Viva Las Vegas, CirCaribe, Grease, Best of Broadway and Latin Explosion are five full scale theater productions unfolding at the Occidental Grand Aruba in the great ballroom, every night at 9 p.m.

The Occidental Grand Aruba features top notch entertainment nightly for just $20 per person, and tickets are available at the Occidental Grand Casino from 12 noon every day.

The resort’s talented Fun Club crew puts on a different show every night, starred by an amazingly-talented cadre of performers from Venezuela, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba and Aruba. The shows are emceed by Omar Chaves the fun club director who does a fabulous job bringing it all together, with dance Captain Eduardo Parraga as the lead dancer and Prima Ballerina Violeta Petrova, from Bulgaria, who is the Choreographer.

The dizzying costumes, the lights and the jazzy remixes of the world’s most popular songs allows the dancers, mimes, acrobats, stilt walkers, fire eaters and aerial artists to wow audiences every evening on the Occidental Grand Aruba’s big stage.

After the show you are invited to stay at the casino with live entertainment, loose slot machines, great table action and free flowing cocktails.

The Aruba resort and Casino at the Eagle Beach recently announced its affiliation with Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services. “We are delighted to partner with Interval International because of its outstanding programs and services that are renown in the industry. The ability to exchange into Interval’s high quality worldwide network of resorts significantly enhances our owners’ vacation flexibility as well as their ownership value propositions” said Farzin Ferdosi, managing director of the Aruban Resort & Casino. For more information please call: (297) 587-9000 or visit www.thearuban.com.

Brickell Bay Beach Club has recently completed the remodeling of their lobby area, the Bistro and the reception area to improve the guests’ check-in experience. Brickell Bay is also renovating 16 guestrooms which are scheduled to be completed late July 2008. Brickell Bay will also include an Intermezzo Spa which is scheduled to be completed in June 2008. Total cost of renovation is close to $750.000. For more information please call Brickell Bay Beach Club at (297) 586-0900 or visit www.brickellbayaruba.com.

Both the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive resorts are offering three new packages to suite vacationers with their ideas of their perfect island vacations. Vacationers have now the ability to choose from Golf getaways, honeymoon packages and family packages. For more information on the specific packages and what they include please call: (297) 582-4150 or visit www.diviaruba.com or www.tamarijnaruba.com.

The Aruba Marriott Resort started phase 2 of their renovations. The remaining North Tower rooms will be renovated and completed in addition to the expansion and redesigning of the La Vista Restaurant.  The renovations will have little effect on the guest’s experience. La Vista restaurant is closed for a complete transformation, adding additional seating capacity and e new look and feel inline with the remainder of the resort. The North Tower enhancements will include turning the 8th floor of the resort in to Trade winds Club. This hotel within a hotel initiative, set to open September 2008, introduces a boutique hotel in a resort setting that provides for personalized service and exclusive amenities. The Marriott Resort has now become 100% smoke-free with the exception of the Casino. Guests will only be permitted to smoke in the open air restaurant, lounges, balconies and Casino. For more information please contact Marriott at (297) 586-9000 or visit www.arubaplayground.com.
Marriott now also offers Salsa Night every Saturday at the Lobby bar. Enjoy free salsa workshop with Pachanga, Aruba’s Champion salsa performers, starting at 9.00pm till 10.00pm.

Del Rey Apartments complex, consisting of 12 spacious one and two fully equipped and furnished bedroom apartments, opened its doors at Kamay 19-A, located conveniently close to Aruba’s great beaches. Del Rey has partnered with Moomba Beach Bar & Restaurant, providing Del Rey guests with beach lounges and discounts. For more information please call (297) 586-3309 or (297) 593-4501 or visit www.delreyaruba.com.

Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino is making some changes to its property that will improve the overall guest experience, including a new business center, a revamped lobby and a new fitness center, all located in the resort’s adult-exclusive Renaissance Marina Hotel.

Renaissance Marina Hotel Lobby
The resort has updated the Renaissance Marina Hotel lobby into an open inviting area for guests to meet and socialize. The new concept allows guests to smoothly transition and mix work, relaxation, socializing and play throughout the day. Music, lights and décor will all play an important role to create a unique ambiance.
The new design knocks down architectural barriers by creating adaptive zones in which guests can more easily meet in small groups, take a private time out or casually dine in more open spaces with easy access to the latest technologies.

Fitness Center
Renaissance Aruba’s upgraded fitness facilities are located in the Renaissance Marina Hotel and significantly expand upon the existing facilities.

Key features of the upgraded fitness facilities are:
•    Its location is in an adult-exclusive portion of the resort;
•    It is accessible 24 hours per day and seven days per week;
•    It includes approximately 3,000 square feet;
•    Its interior design, music and state of the art equipment following the latest trends contribute to this one of a kind wellness center in Aruba; and
•    Technogym equipment includes a wellness TV and personal entertainment is fully integrated on the equipment.

