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Travel + Leisure
3 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
St. Regis Just Opened a New Caribbean Resort With 6 Pools and a Beach With Picture-perfect Turquoise Water
The butler-serviced guest rooms and suites exude a timeless beachy aesthetic and feature floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors looking out to the Caribbean. The hotel sits on beautiful Palm Beach, at the northwest corner of the island, and is within walking distance of a livelier downtown area, while still being away from the hustle and bustle. Akira Back, the rooftop restaurant by the stellar Michelin-starred chef, serves Japanese and Korean fare set against jaw-dropping sea views. The resort is home to the first casino in The St. Regis portfolio, which welcomes hotel guests and local residents. I often self-describe as a cynic who looks at beautiful ocean photos and thinks they must be Photoshopped. However, flying into Aruba for the first time gave me the best kind of reality check: the waters are truly that picture-perfect stunning. And fortunately for me, I was staying at the newest hotel on the island, which has no shortage of turquoise ocean views: The St. Regis Aruba Resort. The hotel feels like an extension of the sandy beach it occupies, with shades of white and beige paired with wooden furniture and decorative accents. Along with the nature-inspired palette and decor, another recurring theme throughout the accommodations and public areas is spaciousness, which also felt like a continuation of the endless turquoise expanse just outside the hotel's doors. Oliver Reschreiter, the resort's general manager, explained that the interiors indeed draw inspiration from the island's abundant natural beauty and cultural richness, as well as the Casibari Rock Formations, Aruba's monolithic boulder phenomena. "The St. Regis Aruba Resort's design blends Dutch-Caribbean culture with the storied legacy of The St. Regis Brand," Reschreiter added. "The property brings an elevated and luxury hospitality experience, which cannot be found elsewhere on the island. The St. Regis Brand's signature service brings a new standard to the island, allowing guests to have a truly luxurious stay when visiting one of the Caribbean's best destinations." Below, my full review of Aruba's newest luxury stay. The St. Regis Aruba Resort has 252 guest rooms, including 52 suites, and nearly all have balconies with ocean views. Even the smallest guest room, at 516 square feet, provides guests with ample space to spread out, with double vanities and a deep soaking tub in the bathroom. I stayed in an oceanfront suite that was twice the size of a standard room and felt like a spacious (and very luxurious) home with a living/dining area and a four-posted king bed (this room category is also available with two queen beds). However, the main attraction was the unobstructed Caribbean views that I enjoyed from both the floor-to-ceiling window in the bedroom and the balcony outside the living room. If you're looking to splurge, consider the 2,637-square-foot John Jacob Astor Presidential suite, the largest in the resort, which treats guests to a sprawling living room with a breakfast bar, a dining table for eight, and a private furnished balcony, from which you can enjoy your morning coffee or evening cocktails. According to Reschreiter, this one-bedroom suite "provides guests with the highest standard of The St. Regis' signature hospitality experience." The St. Regis Aruba Resort offers six food and beverage options: Grano Café, a grab-and-go coffee shop; The St. Regis Bar; Nuba, a poolside restaurant serving lunch fare; Eskama, a breakfast and dinner spot; and Akira Back, a Japanese and Korean-inspired restaurant. Eskama is an indoor-outdoor dining space that doubles as a breakfast spot during the day and a Mediterranean eatery in the evening. Morning choices include a classic buffet with standard fare, such as an omelette station, fresh fruit, and local cheeses. Meanwhile, dishes like roasted Jidori chicken, Australian lamb chop, and mezze are the highlights of the à la carte menu. Nuba, set up on Eskama's outdoor patio, stands out with classic poolside options like ceviche, shrimp cocktail, blackened mahi mahi, burgers, poke, and fish tacos. (It also services hotel guests at the cabanas and beach chairs.) While The St. Regis Bar is an ideal spot