EXHIBIT 99.1
                                                                                
                                 PRESS RELEASE

                                        
For Immediate Release                       For More Information Contact:
                                            Robert A. Brannon, Sr. V.P. and CFO
                                           (954) 713-1603


                     EXTENDED STAY AMERICA, INC. COMPLETES
           SUCCESSFUL PRIVATE PLACEMENT OF SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES

     FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 10, 1998--Extended Stay
America, Inc. (NYSE: ESA), today announced that it has completed the private
placement of $200 million of Senior Subordinated Notes.  The notes consist of
9.15% Senior Subordinated Notes due March 2008 and were priced at par.  The net
proceeds from the notes will be used to repay revolving debt, construct
additional extended stay facilities, and for general corporate purposes.  The
notes have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, and may not be
offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable
exemption from registration requirements.

     Extended Stay America's three extended stay lodging brands often operate
concurrently in the same market.  All facilities are designed to appeal to
value-conscious guests on visits of a week or longer.  Crossland Economy
Studios, with rates generally ranging from $159 to $199 per week, offer a double
bed and kitchenette.  EXTENDED STAY AMERICA Efficiency Studios, with rates
generally ranging from $199 to $299 a week, offer a queen-size bed and
kitchenette.  StudioPLUS Deluxe Studios offer deluxe and queen studios, which
include kitchens, at rates generally ranging from $299 to $399 a week.  Weekly
housekeeping and an on-premises laundry are provided at all facilities.

     The Company's first EXTENDED STAY AMERICA Efficiency Studios property
opened in August 1995, in Spartanburg, SC.  In January 1997, the Company
launched the first Crossland Economy Studios in Independence, MO, and on April
11, 1997, the Company consummated a merger with Studio Plus Hotels, Inc.  As of
February 28, 1998, the Company owned and operated 213 extended stay lodging
facilities in 37 states, had 68 properties under construction and had options to
acquire 154 additional sites.

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