Lengthening its lead as the largest five-star hotel operator in China, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) announced its landmark debut in Nanjing, China with the opening of The Westin Nanjing. The first Westin to open in the bustling capital city of Jiangsu Province, The Westin Nanjing boasts an ideal location at the top of the Nanjing International Center.

With the addition of The Westin Nanjing, Westin now operates 11 hotels in China and is set to double its footprint in this key global market in the next two years. The rapid expansion of the Westin brand is helping to drive Starwood’s growth in China, where Starwood plans to increase its portfolio from 70 to more than 114 hotels by the end of 2012.

“The Westin Nanjing is a terrific addition to our fast growing portfolio in China, giving us a foothold in one of the country’s most vital economic and cultural centers,” said Nancy London, Vice President and global leader for Westin Hotels. “Fueled by the success of its distinctive wellness positioning, Westin is well on its way to establishing itself as an international market leader with unprecedented opportunities for growth in the world’s most rapidly developing economies.”

Overlooking Xuanwu Lake, The Westin Nanjing is located in the Hunan Road central business district in the heart of downtown Nanjing. The hotel provides direct access to Nanjing’s leading businesses, entertainment and shopping and is close to the Xuanwu Lake subway station and the Nanjing Train station. Nanjing Hall of City Planning & Construction Exhibition is just five minutes away.

“We are very excited to introduce the Westin brand to Jiangsu Province and expect the hotel to contribute to the increasing importance of Nanjing as a tourism and business destination,” said Mr. Richard Deutl, General Manager of The Westin Nanjing. “Known for its stellar global reputation and emphasis on wellbeing, The Westin brand is an ideal choice for the dynamic city of Nanjing and will undoubtedly emerge as a top choice among business travelers.”

The soothing Westin Sensory Welcome creates a memorable first impression as guests enter the hotel, with its blend of signature white tea scent, music, botanicals and mood lighting. Guests at The Westin Nanjing will awaken their senses with the Westin Heavenly Bath® experience and restore in the Heavenly Bed®, a 10-layer ensemble of luxurious comfort featuring a pillow-top mattress set, a cozy down blanket, three crisp sheets, a comforter, duvet and five plush pillows. Rooms also feature 42” LCD HDTV, high-speed Internet access, mp3 docking station, and an ergonomic work space to offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

The Westin Nanjing features three restaurants and lounges headed by renowned executive chef Ricky Yin, including Seasonal Tastes on the 23rd floor with an open kitchen, full-length windows and magnificent sunrise views of Xuanwu Lake, and the Five Zen5es – a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its authentic Huaiyang cuisine and sleek design.

Ideal for both business functions and social events, The Westin Nanjing provides more than 10,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space including a 5,700 square-foot grand ballroom overlooking the lake. Additional amenities include a full-service business center, indoor, heated swimming pool and WestinWORKOUT® gym with the latest in cardio equipment and weights.