WASHINGTON - Aug. 29, 2002 - The new Ramada Melbourne hotel marks the return of the Ramada International brand, a division of Marriott International (NYSE: MAR), to Australia after a five year absence. The 179-room new-build hotel is owned and operated by Asia Pacific Hotels Pty, Ltd. under a franchise agreement. The general manager is Javan Hollister.

The Ramada Melbourne is offering a special opening rate of AUS$140 a night, including two full buffet breakfasts each day, until January 31, 2003.

Located at 270 Flinders Street, the hotel is directly across the street from Melbourne’s main railway station and within walking distance of Federation Square, Princess Bridge, Southgate, Crown Casino and the Melbourne Exhibition Center. It is 20 kilometers from Melbourne’s international airport, Tullamarine.

Hotel amenities include a video and intercom security system, business services, 24-hour room service, valet laundry service, express check-in/check-out, rooms for disabled guests, daily newspaper delivery and currency exchange. All rooms have movies on-demand, a working desk, individually controlled air conditioning, high speed Cat5 connectivity, two data ports, tea/coffee-making facilities, voicemail, safes and hair dryers.

For dining and entertainment, the Ramada Melbourne offers a full-service restaurant, serving a buffet breakfast and a seasonal menu for lunch and dinner, and a lobby bar.

Reservations can be made by calling any of Ramada International’s reservation numbers, calling the hotel directly, through a travel agent or through Ramada International’s Web site, www.ramadahotels.com.

The Ramada Melbourne will maintain Ramada International’s five pillars, which are: a restful sleep, an invigorating shower, a well-trained staff, an exceptional level of cleanliness, and the “Ramada Mornings Breakfast” - a selection that is hot, delicious and easy.

There are currently more than 140 Ramada International hotels in 21 countries and territories.

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