Starwood Hotels has confirmed the opening of its first all-inclusive resort – The Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal in Costa Rica.

The property formerly known as the Paradisus Playa Conchal Resort will begin renovation on the hotel’s 406 spacious suites and all public areas, which will be conducted in phases through December 2011.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal marks the return of Starwood Hotels to Costa Rica after 20 years, and is the newest member of the Westin brand’s resorts portfolio, which offers 40 resorts in the world’s most sought-after vacation destinations.

“We are especially proud to be associated with Starwood in the management of The Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal,” said Brian Povinelli, global brand leader for Westin.

“The opening of The Westin Resort & Spa Playa Conchal accelerates the brand’s expansion in Latin America where Westin will open three more properties by the end of 2011 and double its portfolio by 2014.

“The Westin brand’s emphasis on wellness plays well in diverse international markets and has fueled our phenomenal global growth.”

Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal

Centered around an expansive, lagoon-style pool, The Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal is adjacent to the championship Robert Trent Jones II golf facility and is easily accessible from the international airport in Liberia, Guanacaste.

“Costa Rica is an increasingly popular destination for tourists and leisure travellers and a terrific location for our first all-inclusive Westin Resort,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America.

“Recent growth in the all-inclusive luxury resort market in Mexico and Central America, coupled with increasing demand from our SPG members for vacation packages have created fertile conditions for our entry in the all-inclusive market.”