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2020 Winner: Sandals Royal Bahamian Leading All-Inclusive Resort

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It’s no secret that Nassau in The Bahamas is one of the best places in the world to go on a worry-free all-inclusive vacation. This is because of all the amazing resorts that can be found in this beautiful and exciting island. At the top of the list you’ll find Sandals Royal Bahamian, located on Cable Beach, a 15-minute drive from Lynden Pindling International Airport, Nassau’s international airport. This romantic adults-only all-inclusive resort is specifically designed for couples in love and 2020’s winner of “Bahamas Leading All-Inclusive Resort” award (World Travel Awards).

Sandals Royal Bahamian takes luxury to new heights for couples who want to experience the lure of the Caribbean in an upscale resort setting, where everything is taken care of. This resort is often described as “historically regal” and “one the most elegant all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas”. Once you’re immersed in its European sophistication mixed in with exotic island appeal, you’ll understand why.

No other all-inclusive resort in Nassau offers guests a private off-shore island with a swim-up bar, seafood restaurant, spa, beach cabanas, and over-the-water hammocks. Make use of the Sandals snorkeling equipment for free and find plenty of tropical fish and turtles around this secluded island.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between at any of the 11 gourmet restaurants. Sandals Royal Bahamian offers you the most delicious dishes from a variety of cuisines. It’s all included, all unlimited. Want to have a double portion? No problem!

Order unlimited tropical cocktails (and other drinks!) at one of the 9 bars, including 3 swim-up bars. Let the bar staff make your favorite cocktail or have them make their signature cocktail for you. Always mixed with premium brand liquors and never watered down.

Insider tip: Get the royal treatment and be picked up at the airport by Rolls-Royce and drive to and from the resort in style. Book one of the following Butler Suites at Sandals Royal Bahamian to unlock this luxury inclusion: Windsor Honeymoon Hideaway Swim Up Crystal Lagoon Zen Butler Suite, Windsor Oceanfront Penthouse Butler Royal Suite, Windsor Oceanview Walkout Butler Royal Suite, Windsor Honeymoon Oceanview Butler Royal Suite or the Windsor Oceanview Butler Royal Suite. A ride (and suite) to remember!

Exclusive Rolls-Royce airport transfers are just part of the Sandals Luxury Included® difference.

No other resort brand in The Bahamas has more quality conclusions than Sandals.

See what else is included:

Included from the moment you set foot in Nassau

Besides the restaurants, bars and offshore island that made Sandals Royal Bahamian famous, here are some of the other inclusions:

Water sports

Get into water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and even try out water trikes or hobie® cats. Whatever you choose, one thing is certain – there’s no better way to strengthen your bond with your partner than by trying something new together! It’s all included.

Scuba diving

Nassau is one of the best places to scuba dive in the Caribbean. Scuba diving trips are included for certified divers (max. two tanks a day) staying at Sandals Royal Bahamian. That includes top-of-the-line equipment and professional staff. Not certified? No problem! Get PADI® certified at the resort and dive the rest of your vacation for free!

Land sports

What’s your favorite land sport, and when was the last time you made some time for it? If you can’t remember, your Sandals vacation may be just the right opportunity to pick it up and brush up on old skills.

Whether you like land sports like beach volleyball, day & night tennis, croquet, basketball, or you want to try things like table tennis, lawn chess, board games, shuffleboard, or taking daring shots from the pool tables, your Sandals vacation is the perfect time for you to show that special person just what you’re made of!

Day and night entertainment

Expect hip and fresh Caribbean entertainment day or night during your stay at Sandals Royal Bahamian. While there, spend some time at the Piano Bar or the Amphitheatre, and experience events like Caribbean Night, White Night, Talent Night, Sandals’ Carnival Party, live bands and shows, and so much more!

Fitness center with a view

Active vacations are all the range! Have a vacation that’s as active (or relaxed) as you would like with options of spending some time at Sandals’ Penthouse Fitness Center with an amazing view over the turquoise waters of The Bahamas. You’ll be able to get into (free) group fitness classes or try more personalized training sessions. Either way, you’ll be able to get moving and keep fit!

Free Wifi

Wifi is included in all rooms and common areas. Stay connected with family and friends and share the amazing views from the beach on social media.

Tips, taxes & gratuities

Experience service excellence with all tips, taxes, and gratuities already taken care of – it’s included in your booking, with exception of the butlers (in case you booked a butler suite). Tipping the butlers is common, but entirely up to you.

Free airport transfers

Sandals includes direct round-trip, non-stop airport transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle for all room categories. Some suites even come with private luxury transfers!

