Marriott News Center: Asia

52 posts categorized "Asia"

May 07, 2013

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company Unveils The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

Opening Date and General Manager Announced for Iconic New Urban Resort.

TOKYO – The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has confirmed The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto will officially open its doors on February 7, 2014, and unveiled the first images of the luxury urban resort that pays homage to the region’s cultural heritage. It also officially announced the appointment of Mr. Yuji Tanaka as the General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto enjoys an excellent strategic location as an urban resort on the Kamogawa River, Nijho Ohashi, close to Kyoto’s popular downtown areas including Gion and Kawaramachi-dori, the city’s retail and entertainment district. The hotel’s guestrooms will offer views of the river and the Higashiyama Mountains.

While in keeping with the traditions and cultural sensitivity of Kyoto, The Ritz-Carlton will be a subtle and inspired juxtaposition of modernity and respect for Japanese tradition, incorporating the work of internationally famous Japanese design houses such as Spin Studio. The architects and designers have gone to great lengths to preserve the traditional Meiji house and courtyard into the architectural structure of the building.

Featuring 136 guest rooms with an average size of 50 square meters for standard rooms, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto will have some of the largest in the city. It will also feature four dining options, banquet and meeting rooms, as well as a spa and other recreational facilities.

Victor Clavell, Vice President – Asia Pacific for The Ritz-Carlton said: “Kyoto is one of Japan’s cultural windows to the world and we are proud to unveil a property that is sensitive to the 1,000 years of history and make a contribution to the rejuvenation and growth of the tourism business in Japan.”

Exceptionally rich in beauty, history, spirituality and culture, Kyoto draws 50 million visitors annually to experience the city and its 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While many of these visitors are Japanese, there is real growth in the numbers of international visitors coming to the city, and Kyoto is now very much must-see destination for sophisticated global travelers who are attracted to the city for its quintessential Japanese experience.

Newly-appointed General Manager, Yuji Tanaka is a seasoned international hotelier with over 25 years of luxury hotel experience across the globe who will lead an experienced team of ladies and gentlemen to further strengthen The Ritz-Carlton position as a luxury leader in Japan. Prior to his current position, Tanaka was Hotel Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo and Interim General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka. He has enjoyed over 15 years of leadership experience with luxury hotel groups in the United States and Japan.

“I am privileged to be entrusted with the leadership of this incredibly high-profile opening for The Ritz-Carlton which will complement the exceptional architecture and heritage of Kyoto. Our entry to the market will help to draw sophisticated global travelers who are attracted the city for a quintessentially Japanese experience.”

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, an award that originated in 1987. Its purpose is to promote the awareness of quality excellence, recognize quality achievements of companies and publicize successful quality strategies. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company won the award in 1992 and 1999. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR).

Connect with ainslie.cheung@ritzcarlton.com

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April 24, 2013

Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education Makes Debut in China

Hefei, China – Marriott International today launched the ‘Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education’ in co-operation with Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology. This is the latest college partnership model Marriott International has embarked upon in China to develop the future generation of the hospitality workforce to support its growth in the country. [Regan Taikitsadaporn, Chief HRO of Marriott International Asia Pacific (center left) and Wang Yuan Hao, President of Anhui Zhongao Institute of Technology (the third from the right) along with other Marriott and Anhui government executives at launch event.]

Once established, the Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education will become an integral part of the Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology and will enroll students from the annual China national examination for a three-year diploma programme. The expected number of 2013 intakes will be 300 students.

Initially, the curriculum focus will be on Hotel Management, but plans are in place to expand the course to include Tourism Management as well as Culinary and Nutrition. In the final year of study, students will have work placements at Marriott’s hotels in China to gain experience in a real-life hotel environment.

Marriott International will offer a full array of support to ensure that this joint programme is a great success from the very start, including lectures from the company’s senior executives to the students. Other support includes student field study and internship opportunities at Marriott International’s hotels, faculty internship and curriculum development. Michael Malik, Market Vice President – Eastern China of Marriott International will serve as the deputy dean of the Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education. He will provide counsel and oversee the education direction of the Institute.

In the inauguration ceremony of the Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education, Regan Taikitsadaporn, Chief Human Resources Officer of Marriott International Asia Pacific, said: “Marriott International is proud of the fact that it is consistently recognised as a top employer in China and around the world. We have been providing career development opportunities to ambitious talents worldwide for more than eight decades. The launch of the Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education not only upholds our core values, but also serves as a timely move to fuel our tremendous portfolio growth in China.

“Marriott International currently cooperates with a number of colleges throughout China to help foster the next generation of hotel executives. Nevertheless, in terms of the breadth and depth of such kinds of exercises, this co-operation with Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology is unprecedented,” said Taikitsadaporn.

