Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village reopens for business
By CJ HADDAD
Those looking to substitute their vacation with a “staycation” over pandemic concerns can venture to a local gem in Cape Coral that has reopened for business after closing for two months due to COVID-19.
The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village is once again accepting bookings — including a discounted rate for residents — and is taking exceptional precautions when it comes to keeping guests safe.
Located in scenic Tarpon Point Marina, guests will have a myriad of on-site outdoor possibilities including boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, biking and more.
The Westin has set guidelines in place for staff intended to keep patrons safe and all areas of the hotel clean.
“We want our guests to understand what we’re doing today and planning for the near future in the areas of cleanliness, hygiene and social distancing,” said Michael Tighe, general manager of The Westin Cape Coral. “My goal is that when (guests) walk through the doors of The Westin, they know that our commitment to their health and safety is a priority.”
Tighe said the hotel has developed a 10-step commitment to clean plan, taking guidance from experts and universities.
In all high-traffic areas of the hotel, signage will be displayed to remind guests of social distancing, as well as on their monitors in their room. Tighe said there is a focus on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces using hospital-grade solutions. Hand sanitizer stations are located around the resort in all areas. There will be no more than four people, or one family, allowed in an elevator at one time. Guests will also have disinfectant wipes provided to them in their room in the near future. The hotel has also ordered an electrostatic sprayer capable of disinfecting all surfaces throughout the resort.
“We have elevated our rigorous protocols,” Tighe said.
Guests can now check-in for their stay via a mobile app. The hotel has also approved a way for guests to be able to access their rooms via their phone, making room keys a thing of the past. That technology is still being implemented and can be expected in the coming months.
“What’s trending is contactless service for our guests,” Tighe said. “In a couple months, you’ll be able to use your smartphone as your key.”
In-room dining is still available, but will be packaged as a “to-go” order and dropped off at guest’s doors.
All employees at the hotel are screened for symptoms and have their temperature taken at the beginning of each day. Each employee is also given a new mask at the beginning of every shift, which they are mandated to wear.
Tighe said Marriot — the ownership company of Westin — is looking to see if a mask mandate for guests will be something they will implement across all 30 of their brands. Tighe said hotels would, of course, follow the guidance of local government.
“We just want to be consistent with our messaging. We’re looking at that right now,” he said.
The resort’s outdoor restaurant, The Nauti Mermaid, has distanced table arrangements for patrons. Their bar has been closed but guests can still sit at a table in that area outdoors and order a drink and food.
“We’ve always been a destination of serenity and tranquility where social distancing happens almost naturally,” Tighe said. “When you think of what’s happening and the recommendations of social distancing and staying away from big crowds — we’re the perfect destination for someone who doesn’t want to take those risks.
“A lot of the amenities and services we offer are outside and essentially promotes social distancing.”
Even going a step further, if you are renting a suite and call a week in advance, the hotel will stock your fridge with all of the goods you request so that you have all you need upon your arrival.
“If you don’t want to eat at the restaurant and want to cook, we would provide groceries in your refrigerator,” Tighe said. “Give us a week in advance prior to your reservation and we’ll go ahead and fill that in. We really can provide all different types of comfort. We’re just trying to meet the needs of this new world we’re living in.”
While The Westin was closed due to the pandemic, they took the initiative to expedite a $15 million renovation project, slated to be completed in 2020, a year earlier than expected.
This renovation will include increased room inventory and a new design taking inspiration from the concept of biophilia, a belief that people have an innate need to connect with nature. Natural materials are locally sourced from Florida, with soothing fluid patterns related to water and vibrant accents evoke a peaceful ambiance, complementing stunning waterfront views from each guest room.
This will also add an additional 15 rooms at the resort.
Tighe said this weekend is “sold out.” With renovations happening, the hotel has a little over half of its rooms at available currently. Tighe said the majority of guests scheduled to check in are Florida residents that include locals as well as those from the east coast and other areas of the state.
For more information and to book a room, visit www.Marriott.com, search “Westin Hotels & Resorts” and select Cape Coral.
The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village is at 5951 Silver King Blvd.
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