The facility will be the first Four Points by Sheraton facility in Uruguay and Starwood's second hotel in that South American country. Starwood already operates the Sheraton Montevideo Hotel there.

The hotel, currently under design, will be located in the Real de San Carlos area, Starwood officials say. The building will feature 100 guest rooms and spacious meeting facilities. The hotel, estimated to open in mid-2003, will be part of a development, which will include an 18-hole golf course and health spa facilities.

"With the addition of this hotel, Starwood continues to strengthen its presence in the region," comments Osvaldo Librizzi, president of Starwood's Latin America Division. "We are very pleased to be able to offer travelers the level of service and attention that are characteristic of Starwood properties." Four Points by Sheraton, a mid-scale, full-service hotel brand introduced by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. in 1995, has grown to now include 138 facilities in 15 countries.