Phuket to welcome first Westin resort in Thailand in early 2010

SINGAPORE, July 27, 2009 – Westin Hotels & Resorts continues its expansion momentum in Asia-Pacific, announcing that Westin will introduce its first resort in Thailand in early 2010.

Owned by Phuket Garden Cliff Co Ltd, the Westin Siray Bay Resort, Phuket will be the newest international 5-star property to open in Phuket and will offer travelers a sensory-rich environment to renew and recharge.

“We are excited to introduce the first Westin resort in Thailand! The soon to open Westin Siray Bay Resort will also further strengthen the position of Starwood as one of the largest international upscale hotel chains in the Thailand and Indochina region (Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos),” commented Miguel Ko, (bottom right photo) Chariman & President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

“We are looking forward to offering travelers to Phuket a retreat from the rigors of travel, with our signature Westin services, products and amenities that will allow them to relax, rejuvenate and recharge during their stay,” added Ko.

The Westin Siray Bay, Phuket will be located on Siray Island, in a private cove overlooking Siray Bay and will offer private beach access.

Contact: Hwee-Peng Yeo, Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/; http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Starwood to open 1,000th hotel this year

SAN DIEGO, CA – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) announces it will open its 1000th hotel in 2009. The milestone comes as part of the company’s plan to open 100 hotels this year in diverse markets throughout the world.

Focused on opening the right properties in the right places with the right partners, Starwood remains on-track to expand its portfolio by more than 40 percent in the next five years. Starwood’s pipeline consists of more than 400 hotels – 60 percent of which currently are outside of the United States.

“By working closely with our development partners, we are able to open high caliber, best-in-class hotels around the world, even during challenging economic times” said Simon Turner, (top right photo) President of Global Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

“Starwood is building, opening, converting, renovating and innovating for the recovery and beyond, and these new hotels will further position Starwood and its development partners for long term growth and success.”

2009 marks a year of significant milestones and meaningful growth for Starwood and its portfolio of nine distinctive and compelling brands.

Celebrating 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will triple its portfolio in the next three years.

The once New York-centric wonder is transforming into a global phenomenon, opening 13 properties this year in markets including Barcelona, Bali, Doha and Santiago, as well as Atlanta, South Beach, Hollywood and Washington D.C.
As part of its $4 billion revitalization program, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts expects to open 18 hotels in high-profile destinations like New York City; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Istanbul, Turkey; Prague, Czech Republic; and Qiandao, China.

The iconic brand is also scheduled to complete its goal of renovating nearly 100 hotels at an investment of $1.3 billion.

Westin Hotels & Resorts expects to open 11 hotels this year in dynamic international cities including Montreal, Mumbai, Shanghai, Mexico City and Houston.

(Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, middle left photo)

After opening 17 hotels in the U.S., Canada and China in 2008, Aloft will double its portfolio in 2009 with openings in Houston; Phoenix; and Abu Dhabi, UAE, among others.

And Starwood’s green trailblazer, Element, expects to open five more hotels this year in U.S. markets such as Houston and Denver.

Four Points by Sheraton continues to be a major growth vehicle for Starwood and is set to open nearly 30 hotels in 2009, including one in New York City’s Times Square; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Winnipeg, Canada, and its first new prototype, which is slated to be in San Antonio.

(Aloft Beijing Haidian Hotel lobby, middle left photo)

2009 began with St. Regis opening a new resort in Punta Mita, Mexico. The luxury brand will ramp up its global expansion with plans to open an additional four hotels in 2009, including properties in Atlanta; Park City, Utah; Mexico City; and Lhasa, China.

The Luxury Collection entered the year celebrating the recent opening of a hotel in Beverly Hills and continues to grow with more than 10 hotels in its pipeline.

And Le Méridien has nearly 20 hotels in development and four openings planned this year in markets around the world. Notably, the brand is making further inroads in North America, with plans to open hotels in Dallas and Philadelphia.

(Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa, China, bottom right photo)

CONTACTS:

Brad Minor, Senior Manager, Corporate Public Relations, Phone: 914.640.3687

Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989

Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/;

http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Aloft Hotels Makes Landmark Debut in Asia Pacific

Aloft Beijing, Haidian Heralds the Brand’s Aggressive Global Growth as First Hotel Outside of North America

WHITE PLAINS, NY-- Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) and its highly anticipated new lifestyle brand, Aloftsm hotels announce the opening of Aloft Beijing, Haidian.(top right photo)

The 186 room, new-build hotel owned by Yong Tai Real Estate Group (Beijing) Co. is the first Aloft in Asia Pacific and the first Aloft to open outside North America.

The Aloft Beijing, Haidian underscores the brand’s remarkable global expansion with more than 500 hotels scheduled to open in markets like China, United Arab Emirates, India, Thailand, Belgium, Canada and the U.S in the next five years. The Aloft Beijing, Haidian is the first of nine Alofts currently in development in Asia Pacific, and the first of two slated to open in China in the next two years.

“We are thrilled with the opening of the first Aloft hotel in Asia Pacific! Aloft Beijing, Haidian will bring a fun new way to play and stay to Beijing. As the first aloft in Asia Pacific, this hotel will also be the landmark in this dynamic market of Zhongguancun Hi Tech Science Park in Beijing,” commented Miguel Ko, (middle left photo) President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

“Guests traveling to Beijing for business or pleasure won’t have to settle for one or the other, thanks to Aloft. Our bar w xyzSM is sure to be a hub of activity for locals and visitors alike, and our meeting space and guestrooms will inspire even the most jet-lagged business travelers,” added Ko.

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989

Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/; http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Westin Hotels & Resorts Continues Record-Breaking Growth in Asia Pacific

The Westin Hotel Sendai, slated to open in 2010, will Refresh and Renew Visitors in a Prime Downtown Location Near Businesses, Shopping and Dining

WHITE PLAINS, NY--Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc (NYSE: HOT) continues its industry leading expansion in Asia Pacific, announcing an agreement with Mori Trust Co., Ltd. to open a new-build Westin hotel in Sendai, Japan.

Scheduled to open in 2010, The Westin Sendai (top right photo) will occupy a gleaming, 37-story tower at the heart of the city’s thriving business district. The 287-room hotel will inspire relaxation and renewal in a sophisticated and elegant setting, enhanced by the full suite of Westin signature amenities.

The Westin Sendai will be ideally situated in the city’s lively downtown on Higashi-Nibandori Street, within walking distance to the offices of several large corporations. The hotel will anchor a highly anticipated, mixed-use development located in what will be the tallest building in the northern Kanto region.

Known for its beautiful scenery, tree-lined streets and museums, the fast-growing city of Sendai also offers visitors a wide selection of world-class restaurants, sleek shopping malls, arcades and traditional markets. Leading area attractions include the many islands of Matsushima Bay, the Zaou Mountains, hot springs and the annual Sendai Tanabata Festival

“We are thrilled that our Westin brand will enter the city of Sendai, Tohoku’s economic and political hub,’” said Lothar Pehl, (top left photo) Regional Vice President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Japan, Korea and Guam Region.

“Hailed for its core brand initiatives such as the Westin Heavenly Bed®, Westin Heavenly Bath®, Breathe Westin and Service Express, Westin will form a welcome and refreshing addition to Sendai’s hotel market. We are proud to work with Mori Trust Co., Ltd. who shares our vision to connect the community of Sendai with its visitors at this unique landmark property.”

Starwood currently operates five Westin hotels in Japan, as well as seven Sheraton properties. The company expects to introduce new W, Westin, St Regis and Sheraton hotels in Japan in the next several years.

“The Westin Sendai will not only expand Starwood’s reach in Japan, but also inspire personal renewal in one of the most prominent developments in the scenic city of Sendai,” said Sue Brush, (middle right photo) Senior Vice President, Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Westin provides a sophisticated, refreshing atmosphere and thoughtfully designed amenities and services designed to restore mind and body.”

Drawing more than 57 million tourists in 2007, Sendai is the capital of the Miyagi prefecture and the largest city in Tohoku, the northeastern region of Japan. The city is approximately one hour and 40 minutes from Tokyo by Bullet train, and easily accessible via direct flights from top destinations in Asia Pacific including Beijing and Shanghai, Taipei, Seoul, and Guam.

