PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico and MCLEAN, Va. – Hilton Worldwide today announced that it has signed a franchise development agreement with Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe for the first Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.  Scheduled to open in Q2 2012, Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort forms part of the company’s aggressive expansion campaign to grow the Hilton Worldwide portfolio throughout Mexico and Latin America.

Located just five minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s International Airport and cruise ship terminal, Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort will present vanguard and elegant architectural and design concepts that integrate the senses.  A world-renowned architectural firm, selected by Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe, will create elements of enjoyment, relaxation and comfort for all guests. The all-inclusive property will join Hilton Resorts, a specific collection of premier properties within the Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio that are designed for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in the world’s most sought after destinations.

“Latin America remains a key development market for us as our brand continues its rapid global growth,” said Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts.  “Hilton Puerto Vallarta will be a much anticipated addition to this leading leisure travel market.”

Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort will feature 259 luxury rooms, executive and honeymoon suites with modern décor, deluxe amenities and state of the art facilities surrounded by spectacular views of the mountains and the Bandera’s Bay.  Guests of Hilton Puerto Vallarta will also enjoy proximity to two elite shopping centers just a few feet away and the traditional Malecon just 10 minutes from the hotel.

Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort will offer five gourmet culinary destinations that will provide memorable dining experiences including: international cuisine at “SEA FIRE”, Mexican food at “La Catrina”, Italian cuisine at “Cinque Terre”, theme nights in “The Beach” near “O West Lounge” featuring martinis, tapas and spectacular views of the Bandera´s Bay.

Guests seeking recreational options can choose to exercise in the hotel’s Hilton Fitness by Precor gym, pamper themselves in the hotel spa with a Jacuzzi area, sauna, solarium and beauty salon, refresh in the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool, or join the fun at the hotel’s “Adventure Club,” featuring specialized entertainment for all age groups.

For guests traveling on business, Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort will offer three meeting rooms and a full-service business center.  For groups and conventions, Hilton Puerto Vallarta’s Grand Salon is a perfect choice with a capacity for up to 600 persons in banquet setting.

Hilton Puerto Vallarta Resort will participate in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest rewards program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® for the same stay and redeem points for free nights with No Blackout Dates at more than 3,700 hotels worldwide.

Hilton Worldwide currently has a portfolio of more than 20 hotels and resorts open and welcoming travelers in Mexico.  The company has eight hotels currently under development throughout the country and continues to actively pursue additional growth opportunities in Mexico.