Radisson Aruba Resort and Casino

Description:

• This stunning eight-story resort has the most stylish and beautiful rooms in Aruba. Integrating Caribbean plantation and South Beach Art Deco elements throughout, the complex is both sophisticated and personal. Because the lush gardens, lagoons, and waterfalls ramble over more than 14 acres, the tone is tranquil and the feel is spacious even when the hotel's completely booked. The guest rooms aren't large, but they're remarkable. West Indian colonial louvered doors, rather than drapes, cover the terrace doors, and intricately carved finials crown the mahogany four-poster beds. The reading chairs' retractable ottomans and floor lamps mix Bauhaus and plantation influences. The bathrooms' Italian marble floor, soapstone sink, and stylish fixtures argue that good things come in small packages. Elegance stretches out to the balconies, too, where mahogany slatted chairs and flagstone floors enhance the view over the gardens or turquoise sea. To create the warmth of a private home, the Radisson adds such touches as frosted drinking glasses, silver ice buckets, and earth-toned pottery. Originally built in 1959 as Aruba's first high-rise hotel, after a $55-million overhaul, it's now Radisson's flagship hotel and attracts a discerning clientele.

  Facilities: 4 restaurants (including Sunset Grille); bar; casino; large outdoor pool; 18-hole championship golf course nearby; modern health club/spa; 2 outdoor Jacuzzis; extensive watersports equipment/rentals; children's center/program; game room/video arcade; concierge; tour/activities desk; car-rental desk; business center; gift shop; salon; room service; babysitting; laundry service; same-day dry cleaning; concierge-level rooms; nonsmoking rooms; ADA-compliant rooms for those w/limited mobility.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010