Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced yesterday that its newest brand, Tribute Portfolio Resorts has taken over ownership of the Riviera Palm Springs. Before its debut as the Riviera Palm Springs, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, in November 2015, the property will undergo a multi-million dollar upgrade, including the addition of a new pool bar, wedding pavilion and enhanced lobby.  This is yet another example of how Palm Springs is becoming more of a world-class destination every day.  The investments into this great resort town just keep coming.  

I'm sure most of you know who Starwood Hotels and Resorts is.  If you don't know their name, you most certainly know of their brands including, St. Regis, W Hotels, Westin, Le Meridien and Four Points just to name a few.  

Firmly anchored in the four-star, upper upscale category, the Tribute Portfolio brand allows owners of distinct properties to maintain their independent spirit, while benefiting from Starwood's powerful distribution and loyalty. Launched in April 2015, Tribute is Starwood's newest and tenth brand.  The brand is comprised of exceptional independent hotels around the globe, offering guests and owners the ability to "Stay Independent."  From boutique resorts to urban destination properties, guests can enjoy access to outstanding four star, upper upscale hotels with an indie spirit while benefitting from the award-winning Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program. 

Luxury.  Indie.  Boutique...this is a big part of the Palm Springs renaissance.  I think this could really benefit Palm Springs as it is another hotel that is a member of an enormous hotel company that can offer its loyal customers a stay in another resort destination.   

Startwood or not, its still no Dry Heat Resorts...