The Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde, has appointed the new board for the Seychelles Tourism Academy (STA).

As per their mandate under section 16 of the STA charter, the new Board of Governance will be expected to advise the school management towards forging and implementing its strategic plan while also advising on the inner workings of the academy.

The newly appointed board will be headed by Mr. Dereck Barbe.

Mr. Guillaume Albert will serve as vice-chairperson, and Ms. Kethleen Harrison, appointed as the secretary.

The six other members composing the board are professionals working closely with the tourism industry, namely Mr. André Borg, Mrs. Phyllis Padayachy, Mr. Guy Morel, Mr. Lucas D’Offay, Mr. Serge Robert and Ms. Rosemary Monthy.

The term of the new Seychelles Tourism Academy board takes effect immediately and is for a duration of three years.

The STA’s goals are:

• Improve the quality and standards of training offered to pre-service students and in-service personnel from the Tourism industry.
• Provide professional development and training opportunities for all staff in order to improve on the quality and standards with respect to their present and future roles and responsibilities at the academy.
• Motivate and retain all staff through mutual trust and respect, the availability of opportunities and incentives for professional development, learning and career advancement.
• Upgrade facilities and infrastructure at the academy in alignment with the academy’s mission and vision, international norms and standards and taking into account the present and future needs of the Seychelles tourism industry.
• Liaise with and gain the support of all partners including the Seychelles government through the Ministry of Tourism and the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) and the private sector in support of the academy’s mission, vision and strategic goals.
• Ensure that funds and other resources made available through the annual budget and other sources are effectively and sustainably managed in support of the academy’s mission, vision and strategic goals.
• Diversify and expand on the range of pre-service and in-service training programmes offered at the academy through collaborative efforts and sustained partnerships with the academy’s local and international partners.
• Attract and offer international students pre-service and in-service training opportunities at the academy.
• Establish strong partnerships with the community and engage with them through activities and initiatives for the overall advancement of tourism in Seychelles.
• Develop an organizational structure and culture that will be empowered to drive quality growth towards a more sustainable future for the academy.

MEDIA CONTACT: Tourism Seychelles, [email protected]    

Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has expressed condolences to the family of former Minister of Tourism, Francis Tulloch, who passed away yesterday (June 23).

Minister Bartlett said “he was a true stalwart who played an integral role in developing the tourism sector. Our industry has benefited significantly from the contribution of Mr. Tulloch, and I am particularly grateful for the work he has done to pave the way for the growth of the sector.”

He added that “Jamaica mourns with the family of Mr. Tulloch, who made an indelible mark on the tourism sector both as Minister and State Minister” noting that “his passion for tourism and people were among his best traits.”

Minister Bartlett also lauded the former Minister for his “commitment to safeguarding the interest of small entrepreneurs in the tourism industry, including players in the ground transportation and craft sub-sectors.”

Mr. Tulloch served as Minister of Tourism in the P.J. Patterson led administration from 1997 to 1999, after serving as Minister of State in the Tourism Ministry from 1993 to 1995. He served as Member of Parliament for St. James Central from 1972 to 1976, and St. James West Central from 1976 to 1980. He was also Member of Parliament for Hanover Eastern from 1993 to 1997, and served in that capacity in St. James North Western from 1997 to 2002.

The former parliamentarian was ordained as a deacon in the Catholic Church in 2009 after leaving politics. He was also an attorney-at-law and a diplomat. He was appointed as the first Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Montego Bay in 2014.

Mr. Tulloch leaves behind his wife Doreen and six children.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Corporate Communications Division

Ministry of Tourism

64 Knutsford Boulevard

Kingston 5

Telephone: 920-4924,

Fax: 906-1729

Or

Kingsley Roberts

Senior Director, Corporate Communications

Ministry of Tourism

64 Knutsford Boulevard

Kingston 5

Tel: 920-4926-30, ext.: 5990

Cell: (876) 505-6118

Fax: 920-4944

The Seychelles Islands were trending in the four top Eastern European markets recently when the destination embarked on a market blitz to actively promote itself and regain business in that region.

The roadshow, dubbed ‘the Seychelles take-over’, stopped in the cities of Prague, Warsaw, Budapest and Bucharest from 4th to 9th June. The Seychelles delegation included Tourism Seychelles representatives and local trade partners, and together they covered four cities in five days.

The team travelled to a new city daily, conducting workshops and presentations in the evening before moving to the next city the following morning.

