LBA Hospitality, a full-scale hotel management, development and consulting firm based in Dothan,Ala., recently announced Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port was named 'Opening Hotel of the Year,' by the Residence Inn Brand, for outstanding performance in its first year.

The property received the award based on its quick start up time and financial performance. The staff achieved revenue results higher than all other Residence Inn properties opening in 2015. Lastly, Marriott was impressed with the dedication of General Manager Suria Plante to her staff and the Residence Inn brand.

The 156-room property is owned by Apple REIT Companies and managed by LBA Hospitality. According to LBA's President, Beau Benton, “The team at Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port has set the bar high in many aspects during its first year, and we are eager to continue providing the best possible guest experience.”

Under Plante’s direction, the staff is thrilled to receive the honor. “Our team is very proud of these accomplishments,” she said. “We are grateful to work with an ownership group and management company that provide us with the training and tools to reach our goals.”

Located at 4801 Anglers Ave., Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale & Cruise Port, near Fort Lauderdale and 3.5 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, offers guests convenient access to Everglades National Park and Port Everglades Cruise Port. The property features studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites, with full kitchens and complimentary grocery delivery for all guests. The property’s key ameni- ties include complimentary Wi-Fi, complimentary hot breakfast, a salt water pool, fitness center and evening social hours, as well as lobby, business and outdoor spaces designed for gathering.