After 15 months and a $12 million dollar investment, the Spice Island Beach Resort on Grenada was feted at a gala last Saturday by the island's political and tourism industry elite, alongside hotel "regulars," with speeches, fireworks, drinks and dancing. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell used the luxury hotel's speedy rebirth after Hurricane Ivan almost a year and a half ago as a liftoff point in describing not only Grenada's progress as a whole, but also his country's efforts, in terms of tourism infrastructure, to "not just build better, but 'build best.'" Owner Sir Royston Hopkins went on to praise his architect, Kobi Karp, and the resort staff, plus anyone and everyone that had a hand in the Herculean task of building back the hotel in such a short time, from bankers to plumbers. The 64-suite property on Grand Anse Beach now features two new "super-suites," contemporary furnishings, a 5,600-square-foot spa, kids club and an open-air reception area, as well as flat-screen TVs, Molten Brown bath products and a large whirlpool in every suite. Rates start at $605 April 15 through Dec. 15. Visit [www.spiceislandbeachresort.com].
