Philipsburg, ST. MAARTEN (March 18, 2005)   After completing a multi-million dollar renovation, Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino re-opens in Dutch St. Maarten's beachfront capital of Philipsburg. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the property re-opened its doors on February 12, 2005 featuring a sophisticated, contemporary look in its lobby, 262 stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites, expanded and enhanced meeting space, an elegant new signature lobby and lounge, sleek infinity pool and three restaurants and more planned.

"We are confident that our stylish, serene haven will invigorate our return guests and entice new clientele to experience our new, four-star resort," said General Manager Renato Moretto. "This extensive renovation affords Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino the opportunity to offer leisure and corporate clientele a contemporary ambiance, first-class amenities and services, and an extraordinary location in the heart of St. Maarten."

"Our commitment to quality is clear," said Keith Graham, Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino Managing Director. "We treasure the tradition and history of the Great Bay Beach Resort and place a high priority on combining modern amenities and stellar service expected by today's guests. Celebrating its 30th anniversary as a hotel, we are delighted to have Great Bay in the ranks of St. Maarten's finest hotels."

Upon re-opening after the renovation, the Resort is now upgraded to a four-star rating. The resort features three restaurants and four bars. The Bay view is open daily for casual buffet breakfast, lunch and theme dinner. The Molasses indoor Caribbean restaurant with spectacular views of the ocean serving dinner set menus or a la carte and La Cucina offering traditional Italian dishes also for dinner. Resort lobbies and public areas have been totally redesigned and extended. The hip Living Room lounge bar has also been added, which offers evening entertainment.

A special introductory promotion extends 15% off current rack rates now through April 2005. Rates start at $220 per room, per night based on the resort's EP Plan and $190 per person, per night for the all-inclusive plan which includes airport transfers, baggage handling, breakfast, lunch and dinner, late afternoon lunch and snacks, all drinks unlimited (by the glass), island tour, all hotel taxes and gratuities, various hotel land activities and water sports and a $10 match-play casino voucher

As wellness among travelers continues to be a major trend in travel, Great Bay's Vitality Oasis Health Club and Spa services offers a host of treatments and services. Influenced by ancient knowledge and by the universal concept of balance in everything, this hidden oasis uncovers the 'art of vital living' and opens up a whole new world of tranquility and rejuvenation. Guests may choose from one of five wellness massages which assist in the self healing of specific imbalance, the oasis special, the tension taming session, reflexology and gua sha detox skin brushing, among other treatments. There is also a fitness center with personal trainer available. A juice bar serves healthy juices and shakes.

Few other tropical ports can boast an array of fine duty-free stores that equal those found on St. Maarten, especially along the shopping Mecca of Front Street in Philipsburg. With the resort's ideal location, guests are able to take advantage of everything that the bustling capital offers   all within walking distance.