Just returned last night (4/30) from another great two weeks on a great island.
For those that like the Holiday Inn, be forewarned.
Marriott has an offer on the table to acquire the Holiday Inn property. Looks like they want to dominate the high rise area.
This is not a rumor. Management held a meeting with HI employees 4/27 to explain the possibilities to them.
I observed several groups of executive looking types roaming the property last week with with pads and pens in hand discussing potential changes.

For our first and only trip to Aruba last Nov., we considered the HI but decided on the Ren (all inclusive package) instead. We were not at all disappointed. We had a terrific time and would do it the exact same way again, 'cept for that feeling of "what did we miss elsewhere?"

The Ren happens to BE a Marriott property.

I, for one, would have no problem if the HI also became a Marriott property. Is there a particular reason why you say "be forewarned?"

-H-

This rumor has been surfacing since Oct 2004
They want to convert the HI to a Court Yard Marriott

Howard,

The "be forewarned" phrase was for Holiday Inn fans as the subject line stipulated. Not for Marriott, Howard Johnson, Ramada Inn, etc.

Like it or not there are millions of travelers world wide who swear by the Holiday Inn brand.

The message was to inform them.

Wes, thanks for the heads-up. The value at that hotel is unbelievable, and the beach is gorgeous! We just need to bear in mind that construction takes forever (hopefully)!

Wes, I have to call Holiday Inn tomorrow on a different matter & will ask. I doubt that anything can be said, but who knows. We've stayed at H.I. every year since 1991, and enjoy it. I feel the H.I. helps keep room prices down - if it turns into a Marriot, can you imagine what rooms will be going for on Palm Beach.
Tom & Karen

They could call it a "Motel 6" for all I care, just as long as I get to stay there when I go in two weeks! <grin> Can't beat the price unless you want to stay somewhere off the ocean (i.e. The Mill).

Anyone know what is happening with the building in process that was abandoned near the harbor?When we were there last year,we were told it was owned by Marriott.