Choice Hotels International has announced the formal launch of its Ascend Collection program in the United States and the Caribbean.  Ascend Collection properties, all of which are historic, boutique, or unique hotels, must meet well-defined membership criteria and demonstrate a commitment to service excellence.  Travelers have the peace of mind that comes with staying at hotels that offer authentic experiences and attentive guest care yet are still a part of one of the world’s largest lodging companies. 

“The Ascend Collection membership program is as unique as the hotels that are a part of this program, which retain their local identity and individuality,” said Alexandra Jaritz, vice president, brand planning and management, Choice Hotels International.  “Guests that are looking for something a little different in an upscale hotel, a more experiential travel experience that gives them a sense of local flair, should see what these historic, boutique, or unique hotels have to offer.”

 

Among the Ascend Collection members are:

 

  * Three boutique Gem Hotels in New York City, located in the neighborhoods of SoHo, Midtown West and Chelsea.  These 100% non-smoking hotels provide an intimate, boutique atmosphere and offer guests elegantly designed rooms with luxurious amenities.  Each guest room features a flat-panel television and the hotels offer free high-speed Internet access.
  * The unique Golden Hotel in Golden, Colorado.  This one-of-a-kind property offers guests the ambiance of a mountain lodge with views of the Clear Creek and nearby mountains.  For travelers looking to transport themselves to a different place and time, the Golden Hotel offers a unique experience. 
  * The historic Hotel Bothwell in Sedalia, Missouri.  This stately hotel, recognized as a National Historic Landmark hotel, evokes the nostalgia of a bygone era of grace and charm reminiscent of when it opened its doors in the 1920s.  The hotel features richly-appointed guestrooms, fine dining at the Ivory Grille, and historical décor.  Guests that have stayed at this historic property include President Harry Truman, Gene Autry and Bette Davis. 

 

“Ascend Collection members receive a wealth of services from a dedicated Ascend Collection team,” said Stacy Ragland, vice president, Ascend Collection operations, Choice Hotels.  “From opening services to brand performance to revenue management to an Ascend Collection-specific yearly meeting, Choice Hotels is offering targeted services to help these one-of-a-kind hotels maximize their potential.”

 

The Ascend Collection membership program provides owners of independent hotels access to the robust reservations and distribution system of Choice Hotels, one which delivered nearly $2 billion per year in room revenues for its 5,600-plus hotels worldwide in 2007.  Member hotels also retain their local identity and individuality.  Ascend Collection hotels participate in the Choice Privileges rewards program, which has over 7 million members.
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