January 26, 2011 - Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) today announced plans to open the first new hotel to join the AC Hotels by Marriott portfolio since the launch of the joint venture and new co-brand last year. Joining over 80 existing AC Hotels by Marriott throughout Spain, Italy and Portugal, the 143-room Elysee Palace Hotel in Nice will be rebranded AC Hotel Nice following an extensive renovation. The hotel is expected to open in early 2013 under a management agreement with SNC Hoche Promotion.

Nestled along the south-west coast of France in the world-renowned Cote d’Azur region, the picturesque city of Nice attracts visitors from around the world in search of relaxation and inspiration. With a superb location in the city center of Nice, the AC Hotel Nice will be situated within a stone’s throw of the old town and a mere 50 meters from the magnificent blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our AC Hotels by Marriott brand in to France” said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe. “We see tremendous opportunity for the brand here and are aggressively pursuing numerous development opportunities for AC throughout Europe and Latin America.”

“We are very proud to announce the first AC Hotels by Marriott in France; the first new hotel to be added since the joint venture,” said Antonio Catalan, president and founder of AC Hotels by Marriott. “We are looking forward to continuing to expand in to new markets and adding new hotels to our portfolio.”

The AC Hotel Nice will offer 143 guestrooms boasting contemporary design, plush bedding, gleaming hardwood floors and complimentary mini-bar. With a lively rooftop terrace featuring an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant offering panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean, the hotel is set to become one of the most stylish addresses in the city.

AC Hotels by Marriott reflect the modern urban lifestyle with hotels featuring a unique blend of quality, comfort, design and technology. All AC Hotels by Marriott welcome guests with their signature AC Lounge, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, it is a great place to relax, work or unwind with a drink or snack. Guestrooms in AC Hotels by Marriott feature a contemporary look and feel with crisp white bedding, gleaming hardwood floors, modern bathrooms and free mini-bar.

AC Hotels by Marriott is part of Marriott Rewards, one of the world’s largest hospitality loyalty programs with 33 million members.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.