Marriott International has launched co-operation programmes with 15 colleges in Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Guiyang and in other locations. In addition, Marriott has relations with 112 colleges across China and recruited more than 2,500 interns in 2012 in the country.

Wang Yuan Hao, Dean of Marriott Institute of Hospitality Education, said: “The hospitality industry of China has been growing rapidly and this trend is expected to continue in coming years. Therefore it is essential that our education will keep pace with and meet the human resources demand of the industry. We are delighted to have the support of Marriott International to this programme as the company brings a wealth of experience and heritage in developing hospitality talent around the world.”

With 137 open and signed hotels in China, Marriott International expects to open on average one hotel per month in the country for the five years. The company intends to add some 40,000 associates in China by 2016.

Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology
Established in 1998, the Anhui Zhong-Ao Institute of Technology is a government funded college that is affiliated with the Science and Technology Department of Anhui Province. Currently it has 3,000 students and offers three faculties with some 25 disciplines of studies. For more information, please visit its website: www.acac.cn

Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with jane.cai@marriott.com

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March 18, 2013

Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin Opens

New 539-room hotel in Sha Tin will be global brand’s second largest property in portfolio with an intuitive lobby design featuring high-tech GoBoard® 4.0, flexible work and social area, and modern dining.

Hong Kong, China - Marriott International announces the opening of the Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin today. Located next to business, commercial and cultural attractions in the New Territories district of Hong Kong, Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin is the exciting new addition to the Courtyard brand in Asia – and is the Courtyard brand’s second hotel in Hong Kong. The hotel is the largest Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Asia by number of rooms and the second largest in the brand’s global portfolio of more than 900 hotels.

Speaking at the opening of the hotel, Simon Cooper, president and managing director of Marriott International Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to be opening the largest Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Asia today, an extraordinary addition to the brand’s global portfolio. I would like to thank our partner in this hotel, the Nan Fung Group, for their support in granting us the opportunity to manage such a magnificent hotel and we look forward to a long partnership with them to ensure the ongoing success of this great hotel.”

Featuring 539 modern-styled guest rooms and suites, Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin offers business and leisure guests a refreshing stay with friendly service and attention to detail. A relaxing getaway from Hong Kong island, guests can embrace the tranquility of the New Territories with serene views of the Shing Mun River from the comfort of their guest room.

The rooms are thoughtfully designed, featuring a functional work area and high-speed internet access, helping guests stay both connected and comfortable. Several guest rooms feature an elegant fish design, emphasising the natural surroundings of the hotel and river scenery. At 165sqm, the Presidential Suite on the 30th floor exudes elegance with a stylish living area and master bedroom.

The hotel’s spacious lobby is designed to welcome guests to get out of their rooms for work, relaxation and socialising whether travelling alone or with colleagues. With an open and refreshing business environment, the lobby combines innovative technology and contemporary design, featuring a casual seating zone with several electrical outlets and WiFi access. Understanding our guests’ needs, complimentary WiFi is available throughout all public areas of the hotel.

A key element in the lobby, exclusive to the Courtyard brand, is the newly enhanced GoBoard® 4.0, which presents up-to-date local information, weather forcasts, maps, and headline news on a 55-inch LCD touch screen. Designed with today’s busy traveller in mind, the award-winning GoBoard® features mobile integration, enabling guests to send directions from the GoBoard® directly to their smart phones. Guests are able to touch the screen for immediate access to detailed flight information for local airports, popular entertainment and local event information, as well as walking directions to nearby attractions.

The lobby’s bold art sculpture and impressive spiral staircase are features that highlight the uniqueness of this new hotel. Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin presents a dramatic unfurling glass art piece that winds across the spacious lobby ceiling. Made from 58,775 pieces of flexible borosilicate glass “fabric”, this creation graces the ceiling and swoops to almost within reach of guests in the lobby, making full use of the open flowing lobby space.

The hotel’s signature MoMo café, located on the 2nd floor, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet, offering a combination of Western dishes as well as Asian favourites. With contemporary design and décor, including two private rooms, all day dining MoMo Café has open and spacious seating, ideal for business or casual gatherings.

Accommodating up to 430 people, the 515sqm pillar-less ballroom with spacious foyer is divisible into three equal parts and is fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and wireless internet, making it the ideal venue for business meetings, weddings and special events of all sizes. Courtyard’s professional event planners meticulously arrange every detail to ensure a flawless and successful event. Other hotel facilities include the open-space Lobby Lounge, Executive Lounge, Business Centre, 24-hour Gym and outdoor swimming pool.

Owned by the Nan Fung Group, the hotel has already received the award of ‘Best New Hotel Construction & Design Hong Kong’ at the prestigious Asia Pacific Hotel Awards 2012, held in Kuala Lumpur. The hotel was constructed by Bordon Construction Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Nan Fung Group.

