LONDON Sept. 16, 1999 / The Ritz, London announced it has received the "Best UK Business Hotel" award from the readers of Conde Nast Traveller, British edition.

The annual Readers' Travel Awards took place in London on Sept. 15, 1999, when The Ritz received its prestigious award.

"We are absolutely delighted and honored to receive such an outstanding distinction," stated Ruth Jones, director of Sales and Marketing for The Ritz, London. "With the recent renovation of the property and the emphasis we have placed on corporate sales, we are extremely pleased that our efforts have been recognized."

The Ritz scored an astounding 99.5% for standard comfort of accommodation, more than 90% for impressive business systems and 90% for the value for money it offers clients. The hotel was judged by a series of categories including location, ambiance/decor, environmental friendliness, service/staff, standard comfort of accommodation, food/restaurants, conference facilities, business services/systems available, leisure facilities and value for money.

Conde Nast Traveller magazine, which prides itself on editorial independence, received 26,000 responses to the Readers' Travel Awards questionnaire. The nominations were sent to an independent market-research company, which collated and analyzed the data to produce the list of the top recommendations in world travel.

In addition to the best "UK Business Hotel," The Ritz ranked 18th in the "Best of the Best" Top 100 in the World category and 15th in the highly competitive "UK Leisure Hotel" category.

One of the world's most legendary hotels, The Ritz opened May 24, 1906, at the height of the Edwardian heyday. From its very beginning, the hotel received the patronage of Britain's monarchy and aristocracy. The popularity of The Ritz has endured throughout the ages with Hollywood celebrities, royalty and world leaders still frequenting the hotel.

Situated in the heart of London, The Ritz enjoys views of Green Park and historic Piccadilly. Guests of the hotel, which has recently been redecorated and refurbished from top to toe, are surrounded by comfort and elegance with marble columns, individually decorated rooms and an opulent Louis XVI decor.

For reservations contact The Ritz at 150 Piccadilly, London W1V 9DG; telephone: 171/493-8181; facsimile: 171/493-2687; or to make hotel reservations from the United States, call Small Luxury Hotels of the World 800/525-4800 (U.S.).

For more information on The Ritz, London contact Victoria King Public Relations Inc. at 12381 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 203, Los Angeles, Calif., 90025; telephone: 310/207-5175; facsimile: 310/207-5525.

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