Tip: On arrival, make an appointment at the Red Lane® Spa to get a mind and body reset that will help mellow you out so you’re perfectly tuned to have the vacation of a lifetime. Try treatments like the Night Blooming Jasmine Massage, or the Scents of Love Couples Massage. Note: treatments at the Red Lane® Spa are not included in your stay.

Butler Suite or not?

Sandals Royal Bahamian offers guests three room categories: Luxury, Club and Elite Butler. Luxury suites are the entry-level rooms. Club Level suites come with access to the Sandals Club lounge and free room service from 7 AM until 10 PM. There will be a Club Level menu in your room to order from.

The Butler Elite suites are the most luxurious level of suites at Sandals. This category of accommodation takes service and luxury to a whole new level as it includes a personal butler trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers.

If you choose to stay in a suite of this category, you can expect that your butler will greet you on arrival with lemongrass-scented hand towels, welcome cocktails, and even culinary treats. Your butler will escort you to your suite and fill you in on the various resort facilities, and you can check-in from the comfort of your suite. Once you’re checked in, you can tweak accommodation preferences, tour the resort, or just relax – you’ll get a personal cell phone to reach your butler whenever you need assistance.

Butlers can also make dinner reservations, book tours, spa treatments, and other activities on property. They’ll get up early in the morning to reserve your favorite cabana near the pool or on the beach. This especially comes in handy during peak season from December to April.

Butlers can even serve you lunch, dinner, culinary treats, your favorite cocktails and champagne from any restaurant or bar on the beach, at the poolside or in your suite.

Read more: Most Common Sandals Butler Requests: Prepare to be ‘WOWED’.

Note: Guests at all rooms in Sandals Royal Bahamian have access to all amenities and inclusions (with exception of the Club Sandals lounge). The higher-end suites come with privileged locations and a better view. Every room comes with a free to use mini-fridge stocked up with cooled water, soda, juice, local beer and Robert Mondavi wines.

Benefits of staying at an adults-only all-inclusive resort

  • Worry-free state of mind. Without having to think about the little things and leaving the ‘cherry on top’ in the hands of well-trained staff, couples are able to spend more time appreciating each other during their romantic escape.
  • Value for money. When everything is included, you can enjoy The Bahamas without limits. Where you can expect to pay $10 USD for a beer and $20 USD for a cocktail at a regular resort in Nassau, at Sandals all-inclusive resort you order what you want, as much as you want. Drinks at Sandals are always mixed with premium brand liquors and never watered down. Even the mini-fridge in your room is stocked and free to use!
  • Socialize without limits. Adults only means there won’t be any kids running around, and you can focus on enjoying an experience with other guests. This means plenty of opportunities to make new friends for life. Great place to start: the swim-up bar at the main pool!
  • Room for intimacy. Sandals adults-only resort in Nassau is social when you want to connect with other couples, and intimate when you want to have some time with just the two of you. Cuddle up at the enchanting fire pits and find secluded spots for romantic rendezvous. Sandals’ rooms and suites are ‘made for romance’, so you can expect to be encapsulated in love from the moment you check in and are escorted to your room.
  • Every night is date night. With 11 gourmet restaurants on-property, Sandals Royal Bahamian offers its guests delightful dishes from all over the world. From French cuisine at Baccarat, to Italian delicacies at Casanova. From teppanyaki at Kimonos to a tranquille dining experience on the water at ‘Gordon’s Pier Restaurant’. It’s all included, all unlimited.

Bonus: Best places to visit in Nassau as a couple

Combine the comfort of Sandals Royal Bahamian with the experience of exploring Nassau. After all, the island is small enough to discover its highlights within the time span of a few days. Don’t leave the island before considering the following points of interest with your significant other!

1. Rose Island

Location: North-East of Nassau (day trip)

Photo credit: Liz Miller/Shutterstock.com

Rose Island is considered one of the “Out Islands” in The Bahamas, which basically means that it is located a boat ride away from New Providence/Nassau. Rose Island is loved by visitors and locals alike for the peace and serenity to be found there which serves as the perfect opportunity to be away from it all.

Rose Island makes the perfect day trip for couples, and there are tours you can sign up for which include lunch and a welcome drink (there’s also a beach bar). Some tours also include snorkeling and swimming with the pigs, which sums up to a pretty awesome beach experience!

