ORLANDO – Yesterday marked the grand opening of Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal Orlando’s fifth on-site hotel. The brand-new, Caribbean-inspired hotel brings the number of Universal Orlando on-site hotel rooms to 5,200.

“Our goal was to make guests feel like they have been immersed in the charm of Caribbean culture,” said Russ Dagon, Vice President and Executive Project Direction, Universal Creative. “From the moment they step inside, families will be transported to an island hideaway boasting the best features of the Caribbean, and just outside awaits the excitement and adventure of Universal Orlando’s two incredible theme parks.”

The hotel opened with great fanfare that included a steel drum band, stilt walkers and a colourful burst of streamers in the lobby.

Guests can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including a water taxi that transports them across the hotel’s lagoon waterfalls, and a water slide into the largest on-site pool at Universal Orlando Resort. Also available are a children’s play area, two sand beaches, fire pit and 75 varieties of rum.

“Our team is thrilled to be opening our doors today,” says Complex Managing Director Barb Bowden. “Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is a stunning addition to Universal Orlando’s already stellar line-up of properties, and whether guests come here seeking fun, relaxation, adventure or all of the above, we are ready to help them make memories in our island paradise.”

To purchase tickets or book accommodations and packages, visit www.UniversalTravelAgents.com.