Starwood Vacation Ownership Undergoes $35 Million Expansion for Westin St. John Resort & Villas
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Starwood Vacation Ownership has announced that they will spend a proposed 35 million dollars to expand and renovate the Westin St. John Resort & Villas.
The $35 million renovation will first update existing villas of the expansive Caribbean resort. Starwood will then add a new section of luxury timeshares to the Westin resort, known as the Coral Vista Villas. Additional renovations are currently being made to various areas of the resort including the pool, restaurants, meeting space, and existing guest suites.
CEO of Starwood Vacation Ownership Steve Williams states, “The Westin St. John Resort & Villas is one of the most successful shared ownership resorts in the Caribbean. As the resort and the on-site vacation ownership continue to play a pivotal role in St. John’s expansive tourism market, we are thrilled to enhance our presence and commitment to the island.”
Due to increased participation in their vacation ownership program, the renovation will convert 79 existing hotel units into 54 luxury timeshare villas. Additional units will be added in the area overlooking the Great Cruz Bay. The Cruz Bay project will include 30 two-bedroom villas, 6 two- bedroom lofts, and 18 studio timeshare villas.
Once construction is complete, the Westin St. John Resort & Villas will feature over 200 luxury suites and timeshare villas. The resort will also be upgrading resort areas such as the WestinWORKOUT® gym, spa, water activity area, and a dockside check-in option.
Starwood is also introducing new energy efficient practices, including the installation of solar panels through the resort.
Governor of the US Virgin Islands, John de Jongh says, “The significant investment in the renovation of The Westin St. John Resort & Villas will raise the standard of this premier resort with stylish and contemporary accommodations, unique amenities and a world-class guest experience. These efforts will ensure that The Westin St. John Resort & Villas continues to be one of the top destinations of choice for business and leisure travelers.”
The initial phases of the expansion are already underway and are expected to be completed during 2014. Some areas of the resort may be temporarily closed during renovations until December 18th, 2013. All areas of the expansion are expected to be open to guests by January 2015.
