Hotels & Hospitality News

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همزمان با هفتهي دولت سه هتل دو ستاره در شهرستانهاي ايوان، چوار و دهلران استان ايلام به بهره برداري ميرسد.

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

وي ادامه داد: هتل شجريان در شهرستان چوار در فاصلهي ٢٥ كيلومتري ايلام، هتل و تالار شهرستان مريوان و مهمان پذير سعيد در شهرستان دهلران در هفتهي دولت و با حضور مقامات استاني بهره برداري ميشود.

رييس سازمان ميراث فرهنگي، صنايع دستي و گردشگري ايلام، در خصوص علت عدم احداث هتلهاي سه و چهار ستاره در اين شهرستانها 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 هتلهاي بزرگ استقبال چنداني نميكنند.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 environmental organizations guided by a steering committee with NRDC representation. All of our buildings will be built to LEED standards and all of our interiors will be LEED-compliant," continued Mr. Sternlicht.

"1" will be about light and air. "1" will be fresh, invigorating and an alternative way of traveling and living. Guests and residents will not necessarily be conscious of all of the green aspects at "1," but they will be delighted by the richness, beauty and variety of colors, textures and materials. The green theme will only be noticeable to the extent that it will help create a healthy and invigorating environment. Enhancing this experience, we are thrilled to announce a new exclusive partnership with Stephen Hanson, perhaps the premier multi-site restaurant operator in the United States. Steve's team at BR Guest will power the dining, banqueting and room service experiences at each of the "1" properties," Mr. Sternlicht said.

The initial four properties in the United States will all be new construction. The first hotel will be the "1" Hotel and Residences Seattle expected to open in late 2008. Following Seattle, "1" will open in the ski resort of Mammoth Mountain, California; in Scottsdale, Arizona; and in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The first international "1" hotel will be located in Paris, France and will be a renovation of a historic property. In addition, we expect "1" to enter New York, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. and other major urban markets, as well as premier resort destinations, within the next 12 months. The aim will be to have 15 hotels signed or under construction within 24 months. The five hotels are owned by controlled affiliates of Starwood Capital Group Global, LLC.

The development of "1" is being guided by an exemplary advisory Board which includes, among others, Prosper Assouline, Founder and Creative Director of Assouline, Sandra J. Brant, President and CEO of Brant Publications, Inc., Kevin Huvane, Managing Partner, Creative Artists Agency and Candy Pratts-Price, Executive Fashion Director of Style.com. "I have been working with this Advisory Board for quite some time. They bring unique insight and vision to modern-day brand building and are equally committed to the preservation of our environment," said Mr. Sternlicht.

The NRDC strives to help create a new way of life for humankind, one that can be sustained indefinitely without fouling or depleting the resources that support all life on Earth. For more than three decades, NRDC has fought successfully to defend wilderness and wildlife and to protect clean air, clean water and a healthy environment. "NRDC looks forward to working with the creators of "1" to help create exemplar environmental projects that can be models for the entire hotel industry," said Ashok Gupta, an energy expert with NRDC.

Each new "1" will be built to LEED standards. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, created by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

Also important to the brand's identity will be its unique operating model. Each operating unit of hotel properties will be managed by industry leaders. Mr. Hanson's restaurant company, BR Guest, will provide an innovative restaurant, banqueting and room service program. "I'm thrilled to be a partner on the "1" concept, as it mirrors many of our values such as environmental stewardship and supporting local farmers," said Mr. Hanson. "We will seek the premier local chefs who understand and support our mission. Barry Sternlicht is a great visionary, one that I've worked with for more than five years, and there is no one I'd rather be partners with in this exciting venture."

The spas at "1" will also be managed by a world-class operator and will be an extension of the brand experience featuring unique treatments and programs for the revitalization of body and soul. Additionally, a new concierge concept with unparalleled personalization will ensure all that is needed, and most of what can be imagined, will be provided effortlessly. Each "1" will also include a state-of-the-art fitness center as well as several other components to be announced in the near future.

Barry Sternlicht is widely known for revolutionizing the hospitality industry during his tenure as Chairman & CEO of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. He is credited with innovations such as his creation of W Hotels brand, the repositioning and revitalization of Westin Hotels & Resorts (led by innovations such as the Westin Heavenly Bed, and Heavenly Bath) and the brand development of the St. Regis Hotels which started with a single hotel as well as the creation of the award -winning Starwood Preferred Guest frequent stay program.

