Marriott CEO Gives “Green Thumbs Up” to New Residence Inn Arlington Ballston

Arne Sorenson, president and CEO of Marriott International, pictured center with Tom Galle - president, Donohoe Hospitality; Virginia State Senator Barbara Favola; Chris Bruch - president and COO, The Donohoe Companies; Libby Garvey, Arlington County Board Member; Steve Twohig, executive vice chairman, The Donohoe Companies; Jim Donohoe, III - CEO, The Donohoe Companies; Michael Golembe - general manager, Residence Inn Arlington Ballston; J. Walter Tejada, Arlington County Board Chairman; Jay Fisette, Arlington County Board Member; and Bob Donohoe, Jr. - vice president, Donohoe Development. 

Mr. Sorenson welcomed the hotel to the Marriott family and noted that the Residence Inn Arlington Ballston joins more than 100 Marriott properties around the world that are LEED® or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certified for the U.S. Green Building Council.  The Residence Inn Arlington Ballston is designed to LEED Gold standards and will help contribute to a healthier environment by reducing waste and conserving energy and water. 

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Residence Inn Partners with American Red Cross to Provide Disaster Relief to Families Nationwide

Extended stay hotel brand becomes first official hotel partner of Red Cross Disaster Responder Program

Disasters can strike anywhere and at any time. From house fires to hurricanes and tornadoes, disasters can leave people stranded without a home and in need of aid. The American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program helps people get back on their feet after the unexpected happens.  Residence Inn by Marriott announced today that it is honored to join the Red Cross in this vital effort by becoming the first official hotel partner of the program.

“As an extended stay brand, our hotels are in touch with displaced families all the time. We understand their needs, both physical and psychological. We have the right facilities to help them feel at home as they try to regain stability in their lives,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager for Residence Inn.  “Our associates are proud to help make a difference in their communities every day and this multi-faceted partnership with the American Red Cross is a perfect extension of that commitment that allows them to do even more nationwide.”

As a hotel partner in the Disaster Responder Program, Residence Inn will support the Red Cross relief efforts and raise awareness about disaster preparedness and response through its various communications channels. In addition, associates at more than 600 Residence Inn hotels across the country now have the opportunity to get hands-on involvement by fulfilling and delivering aid kits to families coping with disasters in communities nationwide. The aid kits include basic necessities, such as toothpaste, shampoo and soap.

“Nearly 200 times a day, Red Cross volunteers help families that have lost everything in a house fire or other kinds of disasters,” said Court Ogilvie, Vice President of Joint Account Management, American Red Cross. “Our partnership with Residence Inn by Marriott helps enable the Red Cross to continue to respond immediately to these disasters and bring emergency relief, comfort and care to those in need.” 

To kick off our partnership with the Red Cross, Residence Inn launched today a “Tweet for Relief” Twitter application. For every tweet that someone sends from www.RIRelief.com, Residence Inn will donate $5 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, up to $200,000 for assistance of families affected by disasters.  As tweets can be up to 140 characters, the app automatically applies unused characters to add a message about how the tweeter supports disaster relief. Check out www.RIRelief.com for more details!

This exciting partnership is an element of Marriott International’s “Spirit to Serve” culture, encouraging guests and associates to participate in initiatives that give back to their communities. 

About Residence Inn by Marriott
With more than 600 properties in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn by Marriott is a leader in the extended-stay lodging segment. Designed for long stays, the brand offers spacious suites with separate living and sleeping areas. Fully functional kitchens, grocery delivery, 24-hour markets and complimentary breakfast help guests maintain a healthy balance while on the road. Complimentary Wi-Fi allows guests to stay connected to the home and office, while health and fitness options and inviting lobby spaces provide comfortable places to work and relax.

Residence Inn participates in the company’s 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,call the Residence Inn toll-free number at 800-331-3131 or visit www.residenceinn.com. For travel tips, the latest on the brand or to connect with other travelers, “like” Residence Inn on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/residenceinn and follow Residence Inn on Twitter: twitter.com/residenceinn.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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 nina.herrera-davila@marriott.com and carollyn.colon@sohosquarepr.com

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Marriott International’s Family Of Brands “Serve The World” Every Day

Major Conference in Orlando Puts Focus on Global Leadership and Local Community Ties.

