�We continue to refine our portfolio through conversions and acquisitions to focus on first-class, urban and resort hotels with significant meeting space,� said Paul W. Whetsell, chairman and chief executive officer.  �This hotel has more than 60,000 square feet of meeting space, and we believe that the conversion to a Doubletree with its reservations system and group meeting sales force better aligns the property with our interest in accommodating large groups.  As a Doubletree hotel, the property now is part of the Hilton

Doubletree Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando (artist's rendering of the exterior)

The 742-room Doubletree Hotel, which is managed by Interstate Hotels & Resorts, is located at the entrance to the world-famous Universal Orlando theme park, featuring Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk. 

The $10 million in renovations planned for the property will include upgrades to guest rooms, the lobby, the building façade, meeting space, restaurants and retail space.  The hotel will remain open during the renovations. 

As part of the planned renovations, the façade of the hotel�s twin towers will be redesigned, transforming the property into a highly visible landmark for theme park visitors. 

Arlington, Va.-based MeriStar Hospitality Corporation owns 80 principally upscale, full-service hotels in major markets and resort locations with 21,995 rooms in 23 states, the District of Columbia and Canada.  The company owns hotels under such internationally known brands as Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott, Westin, Doubletree and Radisson. 

This press release contains forward-looking statements about MeriStar Hospitality Corporation, including those statements regarding future operating results, the timing and composition of revenues and expected proceeds from asset sales, among others.