The hotel is conveniently accessible to the whole of Hong Kong via Mass Transit Railway (MTR), especially to Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau at Shenzhen, making it ideal for business travellers operating in Mainland China. Whether travelling for business or leisure, Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin offers guests a multitude of choices that allow them flexibility to make the most of their stay.

Courtyard by Marriott offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ needs for choice and control. With more than 900 locations in 38 countries and territories, Courtyard hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, contact the Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin directly at (852) 3940 8888, call the Courtyard toll-free number at 800-321-2211, visit www.courtyardshatin.com or become a fan at www.facebook.com/courtyardshatin.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with amanda.ha@courtyard.com

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February 07, 2013

Mori Trust Group Signs Agreement with Marriott International for Hotels in Japan

Hotel Laforet Tokyo Rebranded as Tokyo Marriott Hotel in December 2013 and two additional MOUs signed for Marriott International hotels.

TOKYO, JAPAN - Mori Trust Group and Marriott International Inc. (NYSE: MAR) today announced an agreement for the US hospitality company to convert the Gotenyama Garden Hotel Laforet Tokyo (Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo) to its flagship Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand. [Pictured: John Marriott, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, Inc. and Miwako Date, Mori Trust Hotels & Resorts President sign the agreement for the Tokyo Marriott Hotel]

Currently managed by Mori Trust and operated by Mori Trust Hotels & Resorts, the Gotenyama Garden Hotel Laforet Tokyo will be rebranded as the Tokyo Marriott Hotel and is expected to reopen in December 2013.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Tokyo, John Marriott, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, Inc., said, “We are delighted to be working with Mori Trust here in Japan to open this wonderful hotel as a Marriott Hotels & Resorts property later this year. At its heart, Marriott International is very much a family company with strong cultural values. We believe that these values for people and business are shared with Mori Trust, and we look forward to a very long relationship with them in Japan. I would like to thank the executives of Mori Trust for choosing Marriott International, and I am delighted to be here today to announce this landmark deal between our two organisations.”

Marriott Hotels & Resorts is one of Marriott International's 18 brands of hotels - as well as being its flagship brand -- comprises more than 500 properties in 60 countries and territories around the world. With this alliance, the Marriott Tokyo Hotel will be the fourth Marriott-brand hotel in Japan in addition to its properties in Okinawa, Nagoya and, in 2014, Osaka.

Marriott has been ‘re-imagining’ the guest experience, transforming lobbies and public spaces by designing them for a new generation of business travellers who blend work and play, demand style and substance and desire high-tech and high-touch. Marriott is introducing new concepts designed for the way younger travellers work today.

Miwako Date, Mori Trust Hotels & Resorts President, said, “We are delighted to build a strong relationship with Marriott International with its leading global network. Through this agreement, we aim to further internationalise Tokyo in the Shinagawa area. Taking advantage of its strategic location of Gotenyama, Trust Hotels & Resorts will work toward creating the new Tokyo Marriott Hotel that will be loved by people around the world.”

The rebranding of Gotenyama Garden Hotel Laforet Tokyo will utilise Marriott’s globally recognised brand. The hotel will be converted into a sophisticated space featuring an atmosphere of the upscale and historical Shinagawa-Gotenyama area, with a focus on key elements including tailoring, sophistication and comfort. With the concept of sophisticated customised design, almost all facilities will be renovated to reopen as a modern and elegant hotel in December 2013.

The open atrium (approximately 20m high and 600㎡) contains a restaurant and lounge, as well as a bar and terrace overlooking the beautiful Gotenyama Garden.

Rooms with an average size of 38㎡ are large enough to meet international standards. The main colour of the interior uses a palette of pale rose in memory of the time when Gotenyama was known for its magnificent cherry blossoms. Tokyo Marriott Hotel will also offer unique wedding opportunities, adding a newly-built waterfront chapel that faces the lush greenery of the Gotenyama garden, making it ideal as a romantic sanctuary. Reservations for rooms and weddings will start from March, 2013

Shinagawa is one of the main stops on Japan’s bullet train Tokaido Shinkansen, with direct service from Haneda International Airport, and also soon to be the starting station of the Linear Central Shinkansen. Areas around Shinagawa station and Tamachi Station have been designated as an International Strategic Zone by the government. Mori Trust Group believes the Shinagawa area has great potential and aims to create a center for international business and tourism with Marriott International, a collection of hotel brands offering quality service on a global scale.

Marriott Hotels & Resorts
Marriott Hotels & Resorts is Marriott International's signature and most widely distributed brand. Marriott continues to inspire performance and a balanced life on the road for discerning and high-achieving business and leisure travelers, offering warm, professional service; sophisticated yet functional guest room design; lobby spaces that facilitate working, dining and socializing; restaurants and bars serving international cuisine prepared simply and from the freshest ingredients; meeting and event spaces and services that are gold standard; and expansive, 24-hour fitness facilities. All Marriott hotels participate in the award winning Marriott Rewards frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information, visit www.MarriottHotels.com. Follow Marriott Hotels & Resorts on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MarriottHotels.

Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA with more than 3,700 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of over $12 billion in fiscal year 2011. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands, including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Bulgari, EDITION, Renaissance, Gaylord Hotels, Autograph Collection, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Vacation Club, Grand Residences by Marriott, and The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club. There are approximately 300,000 employees at headquarters, managed and franchised properties. Marriott is consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business operations, which it conducts based on five core values: put people first, pursue excellence, embrace change, act with integrity, and serve our world. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with daniel.ford@marriott.com

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February 06, 2013

Marriott International Introduces JW Marriott Brand to Bangladesh with the Signing of JW Dhaka

Luxury Hospitality Brand to Open 700-Room Property, Largest in Bangladesh.

Marriott International today signed an agreement with Jamuna Builders Limited to operate the 700-room JW Marriott Hotel Dhaka. Jamuna Builders Limited is a real estate sister concern of the Jamuna Group - Bangladesh’s largest diversified conglomerate. JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts is Marriott International’s luxury brand that consists of 59 exceptional properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott Hotel Dhaka will be part of a mixed-use development that will also include retail and office components, and construction of the hotel is already under way.

Speaking at the signing in Dhaka Simon Cooper, Marriott International’s president and managing director Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to be working with Jamuna Builders Limited to open this wonderful JW Marriott hotel in Dhaka. Bangladesh has a thriving economy and the country’s GDP has been growing at approximately 6 percent a year for the past five years. We absolutely believe that now is the right time to bring our luxury JW Marriott brand to Bangladesh and in Jamuna Builders Limited we have an owner with a great vision and drive to make this a truly stunning hotel in a great location.”

The JW Marriott Dhaka will be located in an emerging location in the middle of the city and will feature three restaurants, two bars, a spa with eight treatment rooms, and 2,280 square meters of meeting space. The hotel is expected to be a prime destination for luxury dining and will become the social centre in Dhaka, offering unforgettable travel experiences with the intuitive service, thoughtful amenities and refined design that have become synonymous with the JW Marriott brand worldwide.

Mr. Md. Nurul Islam, Jamuna Group’s Chairman, said: “Considering the huge growth of international business transactions in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka Mega City and the present economic growth, the number of existing international hotels is not enough to meet the demand.

“The existing service facilities and amenities in hotel and tourism industry cannot completely meet the total demand of business travellers and tourists. We feel that to meet the growing demand of this service industry, we should contribute and we have started developing the largest five-star hotel in Bangladesh – the JW Marriott hotel, in conjunction with Marriott International.”

Mr. Md. Nurul Islam expressed his thanks to Mr. Simon Cooper, the president and managing director of Marriott International, Asia Pacific to approve his project as the JW Marriott Dhaka. He continued: “With its proposed 700 rooms, this hotel will be one of the largest JW Marriott hotels in Asia and will be a landmark of architectural beauty. The site is very close to the international airport and other important areas and institutions in Dhaka.”

A large number of international retail, garment, energy and telecommunications companies, including WalMart, JC Penney, Marks & Spencer, Halliburton, CK, BP, Shell, Exxon Mobil, Motorola, Ericsson and Siemens have offices in Dhaka and are contributing to Bangladesh’s fast growing and diverse economy.

Dhaka is well connected to India, the Middle East and South East Asia and more than 30 international airlines fly into Dhaka which has seen passenger traffic grow from approximately 3.2 million in 2005 to 6 million passengers in 2012.

Simon Cooper continued: “With the existing hotel market currently underserved in Dhaka and with the future growth in the infrastructure sector, the demand for quality hotel accommodation in the city is growing strongly. This will be Marriott International’s second hotel in the city as we already have a Courtyard hotel under construction which we expect will open next year.”

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today’s sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 59 JW Marriott hotels in 23 countries; by 2015 the portfolio is expected to encompass 79 properties in 28 countries. www.marriott.com/jw-marriott/travel.mi

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA with more than 3,700 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of over $12 billion in fiscal year 2011. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands, including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Bulgari, EDITION, Renaissance, Gaylord Hotels, Autograph Collection, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Vacation Club, Grand Residences by Marriott, and The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club. There are approximately 300,000 employees at headquarters, managed and franchised properties. Marriott is consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business operations, which it conducts based on five core values: put people first, pursue excellence, embrace change, act with integrity, and serve our world. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Connect with daniel.ford@marriott.com and jessica.kumins@marriott.com

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January 31, 2013

Marriott to Double in Size in Thailand: Signs Landmark Deal with TCC Hotels Group for Seven Hotels

Marriott International expects to add 3,000 rooms to its existing portfolio of hotels in the country from 2016.

