SNSTA Sonesta International Hotels Corp. (MM)

Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Nasdaq:SNSTA) today announced that it is engaged in discussions with third parties who have approached it regarding potential transactions, including a possible merger transaction. At this stage, no assurances can be given that these discussions will result in a definitive agreement or a transaction being consummated or as to the value that any such transaction might have for Sonesta's stockholders. Sonesta does not intend to issue any other press release relating to these matters until such time, if ever, that it enters into a definitive agreement for a transaction. 

Sonesta operates a distinctive international collection of upscale hotels, resorts and cruise ships in Boston, Massachusetts; Miami, Florida; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Egypt (13). In addition, the Company has license/franchise agreements for hotels in Sint Maarten (2), Chile (3), Colombia (4), Ecuador, and Peru (7). For further information, please visit Sonesta's website at www.sonesta.com. The Sonesta International Hotels Corporation logo is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=7017

This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, that the parties may be unable to agree upon the terms of a merger transaction, the effect of economic conditions on the parties' willingness to proceed with discussions, and other risks. All such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. In addition, Sonesta disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, including, without limitation, if these merger discussions are terminated for any reason. 

CONTACT: Sonesta Investor Relations
         (617) 421-5400
         http://www.sonesta.com