WASHINGTON - June, 2002 - Ramada International Hotels & Resorts, a division of Marriott International (NYSE: MAR), opened its first Ramada Encore Hotel in York, England, this week under a franchise agreement with Stannifer Hotels Group, PLC. Encore Hotels are Ramada International’s stylish product designed to appeal to young-spirited travelers of all ages in the mid-priced, limited-service tier.

Located in the western portion of York City Center, the 104-room Ramada Encore York is situated within walking distance to the city’s major tourist attractions and railway station. Opening rates begin at GBP 75 per room for up to two adults and two children and include complimentary breakfast for all. Dale Needham is the hotel’s general manager.

Guests can congregate in the Ramada Encore York’s Hub area, an intimate gathering space on the ground floor, as well as the hotel’s premier coffee shop.

Contemporary furnishings and bright colors reflect the style of the Encore brand. Guestrooms feature functional lighting that can be easily adapted by the guest and have a work area with dataports and electrical outlets. Glass is the signature of Ramada Encore’s guestroom bathrooms - from interior bathroom walls to the vanity unit.

The hallmarks of all Ramada hotels continue to be an essential aspect of the Encore brand as well. They are: a restful sleep, an invigorating shower, well-trained staff, an exceptional level of cleanliness and the “Ramada Morning Breakfast” - a selection that is hot, delicious and easy.

The Ramada Encore York will feature Ramada’s signature complimentary breakfast buffet as well as a limited-selection bar/brasserie menu, including sandwiches and toasted panini. Guests who are pressed for time on departure will also have the ability to order “Breakfast to Go” when checking in and their breakfast will await them on check out.

For reservations at Ramada International Hotels located outside the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Canada, call 44 0 870 443 0029 or visit our web site at www.ramadainternationalhotel.com. The phone number and web-site listed can only be used for reservations at Ramada International Hotels outside the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada.

——-