Commented George Engel, vice president of development and a partner of Novotel, �Because there are no new limited-service hotels in Puerto Rico focused on the needs of the business or leisure traveler looking for cleanliness, safety and value, we believe the Microtel concept will be a great success throughout our country.�  Engel, with 30 years experience in the hospitality industry, is also the owner/operator of the Caribe Playa Beach Resort in Patillas.

Puerto Rico�s Microtel hotels will feature single, double and suite accommodations, complimentary full continental daily breakfast, internet access in all rooms, an attractive outdoor pool area with sundeck, a snack bar and a fitness center.  Sites under consideration are located in major cities as Ponce, San Juan, Mayaguez, Arecibo and Caguas.  Other locations will be also considered.

�Our hotels will be opening in prominent industrial cities nearby local tourist attractions in order to maximize occupancy throughout the week,� Engel added.  �We expect to attract both business and leisure travelers from Puerto Rico, the U.S., Europe and Latin America, as well as those traveling in and around the Caribbean.� 

According to Charlie Pereira II, director of international operations and development for Microtel International, Inc., �Engel is well-oriented to the Puerto Rican hotel market.  Together we will work to grow Microtel throughout the country and provide an innovative concept for limited service, budget/economy hotels.�  Microtel has international properties open in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, and Buenos Aires and Mendoza, Argentina.

As of Dec. 31, 2000, there were 259 Microtel hotels open or under construction worldwide.  All Microtel hotels are independently owned and operated.