2. Blue Lagoon Island

Location: North-East of Nassau (day trip)

Photo credit: Victor Maschek/Shutterstock.com

Taking a boat trip to Blue Lagoon Island is one of the top things to do while in Nassau. This is a private island and it is loved by people who value a pure environment and want to spend some time in an eco-friendly zone. On this island, you’ll have lots of time to enjoy some great Bahamian beaches and swim with dolphins or sea lions.

Blue Lagoon Island is about three miles from Nassau, and it won’t be difficult finding a way to get there from the capital city. Blue Lagoon Island is a great day trip for couples and families alike.

3. Clifton Heritage Park

Location: West of Nassau

Photo credit: photravel_ru/Shutterstock.com

Clifton Heritage National Park to the west of Nassau is a good option if you’re looking for a place packed with history and culture where you can also find great views and snorkeling opportunities (see the world’s largest underwater sculpture!).

This is a very mixed landscape, which includes rocky areas, white sand beaches, wetlands, and more. You’ll be able to learn more about early inhabitants of The Bahamas here, which includes the Lucayan people, and their architectural preferences. Bring your own drinks and end your day relaxing on Jaws Beach.

4. Nassau’s Historic City Center

Location: Downtown Nassau

Photo credit: Ramunas-Bruzas/Shutterstock.com

Make your way down to the historic city center of Nassau on a sunny day and marvel at the colorful colonial buildings. Start by visiting Fort Charlotte and make your way down to Parliament Square and the Queen’s Staircase. Grab a lunch at Senor Frogs and a craft beer at Pirate Republic. Shop around and bring some rum cake home from the Rum Cake Factory, and sample some rum at the John Watling distillery. End the day by having a cocktail at vibrant Junkanoo Beach.

5. Love Beach

Location: West of Nassau

Looking for something a bit more low-key? Love Beach is often mentioned as being Nassau’s favorite beach by the locals. Get yourself a rum punch at the Nirvana Beach bar, find yourself a good spot on the white sand beach and float around the calm turquoise waters, while watching the planes fly over. It doesn’t get much better than this!

Looking for a night out? Consider having a beer and burger at Philosophy Smoke House on Thursday night for some live music (20-minute taxi ride) and dance the night away at Bond Nightclub (5-minute taxi ride) on the weekends.

Rather party during the day? Besides Sandals lively swim-up bar, consider Senor Frogs and Junkanoo Beach (both located downtown, on a 15-minute taxi ride from the resort). Remember that drinks in The Bahamas can get quite expensive. Guests can have unlimited free drinks at Sandals Royal Bahamian to get in the mood!

A whole new meaning of “all-inclusive” in Nassau!

Get ready for a vacation in paradise that blows your socks off from the comfort of Nassau’s best all-inclusive adults only resort. The stunning attributes of The Bahamas, and the ever-aiming-to-please attitude of team Sandals collides in these islands in a spectacular way, leading to a vacation experience that’s second to none.

With world-class accommodations, a private offshore island, and plenty of gourmet dining options, it really doesn’t get much better than Sandals Royal Bahamian for the perfect adults only all-inclusive vacation in Nassau!

Book today and get ready to fall in love all over again!

Sandals Royal Bahamian rooms
Sandals Royal Bahamian photos
Sandals Royal Bahamian restaurants
Sandals Royal Bahamian map

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

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Those daydreams of catching a flight, sipping on tropical cocktails, sunbathing on white-sand beaches, and enjoying the luxuries of total privacy are finally coming true — and it all began with Sandals Grande Antigua. A singular, but bold reopening that served as a beacon of hope for the future of travel. Sandals Resorts #backtohappy isn’t just a hashtag.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy
Take a dip into all-inclusive luxury and privacy at Sandals Grande Antigua.

Stepping back into paradise, Sandals wanted to ensure that every reopening was as safe as possible for both guests and team members. That’s why all 18 resorts implemented the Sandals Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness. By training all staff and mapping out a list of 18 touch points, Sandals Grande Antigua was first to put the protocols into action and to start getting guests back to their happy place in the Caribbean.

It was a long-awaited turning point in which Caribbean tourism had officially begun its comeback and Sandals Resorts was leading the way, giving travelers a reason to grab their passports again.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Grab your passports and retreat to pure happiness at Sandals Resorts.

And now, Sandals is giving everyone more reasons to get #BackToHappy.

12 Luxury Included® Resorts open with more on the horizon: #BackToHappy

Step onto any Sandals or Beaches Resort right now and you’re guaranteed to experience pure bliss after simply taking a look around. There’s a deeper appreciation for the magnificent blue oceans, the vivid sunrises, the beautifully manicured gardens, and those golden Caribbean sunsets. Happiness can be seen radiating all throughout the grounds.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Take a seat poolside and watch the vivid sunrise at Sandals South Coast with your other half.