In Prague and Warsaw – the region’s top two performing markets for Seychelles – the delegation was led by the Director-General for Destination Marketing, Bernadette Willemin.

Besides Tourism Seychelles, other partners attending and conducting business at the roadshow were Destination Management Companies 7 South, Mason’s Travel, Creole Travel Services, Pure Escapes, Luxe Voyages and hotel partners Blue Safari Seychelles, Four Seasons Resort, Story Seychelles and Berjaya Hotels and Resorts.

The workshop in each city featured primarily round-robin sessions with the participants. It was a speed networking with brief presentations, answering queries and exchanging contacts. The second part of the workshop consisted of dinner and 5-minute highlights of the different products and services.

Speaking about the roadshow, the Director for Russia, CIS and Eastern Europe markets, Mrs. Lena Hoareau, said it was a highly successful event with incredible feedback.

“It was a relief for everyone to be able to go back on the road again in such a big event after so long, and what better way for the travel agents in the market to start with an exotic destination like Seychelles.”

“The agents were very eager, and we were even more excited to be meeting them physically again. We had an excellent ‘Seychelles take-over’ in all four cities,” she said.

The agents attending the workshops were amongst the majority selling the destination, whilst others were great potentials with a strong interest in including Seychelles in their portfolio.

“We were definitely the talk of the trade when we visited the different cities. Our roadshow was timely and appropriate, in the sense that we went out there as a strong team on a serious blitz to promote the destination and its products, and at a time when people are venturing out again and frantically booking their next holiday,” she said.

Mrs. Hoareau stressed that the four countries were chosen for the roadshow as they are the top-performing markets in the Eastern and Central European region, and it was necessary to support business there to ensure continued growth. She added that several other activities have been happening or planned during the course of this year in other smaller and potential markets to allow Tourism Seychelles to tap deeper into this region.

The Director-General for Marketing, Bernadette Willemin, also spoke positively about the roadshow and said Seychelles is taking several measures to ensure a safe holiday experience for all its visitors. She stated that whilst Seychelles is gradually easing up current restrictions for visitors to have a ‘normal’ and unhindered holiday, more destinations are opening up their doors and competition stiffens.

“Today, more than ever, we need to remain visible, relevant and competitive. That’s the rule of the game now; the competition is intense, and we must step up our promotion and business across all markets to maintain or grow market shares. We must continue working towards consolidating our existing business and going all out for new ones,” she said.

MEDIA CONTACT: Tourism Seychelles, [email protected]   

Additional Flight Option for High End Travelers into Ian Fleming International Airport Supports Tourism Recovery and Development 

Jamaica is pleased to welcome yet another option for air travelers with the arrival yesterday of the inaugural QCAS Aero non-stop charter flight from Fort Lauderdale International Airport to the Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The new charter service is specifically targeting high-end travelers and provides ease of access throughout the island.to other resort areas like Portland.

“I am very pleased to welcome this new charter flight to Ocho Rios by QCAS,” said Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board, Donovan White, who was on site to welcome the flight.

“This new convenient option for high-end travelers directly supports the development of the ‘Jamaica Revere’ zone being created from Oracabessa to Port Antonio while helping us continue our path to recovery as we build back more sustainably, more inclusively and more resiliently for the future.”

The flight will depart from QCAS’ exclusive facility at Fort Lauderdale International Airport, away from the large crowds and bustle of regular commercial traffic. With 30 seats on board its turbojet aircraft, passengers are assured maximum comfort in seats that exceed standard First-Class seating legroom. The personalized experience can be tailored to meet any passenger whim, with every guest treated to top shelf beverages, healthy menu options and personalized concierge attention from check in to arrival at their resort or villa.

These flights increase ease of access to Jamaica by air and support the recovery and growth of the tourism sector. For summer 2022, Jamaica is projecting stopover arrivals of more than 800,000, or more than 85% of pre-pandemic 2019 levels, with stopover arrival expenditures reaching over $1.1 billion or more than 90% of pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

For more information about Jamaica, please click here.

ABOUT JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo and Paris. 

In 2021, the JTB was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination,’ ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Wedding Destination’ for the second consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named it the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the 14th consecutive year; and the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Destination’ for the 16th consecutive year; as well as the ‘Caribbean’s Best Nature Destination’ and the ‘Caribbean’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination.’ In addition, Jamaica was awarded four gold 2021 Travvy Awards, including ‘Best Destination, Caribbean/Bahamas,’ ‘Best Culinary Destination –Caribbean,’ Best Travel Agent Academy Program,’; as well as a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 10th time. In 2020, the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) named Jamaica the 2020 ‘Destination of the Year for Sustainable Tourism’. In 2019, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #1 Caribbean Destination and #14 Best Destination in the World. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog here.

