May 2008 -- Multi Grammy Award-winning singer, Gloria Estefan and husband, producer Emilio, had their grand opening of their multi-million dollar resort, Costa d' Este Beach Resort in Vero Beach, Florida.

Vero Beach Mayor Thomas White presided at the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the 94-guestroom, luxury resort owned by the multi-award winning duo, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Jr.

At the ceremony the mayor proclaimed today as "Costa d'Este Day" in Vero Beach. Other speakers included the Estefans; Andy Zinni, the resort's GM; and Burt Cabanas, chairman and CEO of Benchmark Hospitality International, the operator of the resort. Also in attendance were local and county officials, and area residents. A reception followed the ceremony.

The new resort is fully booked this weekend with a private group that also reserved its signature Cuban-fusion restaurant Oriente. The resort and Oriente will open to the public on Monday, June 23.

Gloria Estefan welcomed the VIP delegation by stating, "We developed this stunning resort because it made good business sense, but it was also a labor of love because Vero Beach is our home away from home and has been for six years, and we wanted to share this special community with vacationers from around the world."

"Today marks the culmination of a long road," added Emilio Estefan, Jr. "Mayor White, city commissioners and council members, Gloria and I thank all of you for the incredible support you have shown us and the very warm welcome we have received here in Vero Beach."

"This gorgeous resort reflects Gloria and Emilio's flair, keen style and multi-cultural sophistication," added Burt Cabanas, Benchmark's founder. "Benchmark Hospitality is delighted to add Costa d'Este to our new Personal Luxury Resort(TM) collection."

From its premier Ocean Drive location to its fashionable accommodations, gourmet cuisine and attentive service, Costa d'Este will cater to the most discerning leisure travelers from around the world. The $50 million resort also features a signature restaurant and bar, infinity-edge pool and cabana bar, spa and gym.