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Marriott International today announced the signing of seven management agreements with TCC Hotels Group which will see the US hospitality company operating seven TCC hotels across Thailand. These agreements make the TCC Hotels Group the largest owner of Marriott International hotels in Asia Pacific. [Seen in the picture (left to right) are Mr. Shawn Hill, Regional Vice President - Hotel Development Asia-Pacific, Marriott International; Mr. Paul Foskey, Executive Vice President - International Hotel Development Asia-Pacific, Marriott International; Mr. Simon Cooper, President & Managing Director Asia-Pacific, Marriott International; Mr. Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, Chairman of TCC Group; Mr. Charles Mak, Managing Director & President - International Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley; Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat and Mr. Soammaphat Traisorat - President and CEO, TCC Hotels Group.]

The seven hotels are:
• The Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok to be rebranded as Bangkok Marriott Hotel Queen’s Park
• Imperial Adamas Phuket Beach Resort to be rebranded as Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Nai Yang Beach
• HuaHin Marriott Resort & Spa
• Pattaya Marriott Resort & Spa, Jomtien Beach
• JW Marriott Pattaya Resort & Spa
• Marriott Hotel and Executive Apartments, Bangkok Surawong
• The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok

This landmark agreement will add 3,000 rooms to Marriott International’s existing 12 hotels of 3,110 rooms across Thailand.

The TCC Hotels Group will represent a variety of Marriott International’s brands including The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and the company’s signature Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand. It will see Marriott International take on the management of two existing hotels and five new build properties across the country in the strategic tourist destinations of Bangkok, Phuket, HuaHin and Pattaya.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Bangkok, Simon Cooper, Marriott International’s president and managing director Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to announce this landmark deal for Thailand. TCC Hotels Group is very well established as a hotel owner and operator around the world and these seven hotels will add to our already strong portfolio of hotels in the country.”

“I believe this partnership shows our commitment to and faith in Thailand as a strategically important business and leisure destination in South East Asia. Managing this portfolio of TCC hotels in the country will allow us to extend our product offering and brands in Thailand, and enable domestic and international travellers to experience our hotels and world-class service.”

TCC Hotels Group expects to invest approximately US$500 million for the seven hotels including an extensive refurbishment of the existing Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok and the Imperial Adamas Phuket Beach Resort before being rebranded and opened under the Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand in 2016.

“TCC Hotels Group believes that Thailand and the group could benefit from the global network and standards of Marriott International. We are very excited to be working together with Marriott International, an experienced global operator to support our growth strategy and our confidence in both Tourism and MICE business sectors of Thailand,” said Wallapa Traisorat, President of TCC Hotels Group.

These 3,000 rooms are in addition to Marriott International’s existing pipeline in Thailand of more than 1,000 rooms, and the company expects to be managing almost 7,000 rooms in Thailand by 2017 to support the continued tourism growth for Thailand as it becomes a strategic location of the Asian Economic Community (AEC).

NOTE: The statements about the opening dates for the new hotels and timing of brand launches are “forward looking statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws, not historical facts, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including supply and demand changes for hotel rooms; competitive conditions in the lodging industry; relationships with clients and property owners; the availability of capital to finance hotel growth; and other risk factors identified in Marriott International, Inc.'s most recent quarterly report to the US Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 10-Q; any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by our statements. These statements are made as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

TCC Hotels Group
TCC Hotels Group is a member of the TCC Land Group, one of Thailand’s most prominent conglomerates. Its core business is to develop and to invest in a wide range of real estate projects including: residential, office buildings, hospitality, and the retail sector. TCC Land’s expertise also extends to property and land management not only in Thailand but also in other countries worldwide.

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January 17, 2013

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Anchors North East China with 2013 Opening in Revitalised Historical Heart of Tianjin

Located in the heart of the revitalised former British concession and central business district, The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin will form an iconic landmark when it opens mid-2013 and pays homage to the city’s historical heritage and vibrant modern development.

Tianjin, which literally means Emperor’s Port in North East China, has long been recognized as a key trading port and as a route to Beijing which is only 30 minutes away by high speed train. Designated by the Chinese government as one of five ‘national central cities’, Tianjin is at the forefront of leading and developing political, cultural and economic standards for the nation.

The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin, is located by the Haihe River, surrounded by the 19th and 20th century architecture of European nations that sought to trade with China, reflecting the city’s strategic importance that continues today. Tianjin enjoys one of the fastest growth rates in China and is a key hub of the economy. Major industries include petrochemical, car production, metal works and aircraft manufacturing. It is also the world’s fifth largest container port and China’s largest artificial deep-water port.