SEEN IN PHOTO: Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board, Donovan White shares the lens with QCAS Captain Nidio Hernandez, The Honorable Audley Shaw, Minister of Transport and Mining, Jamaica, and the Honorable Robert Montague, Member of Parliament for St. Mary Western, at the Ian Fleming International Airport in Ocho Rios. – image courtesy of Jamaica Tourist Board

MEDIA CONTACT

Victoria Polansky / Cathy A. Preece

Lou Hammond Group

[email protected]  / [email protected]

Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has called for the development of a special growth strategy for Commonwealth countries to help them recover from the far-reaching impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He was speaking during the just concluded Commonwealth Business Forum 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda, which focused on Sustainable Tourism and Travel.

The Minister noted that “tourism is the lifeline of Commonwealth countries located in the world’s most tourism dependent regions, including the Caribbean.” He added that “the formulation of a post-COVID-19 economic recovery and growth strategy for commonwealth countries would be a gamechanger.”

The Tourism Minister stressed however, that for Commonwealth nations it would “require that they urgently rethink the existing framework of economic partnership with the goal of realigning it with the boundaries of international trade in their favor.”

Mr. Bartlett said that the move will “contribute to more value-added economic exchanges among smaller countries and with larger countries of the Commonwealth,” noting too that “this will enhance their intra-regional capacity to generate economic surpluses and retain more of the benefits derived from microeconomic development.” 

Mr. Bartlett also urged Commonwealth countries to take proactive steps to foster greater tourism and trade convergences in order to reap economic benefits.

This as Minister Bartlett expressed concern that despite the development of tourism over the years, Commonwealth states are yet to reap the real rewards.

He explained that the tourism industry has the potential to significantly boost economic convergence among Commonwealth countries, noting however that despite “the phenomenal pace of tourism growth and expansion over the years, it has delivered insufficient benefits to commonwealth states.”

He outlined that most Commonwealth countries are exporting mainly to states located in their immediate geographic zones, adding that this has “prevented them from retaining much of the revenues generated from the tourism industry.” This he laments, is contributing to low levels of tourism trade with larger economies.

Mr. Bartlett underscored that fostering greater economic convergences among Commonwealth countries could aid in accelerating the economic development of the Commonwealth, which collectively constitutes a sizable market based on the world’s population. He noted also that this can be leveraged to promote growth in the area of export trade.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Corporate Communications Division

Ministry of Tourism

64 Knutsford Boulevard

Kingston 5

Tel: (876) 920-4926-30

Or

Kingsley Roberts

Senior Director, Corporate Communications

Ministry of Tourism

64 Knutsford Boulevard

Kingston 5

Tel: 920-4926-30, ext.: 5990

Cell: (876) 505-6118

Fax: 920-4944

DHL Global Forwarding future user of the new cargo facility at Frankfurt Airport – Investment represents major expansion to the FRA logistics hub

Fraport, the owner and operator of Frankfurt Airport (FRA), is building a new airfreight warehouse at FRA’s CargoCity South, thus filling another vacant lot at this important logistics center. The new facility will be used by DHL Global Forwarding, the air and sea freight subsidiary of Germany’s Deutsche Post DHL Group, one of the world’s largest courier companies. Construction starts in mid-2023. The new warehouse will be located next to access gate Tor 31 at CargoCity South (CCS). The construction site covers an area of around 60,000 square meters. Once complete, the warehouse including office spaces will measure around 28,000 square meters. With this latest addition, Fraport’s real estate management continues its successful development of FRA’s CargoCity South as one of the world’s leading hubs for airfreight shipments.

Fraport will be responsible for the construction of the cargo warehouse and retain ownership of the facility, after completion of the construction. Following the conclusion of a lease agreement, DHL Global Forwarding will use the new warehouse to further expand operations from Frankfurt Airport. The company intends to develop the FRA location into its European airfreight hub.   

Jan Sieben, who heads Real Estate Development at Fraport AG, explained: “The overall design of the warehouse was developed based on our many years of experience in the construction of logistics and airfreight facilities at Frankfurt Airport. Together with the outdoor facilities, the finished layout will perfectly meet the needs of the present tenant. However, the building’s design plan and specification make it attractive to potential future tenants as well.” 