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989

Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
www.starwoodhotels.com; www.starwoodpressclub.com

St. Regis Makes the Next Stop on its Global Expedition with the Opening of St. Regis Bali Resort

SINGAPORE--Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) has opened The St. Regis Bali Resort, (above centered photo) located in Nusa Dua,(top right map) an elite beach enclave on the Southern tip of Bali.

Offering an unrivaled dimension of luxury, bespoke service and refined elegance at one of the best addresses in the world, The St. Regis Bali Resort features 79 luxurious, oversized suites, 42 private villas and two exclusive Residences, as well as world-class restaurants and bars, a signature Remède Spa, an intimate wedding chapel, ballroom and state-of-the-art meeting space.

Owned by PT Pacific Resorts Buana Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT Rajawali Corpora, The St. Regis Bali Resort occupies a breathtaking beachfront location with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and neighboring Bali Golf & Country Club.

“We are delighted with the opening of The St. Regis Bali Resort. Truly one of the world’s most desirable destinations, Bali is rich in culture and heritage and perfect for our global St. Regis guest,” said Miguel Ko, (middle left photo) President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

“As arrival figures into Bali grow exponentially, we are honored to witness the perfect timing with the opening of this most extraordinary luxury resort in Asia and beyond.”

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo, Director, Corporate Communications, Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd., 9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2, #24-02, Singapore 038989
Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424 Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/

http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Aloft Brings a New Twist in Travel to Foshan, China

aloft Nanhai - Foshan will debut in 2010 as the first international branded hotel in Nanhai

SHANGHAI, CHINA, Sept. 11, 2008 – aloha! Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), has signed an agreement with C.M. Enterprises to develop an aloft hotel (top right photo) in Nanhai Science & Technology Industrial Park, Foshan City of Guangdong Province in China. Set to debut in 2010, the 200-room hotel will be the first international branded hotel to open in Nanhai.

“We are thrilled with the signing of aloft Nanhai – Foshan! This signing is certainly timely, especially with the upcoming opening of our first aloft in Asia and in China: aloft Beijing – Haidian.

"Guests traveling to Foshan for business or pleasure won’t have to settle for one or the other, thanks to aloft.

" Our bar w xyzSM is sure to be a hub of activity for locals and visitors alike, and our meeting space and guestrooms will inspire even the most jet-lagged business traveler,” commented Mr. Qian Jin, (middle left photo) Senior Vice President, Operations, China & Taiwan, Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Located in the Nanhai Science & Technology Industrial Park, aloft Nanhai - Foshan will offer a fresh, fun and affordable way to enjoy Foshan City and all of the commercial, cultural and historical sites it has to offer.

Located in central Guangdong province, and adjacent to Hong Kong, Macau, Foshan is the third largest manufacturing base in the Pearl River Delta after Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

Once home to a strong State-Owned Enterprises sector, its current economic strength lies in privates firms and Township and Village Enterprises.

An old town dated many centuries ago, Foshan is also famous for its porcelain industry, Chinese temples and traditional Chinese architecture.

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989

Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/; http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Four Points by Sheraton Announces Opening of its First Hotel in North China

BEIJING, CHINA- - Four Points by Sheraton announces the launch of its first Four Points by Sheraton hotel in North China with the opening of Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Haidian Hotel & Serviced Apartments.( above centered photo)

Following the successes of other Four Points hotels which opened in Greater China including in cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Changshu, Lhasa and Taipei, Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Haidian Hotel & Serviced Apartments will now offer travelers to Beijing just what they’re looking for – great beds, a social atmosphere and a comfortable stay. (www.fourpoints.com/beijinghaidian)

“The opening of Four Points by Sheraton Beijing extends the brand’s presence in Greater China and provides comfortable lodging at a great value for both business travelers and leisure customers,” said Madam Zhang Lei, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Haidian Hotel & Serviced Apartments.

“ Four Points by Sheraton gives travelers just what they want and need – comfortable accommodations, free Internet access in the public areas and the space they need to work or relax.” added Zhang.

Four Points by Sheraton Beijing, Haidian Hotel & Serviced Apartments features 355 guestrooms and 177 serviced apartments, each offering a new kind of comfort, approachable style including the delightful Four Points by Sheraton Four Comfort BedTM, LCD flat-screen TV, high speed Internet access and wonderful bathroom amenities.

