NORWALK, Conn., June 7, 2010�HEI Hotels & Resorts, a rapidly growing hotel ownership and operating company, today announced that it has acquired the 258-room Le Méridien Dallas North in Texas for an undisclosed amount.  The property becomes HEI�s 36th owned hotel, fourth hotel acquisition of 2010, and their fourth hotel under Starwood�s growing Le Méridien brand.

�This is a first-class hotel with a prime location in the foremost business center of Dallas and aligns perfectly with our portfolio of upper-upscale and luxury properties in leading US markets,� said Steve Mendell, HEI�s president � acquisitions and development.  �This is the fourth acquisition of HEI Hospitality Fund III, and we continue to seek out assets that leverage the experience of our acquisitions team and our investment resources.� 

Nestled in the heart of Dallas� famous Galleria area, (13402 Noel Road Dallas, Texas) Le Méridien Dallas North is just steps away from a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options and only a 20 minute ride from the Dallas/Ft. Worth airport.  Also known for its bustling business district, the Galleria is home to many recognizable blue chip corporations, such as Nordstrom�s corporate headquarters and the offices of FedEx/Kinko�s, Highland Capital Management, ABC Broadcasting/Disney and Coca Cola. 

The hotel concluded a complete renovation in 2009, modernizing each of their oversized 450-plus square foot guestrooms with a 42� HDTV, iPod docking station and Jack Pack, providing guests with the ability to view one�s laptop screen from the TV.  All rooms also feature wireless and hardwire internet access and laptop-sized safes with electricity, as well as the new Le Méridien signature beds and full-size sofas and sitting area.  Hotel amenities include the upscale Le Méridien restaurant and atrium bar; approximately 3,500 square feet of meeting space for groups ranging in size from five to 300; 24-hour business center; indoor heated pool; Jacuzzi; and fitness center.

�Our knowledge of both the brand and the region made this a particularly attractive deal for us,� said Anthony Rutledge, HEI�s chief financial officer.  �As our fourth Le Meridien, we are uniquely positioned to maximize this hotel�s performance through our industry-leading management team�s deep understanding and experience with the brand.�

About HEI Hotels & Resorts
HEI Hotels & Resorts, headquartered in Norwalk, Conn., is a leading hospitality investment firm that acquires, develops, owns and operates full-service, upper upscale and luxury hotels and resorts throughout the United States under such well-known brand names as Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Le Méridien, Embassy Suites, and Hilton.  For more information about HEI, visit the company�s website, www.heihotels.com.