The outdoor facilities too are designed to meet the specific needs of logistics companies at Frankfurt Airport.

The warehouse will have 56 gates and truck docks, with plenty of space for driving and maneuvering, along with additional separate truck parking spaces. This planning is essential for ensuring smooth freight operations, while also relieving the general traffic situation at CCS. Parking spaces for DHL Global Forwarding employees will also be available right next to the building. The office areas, including break rooms, will encompass about 3,000 square meters of the total project space. 

Alongside operational needs, the warehouse will also meet ambitious environmental requirements. Fraport intends to commission both a general planner and general contractor for planning and construction.  

“Frankfurt Airport has become a vital and highly successful logistics hub,” said Max Philipp Conrady, VP Cargo Development at Fraport AG. “We are delighted that DHL Global Forwarding – one of the world’s leading airfreight companies – is expanding its presence here at FRA. This high-profile partner will contribute to further strengthening Frankfurt Airport as an airfreight location, underscoring our position on the global air cargo market.” 

Tobias Schmidt, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding Europe, said: “Frankfurt Airport plays a key role in our international airfreight services. Thanks to Frankfurt’s central location in the heart of Europe, we have been connecting our customers from here to many destinations worldwide for about 20 years now. We are expanding our capacities at FRA in response to increasing demand for freight shipments. And we are pleased to have Fraport as the right partner at our side.”

Thomas Mack, Global Head of Air Freight at DHL Global Forwarding, added: “This expansion at Frankfurt Airport will also allow us to grow our dedicated charter business. We are seeing rising demand particularly from Asia, and in e-commerce. Frankfurt provides the ideal preconditions for serving this demand. The new infrastructure will enable us to further enhance and streamline our process management, and thus provide even more efficient services”

Only a few remaining lots available at CargoCity South

Upon completion of the latest construction project, CCS will have only two more areas totaling around 90,000 square meters available for future development. Fraport’s real estate management division will gradually place these spaces on the market in due course.

Media Contact:

Angelika Heinbuch
Corporate Communications
Media Relations
Phone+49 69 690-28417
[email protected]

A grandiose Maltese 25th anniversary concert to be held in the Mediterranean’s Maltese Islands, will feature Joseph Calleja, world renown Maltese Tenor, and special guest, Plácido Domingo. The concert will take place at the spectacular surroundings of the historic Fort Manoel in Malta on July 26.  

The Maltese tenor continues to grace the world’s leading opera houses, including New York’s Metropolitan Opera, as well as concert halls, in his silver jubilee year performing in France, Germany, the UK and Australia among other countries. 

Domingo, whose repertoire encompasses more than 150 roles, has continued uninterrupted his extraordinary artistic career for more than half a century and this year, after having performed in Madrid, Moscow, Paris, Palermo, Salzburg, Versailles, Buenos Aires and Budapest, he is expected to return to Italy, Austria, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Spain, Slovenia, Mexico and South America.

The fitting venue for this spectacular concert, which will also feature the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, was originally built by the Knights in 1723 to defend Valletta under the patronage of Portuguese Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena and underwent meticulous restoration thanks to Midi plc.

Malta Tourism Authority Chairman Gavin Gulia said:

“When we speak of Maltese Cultural Ambassadors who – through their exceptional talent – give visibility to the Maltese Islands and their endless beauty, one cannot but not think of The Maltese Tenor Joseph Calleja.”

“It gives us great pleasure, as the Malta Tourism Authority, to support Joseph’s 25th Anniversary Concert, which this year will be held in one of the island’s most beautiful locations, making the concert even more unique. Events such as this one continue to add versatility to the Maltese Islands, by enhancing the quality of the tourism product, reaffirming once more that there truly is something for everyone in Malta.”

Bank of Valletta (BOV) CEO Rick Hunkin said: “The Bank’s support for the annual Joseph Calleja concert encompasses Bank of Valletta’s continued support of the local arts and culture scene as part of its Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) commitment. This annual concert is back and will showcase Malta’s top talents, along with other local and international stars while a large number of children will get the opportunity to perform alongside these great artists, and for some, their first opportunity on a stage through the BOV Joseph Calleja Children’s Choir. The concert has also been an opportunity to showcase the talents of the scholars of the BOV Joseph Calleja Foundation, the Bank’s collaboration with the Maltese Tenor to assist talented local artists to fulfill their potential and become Malta’s future stars.”

Tickets for Joseph Calleja 25th Anniversary Concert are already available, together with more  information, at VisitMalta.com or by following this link.