Four Points by Sheraton is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989

Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
www.starwoodhotels.com;

www.starwoodpressclub.com

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Announces its 100th Hotel in China

Starwood Solidifies Its Position as Number One Operator of International Upscale Hotels in China; Underscores Aggressive Expansion Worldwide


SINGAPORE--- Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) marks a milestone in its aggressive growth in Greater China announcing its 100th hotel there, with the signing of the Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng Hotel. (top right photo)

As the first international hotel chain to enter China when the historic Great Wall Beijing Sheraton Hotel opened in 1985, Starwood today is the largest international upscale hotel company in China and continues to grow its footprint there with the expansion of its brands including Sheraton, Westin, Le Meridien, St. Regis, Luxury Collection, aloft, Four Points by Sheraton and W hotels in established and emerging cities as well as resort destinations.

“With strong domestic demand, an increasing affinity for global brands and international inbound travel on the rise, our opportunity in China is perhaps unsurpassed anywhere in the world,” said Simon Turner (middle right photo), President, Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

“What’s more, by 2020, China will generate over 100 million outbound trips a year, more than triple its current output, making it one of the largest origins of outbound travel in the world. As the Chinese travel abroad, they look for brands they know, and therefore Starwood’s development in China today, has significant implications for our hotels worldwide.”

A dominant player in the upper-upscale and luxury hotel market in China, Starwood is poised to grow in other segments as well, and the company will debut its new select service brand, aloft, in China this September with the opening of the aloft Beijing, Haidian. Designed with the DNA of W Hotels, aloft targets younger, style-conscious consumers.

“We expect healthy expansion as we launch aloft throughout China and continue to expand our established upper upscale and luxury brands in various Chinese cities where we are currently under penetrated,” commented Miguel Ko,(middle left photo) President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. “Starwood continues to win many new hotel projects in China and this is largely due to the confidence the development community has in our lifestyle brands, noted innovations and consistently strong delivery of results in the region.”

CONTACT:

Hwee-Peng Yeo, Director, Corporate Communications, Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd, 9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2, #24-02, Singapore 038989.
Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424 Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/;

http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

W Bangkok Hotel Breaks Ground on 400-Room Property

BANGKOK, THAILAND--Top executives of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), Nakheel Hotels and Golden Land Property Development Plc, recently held the official ground-breaking for the new 400-room W Bangkok. (above photo)

When it opens at the end of 2010, the W Bangkok will be the first centre-city W Hotel in Southeast Asia, and will offer the innovative design and full range of branded amenities that guests have come to expect of W Hotels worldwide.

The property will form a major part of Golden Land’s “Sathorn Square” (top right photo) mixed-use development, which is centred on the historic landmark Russian Embassy complex, located in the prime business district of Sathorn Road. The development will also include a 70,000 square metre Grade A office tower with boutiques and shops.

Last October, Starwood entered into a management agreement with North Sathorn Hotel Company, a joint venture between Nakheel Hotels (previously named Istithmar Hotels FZE) and Golden Land Property Development Plc for this new hotel.

“Bangkok is a perfect fit for W Hotels, appealing to the W brand’s sophisticated travelers with a delectable mix of diverse cultures, world-class shopping and an unsurpassed cuisine experience," commented Neil Palmer, (bottom right photo) Senior Vice President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

"Set against the magnificent backdrop of Thailand's thriving cosmopolitan metropolis, W Bangkok will reflect the excitement, energy and sophistication of its surroundings when it opens, and will be known as the influential and innovative lifestyle authority in Bangkok.

“We are confident that Bangkok, with its great location and allure for visitors, will be a great platform to showcase the W brand. Starwood is also proud to continue its contribution towards the growth of Bangkok and Thailand as a key hospitality destination,” added Palmer.

Joe Sita, (top left photo) Chief Executive Officer of Nakheel Hotels, said, “Nakheel Hotels looks for the best partners as we expand operations across the globe and Starwood and Golden Land Property are perfect partners in this venture. Southeast Asia is a strategically important region for Nakheel Hotels and Bangkok is one of our key target markets. The W Bangkok will surely be a star property in our growing global development portfolio.”

