Frommer's Review
If this upscale resort's 40-acre private island, with its endless amenities, doesn't make you feel special enough, then book the private cove and enjoy your own secluded space, unlimited mimosas, and a personal butler. Oranjestad's main road, a marina, and an open-air shopping mall (replete with boutiques, restaurants, and a multiplex cinema) separate the hotel's two towers. The anchor of a second mall, the six-story Marina Tower is in the thick of the capital's bustle. Its adult-only format is popular with business travelers and vacationing couples alike. As of 2007, this facility limits access for children younger than 18 to selected areas such as the lobby, adjacent infinity pool, fitness center, spa, lounge, and both casinos.
The compact rooms feature thick carpeting, modern color schemes, stylish furniture, and step-out balconies. The bathrooms are a bit on the small side but have separate sink and bath areas. Overlooking the mall, atrium rooms are the quietest, but you'll forgo an ocean view. Get a corner room on the sixth floor if you like high ceilings. On the waterfront and favored by groups, the five-floor Ocean suite facility feels more like a resort and is family-friendly. It features a small man-made beach and 258 roomy one-bedroom suites with living rooms, large bathrooms, full-size balconies or patios, and fully equipped wet bars. Carpeted floors, solid pastels, and glass bricks brighten the rooms. Hop the free water taxi to Renaissance Island (a 10-min. ride), for a relaxing day on the beach. Also on the premises are two casinos (including the island's only 24-hr. facility) and a large theater that presents a flashy over-the-top Vegas-style show.
Facilities: 4 restaurants (including L. G. Smith's); 4 bars; coffee bar; 2 casinos; 2 outdoor pools; 18-hole championship golf course nearby; tennis court; excellent health club and spa; separate fitness center on Renaissance Island; extensive watersports equipment/rentals; children's/teen programs; theme nights; game room; concierge; tour/activities desk; car-rental desk; business center; shopping arcade; salon; room service; babysitting; coin-op laundry (Beach Tower); laundry/valet service; same-day dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms; rooms for those w/limited mobility.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