Business Center
Overlooking the fitness center, Renaissance Aruba’s new fully-equipped business center offers business travelers the opportunity to stay connected while in paradise. Accessible from the Renaissance Marina Hotel lobby 24 hours per day and seven days per week, travelers can either use their own laptop or one of the business center’s computers.

For more information about Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, visit: www.RenaissanceCaribbeanMediaCenter.com

Eagle Beach, Aruba – With great pride the Aruba Bucuti Beach Resort announces that National Geographic Traveler recently recognized them for their exceptional sense of place on the magazine’s first annual “Stay List.”

THE STAY LIST: 150 HOTELS YOU WILL LOVE… is what the article is called and is in the current issue April 2008.

According to Editor Keith Bellows, there is no greater letdown than a hotel that isn’t original and fails to exhibit any understanding of its cultural context. Hence the creation of National Geographic Traveler’s “Stay List” that celebrates 150 hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean region that are among the best at blending location-inspired architecture, ambience and amenities, eco-stewardship and an ethic of giving back to the community. Backed by extensive research, including input from local experts and seasoned travelers, in-depth questionnaires to more than 600 nominated hotels and detailed follow-up by magazine staff, the list showcases overnights that range from rustic to luxurious, dirt cheap to splurge. Yet all the featured hotels cherish a sense of place and offer a sweet night’s sleep. Organized by country, state and city, this is a list that travelers will refer to repeatedly.

“Promoting conservation among our staff and guests is a major part of the Bucuti experience. Says Ewald Biemans. “Whether it’s participating on one of our resort-sponsored beach clean-ups, our recycled crafts contests, interacting with local organizations such as Turtugaruba, or enjoying local cuisine, folklore and music at our restaurant on Aruban night at the Pirates’ Nest, our guests can count on a truly hands-on, authentic Aruban experience.”

The resort’s guest rooms feature Aruba Aloe toiletries and balconies with a view of the beautiful white sandy shores of Eagle Beach. Bucuti’s grounds are landscaped with flora indigenous to the island, which has been labeled by Biemans for guest education.

In addition to his dedication to maintaining the island’s cultural identity, Biemans is also a leader in the region for instituting environmentally sound operating practices. Leading by example, he encourages the entire community to prioritize environmental preservation in their daily lives. Bucuti was the first Caribbean resort to become ISO 14001 certified and is now celebrating its fifth consecutive year of certification and its seventh consecutive year of Green Globe 21 certification.

Throughout the resort, energy and resources are conserved through the use of light and air conditioning sensors, environmentally friendly products and bulk dispensers for products including soap, shampoo and lotion. Solar heated water is used in designated areas of the resort and ozone machines, rather than chemical aerosols, keep guest rooms smelling fresh. HAACP policies and equipment such as the BERSON UV line keep the food and water safe for associates and guests alike.

Bucuti’s award winning environmental program is truly extensive. Biemans regularly gives environmental tours of the resort for colleagues, students, service clubs and other island businesses who are interested to learn about it.

Chicago-based Levy Restaurants, a member of the Americas division of UK-based Compass Group PLC, will design and develop a new food and beverage program as part of developer KL International’s casino renovation project at The Aruban Resort & Casino in Eagle Beach, Aruba, to be completed by the end of the year.

The project will include the concept development of an all-day dining, exhibition-kitchen restaurant, a sports bar and grill, and a new main casino bar, plus F&B-specific service training for resort employees.

“From its restaurant roots, Levy Restaurants pioneered the concept of fine dining in stadiums and arenas, and has expanded into the luxury hotel and resort market. We believe they can create an entertainment culinary experience for The Aruban, making it a truly distinct Caribbean venue,” says KL International spokesman Phil Allen. “We also look forward to Levy’s U. 8.-based food and beverage training that our local employees will receive, with an emphasis on service delivery.”

Levy’s hotel/casino F&B experience to this point consists of the Harrah’s 8t. Louis property and the former Le Meridien in Chicago, says Mike Plutino, regional director of operations. In addition, company founder and chairman Larry Levy recently took a new branch of his highly successful Spiaggia concept south from Chicago to Miami as part of a boutique fractional ownership resort called The Fairfax.

Though the company’s experience does not run deep when it comes to specific hotel/resort projects, Plutino says Levy will get more involved in the space “as long as they are quality projects with quality partners. We bring the restaurateur mindset to a lot of different businesses,” he notes. “Casinos can focus on gambling, and we can focus on food and service.”

On the food side, the new main restaurant at The Aruban will consist of a large, interactive space in which chefs and equipment-like an oversized rotisserie or a brick oven for pizzas-are front and center at various stations, and guests are engaged through the sights, smells and interaction with chefs. “We think it is going to be unique [for] Aruba,” Plutino says. “It will set us apart from anything Aruba’s ever seen before.”

