Starwood Plans to Open Several Resorts in Peru

Starwood is rapidly expanding its presence in South America, announcing plans to open three new properties in Peru.

In a franchise agreement with Inmobiliaria Inversiones Nacionales de Turismo S.A., Starwood will open its first Westin hotel in South America in Lima, Peru as well as two Luxury Collection properties - one in Cusco, the capital of the ancient Inca Empire, and the other in the sacred valley of Urubamba, near the Inca trail to Machu Picchu.

The Luxury Collection is opening two unique properties in Peru, both within close proximity of world-famous Inca ruins. Both spectacular properties will seamlessly integrate local customs, culture and natural influences into the guest experience, while fulfilling every guest need with an extraordinarily high level of service.

Palacio del Inca Libertador Luxury Collection Hotel will open in Cusco, the mythical capital of the sun-worshipping Inca Empire where past and present come together. The magnificent property will undergo significant renovations prior to its scheduled opening in 2009. Palacio del Inca Libertador Luxury Collection Hotel will feature 192 rooms, including 14 suites, as well as two restaurants, a spa and more than 1,900 square feet of meeting space.

The second Luxury Collection hotel will open in early 2010 in Urubamba, Peru, a picturesque, small town located just one hour outside of Cusco. Valle Sagrado Libertador Luxury Collection Hotel will be the first internationally branded hotel to be built in the Sacred Valley of Urubamba, Peru.

Westin Hotels & Resorts is making its debut in South America by opening its first property in Lima, the capital city of Peru located on the country’s western coast. The new-build hotel will be strategically located in San Isidro, a high-end neighborhood at the heart of the city’s financial district.

Scheduled to open in early 2010, the new Westin will feature 311 guestrooms, more than 30,000 square feet of meeting space, a lobby bar, two restaurants and the Westin brand’s signature amenities and services including The Westin Heavenly Bed.