for a drink, afternoon tea ($70; 24-hour reservations) is also a favored daily activity here. The bar's food menu leans toward Asian-inspired fare—think hamachi crudo, oysters, wagyu carpaccio, and sushi rolls. But Chef Akira Back's eponymous restaurant is the crown jewel of the resort's culinary program. (Back earned a Michelin star for Dosa, his restaurant in Seoul, back in 2018.) The rooftop space stuns with its panoramic views (which Reschreiter said are the best on the island, and I tend to believe him), which seem to envelop diners. Start off with an order of salmon tataki and yellowtail carpaccio from the raw bar, and move on to tuna tacos, a refreshing cucumber salad, or an eggplant miso. Seafood dishes, such as lobster tail or butterfish, are a foolproof option, but so is steak (of which there are options). My personal favorite was the giant prawns, served with corn and chojang. The hotel has a casino—a first for The St. Regis brand—with table games and slot machines, open to guests and island residents. "Locals and travelers alike enjoy the nightlife scene that Aruba is known for, so adding a casino was important for the property, but we also wanted to make sure it was still an elevated experience that guests expect of a St. Regis hotel," Reschreiter said. St. Regis is famous for creating the bloody mary back in 1934 at The St. Regis New York's King Cole Bar, and here, guests can take a complimentary daily class to learn how to prepare the classic cocktail, or one with an Aruban twist—the Bon Bini Mary is made with lime, habanero, and the island's iconic papaya hot sauce. Private classes are also available for $60 per person. During my visit, the hotel coordinated a private tour of the island with De Palm Tours that took us to key spots like California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, the Ayo Rock Formations, Baby Natural Bridge, and a detour to San Nicolaas, the island's second largest city boasting a thriving street art scene. However, if you would rather spend your days being pampered at the hotel, book a cabana ($350; excluding the service charge) and enjoy some snorkelling time. Don't miss another St. Regis staple—the evening Champagne sabrage taking place daily on the hotel's terrace. Interior of a Spa Treatment Room. The St. Regis Aruba Resort All guests have access to the sauna and steam room, with add-on spa services including massages, manicures and pedicures, body scrubs, and facials. Some treatments feature Aruba aloe: the island is known as "The Island of Aloes" with some of the world's best aloe grown here. The resort has a curated list of activities—what it refers to as "family traditions"—for groups traveling with kids. "The programming includes Little Chefs Academy, Family Yoga, Tiny Afternoon Tea, Memory Journals, and Cultural Storytelling, all celebrating the art of play and connection," Reschreiter said. Additionally, the hotel's youngest guests can keep busy at the on-site children's club, offering educational experiences rooted in Aruba's rich heritage. Accessibility features at The St. Regis Aruba Resort include mobility-accessible rooms with roll-in showers, bathtub grab rails, and non-slip bathroom surfaces. The common areas—like the spa, fitness center, restaurants, and pool—are wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and ramps readily available throughout the hotel. Reschreiter told T+L service animals are welcome on-site, and the pools have self-operating lifts and sloped entries for guests with mobility needs. The St. Regis Aruba Resort sits on Palm Beach along the northwest coast of the island. Eagle Beach, another beautiful stretch of sand named the best beach in the Caribbean, is a six-minute drive (or a 20-minute walk) from the hotel. Butterfly Farm and downtown Oranjestad are also easily accessible. The resort is a 20-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA). The hotel is part of the Marriott International portfolio and guests can use earn and redeem points for free stays through Marriott Bonvoy, the company's rewards program. At the time of publication, the hotel is offering a 25 percent discount and a 10,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus point offer. For the latest on member deals and offers, visit the hotel's "Offers" page. Nightly rates at St. Regis Aruba Resort start from $719. Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values.
