Located next to Treasure Island and just north of George Town, this property encircles a beautifully landscaped courtyard filled with tropical flowering plants. The five-story hotel opens to views of crimson sunsets and a sparkling sea. The hotel has undergone a $15 million renovation as a result of significant destruction from Hurricane Ivan. Today, it is looking better than ever, and staff morale is back up to prehurricane levels.
The marble floors in the contemporary three-story lobby are accented by elegant Oriental rugs. Soft sofas and chairs come in rich colors and patterns, and aromatic floral arrangements and well-placed potted palms add to the decor.
An intimate lobby bar serves fruity island drinks while steaming coffees and light snacks are also available throughout the day at Balboa's. The cool inviting Red Parrot serves breakfast either
buffet style or a la carte, and Solana on Seven Mile Beach dishes up delicious fare for lunch and dinner. Live entertainment takes place nightly except Sunday. The beachside grill also serves drinks with exotic names and burgers to satisfy midday snackers.
The rustle of palm fronds soothes those relaxing by the small waterfront pool and whirlpool. A watersports concession arranges snorkeling and diving and has an assortment of water-related accessories for sale. A new spa boasts elaborate treatments and the unique yonka therapy that many come to experience at the hotel. The small beach has suffered some erosion from hurricanes.
The ballroom proves popular for weddings and other functions, seating 500 people theater-style. Parking is plentiful and free.
Reached through broad, carpeted plant-filled hallways, accommodations afford courtyard and sea views. Guest quarters display coral and teal color schemes, fine window treatments, contemporary art, light-colored furnishings, upholstered side chairs in coordinating colors, and ceramic lamps.
Marriott's new bedding program has reached the tropics and adds to the paradise once guests head for slumber. Padded mattresses, triple-layered linens, overstuffed pillows and plump duvets lull guests to sleep. Armoires hide TVs, and standard amenities include thermostats, smoke detectors, sprinklers, minibars, coffeemakers, safes, irons, ironing boards and louvered closets. High-speed Internet access (both wired and wireless for a fee) and balconies add value.
The commodious marble baths have long vanities, hair dryers, Bath and Body Works amenities, robes, curved 
shower rods, massaging showerheads, and combination tubs with clotheslines.
The property is entirely smoke-free, and three rooms cater to disabled guests. Pets are not permitted. Room service operates at all hours, and housekeeping makes doubly daily visits.
The friendly staff takes good care of the business travelers and groups that stay here. Families are frequent guests, and the limited public areas often create discomfort for meetings taking place on-site while children frolic about. Some might expect more outdoor space for relaxing by the pool and beach, so sun-seekers may be happier elsewhere. Try the Westin or the Reef Resort on the other side of the island for luxury and a larger beach.
