Members of the Hilton Worldwide team, including Christopher J. Nassetta, President and Chief Executive Officer, hosted an official signing ceremony at the Hilton Bogotá, in Colombia, to celebrate a new franchise agreement with METRO Hotels to open six new properties, two of which being Hampton by Hilton hotels in Barranquilla and Cartagena.

The Hampton by Hilton hotels are currently under construction and expected to open in early 2013, supporting the brand’s growth strategy for South America.

Phil Cordell, global head, focused service and Hampton brand management, said, “Hampton by Hilton is an ideal choice for value-savvy business and leisure travelers.  We are looking forward to introducing Hampton’s unique customer service and unmatched quality in this flourishing country.  We stand behind the brand with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee - if a guest is not happy with their stay, we don’t expect them to pay.”

The 125-room Hampton by Hilton Barranquilla will be located in the heart of the commercial area of Barranquilla and will be part of a mix-use project.  The 132-room Hampton by Hilton Cartagena will be located in the area of Bocagrande, next to the Convention Center and the Old City.  Hampton Hotels currently offers16 properties in Latin America, and has plans to expand its presence throughout the region.

Both new hotels will feature the Hampton by Hilton brand’s signature offerings, including a stylish Perfect Mix lobby, free Wi-Fi throughout and the Jump Start fitness center.  Guests will enjoy modern, comfortable rooms featuring the Clean and Fresh Hampton Bed.  The new hotels are designed and styled to appeal to business and leisure travelers, offering best-in-class service and comfort.  Additional guest amenities include the free On the House hot breakfast, a 24-hour snack area and a bar area with evening dining options to help guests connect after meetings.

Cristiano Gonçalves, vice president, development, South America, said, “Colombia is an important strategic development market for Hilton Worldwide.  The addition of these new properties represents the incredible momentum behind our multi-brand growth plan for the region.”

Felipe Galeano, Development Director for METRO Hotels, said “We are convinced of the high potential of the Hampton product in Colombian major and intermediate cities.  We think that it combines the perfect level of comfort, service, security and cost efficiency for the Colombian business traveler.”

Both properties will participate in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest rewards program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® for the same stay and redeem points for free nights with No Blackout Dates at more than 3,800 hotels worldwide.

Hilton Worldwide currently has a portfolio of 50 hotels and resorts open and welcoming travelers in Latin America, three of which are located in Colombia; Hilton Bogota, Hilton Cartagena and Embassy Suites by Hilton Bogota - Rosales.  The company is actively pursuing additional Latin American growth opportunities with a robust development pipeline that includes properties in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Panama and Peru.