THE LUXURY COLLECTION HOTELS & RESORTS REACHES 80 HOTELS WORLDWIDE WITH THE DEBUT OF KERATON AT THE PLAZA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, JAKARTA

Keraton at The Plaza Marks the First of Four New Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Opening in Asia Pacific in the Next Six Months

JAKARTA, Indonesia (May 21, 2012) – The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. (NYSE: HOT), announced today the opening of its 80th hotel with the debut of Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, the brand’s first hotel in Jakarta. The hotel opening also marks the first of four new Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts which will debut in Asia within the next six months, including The Royal Begonia in Sanya, China, Twelve at Hengshan in Shanghai, China and ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, India.

The Luxury Collection brand is an ensemble of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries. As the newest member of The Luxury Collection brand, Keraton at The Plaza joins a portfolio of celebrated and iconic properties around the world including The Gritti Palace in Venice, Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville, Hotel Pulitzer in Amsterdam, The Romanos in Costa Navarino and The Chatwal in New York City.

“As The Luxury Collection portfolio grows and the nature of our guests becomes more global, it is exciting to introduce Keraton at The Plaza as our first of four new build hotels in Asia this year - a hotel that is at once is a portal to the rich cultural heritage of Jakarta and a gateway to experience the city’s contemporary art, design and cuisine,” says Paul James, Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts.

Located in the heart of Indonesia’s capital and situated at Jalan Thamrin, one of the most prestigious addresses in the city, Keraton at The Plaza is a distinct and intimate luxury hotel offering a unique, modern interpretation of the rich Indonesian culture. Connoting ‘palace’ in Javanese, Keraton at The Plaza will feature an intimate 140 sumptuously appointed guest rooms and suites, each a haven of Javanese luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows and state of the art in-room technology. The hotel will also introduce the brand’s signature Luxury Collection Concierge service to all guests and promises the most discerning global travelers an extraordinary experience.

Exceptional Art & Design
Already celebrated for its distinct architecture and interior design, Keraton at The Plaza is inspired by the diversity of Indonesia’s geography and culture and features splashes of color, rich woods, and intricate Batik floral patterns throughout the hotel. The interior design, developed with SCDA Singapore and BuregaFarnell Pte. Ltd., celebrates local influence, from an intricate mural of Javanese artwork displayed at the porte-cochère to an abstract piece hand-carved from rick Mahogany wood and adorned with antique gold, depicting a royal welcome. Guests are invited to discover the eclectic collection of art throughout the hotel and in a dedicated gallery, both curated by the renowned design firm Hadiprana Artworks of Jakarta as well as local artists discovered by Mira Hadiprana.

Exquisite Culinary Experiences
Bengawan is the signature restaurant at Keraton at The Plaza, providing an authentic five-star Indonesian dining experience and featuring a customized menu that incorporates local flavors and indigenous ingredients from the islands. Located on the seventh floor with spectacular views of Jakarta, the indoor and outdoor restaurant provides a respite from the bustling city below wrapped in lush foliage and surrounded by soothing water features.

Located on the lobby level, the Keraton Lounge is a delightfully elegant venue serving traditional High Tea each afternoon. Fusing English and Javanese High Tea traditions, the Keraton Lounge features a lavish selection of hot and cold delicacies served with an extensive collection of local and international teas. In the evening, the Keraton Lounge offers classic cocktails, an international selection of wines and a variety of locally-inspired drinks.

A Perfectly Poised Palace
Located on the northwest coast of Java, Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and its largest city. Prominently situated near to Jakarta’s most famous roundabout and the gateway for visitors, Keraton at The Plaza is perfectly poised in the downtown business district, just 30 kilometers from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) and minutes from the enchanting and private oasis.

Jakarta’s best sites are within walking distance, including the iconic city landmark statue Selamat Datang, the world’s last wind-powered trading schooners at the picturesque 17th century port Sunda Kelapa, Pasar Baru, an area that dates back to the Dutch colonial era and On weekends visitors are invited to view the official residence of the Indonesian president at Presidential Palace, or enjoy the captivating views from the observation deck at Monas, the city’s most famous landmark located in the centre of Freedom Square. Other evocative entertainment can be found at the Jakarta Arts Theater, a fully restored, neo-renaissance building which showcases a wide array of indigenous, international and traditional art performances.

Life is a collection of experiences. Let us be your guide. For more information or reservations, please visit www.luxurycollection.com/keraton

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About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection® is an ensemble of hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Magnificent décor, spectacular settings, impeccable service and the latest modern conveniences combine to provide a uniquely enriching experience. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of 80 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries in bustling cities and spectacular destinations around the world. The Luxury Collection includes award-winning properties that continuously exceed guest expectations by offering unparalleled service, style and class while celebrating each hotel’s distinctive heritage and unique character. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information, please visit www.luxurycollection.com

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 1,103 properties in nearly 100 countries and 154,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft®, and ElementSM. The Company boasts one of the industry’s leading loyalty programs, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), allowing members to earn and redeem points for room stays, room upgrades and flights, with no blackout dates. Starwood also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., a premier provider of world-class vacation experiences through villa-style resorts and privileged access to Starwood brands. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com

Press Contact:
Alethea Lam
DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS
T 65 6335 4837 F 65 6335 4820
STARWOOD ASIA PACIFIC HOTEL & RESORTS PTE.LTD.
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