Paradise Beach Villas celebrated its 30th anniversary on July 4th 2024, commemorating its opening day by Bougainville Development, under the leadership of Lee di Giovanni, in 1994.
From a 2024 perspective we may confidently say that Lee di Giovanni was successful, the thriving resort is a testimony to its long-lasting charm, and hospitality.
The party celebrating the anniversary was nicely attended by guests, owners, and dignitaries, and unfolded in the resort’s garden over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Emcee Michelle Brooks greeted guests warmly and invited Managing Director Freddy Albertus to deliver the opening remarks for the festive gathering, followed by Alfred di Giovanni, president, Foundation Board, the Minister of Tourism & Public Health, Dangui Oduber, and the Minister of Tourism of Integrity, Nature, Transport & Elderly Affairs, Ursell Arends.
Both ministers then assisted presenting the 30th anniversary crystal award, to Esther Lacle congratulating her on her career landmark. Resort Manager Lillian Britten, presented Lacle with a free week’s stay on behalf of Interval International.
In his address, Minister Oduber, the Minister of Tourism and Public Health, extended his heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to the management and staff of Paradise Beach Villas for their dedication and vision, which made the resort a symbol of excellence in the island’s tourism industry.
In his discourse, Managing Director Freddy Albertus, added that the day is a significant milestone. The resort’s journey began with the vision and passion of Lee di Giovanni, whose legacy continues to inspire. Though she is no longer among the living, her spirit and dedication lives on, through her family members, Alfred and Michael di Giovanni, present at the party, honoring their mother’s unwavering commitment and the foundation she laid for the resort’s ongoing success.
Albertus concluded saying, ‘the continued growth and success of Paradise Beach Villas are a testament to the dedication of shareholders, board members, owners, timeshare owners, managers, and especially the incredible staffers, deserving a thunderous round of applause.’
In his turn, Minister Arends, the Minister of Integrity, Nature, Transport and Elderly Affairs, declared Aruba’s timeshares the backbone of the country’s tourism industry, the foundation upon which other hotels and now vacation rentals are building on. The minister thanked the long-term employees for their invaluable efforts, positioning Aruba’s hospitality brand among the best in the world, and helping navigate the country through a pandemic, saving the island’s economy.
The gathering then honored Esther Lacle, who has been with the resort since the very beginning, 30 years ago. Lacle started her professional career at Paradise Beach Villas as Front Desk Clerk then she was asked to move to the Accounting Department in the capacity of Account Receivable Administrator, for a short time. She was later promoted to her current position, overseeing Account Payables. Lacle expressed gratitude for her secure post at Paradise Beach Villas which allowed her to raise three children, as a single mother, and provide them with a proper education, that resulted in them spreading their wings as professional adults.
Paradise Beach Villas’ success, Albertus shares, continues to grow. As the second smallest timeshare Resort in Aruba, it continues to garner awards every year and receive top ratings among the Eagle Beach resorts.
