BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Host Marriott Corporation (NYSE: HMT) today announces that the 365-room Swissotel in Atlanta will be re- flagged to a Westin, effective January 7, 2004. The Westin Buckhead will represent the Company's first property managed by Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Christopher J. Nassetta, president and chief executive officer stated, "We believe that this world-class operator will build upon the successes of the prior manager and drive profitability at this hotel."

The Four Diamond hotel is located on Peachtree Road in Buckhead, Atlanta's fashionable business, shopping and entertainment district. The hotel property includes the legendary Palm restaurant and is adjacent to Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza. Starwood Hotels and Resorts manages franchises or operates over 700 hotels and resorts worldwide, including 110 Westin hotels and resorts.

Host Marriott Corporation is a lodging real estate Company, which owns 120 upscale and luxury full-service hotel properties primarily operated under Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Hyatt and Hilton brand names. For further information on Host Marriott Corporation, please visit the Company's website at www.hostmarriott.com.

SOURCE  Host Marriott Corporation
    -0-                             10/24/2003
    /CONTACT:  Gregory J. Larson, Senior Vice President Investor Relations, of
Host Marriott Corporation, +1-240-744-5120/
    /Web site:  http://www.hostmarriott.com/
    (HMT)

CO:  Host Marriott Corporation; Starwood Hotels and Resorts
ST:  Maryland, Georgia
IN:  LEI
SU:

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0124 10/24/2003 15:22 EDT http://www.prnewswire.com