The soon-to-open Ritz-Carlton hotel with a grand neo-classical style façade was designed by the Tianjin Academy of Urban Planning and Design, with interiors created by luxury hospitality designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon. It houses 277 rooms, including 53 suites and reflects the cultural European heritage in the district.

“The opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin in one of China’s most strategically important cities reflects our desire to meet the growing Chinese appetite for luxury experiences,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operations Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin represents a major gateway opportunity that will accelerate the recognition of our service commitment to excellence by Chinese guests. It is an exciting time to lead the evolution of bespoke luxury by creating memorable experiences that will stay with them for life.”

Mr. Ma He Ting, Chairman of the Board of Tianjin Real Estate Development Management Group Co. Ltd said: “The city of Tianjin’s economic prestige and historical significance needs to build world-class facilities and services. We are delighted to have partnered with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company to bring part of that dream to life with an internationally-recognized luxury hospitality experience.”

The property will showcase four restaurants and bars, the signature of which will be an elegant Cantonese restaurant with 10 private dining rooms, each featuring its own private wine cellar.

The popularity of the trendy lifestyle venue, Flair Bar and Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong influenced a sister venue at The Ritz-Carlton, Tianjin which will offer Asian tapas, a dedicated whisky bar and a cigar cellar adjacent to the private room on the Mezzanine level. Flair in Tianjin will also feature nightly lounge music.

The Lobby Lounge, located at the heart of the hotel’s majestic lobby will of course embrace the tradition of classical English Afternoon Tea service and a gourmet selection of fine Chinese and British teas, and an all-day dining restaurant with a theatre of live cooking stations will serve cuisine from Japan, China and Italy.

The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge for club and suite guests will have a warm designer urban apartment atmosphere with elements to include a grand fire place room, a library, separate game and entertainment areas as well as a boutique bar and residential kitchen styling.

Conference spaces will include one of the city’s largest ballrooms, and three additional function rooms, totaling 1,625 square meters of space. The hotel will be fully equipped with an indoor swimming pool, luxury fitness and spa facilities.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 81 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, an award that originated in 1987. Its purpose is to promote the awareness of quality excellence, recognize quality achievements of companies and publicize successful quality strategies. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company won the award in 1992 and 1999. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR).

Connect with ainslie.cheung@ritzcarlton.com

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January 10, 2013

Marriott Hotels & Resorts Continues To Grow In China With The Opening Of The Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East

Marriott International’s Flagship Brand Opens Its 14th Hotel In Shanghai, China.

Marriott International, Inc (NYSE:MAR) today announced the opening of the 323-room Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East under a long-term management agreement with Shanghai Hengchang Industry Co., Ltd.

Marriott Hotels & Resorts is the company’s flagship brand with more than 500 properties in 54 countries globally. The Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East is the brand’s 14th hotel in China.

Speaking at the opening of the hotel, Arne Sorenson, Marriott International’s President and CEO, said: “We are delighted to be opening this wonderful Marriott Hotels & Resorts property today and adding to our extensive portfolio of hotels in China across all our brands. This hotel represents our 62nd hotel in the country and our 20th in Shanghai alone, where we are the largest operator of full-scale hotels in the city. I would like to thank our partner in this hotel, Shanghai Hengchang Industry Co., Ltd., for their trust and granting us the opportunity to manage such a magnificent hotel and we look forward to a long partnership with them.” [Pictured in center are Mr. Arne Sorenson and Chairman Wang of China Sigma, along with other Marriott International and Shanghai municipality executives at ribbon cutting.]

Located in the heart of Pudong, Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East is close to two major industrial parks which are home to the China headquarters of many Fortune 500 companies, and is just a five-minute drive from the Shanghai New International Expo Center, a popular venue of high-profile regional and domestic trade shows and exhibitions in eastern China. The hotel is easily accessible from both Pudong and Hongqiao international airports in the city.

The Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East offers 323 rooms and suites that feature scenic views of park, lake or canal of the surrounding area. The hotel provides business travellers with a full array of amenities and facilities to inspire them to perform better and stay connected with business partners, customers and family.
The hotel concierge and ‘At Your Service’ hotline provides guests with insightful information and advice for exploring and discovering the city. Guests staying on the Executive Floor enjoy exclusive access to the 21st floor lounge which is ideally suited for relaxation after a long day, taking advantage of the great panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. [Pictured: Marriott International executives with Shanghai cluster leadership.]

Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East features four food and beverage options providing guests with a variety of local and international culinary delights. Man Ho, the signature Chinese restaurant of Marriott Hotels & Resorts, features sumptuous Cantonese and Shanghai cuisine. This opulent restaurant offers several private dining rooms which are ideal for business meetings or intimate celebrations. Casalingo offers authentic Italian dishes from antipasto, home-made pasta, stone-oven cooked pizza to gelato, as well as a great selection of Italian wine and coffee. Pudong City Bistro offers a variety of international dishes and is a perfect choice for food lovers who want to taste cuisines from around the world, while The Lounge is an ideal venue for informal business meetings and casual social activities.