About Malta

The sunny islands of Malta, in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, are home to a most remarkable concentration of intact built heritage, including the highest density of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in any nation-state anywhere. Valletta, built by the proud Knights of St. John, is one of the UNESCO sites and the European Capital of Culture for 2018. Malta’s patrimony in stone ranges from the oldest free-standing stone architecture in the world, to one of the British Empire’s most formidable defensive systems, and includes a rich mix of domestic, religious and military architecture from the ancient, medieval and early modern periods. With superbly sunny weather, attractive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do.

For more information on Malta, click here.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Malta Tourism Authority – North America 

Michelle Buttigieg

Tel:      (212) 213-0944

Fax:     (212) 213-0938

E-mail: [email protected]

MTA US/Canada Editorial Contact:

The Bradford Group

Gabriela Reyes/Amanda Marconi

Tel:      (212) 447-0027 E-mail: [email protected]

The Bahamas Tourist Office will host dozens of boaters in caravans, across the Gulf Stream and into the beautiful Bahamian waters, in a series of exciting Boating Flings over the next six weeks. This summer series includes four Boating Flings, three of which will head to Bimini June 23-26, July 21-24, and July 28-31.   

The highlight of the series is a 10-day fling to the beautiful Abaco Islands – renowned as a boater’s paradise.

That will take place between July 7-17. First time crossers and experienced boaters alike are encouraged to join the entourage of boaters to Bimini and Abaco between June 23 and July 31.

Each Boating Fling will depart from the Bahia Mar Marina in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with a Lead Boat guiding the caravan and a Straggler Boat supporting the back end, ensuring support and safety for the group every step of the way. Participants will have the opportunity to partake in various activities across the stopover islands, savor delicious Bahamian cuisine and engage in an authentic Bahamian experience.

All flings have a mandatory Captain’s meeting on the day prior to departure. Boaters should take note that the minimum boat length for all flings is 22 feet and spaces per fling are limited, so early registration is encouraged. For information, click here.

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS

With over 700 islands and cays, and 16 unique island destinations, The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering an easy flyaway escape that transports travelers away from their everyday. The Islands of The Bahamas has world-class fishing, diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth’s most spectacular water and beaches waiting for families, couples and adventurers. Explore all the islands have to offer at www.bahamas.com or on Facebook, YouTube or Instagram to see why It’s Better In The Bahamas!

MEDIA CONTACT: Anita Johnson-Patty, Director, Global Communications, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, [email protected]

Visitors worldwide sigh in relief as outdoor mask-wearing is now optional following a review of the Public Health measures in Seychelles.

Only (3) three months after allowing fully-vaccinated visitors to enter the destination without having to present a negative PCR test, Seychelles moves to remove mandatory outdoor mask-wearing and temperature screening procedures at points of entry in public places.

The public is, however, still required to keep their masks on when using public buses and other public transportation such as taxis, boats, and planes.

The Director-General for Destination Marketing, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, states that while the destination keeps a staunch dedication to safe tourism, she is content that these decisions come at an opportune time.

“These new decisions are needed to put us back in the top charters as a holiday destination.”

“July through to September are the summer months for the Europeans and, for most, the holiday period. Seychelles is following this course of events as it happens around the world, where visitors are not burdened with mask-wearing anymore. This particular move aims at making Seychelles more accessible and competitive as a destination. So far, we have fared well by practicing safe tourism. We will keep encouraging our partners to maintain their sanitary measures in place as the destination needs to remain safe and our visitors vigilant,” said Mrs. Willemin.

It was also announced that the remaining restrictions on discotheques and mass gatherings will be lifted as of July 15th if the destination does not record any new surges in COVID-19 cases until then.

As a safe holiday experience remains essential, all visitors to Seychelles will still require travel insurance in addition to their medical insurance cover and are encouraged to book their stay at a certified accommodation. Moreover, all visitors must apply for Travel Authorization before travelling.

MEDIA CONTACT: Tourism Seychelles, [email protected] 

Haute fashion meets hospitality, as Sandals Resorts continues its 40th Anniversary celebrations by commissioning renowned fashion designer Stan Herman to reimagine the uniforms across its illustrious resort portfolio. A tribute to the Team Members forming the soul of the guest experience for four decades and counting, the inaugural “Anniversary Collection” debuted at the June 1 opening of Sandals Royal Curaçao, another fascinating milestone as the brand makes its first venture into the Dutch Caribbean.

