May 2008 -- Multi Grammy Award-winning singer, Gloria Estefan and her husband, Emilio, are ready for the grand opening of their latest endeavor -- a new luxury beach-front hotel in Vero Beach, Florida.

The hotel’s management held a press conference in New York City announcing the oceanside resort and hotel to many hotel consumers and travel executives.

Located a little over an hour north of Palm Beach on Florida's east coast. The $50-million dollar oceanside resort will encompass 94 luxuriously appointed guestrooms, including four suites, all complemented by state-of-the art in-room entertainment and indulgent, oversized bathrooms with organic round showers and premium amenities. Wireless Internet access will be standard in public and private spaces.

“We chose to develop a resort here because we wanted to invest in Vero Beach and think it’s a quiet beach community and is the perfect distance for a weekend getaway from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach and Orlando,” the singer, who owns a home in Vero Beach, stated in an e-mail. “Emilio and I discovered Vero Beach about seven years ago and immediately fell in love with the community and the people. Once we began spending time in our home we came to appreciate the many natural attractions in the area.”

“I’m most excited by the architecture, with all of its recurring arches and circles,” Emilio Estefan stated in the e-mail. “For example, the facade of the resort’s two twin towers features bass reliefs of random patterned circles — it’s gorgeous.”

Costa d'Este’s signature restaurant, Oriente, with its Cuban cuisine is expected to become a destination unto itself with a creative and flavorful menu unlike anything in Vero Beach and its immediate vicinity. Full-service spa and fitness facilities, including an outdoor pool, and the endless expanse of white sand beach complete the experience. Benchmark’s signature service culture will help ensure guests genuinely experience the warmth, enthusiasm and passion for living for which Vero Beach is known.

About 70 to 80 new employees will be hired to staff the hotel. Room rates will start at $199 in low season and $249 in high season, though introductory rates may be offered.

Costa d'Este is located at 3244 Ocean Drive in Vero Beach on Florida's east coast, 190 miles south of Jacksonville, 109 miles southeast of Orlando and 135 miles north of Miami.