On the service side, Levy will see The Aruban project all the way through to the hiring of the F&B staff and the training phases, Plutino says, noting that the training will be highly customized to the local workforce and culture. “We know we need to be flexible and adaptable,” he says. “We’ve been successful with that model wherever we’ve opened-and we’ve opened in lots of places.”

Finally, in addition to the property’s main restaurant and bars, Levy may also wind up directing the resort’s room service and banquet service. “I think we’re headed in that direction,” Allen says.

By Derek Gale, Senior Associate Editor, Hotels, 412312008 1: 24:00PM

Turn Up the Music, Gamble Like a High Roller and Sleep in the Lap of Luxury with the Renaissance Rock Star Package

Who doesn’t want to party like a rock star?

To celebrate Aruba’s many upcoming music festivals, Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino is offering its guests the chance to experience first-hand the rock star lifestyle.

Don’t live vicariously through the talent. Instead, jump right into the action and enjoy luxurious accommodations, access to the only private beaches on Aruba, 24-hour gambling, breakfast in bed, massages and much more. The package – valid with a stay of five consecutive nights on specific dates between May and October 2008 – includes:

- Accommodations at the adult-exclusive Renaissance Marina Hotel starting at $1,176 (based on two guests who are at least 18 years old and a five-night stay)
- A $50 casino credit
- A $200 hotel beverage credit
- Late-night dining at The Lounge, Midnight Grill
- Hangover breakfast in bed
- Morning-after massage

“Renaissance Rock Star” is available to coincide with the 2008 Soul Beach Music Festival (May 21-26 – featuring Erykah Badu, Brandon T. Jackson, Sinbad and Wyclef Jean), the Second Annual Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival 2008 (Sept. 6-7) and the 7th Annual Aruba Music Festival (Oct. 10-11).

Renaissance Aruba is the only resort on the island to offer a blend of adult-exclusive and family-friendly options on one property and is home to the only private beaches on the island – Iguana Beach for families and the top-optional Flamingo Beach for adults only.

To book the Renaissance Rock Star package, please visit www.renaissancearuba.com.

For more information about Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, visit www.renaissancecaribbeanmediacenter.com.

Renaissance Rock Star 2008 Special Package Rates:

- Resort Room – $1,176 for a five-night stay based on two adults per room
- Island King – $1,244 for a five-night stay based on two adults per room

Validity dates for Renaissance Rock Star: May 16-31, Sept. 1-14 and Oct. 3-19. Rates do not include 21 percent service charge and taxes

While your man is glued to the couch, wrapped up in March Madness, fall football, the World Series or whatever sport might be on television, grab the girls and escape to a world all your own.Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino’s “Sports Widow Weekend” affords anti-sport wives the opportunity to make a fast break for the surf and sun and enjoy a weekend getaway with her nearest and dearest girlfriends. The package – valid through Dec. 21, 2008, with a minimum stay of three consecutive nights – features:

- All-inclusive accommodations at the adult-exclusive Marina Hotel (based on two adults 18 years or older)
- Manis and Pedis at the Okeanos Spa
- “Flirtinis” at BLUE
- Kukoo Kanuku party bus to enjoy a night on the town
- A VIP card that provides 10 percent off all shopping at the Renaissance Marketplace and Mall, featuring upscale stores such as Louis Vuitton

Renaissance Aruba is the only resort on the island to offer separate adult-exclusive and family-friendly options on one property and is home to the only private beaches on the island – Iguana Beach for families and the top-optional Flamingo Beach for adults only.

To book the Sports Widow Weekend package, please visit www.renaissancearuba.com.

For more information about Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino, visit www.renaissancecaribbeanmediacenter.com.

Sports Widow Weekend 2008 Special Package Rates:

- March 24 – April 12
- Resort Room – $413/night based on two adults per room
- Island King – $428/night based on two adults per room
- April 13 – Dec. 21
- Resort Room – $304/night based on two adults per room
- Island King – $312/night based on two adults per room

Rates do not include 21 percent service charge and taxes.

The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa was selected as one of Radisson Hotels & Resorts top-performing hotels and resorts for its prestigious annual President’s Award, based on performance in 2007. The hotel was one of the best properties from among more than 204 Radisson hotels in The Americas, Asia Pacific and a portion of the United Kingdom.

Nancy Johnson, executive vice president of franchise operations for Radisson Hotels & Resorts, advised Gary Jutz, general manager Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa of the achievement.

The President’s Award represents the best of the best for Radisson and recognizes the hotels that have demonstrated their exceptional commitment to guest service and product quality that distinguishes Radisson in the global marketplace,” explained Johnson. “These hotels utilized their industry expertise and fully leveraged the company’s revenue generating tools and information to excel in a competitive business environment with changing customer expectations,” she added. “They also provide a great place for employees to do great work. The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa is a brand champion for Radisson and will help us achieve our goal to become the brand of choice for frequent travelers seeking an upscale hotel experience,” Johnson explained.

