Courtyard Takes Lobby Experience to New Heights at Los Angeles, Charlotte and Philadelphia Airports

BETHESDA, Md., June 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Long lines at check-in counters and security screening are making air travel more stressful and tiring than ever before. Now there's rest for the weary business traveler as Courtyard by Marriott brings its innovative Refreshing Business lobby experience to airports across the country.

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Offering comfortable couches, communal work tables and the brand's award winning 55-inch LCD touch screen GoBoard® packed with local news, business and sports headlines, travelers at Los Angeles Terminal 7, Charlotte Concourse E and Philadelphia Concourse E now have an oasis to recharge their devices and their energy before boarding.  

The lobby experience, launched last year for a two month period at Chicago, Atlanta and Denver airports, broke new ground by extending Courtyard's world renowned hospitality services to travelers as they are on-the-go. Whether it is to catch up on their laptops or relax for a few minutes watching high-definition television in a private media booth, Courtyard realizes that people constantly need that valuable public/private space to physically and mentally regroup.

"Courtyard has been welcoming business and leisure travelers for more than 20 years and our expertise and knowledge has gone into the innovative elements of our Refreshing Business lobby," said Janis Milham, vice president and global brand manager, Courtyard by Marriott. "Now frenzied air travelers can experience the lobby and public space Courtyard offers guests at more than 300 hotels across America. We expect to reach 500 by early next year."

As a market research driven brand, Courtyard by Marriott has constantly evolved to meet the changing needs of business travelers. The brand recently redesigned its lobbies to cater to this group's increased desire for flexible space. Whether traveling alone or in groups, these busy guests want an alternative space outside of their rooms where they can work, eat, relax or socialize.  Combining innovative technology with style and comfort, the lobbies allow guests options and flexibility to make the most of their time on the road.

To learn more about Courtyard visit www.courtyard.com or connect with Courtyard on the brand's Facebook page, Twitter feed or blog, Courtyard Connections.

Courtyard by Marriott offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced.  Intuitive services and design accommodate guests' needs for choice and control.  With more than 900 locations in 35 countries, Courtyard is Marriott's largest brand. All Courtyard by Marriott hotels participate in the award winning Marriott Rewards frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay.  For more information go to www.courtyard.com.

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.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.