The Econolodge Inn & Suites of Bellingham, WA was recently honored with a prestigious 2017 Gold Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), franchisor of the Econolodge brand. “The Econolodge Inn & Suites hotel’s commitment to excellence and outstanding guest service has earned it this elite recognition as one of the best hotels among the Econlodge brand,” said Steve Joyce, chief executive officer for Choice Hotels. “As one of the world’s leading lodging providers, we count on our franchisees to make guests feel welcomed and to offer them a great reason to return. This hotel has shown us they are delivering on that and so much more.” Gold Award status represents a tremendous accomplishment for a hotel and its entire staff. Each year, only the very top hotels in each brand are eligible to receive this elite distinction. As a top performing Choice Hotels property, the Bellingham Econolodge Inn & Suites is among the top percentage of properties within the Econolodge brand. As one of the company’s top-tier hotels operating under the Econolodge flag, the hotel has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to providing superior service. Additional award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports. This hotel participates in the award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty rewards program from Choice Hotels. Membership is free and offers immediate rewards and perks as well as points that members can redeem toward free nights, airline miles, gift certificates and more while staying at any of Choice’s 11 global brand properties, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria hotels & suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn, as well as Ascend Hotel Collection member hotels. For more information or to make your reservation today visit www.choicehotels.com or call 360 671-4600.