Marriott International Inc. Opens Its First Hotel in Kerala India - Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport

KOCHI, INDIA--(Marketwire - Dec 26, 2012) - The much awaited hotel from the Marriott India Cluster - Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport; opened its doors on 15^th December 2012; making it the first property of the international chain in Kerala.

The 4 star hotel in Kochi launch was done at the hands of political dignitaries Mr. K. Babu (Hon'ble Minister of Fisheries, Ports & Excise, Government of Kerala); Mr. A.P. Anil Kumar (Hon'ble Minister of Tourism, Kerala) and Mr. V.K. Ibrahim Kunju (Hon'ble Minister of Public Works, Kerala); Mr. Rajeev Menon (Area Vice President,Indian Sub-Continent, Maldives and Australia Marriott International Inc), Mr. Yusuff Ali (Managing Director, Lulu International) and Mr. Prakash Jayadevan (Hotel Manager, Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport).

The hotel is strategically located 300 mts from the Kochi International Airport and is well connected to all major destinations in and around Kochi. With a room inventory of 107 rooms, this Kochi 4 star hotel has the highest room inventory in the near vicinity of the Kochi international Airport; and is all set to cater to the needs of the transient -- business and leisure travellers. This smart city hotel holds a warm, welcoming feel, with a spacious lobby that is surrounded by natural light and beautiful land-scaping. The ergonomics of the rooms are built to match the requirement and comfort of today's business traveller; with in-room amenities such as 42 inch LED Television, iPod docking station, High Speed Internet Access (HSIA), electronic safe and in-room interactive technology.

The hotel provides a holistic culinary experience with its F&B options i.e.: MoMo Café -- an all-day dining restaurant that serves International, Indian and Local specialties. An Alfresco area adjoining the pool side, an ideal location to unwind over a hot coffee and interesting conversations. A Grab-and-Go store MoMo2Go serving sandwiches, pastries, pies, tarts along with a selection of hot and cold beverages. The property additionally offers 3 spacious Banquet & Boardroom Halls, a Fitness Centre, an Outdoor Swimming Pool, a kids pool & a Jacuzzi, along with a Business Centre and an Executive Lounge.

Mr. Rajeev Menon, Area Vice President, Indian Sub-Continent, Maldives and Australia Marriott International Inc., stated, "Kerala, known for its culturally rich heritage, has seen tremendous urbanization in the recent years. From being a tourism hub the state has slowly gained its popularity in the business sector. It has also grown as a much preferred MICE destination offering numerous options to the incoming guest. We are delighted to have launched our Courtyard brand in Kochi with a promise of delivering the best service quality that the city has ever seen. The Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport is a step towards the fortification of our commitment of bringing the best to this city and also the Indian markets."

On this special occasion, Mr. Yusuff Ali MA, Managing Director of Lulu Group International, the promoters and developers of Marriot Courtyard, Kochi Airport, said, "I have always believed in the investment potential of Kerala and I am really proud to associate with the world famous Marriott chain for our first hotel project in Kochi. I am sure, with the opening of this beautiful hotel the travellers frequenting the Kochi Airport can now look forward to world class facilities at affordable prices, which will further boost the travel and tourism sector of Kerala." Mr Yusuffali also added that there would be a second Marriott Hotel, coming up along with the launch of the much awaited Lulu Shopping Mall at Edappally in Kochi.

Mr. Prakash Jayadevan, Hotel Manager, Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport, Stated, "Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport epitomizes the blend of freshness, flexibility and functionality. The hotel with its strategic location is set to cater as a gateway to business and leisure travellers into Kerala. The features and amenities offered at the hotel best suit the requirements of today's smart traveller. With Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport we look forward to creating a refreshed hospitality experience in the Kerala market."

The opening of Courtyard by Marriott, Kochi Airport, marks the presence of Marriott International in Kerala. This business hotel in Kochi facilities, amenities and services is all set to create new landmarks in hospitality, as we look forward to welcoming you "The Marriott Way."