The Bahamas Ministry of Finance in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism repealed the 10 percent hotel tax and replaced it with a 7.5 percent value added tax. The VAT will be charged on hotels and home rentals as well as services purchased by guests.

The new 323-suite, adults-only Chic Punta Cana by Royalton marks the debut of the Chic brand for Royalton Resorts. Located on Uvero Alto Beach, the resort has a DJ booth in the pool, poolside cabanas, an oxygen bar, outdoor disco, five a la carte restaurants, a buffet restaurant, a café and 24-hour room service.

The opening of Meliá Jardines del Rey was an authentic Christmas surprise, as the Cayo Coco-based, five-star all-inclusive resort was scheduled to cut the ribbon in early January. The resort teed off operations on its right wing, which features 624 rooms overlooking the swimming pool, sea and gardens.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. continues its growth momentum in Latin America and strengthens its presence in Colombia with the openings of Four Points Bogota and Four Points Barranquilla. Both hotels are operated by GHL Hotels under franchise agreements.