As Marriott continues its expansion throughout Europe, the company today announced plans to open a second hotel in Bucharest, the 147-room Courtyard by Marriott Bucharest.  The hotel will operate under a management agreement with Gica Popescu Hotels SRL and is expected to open in early 2014.

The Courtyard by Marriott Bucharest will be Marriott International's second hotel in the city, joining the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. Bucharest, Romania's largest city and capital, is the commercial and industrial hub of the country.  Incredibly well connected, with easy access to two international airports and a railway network that connects Romania with other major cities across Europe, the city also boasts fascinating history, natural, leafy landscapes and an eclectic mix of architecture.

"We are excited to be adding the Courtyard Bucharest to our portfolio in Eastern Europe," said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe.   "We continue to see tremendous opportunity for expansion throughout Eastern Europe, particularly with our Courtyard by Marriott brand. As an essential part of our growth strategy and with the recent introduction of our Courtyard prototype in Europe, we are excited to continue to grow the brand, now 47 hotels strong across Europe."

The new Courtyard Bucharest will be located in the city center, close to the business district and transport links.  Its architecture will reflect the innovative design concept of the Courtyard by Marriott brand, designed to help business travelers maintain balance on the road.  Spacious, stylish and comfortable guest rooms that inspire productivity with ample work space will allow guests to work and relax on their own terms.

Both stylish and functional, the contemporary lobby will offer flexible seating, an interactive GoBoard™ screen featuring the latest news, weather and local information, and a 24-hour market for grab-and-go salads and sandwiches. The hotel will also feature an all-day restaurant with menu items reflecting local tastes.  Ample meeting space and a large well-equipped fitness centre with sauna complete the hotel's facilities.

Introduced in 1983 and now with over 900 hotels, Courtyard by Marriott is the 11th largest global hotel brand*. In addition to the new European prototype, the brand will unveil a new Asian inspired design for the Chinese traveler later this year.

*source MKG Hospitality