I step out onto the balcony to find the ocean only feet away–a bright fluorescent turquoise reminiscent of blue Gatorade. The sun shines fiercely overhead, and in my mind I can practically hear the pale drone of Caribbean drums playing in the distance I take a deep breath; such is the paradise I enjoyed a three-day respite on tranquil St. Thomas.

It’s no surprise that approximately two million tourists visit this 31.24-square-mile island every year. And even despite its proximity to neighboring U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John and St. Croix, St. Thomas reigns as one of the top luxury destinations for world travelers. And in anticipation of even more affluent visitors making the tropical haven their vacation destination of choice, St. Thomas’ most beloved hotel Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort has recently embarked on an impressive five-month, $48 million renovation.

Set out on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Charlotte Amalie Harbor with its own private beach, there’s no doubt that Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort boasts the most idyllic location on the entire island. The sheer natural beauty and majesty from every angle of the property is worthy of a “Wish-you-were-here” postcard, not to mention it’s situated within easy access to the island’s prime shopping and dining destinations. In fact, the hotel is actually home to one of the island’s most popular and trendy restaurants, Havana Blue.

The renovations officially began on May 1 and consist of a well-deserved makeover to the 300 guest rooms in the hotel’s main building that will soon include upgraded technologies, a new sleek and modern décor, and a plethora of other well-appointed amenities.

Perhaps the most major change to its architecture is the massive overhaul of the resort’s grandiose swimming pool. The extra large pool that ran the length of the property will now be separated into three distinct pool areas: a private spa pool, a kids and family pool, and an adult pool.

The hotel restaurant, Windows on the Harbor, will finally be able to take advantage of the property’s breathtaking views as walls will be torn down and replaced with grand windows. The resort is also be undergoing a complete remodel of its spa along with the addition of a brand new fitness center.

With an ambitious October 2011 grand re-opening date, it won’t be long before visitors can take advantage of these and several other lavish improvements to one of the most extraordinary travel destinations in the entire world.

Click on the images below to enlarge.