Joe Gibbs.

Since 1985, Rick has presented a variety of unique seminars including Creative Stress Management , Work-Life Wellness , and Quick Fit for private business and industry, local and federal government, and educational institutions across the United States. His clients include AT&T, Fannie Mae, IBM, Magnavox, Oracle, BMC Software, Bureau of National Affairs, the FBI, National Naval Medical Center, the U.S. Senate, and many others.

Rick has been featured in The Washington Post and has appeared on NBC's Today Show, C-SPAN, PBS's America's Walking, and The Voice of America broadcast. He is the author of Quick Fit: The Complete 15-Minute No-Sweat Workout (Simon & Schuster 2004).

Rick was the Director of the Occupational Health and Fitness Program at the U. S. Department of Transportation for over 25 years. Under his leadership, participation had been three times higher than the national average for workplace fitness centers. This favorable outcome is indicative of Rick's unique ability to communicate, educate, and motivate. He has received nine awards for his work, including the Secretary of Transportation's Silver Medal Award for Meritorious Achievement.

About Paulette Mitchell

Paulette Mitchell , a culinary instructor, television personality, spokesperson, freelance food writer, and the author of 12 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with gourmet flair.

Her most recently published cookbooks are "A Beautiful Bowl of Soup" and "The Spirited Vegetarian," which is the first - and only - vegetarian cookbook that incorporates wine or spirits in every recipe. This book was awarded "Best Book on Cooking with Wine" at the 2005 Gourmand World Media Awards.

Paulette's "15-Minute Gourmet" cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair. Her "Complete Soy Cookbook" was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998.

Paulette writes a daily recipe and culinary tips column that appears on the websites of over 100 television stations coast to coast. She has also been a culinary instructor for the past 25 years, and has appeared on the Food Network numerous times. Paulette hosts culinary tour groups to Europe and offers presentations on spa cuisine at the well-known Rancho La Puerta Health Spa in Mexico. She also is a popular culinary speaker on luxury cruise ships around the world.

Whether it is on television segments or culinary presentations, Paulette entertains and educates her viewers by sharing culinary tips, kitchen wisdom, and a wealth of experiences acquired over the years through her extensive international travel, which she says is her best source of inspiration.

About Embassy Suites Hotels

Embassy Suites Hotels is part of the Hilton Family of Hotels and opened its first hotel in 1984. It was the first all-suite upscale hotel brand to enter the industry and today has nearly 190 hotels.

Hilton Hotels Corporation (NYSE:HLT) is the leading global hospitality company, with nearly 2,800 hotels and 475,000 rooms in more than 80 countries, including 150,000 team members worldwide. The company owns, manages or franchises a hotel portfolio of some of the best known and highly regarded brands, including Hilton, Conrad, Coral by Hilton, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Grand Vacations, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Scandic and The Waldorf-Astoria Collection.

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With pedals in motion, Hampton hotels (www.hampton.com) is leading the pack on the road to Beijing. The national brand of more than 1,350 mid-priced Hampton Inn® and Hampton Inn & Suites® hotels is partnering with the U.S. Cycling Team to help US elite cyclists train with ease as the official hotel sponsor of USA Cycling through 2008. The Hampton sponsorship announcement will kick off at the USA Cycling Professional (USPRO) National Championship in Greenville, South Carolina over Labor Day weekend, September 1-3, 2006.


"Hampton is proud to sponsor the U.S. men and women who compete in one of the most intense and high endurance sports around," said Phil Cordell, senior vice president, brand management for Hampton Hotels. "Cycling is a spectacular and beautiful sport that has provided some of the most awe-inspiring moments in history. Many of us learned to enjoy cycling as kids as it allowed us to explore our neighborhoods and see things that aren't always visible by car or foot. Today we see adults enjoy cycling for leisure, for fitness and as transportation. Hampton is delighted to sponsor a sport that continues to grow and that so many Americans can relate to."

The highest level of one-day professional bike racing on American soil, the USPRO National Championships is the sport's preeminent race. This marks the first time in 21 years that this prestigious event has a new race location, a late-summer date and, for the first-time ever, a field composed solely of American cyclists. The first-ever USPRO Time Trial Championship will be held on Friday, September 1, 2006, with the road race to follow on Sunday, September 3. A recreational bicycle ride benefiting cancer research will be held on Saturday, September 2, on the same road that the pros use.

