Grand America Receives 2006 AAA Five Diamond Award

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SALT LAKE CITY, Nov. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- For the second consecutive year, The Grand America Hotel has been named a recipient of the prestigious American Automobile Association (AAA) Five Diamond Award for 2006. The Grand America is the only hotel in Salt Lake City to receive this coveted designation, and is one of 76 Five Diamond hotels holding that distinction nationwide. Only 0.26 percent (about one-quarter of one percent) of all rated properties attained the exclusive Five Diamond rating this year.

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award for the second consecutive year," says Bruce T. Fery, executive vice president of hotels for the Grand America Hotels and Resorts. "This award is a reflection of our dedicated staff who strive to make every guest experience a personalized stay at The Grand America Hotel."

According to AAA data, the Grand America is also the largest urban hotel targeting the meetings and conventions segment to receive the Five Diamond Award. The Grand America provides more than 74,000 total square feet of meeting space, comprised of 31 different meeting and board rooms. The hotel's 24,000 square foot ballroom has been the site of major new automobile introductions, national banking conventions and international pharmaceutical meetings.

The Diamond rating criteria include six key areas: management and staff; housekeeping and maintenance; exterior, grounds and public areas; room decor, ambiance and amenities; bathrooms; and guest services. To compile final scores, AAA Tourism Editors conduct an unannounced personal visit to each property and also interview ownership and management.

AAA's Five Diamond criteria states: "Establishments reflect the characteristics of the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Accommodations are first class. The physical attributes are extraordinary in every manner. The fundamental hallmarks at this level are to meticulously serve and exceed all guest expectations while maintaining an impeccable standard of excellence. Many personalized services and amenities enhance an unmatched level of comfort."

The Grand America, Salt Lake City's only Five Diamond hotel, is part of the Grand America Hotels and Resorts owned by Earl Holding. The properties include Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley, Idaho, ranked among the nation's top 10 ski areas by SKI magazine in 2005; Snowbasin Ski Resort just outside of Salt Lake City, site of the 2002 Downhill and Super G Races; the Westgate Hotel in San Diego; and Little America properties in Utah, Arizona, and Wyoming. For reservations or more information on Grand America, please call 800-621-4505 or visit the hotel's website at http://www.grandamerica.com.

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