William Wilfong, (photo at middle left) CEO of Golden Land Property Development PLC, commented, “We are delighted to bring W to Bangkok, and to be working together with Nakheel and Starwood on this landmark hotel. The W Bangkok will add unique prestige and cachet to our Sathorn Square project, and this property is sure to become a leading choice for business and leisure visitors to Bangkok, with its prime location in the heart of the city’s main business district.”

In addition to the W brand’s signature sleek design and cosmopolitan ambience, the W Bangkok will offer a wide range of superior facilities including almost 30,000 square feet of meeting space, W Kitchen, W Living Room Bar, a specialty restaurant and destination bar, a Sweat Fitness Center, an outdoor pool and a signature spa.

Guests will luxuriate in the signature W bed, outfitted with feather-top mattresses, 350 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose-down comforters. The hotel will also offer the signature W Whatever/Whenever service, the hotel’s 24-hour concierge that can provide whatever guests want - from a pair of running shoes to private jet service - whenever they want it.

CONTACT: Hwee-Peng Yeo Director, Corporate Communications, Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd., 9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2, #24-02, Singapore 038989. Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424. Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/;

http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Le Méridien Continues Expansion in Asia Pacific Announcing the Signing of Two New Hotels

(Taipei 101 (above) is believed to be the world's tallest office tower at 1,670.6 feet. The building has 106 floors--101 above ground, five under ground. The tower was completed in 2004 in the Hsin Yi business district of Taipei in Taiwan.)

Le Méridien Taipei Marks Entry Of Le Méridien Into Taiwan.

Le Méridien Xiamen Joins The Brand’s Growing Portfolio In China.

Growth Accelerates on the Heels of Three New Le Méridien Hotels in Thailand to Open This Fall.


WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. -- Le Méridien continues its expansion in Asia Pacific, today announcing

plans to open two new properties, one in Taipei and one in Xiamen, China.

Le Méridien Taipei (top right photo) marks the brand’s first hotel in Taiwan and will open in early 2011 in Hsinyi, Taipei’s bustling central business district.

Le Méridien Xiamen, China (photo at left) will open in 2009 in Xianyue Hill, one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), both hotels will offer a European flair, and sophisticated, environment designed to appeal to the creative guest.

"We are thrilled to announce what will be two stunning Le Méridien hotels in Taipei and Xiamen, two of Asia Pacific’s most exhilarating destinations,” said Miguel Ko, (middle right photo) President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific.

“A thriving center for international business, Taipei boasts a vibrant arts scene and a rich variety of cultural institutions, while Xiamen is the cultural and academic heart of Fujian Province. Both cities are a great fit with Le Méridien brand, which is committed to providing guests with an interactive and culturally enriching experience.”

“Le Méridien is delighted to invite guests to embark on a voyage of discovery in these two compelling cities in Asia Pacific, where we will provide a curated experience enhanced by an atmosphere of European refinement,” said Eva Ziegler, (middle left photo) Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien.

“Popular among progressive, forward-thinking international travelers, Le Méridien shares with its guests a passion for style, art, architecture, design, cuisine and fashion.”

Le Méridien currently operates 26 hotels in Asia Pacific, including Le Méridien She Shan, Le Royal Méridien Shanghai and Le Méridien Cyberport, Hong Kong.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is partnering with My Humble House Hospitality Management Consulting Co., Ltd to introduce Le Méridien brand to the vibrant city of Taipei.

Le Méridien Taipei will offer an ideal location in Hsinyi, Taipei’s most modern, cosmopolitan district. The hotel will be close to the Taipei Convention Hall, the Taipei World Trade Center, Taipei City Hall and Taipei 101, (top photo) currently the world’s tallest building.

CONTACT:

Hwee Peng Yeo, Corporate Communications Manager, Asia Pacific, Phone: (65) 6335 4837. Fax: (65) 6335 4820. Email: mailto:hweepeng.yeo@starwoodhotels.com. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. http://www.starwoodhotels.com/ 1111 Westchester Ave. Phone: 914-640-8100. Fax: 914-696-1138.

Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers Opens its New Grand Tower

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam--Witnessed by distinguished guests and members of the press, the Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers (above photo) has officially opened its new Grand Tower, heralding a new era in luxury world-class accommodation for Vietnam.