CBS News
08-05-2025
- Business
- CBS News
Caribbean rum distillers struggling with industry's future as Trump continues imposing tariffs
Robert Burr knows rum. He imports rum. He promotes rum with an annual rum festival. Burr judges rum and worries about tariffs. Yes, he worries about tariffs — President Trump's tariffs. The president, on his part, is not worried at all. "I think the tariff plan is doing very well," he recently told reporters before boarding Air Force One. "We're restarting the table. We are going to make our country very rich." Those tariffs that Mr. Trump has imposed on China, Canada and Japan also include the rum-producing and exporting island nations of the Caribbean. "Miami being the number one rum market in the world, we are dealing with every county in the Caribbean, South America and beyond," Burr told CBS News Miami. The Caribbean rum distillers are struggling with what lies ahead for their industry, which already has thin profit margins. The Caribbean rum market is estimated to be worth between $600 million and $1 billion. For example, rum exports add around $145.3 million to the Jamaican economy. "It is hard enough to get their products in the U.S. market, to get consumer sentiment toward rum to promote the spirit and then have this come along," says Alexander Britell, the founder and editor of the online Caribbean Journal. "So, the 10% tariff bite will hurt, especially the smaller distilleries and their distributors." So, unless the president changes his mind, which he is prone to doing, Caribbean rum distillers could face reduced profit margins, forcing price increases, job losses, slower economic growth and reduced shipments, resulting in potential shortages of some rums on American retail liquor store shelves. U.S. rum distributors who import and bottle Caribbean bulk rum shipped into the U.S. worry about another tariff impact: A healthy number of the distributors bottle their product in glass bottles produced in China, which are subject to the hefty Chinese export tariffs. What does this mean in the short term for U.S. consumers at their local liquor store or favorite tiki bar? "I think you are going to see a nominal increase," Britell said. "I am not sure it is going to be anything significant, it might be priced in and not going to notice at least in the short term." There is an interesting twist to this story: not all rum that South Florida residents are familiar with will face tariffs. Burr told CBS News Miami that rum produced in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Island are exempt, as those islands are U.S. territories and there are no tariffs for products from the U.S.A.
Hospitality Net
07-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Resilience In Paradise: Caribbean Tourism Thrives Amid U.S. Travel Headwinds
Global leisure travel patterns are undergoing a notable realignment as economic and political headwinds emanating from the United States redirect international tourists toward more accessible and stable destinations. The Caribbean, in particular, has emerged as a prime beneficiary of this shift. Factors such as U.S. trade tariffs, policy uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions have dampened the appeal of U.S. travel for many overseas visitors, resulting in a 'travel diversion' effect in which sun-seeking travelers opt for Caribbean getaways over U.S. holidays. At the same time, the Caribbean region's robust tourism recovery and relative political stability have positioned its islands as attractive havens for both vacationers and investors. Introduction This whitepaper examines the confluence of trends behind this redirection of travel demand and capital flows. Drawing on recent industry data and insights from hospitality leaders, we analyze how the Caribbean is capitalizing on diverted travel demand. We assess the implications for hotel investment and consider the challenges that fund managers and developers face in raising capital for Caribbean ventures. The findings underscore a central narrative: the Caribbean's long-term viability as a tourism market remains strong, even as global economic uncertainty persists. U.S. Economic Headwinds and The 'Travel Diversion' Effect International tourism to the United States has been challenged in recent years by a combination of economic headwinds and policy-induced friction. Trade disputes, stricter immigration and visa policies, and geopolitical frictions have dampened the U.S.'s allure for global travelers. The United States is now running an annual $50 billion travel trade deficit, a stark reversal from the $3.5 billion surplus recorded as recently as 2022. A sentiment shift is also at play. Analysts note a perception among some global travelers that the U.S. has become a less welcoming or more uncertain destination. Negative sentiment and travel barriers have led to a redirection