Popular hotel chain Riu Hotels & Resorts is planning to open four new hotels in Mexico, Caribbean and Costa Rica and overhaul four more in the two years.

“Apple Vacations has had a long and successful partnership with Riu Hotels,” said Sandy Babin, Apple Vacations’ Vice President of Marketing. “Since 1998, Apple Vacationers have enjoyed Riu Resorts, referred their friends and returned time and again to experience Riu’s exceptional service and consistency.”

In late 2011, Riu Ocho Rios enhanced its deluxe wing, expanding the services and amenities in its higher-category rooms. Enhancements include private check-in, luxurious junior suites and suites with luxurious hydro-massage tubs and Jacuzzis, free Wi-Fi, concierge service for restaurant bookings and complimentary dining at the “Sir Richard” gourmet restaurant and “Tushima” Japanese restaurant.

In addition to the beautiful alabaster sand beach, this spectacular hotel features two swimming pools, and world-class dining in a variety of specialty restaurants with endless tropical concoctions at the bars. An array of top-quality facilities and breathtaking ocean-view accommodations complement the exclusive Deluxe Wing.

In December, the Riu Hotels & Resorts family welcomed Riu Palace Bavaro, located on the beach of Arena Gorda in Punta Cana. Buildings are surrounded by lush gardens and provide amazing views. Enjoy all of the fine qualities that RIU vacationers love: excellent service, a beautiful beach location and fine dining.

The Eternal Spa creates a calming atmosphere, providing body and beauty treatments, massages and a free sauna and Jacuzzi. Dining options are plentiful, with buffet, “Krystal” Fusion, Japanese, Italian and grill steakhouse available.

This summer, Apple Vacations’ exclusive vacation flights to Jamaica depart from Chicago O’Hare, Dallas-Ft. Worth and St. Louis. Exclusive vacation flights to Punta Cana depart from Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and St. Louis. Apple Vacations also sells scheduled air packages from cities nationwide.