“A new island to call home within our sweet Caribbean, along with a next-generation resort reflective of its unique hues and diverse landscapes, is a celebration in and of itself during this landmark year,” said Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts, Adam Stewart. “As we commemorate this special moment in time, we are honoring the Team Members at the heart of our operation with a modern collection that is as chic and sharp as it is comfortable for the Caribbean. Most importantly, we want them to feel as much pride in representing Sandals as we do to have them along for the journey. From the moment we met with Stan, introduced him to the team and watched the magic of his ability to turn their ideas into tangible designs, we knew we had found a cherished partner.”

An Approach Curated in the Caribbean, for the Caribbean

With uniforms curated for a wide range of categories and venues – from the guest facing team at the front of house, including bell service and Sandals’ iconic butlers, to the all-inclusive resorts’ culinary outlets to the heart of house team behind the scenes – Herman spent many hours in destination and in conversation with Sandals Team Members to authentically capture a sense of place while prioritizing comfort and ease of care. Updated fibers and recycled materials are also incorporated throughout several pieces, upholding Sandals’ commitment to sustainability in the Caribbean.

“The ensembles are designed to tell a story.”

“From day to evening, from check-in to the beach, they are pieces that guests might even envision in their own personal wardrobes,” said Herman, former president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America and a three-time Coty award winner at the helm of fashion for many of the world’s leading travel brands. “We sought to evolve beyond traditional hospitality looks to reflect today’s luxury travel aesthetic, just as Sandals has done in their approach to the brand’s own evolution and ingenuity.”

Destination Curaçao

The flagship for Herman’s first designs for the brand, Sandals Royal Curaçao is nestled within the protected Santa Barbara private estate, seamlessly intertwining the natural wonders of the desert, ocean, mountains, and beaches with the Luxury Included® resort experience that Sandals is known for. The 351-room resort offers more all-inclusive luxury options than ever before, including two new signature suite categories, the Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows and Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows, and amenities like the Dos Awa Pool, a bi-level infinity pool flanked by views of the Spanish Water.

“When you arrive on the island you are driven through an incredible oasis, so we have dressed the bellmen, greeters and front of house staff in light blues, aquas, turquoise, and sand shades, to mirror the magnificent sea setting and to reflect the contemporary, elegant tone of the property,” said Herman. “Building on this, the styles will transition across the board at nighttime with rich navys and earth tones to add warmth and elegance. There will be an immediate sense of calm and welcoming upon arrival, regardless of what time of day.”

The Anniversary Collection

Fabric colors selected for Sandals Royal Curaçao are meant to feel sun-washed with a soft fade that reflects the natural and weathered appeal of island style. More modern touches are scattered throughout the collection, such as bespoke silver “S” pins, representative of Sandals, that butlers will wear centered on their shirts in lieu of the tie, and paired with a signature printed pocket square with Curaçao’s iconic colors and stunning Dutch architecture.

The many world-class restaurants on site each have their own fashion identity, such as Island Crimson, the prominent color of Butch’s Island Chop House, the namesake restaurant of founder Gordon “Butch” Stewart. Additional nods include small ruffles featured on the shirts at Latin-themed restaurant Zuka; traditional tunics with navy piping at Greek staple Aolos; and rich aqua jackets at the Japanese-inspired Gatsu Gatsu.

“While each staff member is in a different uniform depending on their location and position, there is a larger sense of inclusion and cohesiveness among the team at Sandals Royal Curaçao with our wearable, contemporary looks,” says Herman.

Stewart adds, “The unique way in which Stan has immersed himself into the soul and essence of Sandals to create world-class, stylish designs for our new uniforms – and for the future of our brands – is a work of art in and of itself. They are a thing of beauty.” 

The Sandals Resorts collection, seen first at Sandals Royal Curaçao, will be unveiled across all SRI hotels through a phased approach over the next two years. Plans are already underway for entirely new designs to be featured at the new Sandals Dunn’s River opening in Ocho Rios, Jamaica in 2023. Uniform collections are also coming to the company’s family-friendly Beaches Resorts brand, with unique touches inspired by each respective destination.

For more information about the Sandals Resorts Luxury Included® difference, click here. 

SEEN IN PHOTO: Weddings and Events Managers at the just opened Sandals Royal Curaçao sport their new “Sandals Anniversary Collection” uniforms, curated by iconic fashion designer Stan Herman, who has been commissioned by Sandals Resorts to reimagine Team Member attire across the brand portfolio. – image courtesy of Sandals

MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, [email protected]