Bangkok--12 Sep--Best Western International Best Western — The World’s Largest Hotel Chain participates in the 19th Annual Philippines Travel Mart this Sept. 12-14 at SM Megamall’s Mega Trade Hall, to raise its profile and strengthen its brand in a country which it sees as having tremendous potential for its international-standard hotels and resorts. The annual three-day Travel Mart is the Philippines’ largest travel fair, bringing together regional tourism offices, tour operators, hotels, airlines, transport services and other significant stakeholders in the local travel industry. Organized by the Philippine Tour Operations Association, the event is co-presented by the Department of Tourism, the Philippine Tourism Authority and other public and private sector stakeholders in the industry. Best Western hotels in the Philippines, including Best Western La Corona and Best Western Astor, both in Manila, are strongly featured at the company’s stand. Gracing the opening is Best Western Regional Operations Manager-Asia Raymond Howe. “Best Western sees The 19th Annual Philippines Travel Mart as an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of its brand, especially its high-end Best Western Premier resorts and hotels,” said Glenn de Souza, Vice President International Operations Asia, Best Western International. He added that Best Western expects to add another 10 hotels in key locations in the Philippines by 2010 which will help the company achieve its regional goal of increasing the number of properties in various stages of rebranding, refurbishment and construction in Asia from 133 currently to 200 within the same timeframe. Best Western will account for about 40% of the Philippines portfolio and Best Western premier which will take a larger, 60%. Glenn de Souza further states, “The Best Western Premier signature brand is a distinct hotels and resorts collection that offers both business and leisure travellers highly refined standards and services and enhanced travel experiences in key destinations. Uncompromising design and quality standards are rigorously implemented to ensure that all guests enjoy the experience.” Cyndy Tan Jarabata, President of TAJARA Leisure and Hospitality Group and Best Western’s Area Developer in the Philippines adds “Hotel owners are pleased by Best Western’s global presence and brand value which aims to be present in all major destinations, strategizing up to 2 properties in key tourist locations. With the launching of its Premier brand, we are addressing the needs of different travellers anticipating genuine Filipino hospitality, indulgent service with uniquely memorable experiences.” “There is a strong demand for city hotels and resort destinations as the Philippines continue to attract business and leisure markets from both local and foreign clients. Cebu, Boracay, Bohol, and Palawan are key resort favourites while Manila, Makati and Pasig are demanding more room inventories. We also welcome new and secondary destinations as we grow our portfolio to become the biggest chain in the country,” Ms. Tan-Jarabata explained. Best Western International Asia appointed TAJARA Leisure and Hospitality Group as the Best Western Area Developer in the Philippines. TAJARA Leisure has a proven track record in hotel development and hospitality consulting services, guiding clients through strategic planning and development process, helping design property plans that appeals to the lifestyle needs of its target market. For more information about Best Western Development in the Philippines, please contact Tajara Leisure and Hospitality Group at +632-9003407 or email [email protected] and Visit www.tajaraleisure.com ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL Best Western International is THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into and iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western’s diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveller, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official hotel of NASCAR?. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com. *numbers are approximate and can fluctuate. Thailand Media contact: Philippines Media Contact: Ms. Kanapa Pitakpong Ms. Maricel Parot Ms. Nootnaree Bootpim Administrative Assistant Public Relations Coordinator TAJARA Leisure and Hospitality Group Best Western International — Asia Best Western Area Developer Philippines Phone: +662 6561260 Phone: +632 9000552 Fax: +662 6561252 Fax: +632 9003407 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]