Sonesta has scheduled reopening dates for its two
all-inclusive resorts on St. Maarten, which were damaged by Hurricane Irma last
September.
The adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point will reopen on Nov. 15,
followed by the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa on Feb. 1.
The Great Bay Beach Resort, a former Sonesta property with
hurricane damage, was bought by Sunwing Travel Group last September. Sunwing
has not announced a reopening date.
The Sonesta Maho's Sky Tower sustained the most damage from Irma.
The building had to be stripped to its main structural frame. The reconstructed
building will be able to withstand winds of more than 200 mph (Irma had
sustained winds of 165 mph), Sonesta said.
Building panels will enhance insulation and energy
efficiency, reducing the carbon footprint of the resort as well as improving
fire resistance.
The resort will be updated with a contemporary look
throughout the public spaces, restaurants and guest rooms.
The Sonesta Ocean Point Resort sustained less damage.
Repairs are being made to damaged areas to increase storm resistance.
The Ocean Point lobby is being redesigned in a contemporary
style. The new Casa Blue, a Spanish-style tapas restaurant, will debut on the rooftop
terrace above Azul restaurant.
The convention center, including the Royal Pavilion, will be
rebuilt.
The casino and Maho Village, the shopping and nightlife
promenade outside the resorts, are scheduled to reopen this summer. The casino
will have two new al fresco restaurants and a new outdoor bar and lounge.
The Maho Group, owners and operators of the Sonesta resorts,
has made it possible for workers to maintain a livelihood and improve their
skills and knowledge in hospitality while resorts are closed and being
renovated. The program enables employees to receive an attendance allowance
while taking courses. They keep their jobs, seniority and benefits, and all
will be reinstated in their positions when the resorts reopen.
Both Sonesta resorts will offer a pre-opening 45% discount for
bookings made from June 1-Sept. 30. All-inclusive rates at the Sonesta Maho
start at $132 per person, per night, double. At Sonesta Ocean Point, rates
start at $229 per person, per night, double.