Marriott International, Inc. welcomed Ms. Karen Evans of Virginia as its 20 millionth Marriott Rewards member today. This is an industry record for a hotel guest loyalty program. Ms. Evans received airfare and a week's stay for two at any Marriott International hotel in the world and lifetime Platinum Elite status.

"More people have chosen Marriott Rewards than any other hotel loyalty program because it is the best value for their money," said Ed French, Marriott's senior vice president of customer relationship marketing. "They want to be rewarded for their loyalty, and they have chosen Marriott Rewards because they can reach their dream vacation 30 percent faster than with other programs."*

He added that the phenomenal growth of the program is due to the Marriott's expansive portfolio throughout the world, its reputation for providing excellent service, and the wide spectrum of hotels where they can earn and redeem points.

Currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, Marriott Rewards is the world's most popular and longest continuously running program. It has been selected "Best Hotel Reward Program" for seven consecutive years by Business Traveler magazine and was named "Best Hotel Loyalty Program" in 2003 by the readers of BusinessWeek magazine.

With over 2,400 participating hotels in 65 countries, Marriott Rewards features more resorts and on-site golf and spas than any other hotel company.

Complete details on the entire Marriott Rewards program, including Silver, Gold and Platinum Elite level benefits, program partners, reward options, news and special offers, are available on marriottrewards.com.

*Comparison based on seven nights at Starwood, Hilton, InterContinental Hotel Group and Hyatt full-service hotels of similar quality and points earned on dollars spent. Assumes standard award offerings for base-level members. All comparisons made as of 1/04.