The hotel offers 1,705 square meters of banquet space, including a 655 square meter divisible and pillar-free grand ballroom, together with another 10 function rooms which feature natural light. The hotel’s recreational facilities include a fully-equipped Fitness Center with a 22-meter heated indoor swimming pool. Jacuzzi, Steam and Sauna are available in both male and female lockers with four spa treatment rooms providing a variety of pampering treatments.

James Macadie, the hotel’s General Manager, commented: “With its unique design and sense of place, the Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East hotel features high standards of services, facilities and amenities of Marriott Hotels & Resorts for business travellers who seamlessly blend work and play worldwide. We strive to be the hotel of choice for accommodation, meetings, dinning and recreation for guests travelling to Shanghai.”

Marriott Hotels & Resorts has been ‘re-imagining’ the guest experience, transforming lobbies and public spaces by designing them for a new generation of business travellers who blend work and play, demand style and substance and desire high-tech and high-touch. Marriott is introducing new concepts designed for the way younger travellers work today.

To mark its grand opening, Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East is launching a series of special offers that are valid until August 31, 2013. These include bonus points for Marriott Rewards members; guests are entitled to free buffet breakfast for a minimum consecutive stay at two nights from CNY1,480; plus an opening meetings package from CNY488 per person per day for a stylish meeting room. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information or reservations, please call Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East at (86 21) 6036 8888 or visit www.marriottpudongeast.com.

Shanghai Heng Chang Industrial Co., Ltd
Shanghai Heng Chang Industrial Co., Ltd is a subsidiary of China Sigma that is especially established for the Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East project. Originally a high-tech company, China Sigma reengineered itself in 1993 and became a national investment enterprise with diversifying business interests. One of its most famous projects is Beijing Oriental Sun City which is a complex community for senior retirees which was inspired by the visit in Florida. Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East is the first cooperation project with Marriott International.

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December 20, 2012

Renaissance Hotels Kicks Off Global “Year of Discovery”

Brand Rings in New Year with RLife Events Worldwide.

Renaissance Hotels (www.renhotels.com) is encouraging guests and locals to kick off a “Year of Discovery” and ring in 2013 with unique RLife LIVE events at nearly 100 Renaissance properties worldwide in celebration of the upcoming New Year.

This special seasonal initiative represents an exciting continuation of the Renaissance Hotels “Live Life to Discover” brand campaign, created to inspire today's lifestyle-oriented business travelers to explore a hotel or destination’s hidden gems. This past June, Renaissance Hotels hosted a worldwide “Get Out & Discover” day, created to bring the brand campaign to life for travelers.

“We created this year’s exciting program to encourage our guests, whether they’re in town for a visit or locals, to ring in a new ‘Year of Discovery’ in 2013,” said Tina Edmundson, senior vice president of lifestyle brands for Marriott International, Inc. “Celebrating the season of new beginnings, we wanted to help create unforgettable memories for our guests by offering them the opportunity to discover something new and unexpected while visiting our hotels over the holiday,” she furthered.

Renaissance Hotels is inviting guests to discover unique musical experiences onsite at select properties this season by hosting RLife LIVE events in destinations including New York, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Shanghai, San Juan, and more. The New Year’s Eve RLife LIVE events will feature exclusive musical performances by local emerging artists in these markets. The RLife LIVE entertainment platform has become a recognized program in the hospitality industry, receiving acclaimed reviews from Billboard and The New York Times.

RLife LIVE is the industry leading entertainment platform of Renaissance Hotels, designed to offer our guests opportunities to experience emerging talent in in music, culinary, film, arts, and more right in the comforts of our hotel living room.

For a full list of scheduled events please visit: http://renho.tl/NYEatREN

- New York, NY – R Lounge at the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel offers the best seats in the city for unprecedented views of the Time Square ball drop. Perched above the iconic square, R Lounge has an almost 360 degree panoramic of the memorable New Year’s Eve celebration. Guests at R Lounge can enjoy the evening without the cold and the crowds as they celebrate throughout the night. Touted as having the best seats in the house, guests will embrace New York City’s largest celebration in the sky as they wine and dine on delicious Blue Ribbon menu classics by some of New York City’s favorite chefs, the Bromberg Brothers. Tables start at $7,500.

- Charlotte, NC – Guests at the Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark Hotel will celebrate New Year's Eve in grand style as they step back into the Roaring 20’s. The hotel's "Roaring 20's Party" includes a delicious cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres, an indulgent four-course dinner, open bar and champagne toast and an RLife LIVE performance by the popular local band, "Cookie". Tickets are priced at $200 per person.