ORLANDO, Florida – More than 2000 hotels across five of the company’s 18 brands, Marriott International’s select service and extended stay portfolio is bringing scale and global reach to address the local challenges of hunger and homelessness, the wellness and well-being of children, and disaster relief. This week more than 3000 hotel General Managers representing Courtyard by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, TownePlace Suites by Marriott and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott will convene at the Orlando Marriott World Center. In addition to training and teambuilding, all participants will volunteer to support their communities through service projects that have been adopted by each brand. On Saturday, June 1st, the conference keynote speaker will be former President Bill Clinton, whose Clinton Global Initiative tackles many of the same global issues addressed by these brands.

“Marriott has a decades-long commitment to serve our world,” said Brian King, Global Brand Officer – Marriott Endorsed Brands. “Our hotel associates demonstrate their ‘spirit to serve’ throughout the year as they volunteer in local communities around the world. Each brand has a unique personality and purpose which comes through in their signature global cause partnerships. This conference demonstrates how our hotels can improve people’s lives and the state of the world through everyday acts of service.”

• On May 31, more than 600 Residence Inn general managers will receive emergency preparedness training as part of the brand's new alliance with the American Red Cross as the first hotel partner in the Disaster Responder Program.  The participants will complete a Citizen CPR training program and experience an immersion training where they will learn to build a shelter and understand the needs of disaster victims through role plays.  As an extended stay brand, Residence Inn hotels help people year round who are displaced from their homes by fire and flooding or natural disasters such as Hurricanes Sandy and Katrina.  Throughout the remainder of the year, Residence Inn hotels can participate locally in the Ready Rating™ Program, host a blood drive, participate in the Holiday Mail for Heroes program, and support the needs of their local American Red Cross Chapter.

• The same day general managers, representing the Fairfield Inn and Suites brand of nearly 700 hotels, will be painting homes in the Orlando area as part of the brand’s long-standing partnership with Habitat for Humanity to help provide decent, affordable housing for families in need. Since 1995, Fairfield Inn associates have helped build countless homes in the US and Canada. Through the Fairfield Inn and Suites Hospitality at Home program, thousands of associates have provided volunteer service, donated products from hotel renovations, provided financial contributions and have volunteered countless hours at their local Habitat ReStores, as a part of our Commitment to Serve our Communities.

• Furthermore on May 31, 200 general managers from the TownePlace Suites brand will make colorful, comforting blankets for children being cared for at the Orlando-area children’s hospital. The “warm hugs” from TownePlace will be going to all patients at the 158-bed Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Every winter for the past four years, more than 200 TownePlace Suites hotels have donated more than 10,000 handmade blankets to hundreds of hospitals across the United States and Canada.

• On June 1, managers representing more than 900 Courtyard hotels around the world will assemble nearly 200 bicycles for the local Orlando Boys & Girls club.  This excellent effort will help enable children from disadvantaged circumstances to realize their full potential.  Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Courtyard dedicates itself to ensuring the success of youth. As a testament, two Courtyard managers demonstrate this commitment prior to the conference by biking 1,000 miles in one week to Orlando from their hotels in Ohio to raise money against childhood obesity for their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital program.

• Finally, hundreds of general managers representing SpringHill Suites, a brand focused on style and design, will be assembling art horses for the Ivey Lane Elementary School in Orlando. The art horses are sturdy design seats for aspiring young artists to straddle while creating their masterpieces. In addition, the general managers representing more than 300 hotels will also be crafting hand-made cards with messages of inspiration and encouragement to the students. Known for its ArtNight events that feature local artists at its hotels throughout the country, SpringHill Suites’ activity is an extension of the brand’s commitment to promoting discovery through art appreciation. 

Marriott’s “Spirit To Serve Our Communities” initiative was formally developed in 1998 and built on a decades-long tradition of community service for the 86-year old company. In 2012, contributions from operations worldwide totaled $33.5 million (a nearly $1.2M increase over 2011,) according to the company’s Sustainability Report. Cash contributions totaled $7.2M; in-kind contributions were $16M; volunteer time value was $10.2M, (a 10% increase vs. 2011.) The Independent Sector’s current valuation for a volunteer hour is $22.14.

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 nina.herrera-davila@marriott.com

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Renowned Chef and Lifestyle Expert Cat Cora Named “Resident Mom Of The Year 2013”

Residence Inn by Marriott kicks off a month-long celebration of moms – Moms’ Month – by announcing its Resident Mom of the Year 2013: chef and lifestyle entrepreneur Cat Cora. A prominent figure in the culinary community, Cora is the third Resident Mom honored by Residence Inn for inspiring families to find balance at home and while traveling. As her first contribution to the Residence Inn community, Cora introduces three unique recipes that provide quick and easy solutions for parents to serve up nutritious and delicious meals in the comfort of their hotel suites.

