From a young age, Mikayla Ruiz was very active in tourism, being part of Kids & Youth in Action. Through this, she experienced what hospitality is, performed in shows, and worked as a hostess in hotels, boats, and cultural and tourist events. She remembers her love for sharing and conversing with tourists. "Since I was little, I enjoyed telling tourists about Aruba, and I was sure that I would continue my studies in the field of tourism."
Mikayla Ruiz
Mikayla Ruiz
At Colegio Arubano, she was certain that her next step was an education in the world of hospitality. This led her to Coastal Carolina University, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, with a minor in New Media & Digital Culture.
Mikayla Ruiz
Mikayla Ruiz
During her studies, Mikayla completed three internships, which provided her with experience and professional connections. Her career in luxury hospitality began in 2017 with her first internship at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, working in Retail.In 2018, she received an opportunity at the Aruba Tourism Authority with the Branding Team, where she learned how Aruba stands out in global tourism. Her final internship in 2019 was once again at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, this time in Sales & Marketing. Not even a week after graduating in December 2019, Mikayla returned to Aruba and secured her first job at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba in Meetings & Special Events. For five years, she planned and executed weddings and events for both local and international groups. During this period, her passion for creativity and crafting unique experiences grew. "The Meetings & Special Events department marked the beginning of my professional career."
In October 2024, Mikayla became the Marketing & Communications Manager for The St. Regis Aruba Resort. The iconic luxury hotel was in its pre-opening phase, and the challenge was both immense and exciting.
Mikayla realized that she was not just working on a hotel but contributing to the creation of an unforgettable experiencefor future "Luminaries," as guests are called at The St. Regis.
The greatest value she has gained from her experience at St. Regis is gratitude. She deeply appreciates every opportunity for growth she has had so far.
Mikayla can’t stop thinking about how the team worked together for the grand opening of The St. Regis Aruba. "The unity was incredible," Mikayla says. "We faced obstacles, but like a family, we supported each other and worked with passion and determination to achieve something magical. "The preparation was a process of effort and dedication, where every detail was crucial. The team worked long hours, ensuring that every aspect of the hotel was ready to welcome its first guests. The opening was more than just launching a hotel—it was a celebration of unity, hard work, and excellence."
"I am certain that the branding of St. Regis Aruba seamlessly incorporates elements of Aruba in a sophisticated and elegant way. We draw inspiration from the island’s culture, art, and nature to create a luxury experience with an authentic local touch. You can see this reflected in various aspects, from our restaurant menus to our spa offerings and unique experiences."
The St. Regis Aruba Resort brings a world-class hospitality experience to the island, elevating personalized and meticulous service in every detail.
One of the most exclusive features introduced by St. Regis in Aruba is its Butler Service—a unique offering where guests receive personalized attention from a dedicated butler who anticipates their needs and assists with every detail, from packing and unpacking luggage to securing exclusive activity reservations.
In addition to its personalized service, The St. Regis Aruba Resort honors its sophisticated heritage through a series of iconic traditions that are an integral part of its identity. The four signature rituals include:
1. Champagne Sabering
An iconic tradition that dates back to St. Regis founder John Jacob Astor IV, Champagne Sabering is a symbol of celebration. Every evening, a butler ceremoniously opens a bottle of champagne with a saber, a type of sword, creating the perfect atmosphere for a toast as the sun sets.
2. Afternoon Tea Ritual
Inspired by an exclusive selection of fine teas and an array of exquisite pastries, this ritual offers a moment of relaxation in a sophisticated setting, allowing guests to indulge in the art of tea appreciation.
3. Bloody Mary Ritual
Each St. Regis hotel worldwide has crafted its own unique version of the Bloody Mary. The St. Regis Aruba Resort presents its signature cocktail, the “Bon Bini Mary”, made with local ingredients to provide an authentic touch that reflects the island’s culture and personality.
4. Midnight Supper
Inspired by the Astor Family, known for hosting luxurious private dinners for friends after exclusive events, this tradition continues at St. Regis today. The ritual comes to life in private events, where high-end gastronomy is paired with an intimate and elegant ambiance.
These unique rituals and exceptional services are at the heart of St. Regis, creating an atmosphere of elegance, personalized attention, and tradition—setting the resort apart from any other hotel in Aruba.
Mikayla firmly believes that when you love your job, it doesn’t feel like an obligation—it becomes a passion."Find a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life," she says. To maintain balance, she makes time for herself by going to the gym and spending time with her family and her two dogs, Nala and Bella.
In her role as Marketing & Communications Manager, teamwork is essential. "Our team is dynamic, creative, and dedicated," Mikayla shares. Despite being a small group, their strong bond shines through in everything they do. The entire team at The St. Regis Aruba Resort is made up of passionate professionals, each giving their best to create an exceptional experience for every guest.
For those who dream of working at a luxury hotel like The St. Regis Aruba Resort, Mikayla’s advice is clear: "You need to have THE PASSION." To stand out in this industry, you must stay curious, eager to learn, and maintain a growth mindset.
Hospitality is not just a job-it’s an art, a passion, and a way of life. Guests come to St. Regis expecting exclusive and exceptional service, and the only way to deliver that is through dedication and love for the profession. A career at St. Regis is not just a destination-it is a journey toward limitless excellence.
NOMBER:
Mikayla Ruiz
AGE: 28 aña
Education:
Major: Hospitality Resort and Tourism Management focused on Event Management
Minor: New Media and Digital Culture focused on Social Media Marketing & Design
MOTTO IN LIFE:
"My purpose in life is to live it. To taste experience to the utmost. To reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences. Celebra Bida Tur Dia."
ROLE MODEL:
"My mother— a resilient, passionate, and determined woman in everything she does. She is my motivation to keep working hard and to always PUSH MYSELF to my maximum potential. I also believe in having FAITH, knowing that no matter the obstacles along the way, there is always light at the end of the tunnel."
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