Host Marriott Reports on New York Hotels

Press Release: Host Marriott Corporation
September 17, 2001
BETHESDA, MD -- In a statement to Host Marriott associates, Christopher J. Nassetta, president and chief executive officer, on Sept. 14 provided an update on the status of the New York Marriott World Trade Center hotel and the New York Marriott Financial Center hotel, two of the four New York City hotels owned by the Company. Mr. Nassetta commented, ``Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families and friends of Tuesday's tragic events. Similarly, we applaud the courage and heroism of those involved in the rescue and recovery efforts now underway.''

The update noted that the New York Marriott World Trade Center hotel, located at Three World Trade Center, has suffered catastrophic damage by the attack on the World Trade Center and has been rendered inoperable. Although the hotel was evacuated and there have been no confirmed reports of injuries, two associates of the management company, Marriott International, are still unaccounted for.

The New York Marriott Financial Center hotel, located two blocks south of the World Trade Center, also suffered damage from the implosion of the towers, but the extent of this damage and its impact on future hotel operations has not yet been determined.

Mr. Nassetta further stated, ``We have already begun the process of exploring our options and remedies with respect to these properties, but final decisions in this regard will not be made until we have additional information.'' Mr. Nassetta continued, ``Both properties are insured for property damage as well as business interruption.''

Other properties owned by Host Marriott in New York and Washington, in particular the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel, and the Dulles Airport Marriott Hotel are participating in relief efforts.

Host Marriott is a lodging real estate company which currently owns 125 upscale and luxury hotel properties primarily operated under premium brands, such as Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt, Four Seasons, Hilton and Swissotel. For further information, please visit the company's website at http://www.hostmarriott.com .

SOURCE: Host Marriott Corporation