Autograph Collection Celebrates 50th Hotel Milestone − Raises The Bar On Sustainability With Inauguration Of Hotel Punta Islita In Costa Rica

NEW YORK, Nov. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Autograph Collection, Marriott International's (NASDAQ: MAR) exclusive portfolio of independent hotels announced today the addition of its 50^th location with the inauguration of Hotel Punta Islita in Costa Rica. The milestone is a significant one for Autograph Collection, having reached 50 hotels in 13 countries in less than three years. In keeping with the inspiration of Autograph Collection to offer extraordinary travel experiences and Marriott International's global commitment to sustainability, Hotel Punta Islita holds the highest certification rating in sustainable tourism from the Costa Rican Tourism Board, among numerous other ecological accolades, making it a leader in environmental hospitality in the region.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131107/PH12799 )

Representing the first hotel to join Autograph Collection in Central America, Hotel Punta Islita rests on 85 picturesque acres along the Nicoya Peninsula in the southwestern part of Guanacaste province. Recently named one of Travel & Leisure magazine's Top 100 Hotels in 2013, the unique design of the hotel affords each of its 57 guest room stunning views of the Pacific coast line.

Speaking at an exclusive media event held today in New York City, President and Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International, Arne Sorenson, said, "To reach 50 hotels in less than three years is a testament to the vibrancy and success of Autograph Collection as an innovative business venture." He continued, "Through championing independence and welcoming extraordinary hotel experiences like Hotel Punta Islita, Autograph remains one of the fastest growing independent hotel collections in the industry."

Owned and operated by Grupo Islita, the secluded sanctuary specializes in sustainable tourism and programs involving guests on items including reforestation, animal protection and water conservation, Support for local arts and education are signature elements of the Hotel Punta Islita experience, and the hotel's Villafranca-Zurcher Foundation (Fundacion VZ) has championed ground breaking programs including the Islita Contemporary Art Museum and the Islita Creative Center. With a passionate dedication to help alleviate poverty and reverse environmental degradation in the region, local residents comprise more than 85% of the hotel's staff, resulting in a deep and heartfelt connection to the local community.

Introduced in 2010, the vision behind the Autograph Collection is to offer an evolving group of passionately independent hotel experiences ranging from a 15-room boutique hunting lodge in the mountains of Colorado to a 19^th century neoclassical palace in the majestic city of Prague.  Exactly like nothing else, each hotel is thoughtfully chosen for its quality, originality, bold character and capacity to offer today's modern traveler a range of unique experiences suited to their individual sense of style and adventure. While still relatively new, the distinct portfolio has proven to be a highly successful venture due to its discerning selection process and unique ability to create memories through enriching travel experiences.

Hotel Punta Islita is one Costa Rica's most awarded, off the beaten path destinations, catering to sophisticated travelers who value authenticity, uniqueness and connection to the local community. Amenities include a nine-hole executive golf course, two swimming pools, Spa, a secluded beach front with beach club, two restaurants, and small group meeting space. The hotel also has a private landing strip for small commuter aircraft, with commercial flights operating from San Jose on a regular schedule throughout the year.

About Autograph Collection
The Autograph Collection is an evolving ensemble of strikingly independent hotels. Exactly like nothing else, each destination has been selected for its quality, bold originality, rich character and uncommon details. From near to far, iconic to historic, the result is an array of properties that is nothing less than unique, nothing short of collectively exceptional. For more information please visit www.autographhotels.com, or explore our social media channels to learn more about championing the independent spirit:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AutographCollection
Twitter:  www.twitter.com/Autograph
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About Marriott International
Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For more information or reservations, please visit our web site at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

About Grupo Islita
Grupo Islita is a leading Costa Rican hotel development and management company.  Its signature commitment to sustainable luxury fosters travel experiences that highlight cultural authenticity, unique details, and intense immersion in nature.  Grupo Islita's extraordinary properties showcase Costa Rica's planet-friendly, people-positive essence.  For more information about Grupo Islita, please visit www.grupoislita.com.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.