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The official opening of the Westin Resort in Dawn Beach, while the project was not without its controversy regarding the environment and infrastructure, is significant in more ways than one. First of all, it’s the first major US-based hotel chain to create a presence in St. Maarten for a long time.
As a matter of fact, with all due respect for Wyndham with regard to Sapphire Beach Club and Sonesta for operating Maho Beach, it’s the only international brand name truly committing to “The Friendly Island” at this time, by putting its reputation and record directly on the line. St. Maarten, to maintain its credibility as leading Northeastern Caribbean destination, was very much in need of that.
That’s why it’s all the more regrettable that, due to a number of circumstances, the hotel was forced to open despite the fact that the surrounding infrastructure and landscaping could not be completed on time. In any case it shows that Westin, having made bookings and reservations, was determined to meet its obligations.
The importance of that kind of commitment should not be underestimated, despite concerns about inconvenience the situation may have caused some visitors. The reality is also that a traveller who books a brand new hotel even before it opens knows, or at least ought to know, that there is a risk everything may not be completely ready.
What matters much more than possible problems in the execution is the fact that a major hotel chain has finally shown the necessary confidence in St. Maarten as a tourist destination, based on what the island has been able to offer. The effort to create jobs for locals only adds to that picture.
All in all, there is every reason to welcome Westin to the island and assume that whatever issues may still exist will be addressed taking the interest of the resort and its guests, as well as the employees and society in general, into account. Thank you for believing in “The Friendly Island” and its people.
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