of international tourism away from the U.S., setting the stage for alternatives. Diversion To 'Stable And Accessible' Alternatives Many of these alternatives lie in the sunny Caribbean. The region's proximity to major source markets, widespread use of English, and tourism-friendly policies make it a convenient and attractive substitute. Caribbean tourism has rebounded robustly, capturing a larger slice of global travel demand. In 2024, the region welcomed over 34 million international visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic volumes. Spending has also increased, with visitor expenditures expected to rise by approximately 9% year-over-year. Hospitality executives confirm the boon, with travel to the Caribbean and Latin America rising between 5% and 10% in 2024. Major hotel companies are actively expanding, driven by optimism in the region's stability and growth potential. Caribbean Tourism Fundamentals: Growth and Resilience The Caribbean's ability to capture redirected demand is bolstered by excellent tourism fundamentals: Hotel Occupancy and RevPAR at Record Highs : STR data reveals that Caribbean hotels have exceeded pre-pandemic performance metrics. In January 2025, the region recorded 72.9% occupancy and an ADR of $404, translating to a robust $294 RevPAR. : STR data reveals that Caribbean hotels have exceeded pre-pandemic performance metrics. In January 2025, the region recorded 72.9% occupancy and an ADR of $404, translating to a robust $294 RevPAR. Tourist Arrivals Climbing and Diversifying : The Caribbean has seen broad-based growth in arrivals. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Curacao, and Turks & Caicos have logged record-breaking tourism growth. : The Caribbean has seen broad-based growth in arrivals. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Curacao, and Turks & Caicos have logged record-breaking tourism growth. Resilient Demand Through Challenges : Despite events such as hurricanes or travel advisories, leisure demand in the Caribbean has remained resilient. Travelers prioritize experiences, and all-inclusive resorts continue to attract guests willing to spend. : Despite events such as hurricanes or travel advisories, leisure demand in the Caribbean has remained resilient. Travelers prioritize experiences, and all-inclusive resorts continue to attract guests willing to spend. Positive Outlook from Industry Leaders: Sentiment from executives at the 2025 ALIS CALA conference was upbeat. Major hotel brands continue to grow their Caribbean footprints, reflecting sustained confidence. Investment Trends: From U.S. Dry Powder to Caribbean Deals Investment capital is increasingly flowing toward Caribbean hospitality, given U.S. market challenges and the Caribbean's performance: Dry Powder Searching for Yield : With U.S. hotel deal volume down, investors are looking to deploy capital in higher-growth markets like the Caribbean. Cross-border hotel investment rose significantly last year. : With U.S. hotel deal volume down, investors are looking to deploy capital in higher-growth markets like the Caribbean. Cross-border hotel investment rose significantly last year. Compelling Resort Value : Caribbean resorts offer strong yields, especially where luxury properties are priced below comparable U.S. markets. The environment is described as 'frothy,' with demand outpacing available assets. : Caribbean resorts offer strong yields, especially where luxury properties are priced below comparable U.S. markets. The environment is described as 'frothy,' with demand outpacing available assets. Big Moves by Brands and Funds : The acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts by Hyatt for $2.6 billion exemplifies growing strategic interest. Private equity firms are also exploring partnerships and acquisitions in the region. : The acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts by Hyatt for $2.6 billion exemplifies growing strategic interest. Private equity firms are also exploring partnerships and acquisitions in the region. Branded Residences and Mixed-Use Resorts: These models are rising in popularity, helping developers raise capital and investors diversify revenue streams. Projects like Marriott's developments with branded villas are drawing premium pricing. These models are rising in popularity, helping developers raise capital and investors diversify revenue streams. Projects like Marriott's developments with branded villas are drawing premium pricing. Investment Challenges: Financing remains complex. Bid-ask spreads, hurricane risks, and regulatory hurdles make execution challenging. Still, long-term players see opportunity. Capital Raising Hurdles: Layered Financing and High Barriers Capital raising remains a key barrier to Caribbean hospitality development: Conservative Lending Practices : Hotel loans in the region typically max out at 