Attendees at the opening event included corporate clients, media and the Sheraton Saigon’s General Manager Mr. Dietmar Kielnhofer, accompanied by members of the executive committee and hotel management. (Downtown Ho Chi Minh City skyline photo at left)

“Today is a significant day, both for the Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers and for the city in general,” added General Manager Dietmar Kielnhofer. (photo at left) “Not only has Sheraton asserted its position as the forerunner for facilities and amenities in HCMC, the warm and welcoming revitalized guestrooms will be enhanced by the Sheraton brand’s signature comforts, designed to make them feel at home. Meanwhile, the new Sheraton brand guest programs will ensure that guests can bring their lifestyle on the road and make connections while travelling.

“I’d like to thank the owning company Ocean Place Joint Venture Company, the government, the project team and all our associates for their support during this project. I’m also very happy to be able to say that the superlative effort made by everyone involved, from executive management to craftsmen, means we are opening to welcome our first guests on time.”

Honorable guest and Chairman of Ocean Place Joint Venture Company, Mr. Nguyen Huu Thanh was also present to witness and officiate the opening of the hotel’s new upscale 25-storey development.

“Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers has always been the leading choice for Ho Chi Minh City’s business traveler, and the Grand Tower has set a new standard for high-end hospitality in the city. To be the one to open this landmark building makes me feel very proud,” he said.

The Grand Tower will add 112 spacious studios and suites and a luxurious Grand Tower Lounge to the Hotel’s existing 371 room inventory. State of the art facilities and technology provide the ultimate in connectivity, and the stylish and contemporary design is accentuated by hand-picked artworks to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Sheraton Saigon Grand Tower is Ho Chi Minh City’s new benchmark for style, comfort and first-rate service for business and leisure travelers, and places the Sheraton Saigon not only at the leading edge of Vietnam’s luxury hospitality industry, but at the pioneering head of this new international market.

CONTACT:
Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989
Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/
http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/

Four Points by Sheraton’s Chief Beer Officer Celebrates One Year in Office

Search is on for the First Ever Best Brews Summer Intern

In this handout photo provided by Four Points by Sheraton Hotels, the brand's first Chief Beer Officer Scott Kerkmans, center, shares a toast with Four Points Vice President Sandy Swider, right, and Starwood executive Hoyt Harper, left, after ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange, Monday, March 26, 2007, in New York. As Four Points' CBO Kerkmans will champion their new Best Brews program. (AP Photo/Four Points by Sheraton, Diane Bondareff)

WHITE PLAINS, NY--Corporate America was changed forever a year ago when Four Points by Sheraton appointed the world’s first-ever Chief Beer Officer (CBO), Scott Kerkmans. (photo above)

After a year in office the resident CBO has realized that a dream job can come with a nightmare work load. Scott is seeking a little sudsy help by kicking off a world wide search for a Best Brews Summer intern. The lucky lad or lass will assist the CBO with his Best Brews duties including beer tasting, trend research and brewery relations.

Kerkmans earned his coveted executive title by impressing the Four Points team and receiving over half of the 12,000 votes cast from around the world. Since taking his unique Chief Beer Officer post a year ago, Scott has expanded the Four Points Best Brews training program, started a blog, forged relationships with countless craft breweries, traveled to some of the largest beer festivals and educated guests on the world of beer through his blog at fourpoints.com/cbo.

“Scott really understands the value of simple pleasures including our Best Brews” said Sandy Swider, Vice President of Four Points by Sheraton. “We are excited to see how he will continue to expand the program”. Kerkmans has great plans for the Best Brews program including introducing new beer and food pairings and ways to continue making Four Points by Sheraton the best destination for beer aficionados everywhere.

The deadline for applicants is April 26th. Four finalists will be chosen and again the beer loving community will be called upon to help select the first ever Four Points by Sheraton Best Brews intern!

For additional information on Best Brews and Four Points by Sheraton, including room rates and availability, and the search for the Best Brews intern please visit www.fourpoints.com/cbo.

CONTACT:
Hwee-Peng Yeo
Director, Corporate Communications
Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Ltd
9 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2
#24-02, Singapore 038989
Tel : +65 6335 4837; Cell : +65 9768 6087; +65 9248 0424
Fax : +65 6335 4820
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/;

http://www.starwoodpressclub.com/