The Hampton brand's sponsorship of the U.S. Cycling Team is an extension of the Hilton Family of Hotels' U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Team sponsorship. The Hilton Family of Hotels — which includes Hilton, Conrad, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Grand Vacations and Homewood Suites by Hilton in addition to Hampton Hotels — maintains a longstanding relationship with the USOC, and in January 2005, announced a Family-wide sponsorship of the U.S. Olympic, Paralympic and Pan American Teams that extends through the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Beijing, China.

About USA Cycling
Recognized by the U.S. Olympic Committee and the Union Cycliste Internationale, USA Cycling promotes competitive cycling through its 56,000 members and 2,000 annual events. USA Cycling associations include the BMX Association (BMX), National Off-Road Bicycle Association (mountain bike), U.S. Cycling Federation (road/track), the National Collegiate Cycling Association and the U.S. Professional Racing Organization (professional men's road).

About Hampton Hotels
Hampton, which includes Hampton Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites hotels, is a mid-priced leader in the lodging segment. Hampton is part of Hilton Hotels Corporation, a leading global hospitality company with nearly 2,800 hotels and 475,000 rooms in more than 80 countries, including 150,000 team members worldwide. The company owns, manages or franchises a hotel portfolio of some of the best known and most highly regarded hotel brands, including Hilton®, Conrad®, Coral by Hilton®, Doubletree®, Embassy Suites Hotels®, Hampton Inn®, Hampton Inn & Suites®, Hilton Garden Inn®, Hilton Grand Vacations™ , Homewood Suites by Hilton®, Scandic and The Waldorf-Astoria Collection™.

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Apple Hospitality has awarded the management contracts of eight Hilton-branded hotels to LBA Properties, Inc., following the acquisition of the hotels from PHD Hotels, formerly The Hotel Group.

This move — consistent with LBA's focus on growing its management portfolio, which it launched last year with the company's sale of 19 hotels to Apple REIT Six, Inc. — brings the company's total management portfolio to 40 hotels in the southeastern U.S.

Of the eight new LBA-managed hotels, seven — spanning the Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn brands — are located in Ala. and Miss. The eighth, a Hilton Garden Inn in Macon, Ga., will open in 2007.

"We are excited to have the opportunity to become associated with these superior properties," said Barry Kraselsky, president of LBA Properties. "They are located in markets we understand, with all in our geographic area and several in markets where we have a presence."

He added, "The principals of PHD, Tom Hunt and Howard Porter, have a stellar reputation with Hilton, and have built an operational culture closely aligned with ours and Apple's core values."

LBA Properties' solid reputation as a superior development and management company is also well established; Marriott International, Inc., has three times presented LBA with its highest franchisee honor, the Partnership Circle Award; and, this year, named LBA its sole Community Service Award recipient among all select-service and extended-stay franchise companies, based on LBA's system-wide LBA C.A.R.E.S. program.

LBA has responded to its accelerated growth by restructuring its executive management team. Kraselsky, formerly president and C.O.O., will remain president, focusing on the company's continuing strategic direction and development opportunities. Beau Benton, formerly executive vice president and CFO, is now C.O.O., responsible for day-to-day operations. Other key executives include Farrah Adams, vice president of operational support; Terrell Hodnett, vice president of systems and financial reporting; Justin Shelton, vice president of operations; and Teresa Stowell, vice president of sales, marketing and revenue management.

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Starwood Capital Group, led by Barry Sternlicht, announced today the launching of "1" Hotel and Residences, the first luxury, eco-friendly global hotel brand. The concept will combine the best of environmentally sustainable architecture and interior design with impeccable service and luxurious comfort. "1" will adhere to green construction and operating principles and commit to environmentally sensitive consumption of natural resources. "1" will demonstrate that green principles can coexist and enhance a luxury hospitality experience and healthy residential lifestyle. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has agreed to be an environmental advisor on "1" with the initial goal of setting a new standard for environmental excellence and, over time, to transform the entire hotel industry.
"We are incredibly excited to be able to bring a whole new concept to the hospitality industry with the launch of the "1" brand. As a CEO and parent of three young children, I have grown acutely aware of the personal responsibility we each have to help preserve and protect our planet, which can only happen through the accumulation of small efforts by millions of individuals. It is the perfect time for "1". With such critical issues facing us as foreign energy dependence and global warming, we cannot afford to ignore the growing consumption of our natural resources and the inability to sustain our enterprises," said Mr. Sternlicht.

"While some hotel brands pay lip service to the environment by asking guests to reuse towels, and adding plants to a lobby, "1" is not using eco-friendly jargon simply as a marketing tool. Our intention with "1" is to build hotels and residences that are truly green and minimize their impact on their environment. We are excited about our partnership with the NRDC. Each property will donate one percent of its revenue to local e