News Releases

HYATT REGENCY AUSTIN ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR RENOVATION
Expansive Renovation Encompasses Public Spaces, Suites, Meeting Spaces, Dining Venues

AUSTIN (January 14, 2009) – Hyatt Regency Austin Downtown, On The Lake, one of Austin’s premier downtown hotel properties, is pleased to announce the completion of the hotel’s multi-million dollar renovation, according to General Manager Lance Stumpf.

“We are excited and proud to reintroduce the Hyatt Regency Austin, which has been given a major facelift to meet the expectations and needs of our valued guests,” said Stumpf. “Although we still offer the same well-appointed guest rooms, expansive meeting space and unparalleled service, we have added exterior touches, a redesigned lobby and bar area, revitalized meeting space, a state-of-the-art fitness facility overlooking the magnificent Austin skyline, and our newest gem – SWB, a southwest bistro – on the second level of our Atrium.”

The exterior Hyatt Regency Austin is noticeably refreshed, with new paint, lighting and signage, a full glass-fronted entry and landscaping. Upon entering the hotel, guests will immediately notice the dramatic changes to the registration area – including the removal of the registration desk and original western-themed mural – with more modern Registration Pods and Check-In Kiosks in its place. Via the use of dark woods, tiled pillars, and a warm color palette of reds, oranges, and browns, the contemporary lobby also features plush sofas and high-backed club chairs where guests can conduct business or simply relax in a comfortable setting.

The hotel’s 18 grand guest suites – including 12 Executive Suites; four Deluxe Suites, one with a private balcony; and two Presidential Suites – have been completely redesigned, featuring new carpet, furnishings, linens, and décor. In addition, the hotel installed new energy-saving technology in the air conditioning systems of all 448 guestrooms, as well as contemporary hallway sconces, automated privacy signs and contemporary doorbells.

To better accommodate business travelers and group meetings, which comprise an important percentage of the hotel’s business, the hotel has upgraded the expansive 23,000 square feet of meeting space, including new carpet, lighting, ceilings, and wall coverings.

In addition, the hotel now features a brand-new bistro and bar, a revitalized coffee bar and a state-of­the-art fitness center.

Named for its location along the Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail, which runs through downtown Austin, Marker 10 Spirits & Cuisine opened with great fanfare in June 2008. The bar’s patio features plasma screen TVs and impressive lake and downtown views.  Tapas-style appetizers are served alongside signature drinks such as The Marker 10 and the Orange 10 Tini, a finalist in the 2008 Austin Drink of the Year Contest.  The bar also boasts an extensive wine, beer and cocktail service.

Featuring a menu flavored with the Southwest and Austin’s eclectic flare, SWB, a southwest bistro opened in August 2008 on the second level of the Atrium. Executive Chef Javier Ortiz serves up a number of signature dishes prepared with the freshest locally grown organic produce, whenever possible, including fresh Guacamole prepared tableside. The newest concept in hotel dining, The Community Table – which seats up to 10 – allows solo travelers the opportunity to dine with others in a communal atmosphere, rather than at a table for one or alone in their guestroom.

For patrons seeking a pick-me-up any time of day, Perks Coffee and More offers Starbucks® coffee along with food and gift items. Originally located on the second level of the Atrium, Perks Coffee and More has been relocated to the ground level just off the main lobby. What was once a solid cement outer wall of the hotel was replaced with sparkling glass and an outdoor patio complete with plasma screen TV, allowing patrons to relax with their coffee and snacks between meetings or after a refreshing workout in Hyatt Regency Austin’s StayFit@Hyatt Fitness Center.

The 24-hour, state-of-the-art StayFit@Hyatt Fitness Center features new Life Fitness cardio and weight-lifting equipment. Completed in January 2008, this expanded space offers views of Lady Bird Lake and downtown Austin. For those who choose to work out in the privacy of their spacious guestroom, Hyatt Austin offers Hyatt’s YogaAwayTM program, an innovative system with complete yoga workouts available from the in-room entertainment unit. A variety of programs are available, including fitness, stress reduction and mental focus.

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About Global Hyatt Corporation

Global Hyatt Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is one of the world’s premier hotel companies. The hotels owned, operated, managed or franchised by its subsidiaries provide authentic hospitality to guests in 45 countries through a passionate commitment to personalized service, cultural relevance, and the environment. Global Hyatt subsidiaries own, operate, manage or franchise more than 365 hotels and resorts worldwide under the Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Resorts™, Grand Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Hyatt Place®, Hyatt Summerfield Suites® and Andaz™ brands with additional properties under development on five continents. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club®. The success of Global Hyatt is driven by the commitment and energy of the approximately 90,000 men and women around the world who provide exceptional service to hotel guests. From the U.S. and Canada, reservations for any Hyatt hotel worldwide may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234 or visiting www.hyatt.com.

NOTE TO MEDIA: High resolution images of the newly renovated Hyatt Regency Austin are available upon request.

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Meredith Michelson
Vollmer Public Relations
512-370-5507
Meredith@vollmerpr.com