Encore makes magazine's annual 'It List'

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- Steve Wynn just got an affirmation on his latest (and most expensive) work from one the leading travel magazines.

Travel and Leisure Magazine named Encore Las Vegas to its "It List: 45 Best New Hotels of 2009" in its June issue. The "It List" is an annual list complied by the magazine.

Travel and Leisure said while there are touches of opulence and luxury around every corner, "we fell for the natural touches: sunlight inside the casino and a botanical backdrop of sculpted flower beds, laurel trees, and potted palms that make the 2.3 million square feet of public space feel downright cozy."

The $2.3 billion Encore opened in December 2008 with 2,034 rooms and suites, 72,000-square feet of gaming space, five restaurants and 11 high-end retail stores.

Wynn's namesake property, Wynn Las Vegas, also has received numerous awards, including the prestigious AAA Five Diamond award, Mobil Five Star and the Michelin Guide's Five Red Pavilion.

Other hotels on the list include the Montage in Beverly Hills, ME Barcelona and the Four Seasons Resort at Anahita.