The Jeddah Marriott Hotel has slashed 50 per cent off its room rates and combined with car rental major Avis to offer a "Drive and Stay" package to coincide with the annual Jeddah Festival this year.

The Cool Summer Offer for the Jeddah Summer Festival 2001 continues until August 31 and includes a range of value benefits at the half price of SR250 ($67) for a single deluxe room and SR350 for a double room.

"The special package which is available for a minimum two nights stay, includes free stay for two children under 12 years of age with the parents, late checkout, complimentary tea and coffee in the lobby and free access to health club facilities and swimming pool," said a hotel spokesman.

"The Drive and Stay offer allows the guest the use of an Avis Suzuki Baleno or Honda City car with 150km free for SR375 per room per night."

Located close to Jeddah's business district and exhibition centre, the Marriott offers 210 rooms in two seven-storey buildings including 90 deluxe double rooms, 64 deluxe king-size rooms, 54 suites and two royal suites. All rooms offer views of the city or the hotel pool.

"The rooms feature individual climate control, voice mail, direct dial phones, satellite television, hair dryer, iron and ironing board and bathroom amenties," said the spokesman.

Jeddah Marriott is fully equipped to cater for both business and leisure travellers. For the business traveller, there is a 24-hour Business Centre featuring full range of secretarial services and an Internet cafŽ offering high-speed access to the world.

The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and fully-equipped health club and gym with sauna, Jacuzzi, steam bath and massage rooms to relax after a hectic day.

There is a range of dining options offering an international selection to suit most palates.

Jeddah Marriott has recently introduced a Special Fitness Bonanza corporate package for local companies with a minimum membership of five employees. The offer which starts at SR800 for a three month membership is valid until September 1. Six-months membership is being offered at SR1,600 while a full year's membership is on offer at SR2,500.

Jeddah Marriott offers extensive meeting and conference facilities to cater for groups of 10 to 250 people. It is also proving to be a popular wedding venue.