Starwood Signs First Element Hotel in Asia Pacific

Starwood has signed an agreement with Suzhou Science and Technology Town Kexin Cultural Tourism Development to open a new-build Element hotel in Suzhou Science and Technology Town (SSTT), an eco-city adjacent to the commercial and administrative center of the city's high tech industrial development zone.

Slated for completion in mid-2015, the hotel, Element Suzhou Science and Technology Town (Element Suzhou), marks the Element brand's entry into Asia Pacific, as well as the presence of all of Starwood's nine differentiated lifestyle brands in the region.

"We are delighted to introduce the Element brand in Asia Pacific with this hotel in China, our fastest growing and most dynamic travel market," said Qian Jin, President, Greater China, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. "Chinese travelers are open to, and seek out, innovative and affordable hotel brands, and Element's arrival not only completes Starwood's brand line-up, but also echoes the growing consciousness of sustainable development in China."

Located at the intersection of Jialingjiang and Wuyishan Roads, Element Suzhou will be situated in SSTT, an eco-city adjacent to the commercial and administrative center of the High-Tech District. Since 2003, over 150 state-level research institutes, R&D organizations, tech-based innovative companies, training organizations, and outsourcing and design companies have settled in SSTT.

With seamless access to the Sunan Shuofang International Airport, high speed rail network and modern expressways, Element Suzhou will be connected to all parts of the city, including the famed Taihu Lake and downtown Suzhou. Also, as Suzhou is adjacent to the Shanghai Municipality, it can be reached via Hongqiao and Pudong Airports.

Element Suzhou's 190 stylish and sustainable guestrooms will feature the signature Heavenly Bed, a fluid design of modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks, and custom-designed closets.

Bathrooms will be spa-inspired, with an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet.

In addition, the hotel will offer approximately 10,764 square feet of versatile meeting space, a well-equipped business center, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor heated swimming pool.

Other brand signatures will include Element's healthy breakfast and relaxing evening reception with hot and cold appetizers as well as beer, wine, and soft drinks.

All day dining will be available with three to four private dining rooms, and a grab-and-go pantry for quick healthy meals.