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Carys Premier Hotel Joins Exclusive Company of Elite Properties for the First Time Since Opening
CARY, NC, January 22, 2009 " The Umstead Hotel and Spa (www.theumstead.com) was honored with a 2009 Mobil Five-Star Award by Mobil Travel Guide, the originators of the prestigious star rating system and providers of one of the most comprehensive evaluation systems of hotels, restaurants and spas in the world. This recognition marks the first time the 150-room luxury hotel has earned the Fifth Star since opening in January 2007. It is currently the only full-service hotel in North Carolina to receive the distinction. A total of 44 properties in the United States and Canada earned Five-Star status this year. In addition, The Umsteads world-class spa and signature restaurant, Herons, were each individually recognized with Four Stars in 2009.
We are thrilled to have received the coveted Fifth Star from Mobil Travel Guide, viewed by our guests and fellow hoteliers as one of the premier ratings systems in the world, said Ann Goodnight, owner and visionary of The Umstead Hotel and Spa. This honor can be attributed to our staff, all of whom have allowed us to achieve this goal by delivering incomparable and consistent service to our guests.
For over 50 years, Mobil Travel Guide has been a trusted travel companion to millions of people across the country, said Shane OFlaherty, president and CEO of Mobil Travel Guide. Consumers rely on our expertise to help them make informed travel decisions and spend their dollars wisely. These latest additions to the Mobil Five-Star family, such as The Umstead Hotel and Spa, exemplify what extraordinary service is all about.
Since 1958, the Mobil Travel Guides ratings process has been based on more than 750 standardized criteria for hotels, making it the most rigorous and comprehensive in the industry. The process begins with a facility inspection that considers every aspect of the property, including overall cleanliness, condition and location. To achieve Mobil Travel Guide Four- and Five-Star status, properties must meet or exceed Mobil Travel Guides bar-setting service standards, which are determined through an unannounced, undercover service evaluation conducted by Mobil Travel Guides expert inspectors. For a detailed explanation of how Mobil Travel Guide compiles its star ratings, please visit www.mobiltravelguide.com.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa has earned widespread acclaim since its opening in 2007. As one of the premier luxury hotels in the Raleigh area, the property complements the current lodging offerings available in the destination. It is a top choice for business and leisure travelers seeking a true getaway experience with high-tech meeting space, as well as upscale dining and a world-class spa. The Raleigh area is currently undergoing $3 billion renaissance and these new development projects continue to drive business and leisure travel to the destination, said Denny Edwards, president and CEO of the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau. Were grateful to our hotel partners for delivering a high caliber guest experience and keep visitors returning year after year and driving more tourism to the area. We congratulate The Umstead for this phenomenal achievement.
About Mobil Travel Guide
Mobil Travel Guide, originator of the prestigious Mobil Star ratings and certifications, has provided the most comprehensive ratings and reviews of hotels, restaurants and spas since 1958. Mobil Travel Guides team of anonymous, expert inspectors evaluates properties against rigorous and objective proprietary standards, giving consumers the insight to make better-informed travel and leisure decisions. Mobil Travel Guide is under license from Exxon Mobil Corporation and is headquartered in Chicago, IL. For more information, please visit www.mobiltravelguide.com.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa (www.theumstead.com) is nestled against a beautiful three-acre lake, steps away from walking and jogging trails as well as The Umstead State Park. The 150 oversized guest rooms include luxurious furnishings and signature amenities. State-of-the-art technology enhances the customer experience on all levels. Adjacent to the hotel, the plush Umstead Spa features the finest treatment rooms, a meditation courtyard and more. The treatment menu includes a variety of massages, facials, body masks, body polishes and exfoliation treatments, hydro-therapy baths and showers, hand and foot treatments, manicures and pedicures. For reservations and information, call toll-free at 1-866-877-4141. Images available upon request.
Emily Santos/Terence Gallagher
Lou Hammond & Associates
Tel: (212) 891-0241; Fax: (212) 891-0200
E-mail: emilys@lhammond.com / terryg@lhammond.com
