August 12, 2011 - Courtyard by Marriott, continues to gain popularity in the Indian market as the brand recently opened its seventh hotel, 179-room Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre. The opening today of Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre marks the third Marriott International hotel and the second Courtyard in the exciting Indian city. The Courtyard Pune City Centre is owned by The Advantage Raheja and operates under a long-term management agreement with Marriott International headed by Harinder J. Singh as general manager.

Bright vibrant colors and modern smart design, the new Courtyard Pune City Centre features great in-room amenities such as the deluxe bedding, iPod docking stations, high speed internet access and a 37” LCD television. Throughout the hotel, from the lobby area to the guestrooms, Courtyard allows guests more control and choice over their stay, with services and amenities that create a healthy balance between business and leisure.

The hotel features a variety of great restaurants that appeal not just to guests, but also to Pune’s local food lovers. MoMo Café, offers all day dining options, combining Western dishes with local favorites. Red Zen features Pan Asian cuisine while Momo2Go is the perfect option for those who are looking for grab-and-go salads and sandwiches.

Presenting great value for money, the hotel caters well to both international as well as domestic travelers. The property also features four spacious banquet halls, a fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool, party deck, a business centre and an executive lounge.

Simon Cooper, president and managing director Asia Pacific, Marriott International said, “The Courtyard by Marriott is a smart business hotel that caters to the needs of the traveler who is on the move. Asia-Pacific as a region has seen a tremendous growth curve as far as economic thrust and business acumen is concerned. A second Courtyard property in Pune was needed looking at the steady expansion the city has seen in various industries. We are delighted to be opening the Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre and to be working with such great partners in The Advantage Raheja."

Rajeev Menon, area vice president - India, Malaysia, Maldives and Australia added, “With the influx of IT, ITES, manufacturing and automobile industries we see tremendous potential in Pune in the coming years. Given the demand, this is our third offering from Marriott International in Pune. We are extremely delighted to present our newest hotel today which is magnificently built and will stand ahead for the great hospitality standards that Marriott International is committed to offer.”

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 35 countries, Courtyard by 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 go to www.courtyard.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.