Frommer's Review
Built in 1975, the hotel was renovated in 2006 when it went from being a Wyndham to a Westin. Olive, beige, and mustard fabrics accent the cherry wood furniture. Subtle carpeting, flatscreen TVs, and modern rectangular lamps add more Miami style. The trademark Westin "heavenly" beds are indeed a white fluffy retreat from the world. The rooms are spacious, and all have wireless Internet service (there's a $12 per day fee for unlimited minutes). The large bathrooms have marble showers and bowed-out curtain rods that eliminate curtain cling while you enjoy their infamous shower heads. The balconies are cozy, but, with 18 floors, this is Aruba's tallest building; a terrace anywhere near the top means superb ocean views and total privacy. The kids' program includes scuba-diving lessons in the pool. Guests include the usual suspects -- couples, honeymooners, and families -- and a fair number of business groups. The downside? Although the casino and late-night comedy show are up to snuff, the Havana Nights dinner show leaves a bit to be desired (in terms of the food as well as the show). The free-form pool with a fountain is nice, and the iguanas that patrol the pool area are adorable. You have to wait in line in the morning to reserve a beach hut, and I never get used to the sad sight of parrots, toucans, and cockatoos squawking in their cages.
Facilities: 7 restaurants (including Pago Pago); 4 bars; casino; large outdoor pool; 18-hole championship golf course nearby; 2 tennis courts lit for night play; health club/spa; extensive watersports equipment/rentals; elaborate children's center/program; game room/video arcade; concierge; tour/activities desk; car-rental desk; shopping arcade; salon; limited room service; babysitting; laundry service; same-day dry cleaning; nonsmoking rooms.
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.
