WASHINGTON � Sept. 25, 2003 � Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR)
announced today that Courtyard by Marriott officially opened its 600th
hotel worldwide � the 134-room Courtyard Middletown located in Middletown,
N.Y. The property is operated as a Courtyard franchise, owned and
managed by High Hotels, Ltd. of Lancaster, Penn.
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Courtyard is one of Marriott�s largest brands, with more than 86,000 guest
rooms and properties in 13 countries and territories, including the U.S.,
Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Costa Rica, France, Georgia, Germany,
Poland, Kuwait, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. Positioned in
the upper moderate lodging tier, the brand also continues to enjoy revenue
premiums versus its competitive set.
�From the very beginning, Courtyard has been one of our most popular
and successful brands,� said Mike Jannini, executive vice president, brand
management, Marriott International. �This is an exciting milestone
for Courtyard, which is currently undergoing several major enhancements
ranging from free high-speed internet access, to new guest rooms, lobbies
and a 24-hour pantry-style �grab and go� food and beverage service area.�
Free High-Speed Internet Access
Courtyard is a leader in its category in offering free high-speed internet
access in guest rooms � 330 hotels throughout North America. By year-end
2003, installation of high-speed internet access is expected to be completed
at an additional 225 Courtyard hotels.
New Guest Room
Available at new and renovated properties, the Courtyard guest room
features a vibrant color scheme and soft contemporary décor.
Included are thick, quilted-top mattresses, comforters with bed skirts,
upgraded linens and oversized pillows. The spacious bathrooms have
a modern residential look with large granite vanities, full-length mirrors
and brighter lighting. A new console desk on casters has been added
to provide increased workspace, along with improved task lighting and extra
power outlets conveniently located at desk level. Other in-room amenities
include a coffee maker, hair dryer, iron with ironing board, and cable
television with a free premium movie channel.
New Lobby
Newly opened and renovated Courtyard hotels will also feature an innovative
and stylish lobby. Design elements include a walk-around front desk
for more guest interaction and personalized service, and a business library
featuring well-lit individual workstations with power outlets, high-speed
data ports and ergonomic seating. A section of the lobby will also
feature a new pantry-style, 24-hour food and beverage area called The Market,
offering pre-made gourmet sandwiches and salads made fresh daily.
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