For eight decades it has set the international gold standard offering discerning travelers exceptional levels of comfort, service and style.

The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd., the prestigious luxury hospitality organization marks its 80th anniversary in 2008.

Throughout the year, there will be many novel and exciting events to celebrate this 80-year milestone, including charity benefits, auctions, contests, special rate promotions, regional parties and receptions – all culminating in November at the 2008 Annual Convention.

Formed in 1928 by an entrepreneurial group of forward-thinking Europeans, the company was initially known as The Luxury Hotels of Europe and Egypt, representing 38 hotels with approximately 9,000 rooms and suites.

Today, with nearly 450 members in 80 countries, The Leading Hotels of the World is the largest collection of the finest hotels, resorts and spas in the world. Each hotel has a unique and distinct character, and provides an authentic travel experience, while adhering to exacting levels of quality. This unparalleled portfolio offers guests an unrivaled breadth and depth of choice for both business and pleasure travel.

Recognizing the need of today's luxury traveler for more personalized service delivery, the company established the Leaders Club guest loyalty program which offers enriching, exclusive benefits at Leading Hotels when club members reserve through The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd.

In addition, the company has responded to the demands of another increasingly important customer segment by launching Leading Spas – the first international spa evaluation and accreditation program. The current roster of more than 100 includes destination spas, urban retreats and day spas, to meet the varied preferences of today's spa-goer.

Another of the company's pioneering innovations was the establishment of Quintess, The Leading Residences of the World, the world's premier luxury destination club, providing a portfolio of more than 70 exquisite properties in 30 international destinations.

To preserve the reputation of the Leading brand, hotels seeking admittance to this exclusive group must apply for admission, as the organization does not solicit new members. To be considered for inclusion, a hotel must be in the deluxe/luxury category and pass an anonymous inspection encompassing 1,500 separate standards criteria covering all aspects affecting guest comfort and convenience. Only the world's most distinguished properties are admitted to The Leading Hotels of the World, thereby assuring a constant adherence to the organization's exacting standards of high quality.