The Midlands Authority for Conventions, Sports & Tourism (MACST) announced the opening of Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott hotel located in Columbia, S.C. January 5 .

The new Fairfield Inn and Suites hotel represents a new concept within the lodging industry; a hotel that combines traditional guest rooms with signature suites.

The Fairfield Inn and Suites hotel features 96 guest rooms including 17 suites and three whirlpool suites, as well as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and business center.

Located at the intersection of I- 77 and Two Notch Road, the hotel is only eight miles from downtown Columbia and the University of South Carolina campus, making it convenient for business, government, and leisure travel alike. The hotel offers complimentary breakfast served daily, high- speed wireless and wired internet access, free local telephone calls, and valet laundry service. In- room coffee makers, irons and ironing boards, 32- inch flat panel televisions, and hairdryers are standard in every room.

The suites offer separate living and sleeping areas, as well as mini- refrigerators and microwaves. Also featured in all guest rooms is Marriott's bedding package which includes plush mattresses, custom duvets, and high- thread count linens.

President & CEO for the MACST, Ric Luber states, "Another hotel property in our community solidifies the fact that the Hospitality Industry in Columbia, South Carolina, remains strong despite the economic conditions we are currently experiencing.

"The Fairfield Inn and Suites will be an excellent addition to the Columbia market," said Clancy Cipkala, Gateway Hospitality's president. "We expect this hotel to become a preferred choice in lodging for both business and leisure travel to our area."