“The Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa achieved top scores in guest satisfaction as measured by guest feedback for cleanliness and consistency in meeting and often exceeding the brand’s product quality standards,” added Johnson.

“Being the flagship property for Radisson Resorts brings high expectations and I am proud our team continues to rise to the challenge setting a fine example for the entire brand,” stated General Manager Gary Jutz. “This achievement was earned by each and every one of our staff through dedication and a commitment to excellence.”

Johnson also noted that winning hotels have created a positive and effective work environment with an engaged team of employees who consistently deliver total guest satisfaction through core programs such as “Yes I Can!” service training and other key brand initiatives as well as unique contributions to the success of the hotel in the marketplace. The President’s award has become the symbol of outstanding quality for Radisson Hotels & Resorts.

The winner’s were also chosen based on their alignment and contribution toward the brand’s guest-focused mission. The new vision states that Radisson is to be a global hotel company distinguished by great people in great places, a recognized and trusted brand, building valuable relationships with the guests it serves and achieving superior returns for owners and investors. Over the past year, Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa received multiple awards including the AAA Four-Diamond award once again, the new oceanfront Larimar Spa was named to the Conde Nast Traveler “Hot List” and signature restaurant Sunset Grille received the prestigious Wine Spectator Award.

Island Paradise Celebrates Spring with Bevy of Special Offers to Lure Travelers Out of Winter Hibernation

Spring is in the air and the scent is sweetest on Aruba! Seeing the light at the end of that cold, dark tunnel that is winter, hotels and resorts across the tropical island are offering a number of getaways designed to let travelers seize the new season and start off just as fresh as spring itself. With free nights, dinners on the beach, spa treatments and more, it’s clear that spring has definitely sprung on Aruba.

Rates for the vacations highlighted below are based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted:

Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino – Sand Dollars Escape
Visitors to the Renaissance Aruba will enjoy a fifth night free and $100 food and beverage credit at the resort when booking this getaway. Rates start at $223. Valid year-round. 1.800.421.8188 or www.renaissancearuba.com

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – Sand Dollars Package
Guests at the recently renovated beachfront oasis will enjoy all the resort has to offer plus a fifth night free and $100 resort credit. Rates start at $249. Valid now - October 31, 2008. 1.800.223.6388 or www.arubamarriott.com. Booking code S29.

Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort Aruba – Romance at the Manor
Those looking for a little romance will enjoy this getaway with four or seven-night options. In addition to accommodations, a bottle of champagne upon arrival and champagne breakfast-in-bed will leave travelers feeling pampered in paradise. With a romantic cruise and dinner on the beach, spring fever will seriously set in. Rates start at $995, inclusive of all taxes and service charge. Valid March 25 - December 16, 2008. 1-800-969 2310 or www.amsterdammanor.com.

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa – Rejuvenation Getaway
This refreshing four-night getaway includes accommodations with private balcony or patio, morning yoga on the beach and a Full Body Refinement Package for two at the Spa del Sol, including a relaxing couples massage, clay or volcano mud body wrap, manicure or pedicure, and all tax and service charges. Rates start at $1,255. Valid May 1 - December 20, 2008. 1.800.223.1108 or www.manchebo.com.

Bucuti Beach Resort Aruba – Swept Away Romance
This five-night romance retreat includes accommodations with balcony or terrace, bottle of champagne, breakfast buffet, candlelight dinner for two on the beach, daytime snorkel or sunset sailing cruise, a gift basket and all tax and service charges. Rates start at $1,459. Valid March 24 - December 22, 2008. 1.888.4.BUCUTI or www.bucuti.com.

Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino – Ultimate Experience
This private two-hour sail for two takes romance to new levels with a five-course gourmet dinner complimented with Dom Perignon and a pre-stocked bar with the guests’ favorite libations. A butler/captain and cook add luxury to the experience, while a limo pick-up from the hotel, red carpet walkway to the boat and private photographer bring guests up to A-list celebrity status. Rates start at $1600. Valid year-round. 1.800.55.HYATT or www.aruba.hyatt.com.

And now it is easier than ever to get to Aruba. With direct and connecting flights on all of the major air carriers from airports all over the U.S., Aruba is truly just a hop, skip and sunshine-filled jump away for travelers. In fact, additional flights for the summer 2008 season are being added including Delta Airlines additional service from Atlanta with an overnight flight on Fridays and Saturdays starting June 14 through August 17, 2008. More importantly, the overnight flight allows for improved connections to destinations beyond Atlanta. Spirit Airlines is also increasing service to twice weekly from May 1 through September 1, 2008 from Fort Lauderdale to Aruba on Wednesdays.