The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - September 20, 2008 - The AAA Five Diamond, Ritz Carlton, Washington, D.C. is proud to announce the successful completion of a multi-million dollar renovation project that confirms its long standing reputation as one of the most extraordinary luxury hotels in the world.

Celebrated interior designer, Frank Nicholson, renowned for creating the iconic atmosphere associated with Ritz-Carlton, executed his vision for the hotel's transformation by infusing Ritz-Carlton elegance with contemporary furnishings and décor. Building upon the stylish peripheral building that reflects the spirit, grace, and energy of the Nation's Capital, Nicholson set out to marry the interior with the exterior and set the standard for modern luxury in Washington, D.C.

"Washington is experiencing a renaissance of sorts right now, with a revived cultural and dining scene. It's not just the city of monuments anymore, and guests want to experience this dynamic city in style," said Nicholson. "Re-imaging The Ritz Carlton, Washington D.C. to fit this exciting time was a wonderful experience for me."

The $12 million dollar enhancements include: a new signature restaurant, Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert; an enhanced Lobby Café & Bar and Club Lounge; and improvements to all meeting rooms and 300 guestrooms and suites. The project which began in November 2007 was completed ahead of schedule in September 2008.

The guestroom design concept incorporates clean lines and deco-style furniture with color schemes featuring chic and soothing tones of teal and yellow. Beautiful new furniture including new desks, HD flat screen televisions, dressers with generous drawer space, nightstands with 1 ¼ inch thick granite tops, and rare Cloisonne lamps, all come together seamlessly to create calm and inviting living spaces. All guest corridors received new, custom-designed, wool axemaster carpets with bold geometric patterns, and new upholstered wall coverings. At the depth of the corridor's setbacks, guests will find a warm yellow hue contrasted by a cool blue leading the way to each guest room. The elevator lobbies have also received care and attention with new silk wall upholstery, complimented by hand woven carpeting. Additionally, the hotel's exclusive Club Lounge has expanded its seating, and modernized furnishings, including new two new lap tops for guest's use, and a 24/7 To Go Snacks station with protein bars, granola bars and other snacks for our guests on the go.

A transformed Lobby Café & Bar welcomes guests with a bold and fresh look, featuring expanded seating with stylish new banquettes and booths. Warm green and gold tones blend to create a cozy atmosphere. French chandeliers and wall sconces further enhance the intimate setting and provide guests with an ideal location to conduct business meetings, relaxing lunches or cocktails with family and friends. Executive Chef David Serus has created an appetizing menu of light fare to add to a delightful experience.

"For their patronage, we are pleased to reward our guests by not only providing them with a top-tier experience during their stay, but by re-investing the dollars they spend with us into maintaining our hotel in the caliber which they have come to expect and richly deserve," said Elizabeth Mullins, vice president and area general manager.

The five star makeover also includes Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert, a casual American bistro by the acclaimed 3-star Michelin chef at New York's Le Bernardin. Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert is one of the latest restaurants to enter D.C.'s powerful dining scene, and consistently wows diners with simple, straightforward American fare and a vibrant atmosphere. The bar at Westend offers a bustling scene with a friendly bar menu and signature cocktails. Guests can indulge in lunch and dinner at the bar or in the stylish booths & banquettes throughout the energetic room. Emphasizing personal service and congeniality towards every guest, Westend Bistro welcomes guests to unwind in the simple, contemporary comfort of the neighborhood eatery to return to again and again.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 72 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Shenzhen, China; Dove Mountain, Arizona; and Lake Tahoe, California. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.