The resort will offer several restaurants, a luxurious spa, two swimming pools and a 24-hour casino. In addition to spacious rooms and suites, the hotel will include The Ritz-Carlton Club Level, a private floor accessible only by elevator key.

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba, projected to open in late 2012, will be the seventh Caribbean location in The Ritz-Carlton portfolio, joining existing hotels in St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Puerto Rico, Mexico and The Bahamas.

“Aruba is an island destination with growing appeal to discerning travellers from Europe and the United States. Its stunning beaches and majestic views make the island one of those exceptional places in the Southern Caribbean, blending serenity and scenic attractions our guests seek when planning a vacation,” said Ezzat Coutry, senior vice president, Southeast Region, Caribbean and Latin America, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “It is an extraordinary location for luxury development on the island,” added Coutry.

“I am thrilled to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company on such an exciting project that will set a new standard for luxury travel to the island,” commented Walter Stipa, developer for The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. “I am confident that The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba will be a highly successful endeavor for all partners involved,” he added.

Newly elected Prime Minister Mike Eman stated, “In all honesty, the credit for this project should go to the former administration. Due to a rapid expansion of hotels and condominiums over the last 20 years we are concerned that we are left with too few vacant public beach areas,” said Eman. “The fact that we are looking at the addition of such a prestigious hotel as the Ritz Carlton reduces this pain for us. We hope to work closely with Mr. Marriott to achieve the vision of our new government that will put more emphasis on sustainability and durability in the development of our tourism industry for the people of Aruba and our visitors alike,” Eman added.

www.ritzcarlton.com