- St. Petersburg, FL – This year at the Renaissance Vinoy’s Resort & Golf Club, you won’t just celebrate the beginning of a new year, you’ll also celebrate the hotel’s birthday. The historic hotel originally opened on December 31, 1925 is celebrating its 87th milestone and too much fanfare is still one of the most popular spots to ring in the New Year. The legendary property will be offering a decadent five course tasting menu at Marchand’s Bar & Grill followed by live an RLife LIVE performance by Trio del Sol, a popular local Jazz band, a balloon drop and champagne toast at midnight. Ticket prices start at $120.00 per person.

- San Juan, Puerto Rico – For travelers looking to spice up their New Years Eve plans, the La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort in Puerto Rico is hosting an extravagant celebration that will host up to 1,000 guests and tastemakers. The lavish event will be held between the main pool and the lobby, offering a seductive atmosphere to dance the night away. The evening will also feature RLife LIVE performances by top local stars poolside, Cuenta Regresiva, DJ Jorge Salgado and DJ Dana. Minimum table and bottle service starts at $1,000.

- Shanghai, China – The Renaissance Shanghai Caohejing Hotel will be hosting a Gangnam Style New Year’s Eve at The Lounge. They will dish out Korean BBQ at Smoki Moto for two and ever-flowing champagne. Korean pop music will keep guests dancing all night as well as Gangnam Style party favors.

- Washington, DC – Where better to celebrate the New Year, than the nation’s Capital? The Mayflower Washington DC Hotel is offering their special “Celebrate New Beginnings” package, with rates starting at $500 per couple. Guests will receive deluxe accommodations, valet parking and an exclusive New Year’s Eve crystal glass amenity set upon check-in. On New Year’s Eve, guests will enjoy a four-course à la carte dinner with wine pairings at Edgar Bar & Kitchen, along with premium handcrafted cocktails and a toast at midnight with a limited edition Iron Horse Fête Cuvee, created specifically for the hotel.

ABOUT RENAISSANCE
Renaissance Hotels represents a diverse collection of more than 151 hotels in 35 countries worldwide. Each property is unique, offering passionate travelers a one-of-kind experience and memories they will be sure to take with them long after they depart. Within every hotel, guests are greeted by an exceptional array of amenities and an inspiring world of local discoveries. For travelers looking to experience something new, innovative and locally driven programs including the industry leading entertainment platform RLife LIVE as well R Navigator, ensure that every trip is transformed into an eye-opening, unforgettable journey. Renaissance Hotels. Live Life To Discover. To discover more visit www.renhotels.com.
Friend us on Facebook www.facebook.com/RenHotels
Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/RenHotels

Connect with catherine.leitner@marriott.com and jessicad@alisonbrodpr.com

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December 13, 2012

The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu Set to Open its Doors in Summer 2013

First International Luxury Hospitality Brand to Enter Southwest China.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. announces that The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, located in the heart of the capital of Sichuan province, will become the luxury hotel operator’s first flag in Southwest China, when it opens in summer 2013.

Sichuan is renowned globally as the home of the giant panda, one of China’s national treasures, while the city of Chengdu enjoys a rich history dating back over 2,000 years as a cultural and trading hub. Today, Chengdu is recognized as amongst the new leading cities inside China.

The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, in Tianfu Square, is home to one of the city’s largest commercial districts. The hotel will have 353 rooms, including 55 suites, taking interior design cues from the style of a traditional courtyard home which can be found in parts of the old city. Featuring a palette of light woods, relaxing blues and golden hues, the property will subtly reflect the city’s heritage in a contemporary way.

The property features three restaurants including an elegant Cantonese with eight private dining rooms, Flair – the sister lifestyle restaurant and bar of The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong as well as an all-day dining restaurant. There will also be a contemporary lobby lounge that will act as a focal point for people to meet and enjoy high tea. Meeting spaces will include a Grand Ballroom, Junior Ballroom and seven additional meeting rooms, totaling 1,716 square meters of space. The hotel will be fully equipped with an indoor swimming pool as well as luxury fitness and spa facilities.

“China is already one of our most significant international markets. The opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu sees the company continue on a path that will double its China footprint in the next 3 years. Chengdu is the key economic, transport and communication hub in Western China and is one of the fastest growing cities in the world today,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operations Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu will be a new beacon of luxury hospitality in Southwest China.”

Mr. LI Sze Lim, Chairman of R&F Properties said: “We are delighted to be bringing an international luxury brand the stature of The Ritz-Carlton’s to Southwest China. We have created a major landmark in the rapidly growing city of Chengdu and the opening of The Ritz-Carlton will complete one of the most significant projects the city has ever seen.”

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