Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announced the opening of its first Westin property in India, The Westin Sohna - Gurgaon, Resort & Spa. Close to both Delhi and Gurgaon, the new resort offers a restful, rejuvenating guest experience enhanced by superior recreational facilities, naturally-lit meeting space, an array of world-class cuisine and the full range of Westin’s renowned signature amenities.

Just 90 minutes from the New Delhi International Airport, The Westin Sohna - Gurgaon, Resort & Spa is ideally located for a weekend getaway and serves as a refreshing, innovative venue for meetings and conferences. Set amidst lush landscaped gardens and farm land, the resort offers 97 deluxe rooms and stand-alone suites, as well as state- of-the-art meeting facilities – all in a scenic, rural setting.

“As the first of several Westin hotels to open in India, The Westin Sohna - Gurgaon, Resort & Spa will introduce our renowned brand to this exciting, fast-growing market,” said Stephen Ford, Regional Vice President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, India, Nepal and Bangladesh. “We are confident that the luxurious accommodations and instinctive services provided by this new Westin resort will enable tourists and business travelers to enrich their mind, body and spirit.”

Starwood has been quick to respond to India’s increased need for lodging, driven by the country’s brisk economic growth. In the past year, Starwood has aggressively expanded its footprint in this fast-growing market, signing deals to open new hotels in markets throughout India across several of its brands including two new Sheratons, three new Westins and two new aloft hotels.  Starwood now offers over 25 hotels in India, including properties already in operation as well as those under development.

The Westin Sohna - Gurgaon, Resort & Spa will elevate the guest experience with soothing touches, including a subtle earth tone décor, mood music, and ambient lighting. The full range of Westin signature services will be available to both hotel guests and residents, including The Westin Heavenly Bed®, Heavenly Spa by Westin(sm), Westin WORKOUT® Powered by Reebok, Westin Kids Club®, and The Westin sensory welcome.  Guests seeking an opportunity to socialize will appreciate Unwind: a Westin Evening Ritual featuring the tastes, sights and sounds of India.

Contd on page 2....