The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach - Miami's Newest Oceanfront Luxury Hotel Opens December 24, 2003

MIAMI BEACH, Fla., The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, a complete restoration of the historic DiLido hotel, opens December 24, 2003 -- almost 50 years to the day the landmark hotel opened on the corner of fashionable Lincoln Road and Collins Avenue in the famed Art Deco district. The $200 million restoration retains the exterior curves, sweeping lines and pastel accents of the Art Moderne/Miami Modern ("MiMo") design style used by renowned architect Morris Lapidus and adds new features that deliver a stylish and modern interpretation of luxury. The project is a joint venture between Miami-based Lionstone Hotels and Resorts and Paul Kanavos, CEO of New York- based Flag Luxury Properties, LLC.

The 375-room property features some of South Beach's hottest night spots. A first ever for any Ritz-Carlton property, renowned South Beach disc jockeys (including DJ Mark Leventhal, DJ Gigi and DJ JP Rigaud) spin the latest European and world lounge music in the Lapidus Lounge. Five water ballerinas, adorned in opulent capes and extravagant headdresses created by the costume designer for Cirque du Soleil, begin their nightly ritual in the lounge and lead guests to the pool deck for an evening of water ballet -- the only such performance of any hotel in Miami. The DiLido Beach Club, the only beachside restaurant and lounge on South Beach, is accessible to both hotel guests and the public. "Sun Cuisine," a term created by Executive Chef Thomas Connell, is served at this upscale, St. Tropez-style restaurant. Hearkening back to an era of refined style and simple cuisine, Americana's presentations are modernized classics with an Italian flare. For truly special occasions, Onyx 360 is available -- a private table for 10 with a perfect 360 degree view of the hotel where guests are privy to their own chef, wait staff and menus.

The only exclusive VIP level of any hotel on South Beach, the Club Level at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach offers entertainment Thursday - Saturday nights featuring jazz performed by a trio of talented musicians that have played with the likes of Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan and Jon Secada.

For those who revel in poolside luxury, the hotel provides beautiful Tanning Butlers to recommend and apply sunscreen and tanning products. Poolside concierge is also on hand to accommodate a guest's every request. VIP cabanas create ultra-posh, private sanctuaries for hotel guests. The two grand cabanas feature retractable drapes, horizontal Roman blinds and plush pillows-perfect for days of private sunbathing and evenings of exclusive cocktail soirees. The five ocean-view cabanas include fans, telephones, plasma screen televisions, refrigerators and Internet access.

A multi-million dollar art collection features works by more than a dozen established and emerging Latin American and European artists who have created modern works inspired by the Art Moderne era.

The hotel introduces the first La Maison de Beaute Carita Spa outside of Paris. This exclusive 16,000 square foot "Temple of Beauty" features 14 treatment rooms, a "Power Shower" with 23 body sprays, an expansive fitness center, luxurious relaxation lounges, a full-service salon and two couple's suites -- one with a floor to ceiling window overlooking lively South Beach.

Introductory rates at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach begin at $309 per night. For additional information about The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, please call (800) 241-3333, the hotel directly at 786-276-4000, a travel professional or visit The Ritz-Carlton Web site at: www.ritzcarlton.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., headquartered in Chevy Chase, MD, in the United States of America, manages 55 award-winning luxury hotels and resorts in the U.S., Middle East, Asia, North and South America, Europe, The Caribbean and Mexico. For information, or reservations, please call 351 219 24 9000 or email [email protected].