Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort, from the air — Photo courtesy of MarriottIf you've stayed at the Frenchman's Reef and Morningstar Beach Resort more than once during repeat visits to St. Thomas, you may have noticed that things look a little different these days. A little fresher. And more elegant. That's because last summer the resort, which is Marriott's flagship Caribbean property, underwent a five-month, $48 million renovation that involved both major infrastructure work and cosmetic upgrades to rooms and some hotel facilities.

A guest room in the newly-renovated tower — Photo courtesy of MarriottThe two hundred rooms in the main tower, which make up almost half the resort's 478 rooms, have been redecorated with a light and cheerful pastel color palette, new paintings, and newly-designed balconies. As part of the hotel's effort to conserve energy, a highly efficient central air conditioning system was installed as well. Each room has an automatic shut-off sensor that turns off the a/c if a guest leaves the balcony door open.

The spa pool area — Photo courtesy of MarriottDownstairs, in the public areas, other improvements have been made. For example, the fitness center, which was previously on the second floor, has been moved up one floor, while the second floor Lazule spa was expanded to double its previous size. The property now has three pools, including a dedicated pool area just for spa guests which includes a cold dipping pool, a jacuzzi, and a leisure pool with in-water lounge chairs. Outdoor massage tables are available for those who want to have their treatment while gazing at the spectacular view.

Aqua Terra restaurant — Photo courtesy of MarriottWindows on the Harbor, the hotel's signature restaurant, has been renamed Aqua Terra and expanded to include beautifully upholstered blue banquettes and a lounge that overlooks the harbor. The Sunset Grille and Rum Bar, the property's two other in-house restaurants, have also been given facelifts.