55% loan-to-cost and carry high interest rates, necessitating large equity contributions. : Hotel loans in the region typically max out at 55% loan-to-cost and carry high interest rates, necessitating large equity contributions. Multi-Layered Capital Stacks : Developers often rely on creative structures, including presales of branded residences, joint ventures, and alternative funding. : Developers often rely on creative structures, including presales of branded residences, joint ventures, and alternative funding. Barriers for New Entrants : Execution complexity, low liquidity, and lack of conventional financing options favor seasoned players. : Execution complexity, low liquidity, and lack of conventional financing options favor seasoned players. Climate Risks and Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums are rising due to climate-related risks, increasing the cost of operations and capital. Despite these barriers, well-capitalized and experienced investors can succeed with innovation and patience. Portfolio diversification and careful structuring are key. The All-Inclusive Advantage Drawing on Horwath HTL's insights, the all-inclusive model remains a powerful driver in the Caribbean. Historically concentrated in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Mexico, the model has evolved to attract luxury travelers through enhanced experiences, off-site excursions, and higher service standards. Definition and Guest Benefits : All-inclusive properties offer bundled rates covering room, F&B, and entertainment. This promotes longer stays, high guest satisfaction, and stronger loyalty. : All-inclusive properties offer bundled rates covering room, F&B, and entertainment. This promotes longer stays, high guest satisfaction, and stronger loyalty. Financial Performance : Properly managed, all-inclusive resorts can achieve strong contribution margins. The inclusion of all-inclusive metrics in the latest USALI edition reflects their growing global importance. : Properly managed, all-inclusive resorts can achieve strong contribution margins. The inclusion of all-inclusive metrics in the latest USALI edition reflects their growing global importance. Regional Success Factors : Markets benefit from efficient cost structures, airlift, and consumer preference for simplicity. Luxury brands have entered the space, narrowing the quality gap with European Plan hotels. : Markets benefit from efficient cost structures, airlift, and consumer preference for simplicity. Luxury brands have entered the space, narrowing the quality gap with European Plan hotels. Emerging Opportunities: Destinations like Miches, Pedernales, and parts of Costa Rica and Belize show promise for future all-inclusive developments. Adults-only all-inclusives are gaining traction due to higher ADRs and curated experiences. Destinations like Miches, Pedernales, and parts of Costa Rica and Belize show promise for future all-inclusive developments. Adults-only all-inclusives are gaining traction due to higher ADRs and curated experiences. Brand Expansion: Major global brands are actively growing in the all-inclusive space, helping drive loyalty, diversify portfolios, and capture higher total property revenues. Outlook: Sustained Caribbean Strength Amid Global Uncertainty The Caribbean is well-positioned to retain its momentum amid global uncertainty. Diverted demand, solid fundamentals, and investor interest support its long-term appeal. As interest rates gradually ease, capital is likely to become more available for projects with strong fundamentals. Caution remains necessary due to execution hurdles and capital constraints. Still, experienced players with strategic partnerships can unlock significant value. Horwath HTL's analysis underscores that the Caribbean offers an attractive blend of high growth and resilience, making it a smart bet for hospitality investment. Bibliography Horwath HTL (Apr 2025). 'The all-inclusive edge: a smart bet for Caribbean and Central America investors.' Quartz (C. Arnst, Apr 2025). 'America's travel industry is in sharp decline.' HotelBusiness (A. Perkowsky, Apr 2025). 'Report: Federal policy turbulence impacts U.S. hotel demand.' U.S. Travel Association – Travel Snapshot (Apr 2025). WTTC Economic Impact Report (May 2024). 'Caribbean tourism sector to reach USD 91 billion by 2024.' Caribbean Journal (Feb 2025). 'STR: Caribbean Hotels Gaining Momentum.' LinkedIn post by F. Robert (CHICOS summary, Nov 2024). 'Lots of Factors Slow Hotel Transactions.' AG&T Caribbean Capital Markets Outlook (Dec 2023). Hotel Investment Today – ALIS CALA (May 2025). 'Can CALA teach the US how to deal with instability?' CoStar/Hotel News Now (Feb 2025). 'Hyatt to buy Playa Hotels & Resorts for $2.6B.' Lodging Magazine (Jan 2025). 'C-Level Execs Express Optimism During ALIS.' Bryan Younge Managing Partner +1-888-800-7258 Horwath View source
