February 28, 2011 - A brand new flag is waving on the California coast, at the newly-christened San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina. Formerly known as the San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina, the Marquis becomes one of only four of its kind in the country, and the premier destination for meetings, events and relaxing getaways. “We’re excited to bring this exclusive new brand of Marriott service to San Diego and extend it to meeting planners, business travelers and vacationers from across the globe,” said General Manager Ray Warren.

Distinguished by their exceptional offerings and iconic locations, Marquis hotels boast over 1,000 guest rooms, expansive meeting facilities, multiple restaurants, and grand public spaces. And with 1,360 guest rooms, 75,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, and a 446-slip private marina, the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina is no exception. The centerpiece of an inspiring bay front, the hotel is adjacent to the San Diego Convention Center and steps from Petco Park, the historic Gaslamp Quarter and Seaport Village.

With key elements of an ambitious renovation complete, guests are treated to an entirely new arrival experience, updated lobby and concierge level, completely remodeled guest rooms, and a state-of-the art-fitness center overlooking a vibrant new pool area. Opening this April, the pool environment boasts private cabanas, cozy fire pits, a poolside restaurant and bar, and separate kids play area. By 2014 the Marquis plans to add two 40,000 square-foot high-tech ballrooms and a luxurious full-service spa.

While the changes were designed to meet the growing demand of corporate groups and associations on an international scale, considerable care was taken to maintain the relaxed, coastal feel of leisure resort. “Our focus has always been on providing an authentic San Diego experience for each and every guest” adds Warren. “By introducing a Marquis hotel in this exceptional bay front location, we’re sending a message to the world that San Diego is the destination planners and vacationers should consider first.”

Visit www.sandiegomarriottmarquisandmarina.com for hotel information.

About the Marriott Marquis Brand
Marriott Marquis is a brand extension of Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International’s iconic business brand and flagship, inspiring your best performance during travel and helping you work, relax and recharge in your own way.  There are currently four Marriott Marquis hotels – in New York, Atlanta, San Francisco and now San Diego  – with a fourth in Washington, DC, coming in 2014.  Marriott continues to accommodate life on the road for discerning business and leisure travelers, offering warm, professional service; sophisticated yet functional guest room design; lobby spaces that facilitate working, dining and socializing; meeting and event spaces and services that are the 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.marriott.com.

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.