Paradise Found: Barbuda Resort from James Packer and Robert De Niro

News from the Caribbean. Construction is expected to begin in 2017 on a Barbuda resort project developed by casino billionaire James Packer and Hollywood star Robert De Niro. Dubbed “Paradise Found,” the hotel will be located on the site of the former K-Club resort, once made famous by Princess Diana. K-Club was abandoned years ago, and lies in a state of ruin. Packer and De Niro purchased 251 acres surrounding the K-Club (859 acres in total) and plan to invest $250 million in the resort’s development. The government gave the green light for the Paradise Found project this past summer. 

Situated on a pristine stretch of sandy beach, Paradise Found will have a spa, four restaurants, and a marina that can accommodate superyachts. There’s also talk of a casino and an airport for private jets. The first phase of the project is expected to complete 77 rooms, the spa and eateries. The Australian reports that the first guests could check in as early as 2018.

From the Greenwich Hotel in New York to Nobu Hotels around the world, De Niro is no stranger to the hospitality business. Packer bought a 20 percent stake in the Nobu restaurant chain last year.