Marriott announced today that it will open its first Residence Inn by Marriott in South America in Ecuador in 2012 with the opening of the 143-room Residence Inn by Marriott Guayaquil. The hotel will be operated under a management agreement with Furoiani Obras y Proyectos.

"We are thrilled to introduce the Residence Inn by Marriott brand to Ecuador, said Manuel Ovies, area vice president for South America for Marriott International. "With spacious suites, full kitchens, and free breakfast, Residence Inn provides a tremendous value for travelers," he continued. "We are confident that this dynamic product will find success in Guayaquil."

The Residence Inn Guayaquil will offer 143 spacious suites, ranging from studio to two-bedroom accommodations. Designed for stays of five nights or more, each suite includes a fully equipped kitchen and separate living and working area, complimentary high speed internet access, flat screen TV, and Marriott's highly acclaimed bed and bath linens. Rates vary depending on length of stay.  Other hotel facilities and services include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, business center, and a complimentary weekly social hour. The hotel also offers two meeting rooms designed to accommodate small meetings or events.

Guayaquil is Ecuador's largest city and a major commercial center. With its well known Pacific Ocean port, Guayaquil has evolved into the country's premier international commerce and shipping destination. When opened, the Residence Inn Guayaquil will be Marriott's third hotel in Ecuador. Marriott International is currently represented in the country by the 257-room JW Marriott Quito, and the 144-room Courtyard by Marriott Guayaquil.

Residence Inn is Marriott's third largest lodging brand with more than 600 properties in North and Central America.  Residence Inn participates in the award-winning Marriott Rewards frequent guest program which is the world's largest frequent stay program with 28 million members. Members can earn points toward free vacations or frequent flyer miles in their preferred airline program at more than 3,100 Marriott hotels in 67 countries.