Renaissance Providence Hotel becomes TAG Approved Honor Recognizes the Hotel as a Gay-Friendly Destination

    /24-7PressRelease/ - PROVIDENCE, RI, March 12, 2008 - The new Renaissance Providence Hotel, an upscale, full-service hotel affiliated with the Marriott portfolio of branded luxury hotels, is now designated as TAG Approved . This prestigious designation is awarded to gay-friendly hotels, resorts and destinations across the United States.

Distinction as a TAG Approved hotel recognizes the Renaissance Providence Hotel's outstanding commitment to equality, including:
• Enforcing non-discriminatory policies including sexual orientation
• Treating heterosexual spouses and homosexual domestic partners equally in personnel policies
• Providing diversity and sensitivity training for employees
• Empowering customers and employees to be watchdogs of its gay and lesbian business practices

"The gay and lesbian travel market represents nearly $65 billion a year, and shows promise of rapid, continued growth," says Glen Fishman, manager of the Travel Alternatives Group (TAG) and projects director for Community Marketing, Inc., which launched the TAG marketing program in 1998. "This opportunity will help the Renaissance Providence Hotel succeed in reaching and serving gay and lesbian travelers across the country."

Established in 1998, TAG's mission is to identify, promote and support companies and organizations that welcome gay and lesbian guests. There are more than 1,000 TAG approved properties in the United States, four of which are in Rhode Island, including the Renaissance Providence luxury hotel.

"We are proud to receive TAG approval because it recognizes our efforts to serve and welcome the gay community," says Angelo De Peri, general manager of the Renaissance Providence Hotel. "We hope this designation inspires any and all travelers to stay at the Renaissance Providence Hotel, where they will find a welcoming and non-discriminatory environment."

The Renaissance Providence Hotel, part of the Marriott portfolio of hotels, located in Providence, R.I., features 272 guest-rooms, 10,000 square feet of state-of-the art meeting space, an independent freestanding destination restaurant and lounge, fitness center and a 49-room club level as well as a dramatic theater-like lobby with stunning views of the neighboring Rhode Island State House.

About Renaissance Providence Hotel
Stimulate your senses at a dramatic Providence, RI hotel boasting a fully orchestrated experience that celebrates the visual arts, music, drama, and dance at the Renaissance Providence Hotel. Originally built in 1929 as a Masonic temple, the remarkable neoclassical architecture has been meticulously restored to its natural beauty, while the interior has been transformed into an elegant reflection of modern day sophistication, creating a unique Providence, Rhode Island hotel. Beyond the iconic columns and grand entrance, visitors are welcomed by a theatrical backdrop that sets the stage for in an inspiring experience. Stylish downtown Providence hotel rooms offer timeless luxury, stunning detail, and refined comforts, as well as innovative technology. A central location in the Capitol District allows guests to visit the area's timeless sites, such as the Rhode Island Statehouse. Reacquaint yourself with creativity and explore an expression of the arts at the glorious Renaissance Hotel in Providence, RI. For more information or to make a reservation, call 401-919-5000, or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pvdbr-renaissance-providence-hotel/.

# # #