As of 2009, WORLDHOTELS, the leading Europe based global group for independent hotels, is introducing 23 environmental criteria to its annual quality checks in order to encourage its affiliate hotels to embrace a comprehensive set of ecological standards.

Eco-friendly criteria assessed include such aspects as the use of energy-efficient light bulbs, organic in-room bath amenities and double-glazing. Further stipulations range from towel and linen re-use programmes to the use of organic cleaning products and recycling bins to serving organic and locally grown food products.

The yearly quality tests measure the performance of all WORLDHOTELS properties and are conducted by IFH AG, a renowned consulting company specialising in independent evaluations and the benchmarking of hotels� quality performances worldwide. Anonymous �mystery shoppers� evaluate each property in up to 1,700 different categories on behalf of WORLDHOTELS and its �Performing Excellence Program�.

In addition to ecological standards, they also thoroughly assess every detail from room furnishings and bathroom fittings to restaurant quality and spa amenities, as well as the staff�s service and personal skills. Introduced to WORLDHOTELS in 2006, the �Performing Excellence Program� guarantees the continuous optimisation of quality standards at all WORLDHOTELS residences and assures an excellent travel experience for all guests.

� Ends � Note to Editors:

About WORLDHOTELS � WORLDHOTELS is an exclusive collection of the world's most unique independent hotels. Under the banner "Unique Hotels for Unique People", it now has almost 500 affiliate properties in more than 300 destinations and 70 countries worldwide. � For nearly 40 years, the company's mission has been to offer business and leisure travellers easy access to a wide range of accommodation options with a strong emphasis on hotels of character and distinction. � WORLDHOTELS' guests benefit from an extensive portfolio of partnerships, including frequent flyer programmes from 20 of the world's leading international airlines, including Air France/KLM, United Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa. � Through state-of-the-art distribution and technology and global marketing campaigns, WORLDHOTELS gives independent hotels the collective strength of a strong, global hotel brand whilst still allowing them to retain their strong individual character and unique identity.

ASIA PACIFIC Reservation Numbers: Australia Toll free: 1-800-55 35 49 For groups: 61-2-9006 1088 China (North) Toll free: 10-800-650-8221 For groups: 10-800-6 50 00 87 China (South) Toll free: 10-800-2 65 82 21 For groups: 10-800-2 65 00 87 Hong Kong Toll free: 800-96 85 63 For groups: 800-90 85 95 India Toll free: 000-800-6 50 11 60 For groups: 65- 62 27 55 35 Japan Toll free: 0120-55 75 37 For groups: 81 3 6721 8141 Malaysia Toll free: 1-800-80 11 84 For groups: 1-800-80 15 86 New Zealand Toll free: 0-800-44 75 55 For groups: 61-2-9006 1088 Philippines Toll free: 1-800-16 51 01 67 For groups: 65-62 27 55 35 Singapore Toll free: 1-800-2 27 66 26 For groups: 65- 62 27 55 35 South Korea Toll free: 080-747-10 00 For groups: 82-2-756 90 00 Taiwan Toll free: 00801-65 10 95 For groups: 00801 651 423 Thailand Toll free: 001-800-65 66 04 For groups: 65-62 27 55 35

For further information visit worldhotels.com.

Issued on behalf of WORLDHOTELS by Grebstad Hicks Communications.

For further information, please contact:

Grebstad Hicks Communications Ms. Carol Kong Tel: 852 2810 0532 E-mail: carol.kong@ghcasia.com

WORLDHOTELS Mr. Roland Jegge Tel: 65 6227 5535 E-mail: rjegge@worldhotels.com