The Hyatt Regency Aruba has always been a good choice for families seeking a Palm Beach, upmarket resort with a good children's program and a friendly atmosphere. After a $20 million makeover, completed in December 2007, the resort is better than ever.

Post-renovation, the hotel has a trendy, urban, sophisticate feel -- at least in the lobby and guest rooms. Although the Hyatt Aruba calls the design a "blend of casual Caribbean elegance and contemporary chic," there's very little of an island feel in the refurbished areas, except, perhaps, the colors in the 357 guest rooms. No matter. It all works.

Through the open-air lobby, you see the gardens and catch a view of the azure Caribbean beyond. Asian influences add a touch of both drama and tranquility. To reach your room, you walk through the lobby's center aisle. Lined on either side with rows of white, over-sized, waist-high planters, the passageway is a bit suggestive of a temple's ceremonial walkway. That added both a sense of specialness and tranquility. Contemporary lilac and lime green couches and chairs create conversation nooks behind the white planters.

Palm trees, bougainvillea and other blooms edge the path to the beach. You pass black swans in a pond, cages of green parrots and scarlet macaws, as well as the multi-level pool.

Upon check-in, families receive a Cranium game, and kids get a flyer about the supervised, children's program. For parents, the Hyatt Aruba has an on-site casino, as well as a spa. Massages are good, but the locker room and spa facilities could use an update.

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