HONOLULU (October 13, 1997) Aston Hotels & Resorts announced today it had signed an agreement to open and manage Ladera Towers, a 212- room luxury condominium resort located in Mangilao in East Guam. A grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 7, 1997.

"Guam is a key market for our international expansion plans," said Andre Tatibouet, chairman and chief executive officer of Aston Hotels & Resorts. "And, we're pleased to presenting the luxurious Ladera Towers as our first property in Guam."

The 20-story resort, perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, features 212 three- and four bedroom ocean view suites with fully-equipped kitchens and large living rooms. All master bedrooms include luxury bathrooms with separate tub and shower enclosures, Jacuzzi tubs, and marble floors and basins. Rates will range from $225 per night for a two-bedroom unit to $300 per night for a three-bedroom unit. The penthouse will be available for $600 per night.

Amenities include a large freshwater swimming pool, Jacuzzi, children's wading pool, two lighted tennis courts, a fitness center, a business center, and a sundry store. Food and beverage facilities include the Torre Blanca Restaurant, the Lobby Coffee Shop, the Lobby Bar, and Amigos Karaoke featuring state-of-the-art technology and eight private rooms. A comprehensive children's program and in-house facility is available for families.

Aston International focuses on resort and property management, hotel and resort design consultation, pre-opening planning and budgeting for developers. In addition, the company operates hotels and properties under the Aston - brand name.

Based in Honolulu, Hotel Corporation of the Pacific, dba Aston Hotels & Resorts, operates 30 condominium resorts and hotels on the four major Hawaiian islands. Its affiliate, Aston International, plans to open six new hotels and resorts under the Aston® brand name in Australia, Bali, Guam, Indonesia and the Philippines within the next 12 months. Further international expansion is planned.

For more information on Aston International, contact Charles Brookfield at (808) 931-1400.

Contact:

David Sayre/Aubrey Hawk

(808) 955-8411