San Nicolas, May 15, 2024 – Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes, accompanied by representatives from the Department of Public Works (DOW), visited the construction site of Hotel Secrets in San Nicolas this morning. The visit aimed to observe the significant progress of the hotel project, which has been advancing rapidly in recent months.

During the visit, the Prime Minister received a comprehensive briefing from the representatives of Hotel Secrets. They provided detailed insights into the various phases of the project and shared their ambitious plan to complete the construction of the first 300 rooms by the end of 2024, with the goal of opening them before the year concludes.

Prime Minister Wever-Croes expressed her satisfaction with the progress, noting that the project is on track to meet its year-end target. Despite the initial delays caused by numerous discussions and the need to address various concerns, significant strides have been made to correct issues along the way.

“Sincerely, Hotel Secrets in San Nicolas is a very significant project for Aruba in general but especially for San Nicolas. The fact that private investors saw a place to take their risks, invest their money, and bring development to Aruba is something we greatly appreciate, especially because this will bring progress and well-being to those living in the area, which makes me very happy,” stated the Prime Minister. “I am very impressed with how quickly the construction is progressing and I am also sure that by the end of the year, the hotel will be ready to open its first 300 rooms.”

However, amidst the excitement for progress, there are voices of concern among some local residents. Many fear that the construction of Hotel Secrets will accelerate gentrification in San Nicolas, potentially pricing out long-time residents and altering the character of the community.

While acknowledging these concerns, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of balanced development that considers the needs and interests of all stakeholders. She pledged to work closely with local authorities and community representatives to address these concerns and ensure that the benefits of development are shared equitably among all residents.

As the construction of Hotel Secrets continues to advance, the anticipation for its completion grows among residents and stakeholders, marking a promising development for the future of San Nicolas and Aruba as a whole.