“Given my family’s on-the-go schedule, I know firsthand how challenging it is for parents to be able to whip up wholesome and tasty meals to serve their kids, particularly when traveling,” said Resident Mom of the Year Cat Cora. “I appreciate Residence Inn’s commitment to enhancing the family experience on the road.”

Cat Cora’s three recipes will be exclusively available at Residence Inn properties, which are all-suite hotels with fully functional kitchens. Cora’s menu choices include nutritious Curried Quinoa Salad Mediterranean (a nod to Cora’s Greek heritage); flavorful Spicy Chicken, Tangerine & Shiitake Stir Fry; and a refreshing, healthier take on dessert…a Banana Yogurt Split with Berries & Coconut. Families and business travelers alike can easily create these dishes, and everyone can take advantage of Residence Inn’s free grocery delivery service.

In addition to Residence Inn’s complimentary hot breakfast, other family-friendly, brand-wide amenities include free internet, spacious suites (with studio, one- and two-bedroom options), swimming pools and laundry facilities. This month, Cora will share tips on finding work / life balance as a busy mom on Residence Inn’s newly launched Family Travel Talk forum.

“We are very excited to welcome Cat Cora to the Residence Inn family,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “With all of her accomplishments while raising four children, we can’t imagine anyone better to provide tips and advice on healthy living on the road.”

Cora made television history as the first female Iron Chef on Food Network’s Iron Chef America, and most recently became the first woman to be inducted into the American Academy of Chefs® Culinary Hall of Fame. Following this, Cora partnered with MOZO Shoes to reveal her first signature shoe line in May of this year. In 2011, she created her own line of gourmet olive oils, cooking sauces, olives and tapenades under the Cat Cora’s Kitchen label. She is an accomplished author, restaurateur with six dining establishments, avid philanthropist and television host. Cora has authored three successful cookbooks, and one children’s book. She has appeared in a number of hit TV food shows, including Food Network’s Melting Pot; Kitchen Accomplished; NBC’s Celebrity Cooking Showdown; and Bravo’s Around the World in 80 Plates. In 2004, she founded Chefs for Humanity, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing hunger worldwide by supporting humanitarian relief and promoting nutrition education. Cora grew up in an intimate Greek community in Jackson, MS, where she developed a passion for the culinary arts while watching her family infuse Southern spices with Mediterranean delicacies. She resides in Santa Barbara, CA, with her wife and four sons.

With more than 600 properties in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn by Marriott is a leader in the extended-stay lodging segment. Designed for long stays, the brand offers spacious suites with separate living and sleeping areas. Fully functional kitchens, grocery delivery, 24-hour markets and complimentary breakfast help guests maintain a healthy balance while on the road. Complimentary Wi-Fi allows guests to stay connected to the home and office, while health and fitness options and inviting lobby spaces provide comfortable places to work and relax.

Residence Inn participates in the company’s 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, call the Residence Inn toll-free number at 800-331-3131 or visit www.residenceinn.com. For travel tips, the latest on the brand or to connect with other travelers, “like” Residence Inn on Facebook: www.facebook.com/residenceinn.

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 jessica.stadd@marriott.com and meredith@ldpr.com

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Deals of the Month

Memorial Day Weekend Seaside Sailing Getaway

Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with a weekend getaway to Newport, RI, for Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-27).  The Newport Marriott invites guests to take in the charm of this seaside town and enjoy the spectacle of the largest sailing race in the US, the Atlantic Cup. With this deal, guests will receive:
• Deluxe accommodations at the Newport Marriott ($429/night)
• Breakfast for two in Fathoms, harbor-view restaurant
• Two Atlantic Cup hats

To book your reservation, please visit www.newportmarriott.com, and be sure promotional code XY1 appears in the corporate/promotional code box, or call 1-800-228-9290 and ask for promotional code XY1.      

Discover Wine Country in the Upper Northwest
 
Tis’ the season - for wineries that is. The Courtyard Seattle/ Kirkland invites guests to experience 30 of the Woodinville wine region’s premier wineries. With a complimentary bottle of locally produced red or white wine at check-in, and wineries located minutes from the hotel, guests can fully immerse themselves in wine country.

For reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: ARN
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=767893&displayLink=true
Valid through:   July 16, 2013

Georgia O'Keefe Museum Tickets in Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Residence Inn Santa Fe invites guests to explore all that the vibrant city of Santa Fe has to offer. Known as an artist’s haven, it has been home to some of America’s greatest over the years, including Georgia O’Keefe.  With this deal, guests will receive two tickets to the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, which houses some of her most prized pieces, and deluxe accommodations at the Residence Inn Santa Fe.

For reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: EB6
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=713271&displayLink=true
Valid through: February 28, 2014

Treat Yourself Tax Refund Offer at the JW Marriott Indianapolis

Phew – tax season is over. Guests can use their refund kick back, relax and treat themselves to great savings at the JW Marriott Indianapolis. This package includes: 
• Deluxe overnight accommodations
• $50 Simon Mall gift card for shopping at nearby Circle Centre
• $25 Regal Theater gift card
• Bottle of Champagne upon arrival (for guests over 21 years of age)

For more information:
Please visit http://www.jwindy.com/specials/2013taxrefund
Valid through: June 30, 2013

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Move Over Mother’s Day…Residence Inn Celebrates Moms the Entire Month of May

Family-friendly brand thanks moms with 30 days of giveaways and more.

With 365 days in a year, why do moms only get one official day of recognition? As a brand that celebrates moms for all that they do, Residence Inn by Marriott declares May as a month-long celebration, thanking moms for the evening homework help, rides to practice, family dinners and daily hugs.

“As an all-suite brand, Residence Inn is well-suited to help families as they travel,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “We recognize and admire moms for all that they do year-round, and are proud to honor them by giving back in a small way this month.”

Launching May 1, Moms’ Month will include:
• Launch of Residence Inn’s new Family Travel Talk forum
As its online community continues to grow, Residence Inn recognizes the need for a centralized forum for families to talk about travel and share their experiences. With a team of 10 family travel experts leading the conversation, parents can log on to ask questions, discuss family travel and weigh in on topics, such as finding balance and staying healthy on the go.

• 30 days of giveaways on Residence Inn’s Facebook page. Prizes include:
o Residence Inn gift cards, so moms can treat themselves to a getaway (with the brood or not!)
o Paul Mitchell® gift baskets, overflowing with styling favorites and full-size versions of the products found at every Residence Inn, leading to much-deserved “me time” pampering
o Amazon Kindle Fires, so moms can have the perfect travel accessory
o Waffle makers, giving moms the chance to recreate Residence Inn’s signature hot breakfast option at home

• Paul Mitchell® salon experiences through Residence Inn’s Facebook page.
Residence Inn will be giving away complimentary wash house experiences and blow-outs at Paul Mitchell® The School locations in Chicago, Los Angeles and the Washington, D.C. area, and Paul Mitchell Focus Salon Raika Studio in New York City, to five lucky winners in each city.
 
• Announcement of the 2013 celebrity Resident Mom of the Year.
For the third year in a row, Residence Inn will be presenting the Resident Mom of the Year award to a standout mom for all she does. Stay tuned later this week.

With more than 600 properties in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn by Marriott is a leader in the extended-stay lodging segment. Designed for long stays, the brand offers spacious suites with separate living and sleeping areas. Fully functional kitchens, grocery delivery, 24-hour markets and complimentary breakfast help guests maintain a healthy balance while on the road. Complimentary Wi-Fi allows guests to stay connected to the home and office, while health and fitness options and inviting lobby spaces provide comfortable places to work and relax.

Residence Inn participates in the company’s 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, call the Residence Inn toll-free number at 800-331-3131 or visit www.residenceinn.com. For travel tips, the latest on the brand or to connect with other travelers, “like” Residence Inn on Facebook: www.facebook.com/residenceinn.

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 jessica.stadd@marriott.com and meredith@ldpr.com

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April Deals of the Month

Spring is in the air at Marriott...


Beyond the Garden Gates Tour in Frederick, Maryland

Guests at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Frederick can explore elegant, whimsical and inventive gardens during the 2013 Beyond the Garden Gates Tour in quaint Downtown Frederick.  In a town with a rich history, Frederick residents have turned their backyard gardens into public art displays for the past 20 years and this year it will take place on Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19.  With this deal, guests can enjoy deluxe breakfast for two, two tickets to the Beyond the Garden Gates Tour and complimentary hotel parking.

For reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: CUE
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=511842&displayLink=true
Valid through:   May 19, 2013

Wildflower! Art and Music Festival in Dallas

Celebrate music at Richardson's award-winning Wildflower! Art and Music Festival in Dallas, Texas.  Guests of the Courtyard Dallas Richardson at Campbell or the Residence Inn Dallas Richardson can experience this multi-day festival featuring live music, arts and crafts, children's activities and interactive exhibits. Both hotels, located less than one mile from the venue, are offering deluxe accommodations and two complimentary tickets to the festival per day.

For reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: CUE
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=807071&displayLink=true
Valid through:   May 19, 2013

Spring Wellness Experience in Muskoka

Spring is wellness season at JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa.  From March 18 to May 8, 2013, guests can treat themselves to a variety of activities including power walks, yoga, arts, music, wine tasting and culinary workshops. Guests can also enjoy the local restaurant scene at discounted prices during the "Muskoka-licious" promotion in April.

**On select dates this spring, book and confirm a two-night stay, and the rate for the second night is 50 percent off.

For reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: ZJL
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=807526&displayLink=true
Valid through:   May 8, 2013

De-Stress for Less in Mexico and the Caribbean

Vacations by Marriott is offering guests the opportunity to de-stress for less at some of Marriott’s most picturesque resorts this spring.  Just imagine, having a week to relax on the white sandy beaches of the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort or to explore the exotic destination of the Curacao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino for less. For stays between April 15 and June 30, 2013, guests can save 20-30 percent on accommodations at participating resorts.

For more information:
http://www.vacationsbymarriott.com/packages/de-stress-for-less

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Deals of the Week

Beads, Floats and Bourbon Street

To many, New Orleans is synonymous with Mardi Gras this time of year and is best known for its "Fat Tuesday" celebrations. Guests of the Courtyard New Orleans Downtown will be in the heart of it all this year with a balcony view of the iconic Bourbon Street parade route. This package includes:

• Extended weekend of Mardi Gras festivities (must stay five nights)
• Guest room with two queen beds overlooking the parade route (limit 10 daytime guests)
• Up to 60 percent off the regular weekend rate

For Reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: P50
Valid through:   February 13, 2013
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=784894&displayLink=true

Escape with the Simply Sweet Package in Taos, New Mexico

Just in time for the most romantic day of the year, escape with a loved one to the secluded retreat of El Monte Sagrado, Autograph Collection in Taos, New Mexico.  A little romance goes a long way with the Simply Sweet Package, which includes:

• Luxurious accommodations
• Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries
• Gourmet breakfast in-bed for two
• Valet parking

For Reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: ROM
Valid through:   February 14, 2013
http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=744378&displayLink=true

Snow Shoe for Two in Gravenhurst

At the Residence Inn Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf, guests can enjoy the best that the winter season has to offer.  Package includes:
• Full hot buffet breakfast each morning in the Gatehouse
• On-site facilities including indoor pool and whirlpool
• Trail fees and snow shoes for two adults at KOA Campground*
* Call (705) 687-2333 to confirm conditions and equipment availability
For Reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: SPE
Valid through:   March 15, 2013 http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=734530&displayLink=true


Winter Wonderland in Lucerne

Switzerland is truly a wonderland this time of year and Lucerne is famous for its stunning views of the Alps.  This winter, guests of the Renaissance Lucerne Hotel can venture down the mountain by ski or toboggan, visit the world-famous Chapel Bridge and indulge at the city’s finest restaurants with the hotel’s Winter Wonderland package.  Back at the hotel, guests will enjoy luxurious accommodations in a superior room, a breakfast buffet and one welcome drink of choice at the Pacifico Restaurant.

For Reservations:
Click on "Check Availability" to make an online reservation or alternatively, call 1-888-213-0414 or the local Marriott reservations office and quote the promotional code: P51
Valid through:   March 31, 2013 http://www.marriott.com/specials/mesOffer.mi?marrOfferId=768802&displayLink=true

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Residence Inn Goes (adverb) with Mad Libs on Facebook

Residence Inn by Marriott celebrates the holiday season, inviting Facebook fans to take a trip down memory lane with the new Travel Mad Libs application. In an exciting collaboration with Penguin Young Readers Group’s Mad Libs series, online enthusiasts can now create a series of fun, travel-inspired word games that will evoke a favorite childhood pastime. Offering three unique travel-focused stories, the app allows you to choose “My Fantastic Family Vacation,” “My Best Business Trip” and “My Top Travel Tips.” Fans of the Residence Inn Facebook page will remember the simple joy of creating a whimsical story to share with friends in a version updated with a digital twist.

“Creating Mad Libs stories has always put a smile on my face,” says Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “During this holiday season, we want to offer our fans a gift of laughter that they can share with friends and family no matter where they are, and inject a little humor into the travel experience.”

