Calgary, Alberta, Canada - January 14, 2002 - VIP International Corporation, a channel marketing provider referred to in the industry as "the number one producer of bookings per client," today announced that Dublin, Ohio-based Cross Country Inns signed a contract for its Global Distribution System (GDS), Internet marketing, and travel agency consortia services.  The 20 year old, privately held independent chain caters mainly to the senior market with 20 limited service properties in Ohio and Kentucky, and is known for its customer service and clean rooms. 

�The travel agent environment changed, so Cross Country Inns had to change,� said Laurie Charlton, Cross Country Inns� director of sales and marketing, who noted with their previous channel provider only 20% of all reservations came through agents.  Charlton was frustrated at the blockage on Internet sites the chain experienced due to the lack of a seamless link to GDSes.  �We are using VIP International�s talent and experience to gain the Internet positioning we have not had for three years, and to get the word out about our product, particularly to the senior market that travels year round and knows the value of a dollar.�

Charlton said traveling seniors make up 40% of the chain�s clientele, with an even split between business and leisure accounting for the rest of their guest mix.  Cross Country Inn�s message of �the cleanest rooms possible at the best price out there,� includes:

• 25% discount to seniors;
• Kids under 18 stay free;
• Drive through check-in and checkout, especially nice for seniors and families;
• Pools at each location;
• Recliners in each room;
• Linens and towels of the highest quality, full and fluffy;
• Attended 24 hours;
• Situated within walking distance to grocery stores and restaurants, primarily right outside major cities.

About Cross Country Inns 

Cross Country Inns (www.crosscountryinns.com) founder, Donald R. Kenney, built a hands-on organization that prides itself on giving the best value for each guest�s travel dollar for over 20 years.  The chain operates 20 properties in Ohio and Kentucky to provide a home atmosphere for business and family travelers, and an affordable option to full-service hotels. Tastefully decorated rooms and amenities create accommodations with a special touch. High standards in the areas of quality, cleanliness, and service to its guests make the Inns an attractive choice.  The chain�s high standard for cleanliness is maintained with a 100-point inspection checklist for each room every time it is cleaned. 

About VIP International Corporation

VIP International (www.vipintcorp.com) is a channel marketing organization that drives revenue for hoteliers and car rental owners through a multi-channel reservation sales center, the adoption of leading-edge technology, and partnerships with clients to provide ongoing education. Founded in 1979, the now privately held Calgary, Alberta-based firm pursues a mission of being "the number one producer of bookings per client."  This is accomplished through mastering the electronic channel marketing environment, developing and implementing strategies for each client's unique position, and educating customers about how to optimize participation in the changing electronic marketplace.  The company is a central distribution point to every viable Internet Web site, and to all of the major global distribution systems including Sabre, Galileo, Pegasus, WorldRes, Amadeus, and Worldspan. VIP International has business development offices in Denver, Colorado; Kansas City, Kansas; Toronto, Ontario; London, United Kingdom; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Hong Kong.