The ‘Be hospitable' philosophy stems from a simple premise: at the heart of every great experience is a gracious host.

From opening two new hotels and expanding its largest property in Beijing to offering complimentary concierge services and lounges, The Hilton Family of Hotels is extending a warm welcome to Olympic athletes and fans traveling to the 2008 Olympic Games.

As athletes train for Olympic and Paralympic competitions, The Hilton Family of Hotels, Official Hotel Sponsor of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams, launched a training program of its own in Beijing.

Hilton Beijing hotel concierges and team members recently conducted hospitality training for a select group of Beijing residents knowledgeable of the local area, customs and services to staff. These local guides, which include several Beijing-based hospitality students, will staff the Hilton Family's be hospitable® Center Concierge Desks.

The Hilton Family's complimentary concierge service will provide useful resources including maps, directions, taxi information and translation services to U.S. visitors at two locations in Beijing.

"For U.S. Olympic athletes and their family and friends, we hope the be hospitable Centers will feel like their homes away from home," said Jeff Diskin, senior vice president, brand marketing, Hilton Hotels Corporation. "The Hilton Family's ‘be hospitable' philosophy stems from a simple premise: at the heart of every great experience is a gracious host. The Olympic experience is second to none and The Hilton Family looks forward to hosting its heroes and their biggest supporters."

To help visitors escape the fast-paced atmosphere in Beijing, be hospitable Centers' Lounges will offer a tranquil setting to sit back and relax.

Local massage therapists will be on hand to give complimentary mini massages from 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. daily August 8-24.

Visitors can also pick up a care package* that includes moist pocket towelettes, compact shoe buffs, mints and mini misting fans to help provide instant relief from Beijing's summer heat. The centers will be open daily from 11am – 11pm, August 8-24, at the Bank of America Hometown Hopefuls® Family Center and USA House.