The application will allow travelers who “like” the Residence Inn Facebook page to engage in lighthearted entertainment with their friends online. Users can choose to fill in the stories the traditional way with their choice of noun, adjective, verb, etc., or players can select to have Facebook auto-populate using Facebook friends’ names, as well as the typical Mad Libs staples. The stories will be easily shareable across the web with quick options to post on friends’ walls, see users who have played and invite others to join in on the merriment. The zany travel tales may even inspire users to plan their next getaway.

Residence Inn is dedicated to making travel fun and easy, and this collaboration with Mad Libs celebrates one of the best parts of travel: the stories to share upon return. Residence Inn’s Facebook page will be the exclusive place to enjoy these three uniquely crafted travel tales.

About Residence Inn by Marriott
With more than 600 properties in the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East and Central America, Residence Inn by Marriott is a leader in the extended-stay lodging segment. Designed for long stays, the brand offers spacious suites with separate living and sleeping areas. Fully functional kitchens, grocery delivery, 24-hour markets and complimentary breakfast help guests maintain a healthy balance while on the road. Complimentary Wi-Fi allows guests to stay connected to the home and office, while health and fitness options and inviting lobby spaces provide comfortable places to work and relax.

Residence Inn participates in the company’s 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, call the Residence Inn toll-free number at 800-331-3131 or visit www.residenceinn.com. For travel tips, the latest on the brand or to connect with other travelers, “like” Residence Inn on Facebook: www.facebook.com/residenceinn.

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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.

About Penguin Group
Penguin Group (USA) Inc. is the U.S. member of the internationally renowned Penguin Group. Penguin Group (USA) is one of the leading U.S. adult and children's trade book publishers, owning a wide range of imprints and trademarks, including Viking, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, The Penguin Press, Riverhead Books, Dutton, Penguin Books, Berkley Books, Gotham Books, Portfolio, New American Library, Plume, Tarcher, Philomel, Grosset & Dunlap, Puffin, Razorbill and Frederick Warne, among others. The Penguin Group (www.penguin.com) is part of Pearson plc, the international media company.

Contacts:
Jessica Stadd   
Marriott International      
301-380-3178     
jessica.stadd@marriott.com   
  
Meredith Phares/Tricia Lanigan
Laura Davidson Public Relations
212-696-0660        
meredith@ldpr.com/tricia@ldpr.com

 

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Save Points & Stay at Marriott Rewards Most Popular Destinations

Marriott Rewards members can now take advantage of the off-season with a new award offer, Seasonal Awards.  Whether it’s a beach vacation in the Caribbean, a cultural exploration in Europe, a shopping expedition in New York or a relaxing day at the spa in the deserts of Arizona and California, Marriott Rewards has special options for you that make the most out of your points.  Seasonal Awards provides a 25 percent discount on some of Marriott’s most popular destinations. For example, the Aruba Marriott Resort, which normally costs 35,000 Marriott Rewards points per night, will cost 26,250 points per night.

Select hotels in the following destinations include New York City from January 1-February 28, 2013, Europe from January 1-March 1, 2013, Arizona and California desert resorts from June 18-August 30, 2013, Las Vegas from July 1-August 30, 2013, and the Caribbean August 23-November 23, 2013. Marriott Rewards Seasonal Awards are offered at select JW Marriott, Autograph Collection, Renaissance Hotels, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott and TownePlace Suites by Marriott.

For more information and to book, visit http://www.marriott.com/marriott-rewards/usepoints/marriottRewardsSeasonalAwards.mi for a list of the hotels and available dates.  As a Marriott Rewards member, special promotion codes are not needed to participate in this new program.

Marriott Rewards is free to join and has no blackout dates* and members can earn and redeem points at more than 3,700 Marriott International hotels around the world and at Marriott Rewards luxury partner The Ritz-Carlton.  Members can also redeem points for frequent flyer miles, cruises, car rentals, merchandise and more. 

Marriott Rewards has won the Freddie Award for “Best Hotel Rewards Program in the Americas” five years in a row and the 2011 and 2010 Frequent Travel Award for “Best Hotel Rewards Program”.   It has been named best hotel rewards program by the readers of About.com, Business Traveler, Global Traveler, Executive Travel and BusinessWeek magazines.

For information about Marriott Rewards, guests can call 1-800-450-4442 or log onto MarriottRewards.com.

*Hotels may limit the number of standard rooms available for redemption on a limited number of days.  All Marriott Rewards program terms and conditions apply.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. 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 laurie.goldstein@marriott.com

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