Starwood Sells W New Orleans - French Quarter

Starwood has completed the sale of the W New Orleans - French Quarter to Chesapeake Lodging Trust for $25.5 million.

As part of the agreement, the hotel will continue to fly the W brand flag under a long-term management contract with Starwood Hotels.

"The sale of W New Orleans - French Quarter helps advance Starwood's asset light strategy, as we continue to pursue opportunities to sell owned real estate at the right time to the right owners," said Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood. "We have seen an increase in investor interest in our other owned assets and believe marked improvements in hotel industry fundamentals and capital markets will pave the way for further sales in 2013."

W New Orleans - French Quarter is located at the heart of the city's historic center, adjacent to Jackson Square and walking distance to boutiques, art galleries and jazz clubs.

The hotel property was acquired by Starwood in 1997 and converted to W New Orleans - French Quarter in 2000. In 2012, the hotel completed a comprehensive renovation that transformed all 97 guest rooms and public area, while expanding its offering to include a Sweat state-of-the-art fitness center, and SoBou - a contemporary Creole cuisine restaurant.

The hotel is Chesapeake Lodging Trust's fourth Starwood property, joining W Chicago - City Center, W Chicago - Lakeshore and Le Méridien San Francisco.