Munich Hotel Raises Its Beer Stein in a Toast to Germany's Biggest Festival

MUNICH, GERMANY--(Marketwired - Dec 20, 2013) -  Germany has a reputation for excellence across many disciplines (think castles, automobiles and opera), but nothing embodies the spirit of German festivity quite like Oktoberfest. And for anyone who has yet to celebrate the largest festival in the world, staying at the Courtyard Munich City Center is the best way to experience every malty minute of the two-week extravaganza.

Each year at the end of September, millions of people from around the world make their way to Oktoberfest to experience its characteristic mix of modern and nostalgic attractions. Men and women outfitted in lederhosen and dirndls exchange beery toasts with those in contemporary dress as everyone enjoys the rides, the Bavarian snacks and the traditional German music.

Of course, to ensure that no beer remains untried, in-the-know travelers will explore Munich hotels located near Oktoberfest when selecting a place to stay. Foremost among these is the Courtyard Munich City Center, which is just a five-minute walk from the Theresienwiese, the official grounds of Oktoberfest.

This hotel in Munich's city center is ideally positioned to let guests witness the grand entry of the Oktoberfest landlords and breweries, who ride with the hosts of the beer tents and the music bands right past the hotel on flower-strewn carriages. Guests can follow in the parade's wake to watch the mayor of Munich officially begin Oktoberfest by breaking open the first barrel of beer and declaring, "O'Zapft is," a Bavarian expression that invites everyone to begin celebrating. Just as the hotel observes the start of the festival, it is within walking distance of all the after-Oktoberfest events, which allows guests to dance through the nights even after the tents have closed.

Oktoberfest isn't the only attraction nearby the property. As one of the hotels near Munich's central train station, the Courtyard Munich City Center boasts an enviable location close to the best sights. The tranquil English Garden, Marienplatz and the historic beer hall, Hofbräuhaus, for example, are all within walking distance.

Just as important as the hotel's location are its amenities, and this property doesn't disappoint. Offering some of the most spacious and value-added hotel rooms in Munich, the stylish property welcomes guests with luxury bedding, in-room refrigerators and safes, high-speed Internet and Plug-In Panels that make their stay as convenient as it is exciting.

With the countdown to the 2014 Oktoberfest already underway, travelers can take the first step toward experiencing the more than 200-year-old tradition by booking their stay at the Courtyard Munich City Center.

About the Courtyard Munich City Center
The Courtyard Munich City Center is located in the heart of Munich and offers individual conference guests as well as leisure travelers an inspiring environment in which to stay, sightsee and work. Mediterranean creations are served in Oléo Pazzo, a restaurant with an open show kitchen, while the hotel's buffet breakfast cooks up a mouthwatering start to each day. For those who want a lighter meal, the Oléo Pazzo Bar offers tapas-style dining, and the 24-hour market provides convenient snacks and drinks. A total of 248 guest rooms and suites offer space for recreation and relaxation, while four meeting rooms and a deluxe business center meet the needs of corporate guests. Offering comfort and convenience, this city-center property makes an ideal vantage point from which to experience Munich.

About Marriott International:
Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 72 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands, including Marriott Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Bulgari, EDITION, Renaissance, Gaylord Hotels, Autograph Collection, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, Marriott Executive Apartments, Marriott Vacation Club, Grand Residences by Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club. There are approximately 325,000 employees at headquarters, managed and franchised properties. Marriott is consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business operations, which it conducts based on five core values: put people first, pursue excellence, embrace change, act with integrity, and serve our world. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.