Couples Resorts has joined with the Jamaica Tourist Board in a promotion to encourage travelers to get their passports in accordance with the new passport regulations for Caribbean travel by offering $200 in spa credit per room for travelers who make Jamaica their first stop with their new passport. The passport promotion is valid for travel January 1 to April 1, 2007 and travelers need to show their passport at check-in to prove Jamaica is their first international stop.

Marriott International, in its first such meeting outside the United States, told institutional investors and security analysts in Paris that it expects to increase the number of its hotel rooms outside North America by more than 30 percent by the end of 2009. The company also said it anticipates diluted earnings per share (EPS) to approximate $2.45 to $3.20 by the end of 2009, excluding earnings from synthetic fuel, assuming REVPAR increases of 9 to 10 percent in 2006 and compounded average annual growth rates of 4 to 8 percent from 2007 through 2009.

Wyndham Hotel Group is planning to launch a local language website, with localized content for Ramada Worldwide brand in Germany by the end of this year. The initiative follows the launch of its new global websites for both Ramada Worldwide and Days Inn, and simultaneous launch of its new localized websites for both brands in the UK and Ireland.

The Hilton Namhae Golf & Spa Resort opened its doors on October 24 and claims to be the first resort in South Korea to incorporate a seaside golf course overlooking the Straits of Korea. The property is a 170 all-suite and villa estate, featuring a panoramic coastal view and stunning contemporary design.

Radisson Hotels & Resorts Latin America and Atlantica Hotels International of Brazil are planning expansion to become one of the most prominent international hotel brands in Central and South America by 2011. Two Radisson hotels are currently operating in Brazil. These include the 205-room Radisson Sao Paulo, and the 195-room Radisson Hotel in Curitiba. Atlantica also operates the 215-room Park Plaza Suites International Trade Center in Sao Paulo.

Montana Holdings has selected RockResorts to manage the resort operations on the $700 million, 870-acre multi-use luxury resort / residential / marina development on Rum Cay Island, Bahamas. In addition to managing the luxury hotel and spa facilities, RockResorts has been engaged to manage the marina village, golf facility, certain residential rental programs and one or more private membership clubs.