Interval to Launch Shortstay Exchange
MARCH 31, 2009 - Interval International, a leading global provider of vacation services, will debut its online "ShortStay Exchange" program this spring, giving its upgraded, Interval Gold(R) members the opportunity to vacation in shorter increments.
"With today's hectic schedules and tighter budgets, many consumers are opting for weekend or four-day vacations. ShortStay Exchange allows us to provide great value to our members by expanding the overall flexibility of the vacation ownership product," said Sharon Freed, senior vice president of consumer marketing for Interval International. "This enhancement also will be a great selling feature at Interval-affiliated resorts, since it offers buyers the chance to tailor their vacation time to fit their needs."
In fact, the ShortStay Exchange program reflects emerging consumer travel preferences. Research findings from the 2008 National Leisure Travel MONITOR show that "weekend trips" (defined as trips of four nights or less that include a Saturday) now represent 53 percent of all vacations taken by Americans.
Another program benefit is that the shorter stay encourages Interval Gold members - whether they transact in weeks or points - to trade their time for accommodations at resorts they have not previously visited, thus broadening their experiences within Interval's ever-expanding network.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
