US Consul General Gregory Slayton said that St. Regis' major announcement in the middle of a recession is a "vote of confidence" in Bermuda's economy. Slayton:

I want to note as an economist that it is quite interesting that St. Regis would choose this time to make this announcement, but it really does signal a vote of confidence in the Bermuda economy going forward and also, and I am pleased to say this, another historic link between our two countries.

As many of you know Bermuda is the tenth most popular destination for Americans travelling overseas and I have no doubt with the opening of St. Regis, Bermuda may just move up a couple of notches in that.

Unified Resorts and Par-La-Ville Hotel and Residences Ltd Ted Adams credited Premier Ewart Brown for his tenacity and commitment to Bermuda's platinum period tourism revitilisation. Adams credited and thanked the Premier "not just for today but for all those years you've been kicking me in my backside saying 'get this thing done.'"

The St. Regis deal is yet another jewel in the crown of our platinum period tourism revitilisation. This hotel will be spectacular. It's a vote of confidence in both our international business and tourism economies and will help both continue to grow into the future.