Oakwood Asia Pacific has announced a major expansion in China, with serviced apartment openings planned in Beijing, Tianjin, Hangzhou and Shanghai from 2007-2008.

The growth complements Oakwood's existing two properties in Guangzhou and its global portfolio spanning Asia, North America and Europe.

First to open in 2007 will be Oakwood Apartments Beijing, located in Chaoyang's "Third Embassy Area" and a neighbor to office buildings such as Silver Tower, Millennium Tower and the Fortune Building. These office towers are home to companies such as Microsoft, Toshiba and Hyundai. Nearby are the Embassies of Japan, Korea, Malaysia and the future site of the U.S. Embassy.

Oakwood Apartments Beijing will offer a modern collection of 236 serviced apartments with a 24-hour front desk, broadband access, flat-screen television, designer furnishings and regular housekeeping services. A health club, swimming pool and Starbucks Coffee will also be available for residents.

"If they are visiting another city for an extended period, more business travelers are seeking the space and comfort of a serviced apartment," explains Neil Harvey, General Manager of Oakwood Apartments Beijing. "Oakwood's apartments are designed and our staff is trained for handling long stay guests and caring for their needs. There are small details done with the finest of care. The desk area is large enough to spread out one's work for an extended stay. The dining area in the larger floorplans is nice enough to host a dinner party. Oakwood is dedicated to providing the finest hospitality experience in serviced apartments."

Subsequent 2008 openings in China include the Oakwood Residence Tianjin, which will feature 106 serviced residences in Tianjin's central business district; Oakwood Residence Hangzhou, part of the new Euro America Center; and Oakwood Residence Shanghai, which will feature 116 serviced apartments.

Founded in 1960, Oakwood Worldwide is one of the world's largest serviced apartment management firm, with more than 20,000 residences throughout North America, Asia and Europe. Singapore-based Oakwood Asia Pacific manages Oakwood's portfolio throughout Asia Pacific including properties in Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Manila and Guangzhou and a large number of future developments in China, Japan, India, Malaysia and Indonesia.