STARWOOD CAPITAL GROUP GLOBAL LLC:

Starwood Capital Group Global LLC has been a leader in real estate investments since its inception in 1991. Its international investor base includes some of the United States' largest state and corporate pension funds, endowments and foundations, and high-net worth families. During the past fifteen years, Starwood Capital and its affiliates have invested approximately $5.8 billion of equity capital in transactions totaling more than $25 billion. Starwood has closed and/or advised on more than 215 transactions, acquiring equity interests in thousands of residential lots, multifamily and condominium units, hotels, office, retail, industrial, and golf and leisure-related properties. Starwood Capital's most recent transactions include the $3.2 billion acquisition of Groupe Taittinger and Societe du Louvre, (Europe's second-largest hotel network which owns and operates a unique collection of 14 luxury hotels in France, Switzerland and Europe in addition to the more than 800 budget hotels under four flags located throughout Europe); and the $973 million acquisition of the Le Meridien hotel portfolio comprised of 32 luxury hotels located primarily in Europe, North America, Africa and South America. Starwood Capital has led the formation and growth of several successful companies including iStar Financial (NYSE: SFI), the leading publicly traded finance company specializing in commercial real estate mortgage, mezzanine and net lease financing; Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (NYSE: HOT), a leading global owner/operator of hotels, with ownership of brands such as Sheraton, Westin, The St. Regis Luxury Collection and "W"; and National Golf Properties/American Golf Corporation, the largest owner/operator of golf courses in the United States.

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Washington - Robert L. Johnson, the founder and chairman of The RLJ Companies and founder and former CEO of Black Entertainment Television (BET), will be a guest panelist during the "Hot Seat" session at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), January 22-24, 2007, at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Los Angeles, Calif. This special session of the "Hot Seat," will be held during the luncheon on January 23, and will be hosted by Matthew Garrahan, the Los Angeles correspondent for the Financial Times.
In 2003, The RLJ Companies, an innovative business network, was founded to provide 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. Under The RLJ Companies umbrella is RLJ Development, America's largest African-American hotel investment company, which acquires and develops upscale select-service hotels, including Hilton and Marriott-branded hotels in major North American urban markets; RLJ Urban Lodging Fund, a private equity hotel investment company, which acquires and develops upscale focused, service hotels and compact full-service hotels in urban markets; and much more.

"This will be Johnson?s first speaking appearance at a major hotel industry investment event, and we are delighted he will be joining us for the very popular 'Hot Seat' series," said Jim Burba, ALIS conference chair. "With his vision and leadership, RLJ Development in the last several years has grown into one of the largest and most dynamic hotel ownership groups in the U.S., having assembled a portfolio of more than 115 properties, worth over $2.5 billion. We look forward to hearing more about why this successful and prominent American business leader has moved aggressively into the hotel industry and what he plans to do next."

In addition, Johnson owns the Charlotte Bobcats of the NBA, the Charlotte Sting of the WNBA, the first major sports franchise owned by an African American, and Charlotte Arena Operations, LLC, a major entertainment and media venue in Charlotte, N.C.

Prior to forming The RLJ Companies in 1980, Johnson was founder and chairman of BET, the nation's first and leading television network providing quality entertainment, music, news, sports, and public affairs programming for the African American audience. Under Johnson's leadership, BET became the first African American-owned company publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange. In 2000, he sold BET to Viacom for approximately $3 billion and remained the CEO through 2005.

Co-hosted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) and Burba Hotel Network (BHN), ALIS is designed to address the unique needs of the hospitality investment community and provide a meeting and networking place for hotel executives, investors, lenders, developers, and professional financial advisors. ALIS features an extensive array of seminars hosted by leading experts and investors discussing important trends and identifying new opportunities. Proceeds from ALIS will benefit the educational, research, and training missions of the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation, AH&LA?s not-for-profit affiliate.

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Washington, DC – The Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA) thank President Bush for signing into law a provision that assures the uninterrupted flow of season labor for small businesses. These legal, security-screened visa-holding laborers are only allowed to work after the State and Federal Departments of Labor have certified no Americans can be found to take the jobs. The minimum wages for each job category are set by the state and must be offered to all applicants, whether American or foreign.

"Today law-abiding employers were rewarded for following the rule of law," Said John Meredith, FEWA's Vice President of Government Relations. "By assuring employers access to qualified returning workers, most businesses will be able to operate close to capacity this season."

FEWA, along with the National Restaurant Association, co-chaired the H-2B Workforce Coalition that was instrumental in leading the national effort responsible for enactment of the one-year extension of the program's returning worker exemption.

Scott Evans, President of FEWA added, "Our organization is proud to have played such a significant roll in helping seasonal employers get the cap relief they need so desperately." FEWA is also a member of the Essential Worker Immigration Coalition (EWIC) advocating comprehensive immigration reform and the Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform (ACIR) which seeks to reform the H-2A agricultural guest worker program.

FEWA is an internationally recognized non-profit trade association created to assist employers and workers in service industries such as landscaping, construction and hospitality by providing educational and informational services related to cultural, non-immigrant and immigrant labor management issues.