The Caribbean breeze carries the scent of fresh seafood across expansive acres of land, gourmet kitchens are back to work serving up some of the world’s best cuisines, couples are rekindling their romance in their private pool sanctuaries, and families are leaving nothing but happy footprints in the sand. All of life’s simple luxuries are finally back and better than ever.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Stroll hand-in-hand and enjoy all of that family time at Beaches Negril.

15,000 team members: #BackToHappy

Everywhere you look, team members are seen smiling through their eyes because they are genuinely happy to be back doing what they love the most — delivering exceptional hospitality to guests. From PADI® certified dive instructors and exceptional bartenders to Red Lane® Spa specialists and butlers trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers, the ‘heartbeat’ of Sandals is now beating stronger than ever before.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Sandals team members are ready to deliver the 5-star vacation you’ve been dreaming of.

World renowned chefs are back in their happy place, beloved bartenders are mixing up the best cocktails, playmakers are taking entertainment to new heights (literally entertaining guests while on stilts), and so much more. The team is going above and beyond to take care of guests and showcase just how warm their hospitality is. We all need a little R&R with some built-in luxury, and Sandals and Beaches are ready to over-deliver!

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Take your love to new heights and rekindle the romance in a Penthouse Skypool Butler Suite at Sandals Grenada.

Friendly, new faces and the loyal guests who have become family: #BackToHappy

There’s no denying it: an oasis for two sounds pretty picture-perfect right now. Because Sandals is a trusted brand for nearly 40 years now, couples and families are grabbing their passports and escaping to paradise because they want to get back to doing what makes them happy.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Get #BackToHappy and soak up some Caribbean sun at Sandals Resorts.

Across every resort, guests can be seen reveling in luxury again, soaking up the Caribbean sun right from their private beach-side cabanas, reconnecting with each other over private candlelight dinners beneath the stars, and suspending themselves in over-the-water hammocks made for two, while sipping on piña coladas. All of this bringing them #BackToHappy in the process.

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Sip on your favorite cocktails with 360-degree views of the ocean at Sandals South Coast’s Latitudes Overwater Bar.

It’s a universally acknowledged truth that travel makes people happy, and Sandals and Beaches Resorts want to get everyone #BackToHappy. From expansive resorts built with social distancing in mind to impeccable service that puts guests first, Sandals has always been a strong leader in the hospitality industry. Couple that with reuniting its incomparable staff and guests with all-inclusive luxury and the most mesmerizing destinations on earth… now, that’s something we can all be happy about!

Sandals Resorts: #backtohappy

Ready to boost your happiness and rekindle your love for paradise? Learn more about planning an all-inclusive vacation with Sandals or Beaches Resorts now.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Tourism Linkages Network to Host Major Spa Standards Workshop says Bartlett

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As part of efforts to encourage the adoption of national and international standards by spas across the island, the Tourism Linkages Network will be hosting a free two-day Spa Standards Workshop, beginning next Monday, November 16, 2020. The workshop will seek to sensitize the industry about the Linkages Network’s newly developed COVID-19 Safety Manual for Jamaican Spas, which is the first of its kind in the region.

The manual incorporates existing protocols for spas from the Ministry of Tourism’s COVID-19 protocol document as well as the standards outlined by the International Spa Association.

Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, highlighted that: “This year a record 498 persons have registered for the workshop, which will be streamed on the Tourism Enhancement Fund’s social media pages, on November 16 and 17.”

“This is a very important workshop which will include presentations on topics such as: ‘Visioning the Spa Industry through destination integrity and assurance,’ Understanding the requirements of the Spa Standard JS319, as well as a presentation on the new COVID-19 Safety Manual for Spas,” he explained.

The Ministry’s training arm, the Jamaica Centre of Tourism Innovation, will also be collaborating on this initiative to offer Spa Certification training for qualified spa practitioners.

The Spa Standards and Certification program began in 2017, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Jamaica Bureau of Standards and the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo). To date, over 250 stakeholders across the island have benefited.

The Tourism Linkages Network will also be hosting its second annual Jamaica Health and Wellness Tourism Conference from Wednesday, November 18 to Thursday, November 19 at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, under the theme: “Reset, Reimagine, Restore.”

“The conference will bring together leaders in the health and wellness tourism industry from Jamaica, the Caribbean and around the world for one of the most important conferences on Jamaica’s tourism schedule. This year’s conference will be a hybrid event with limited in person attendance and live streaming via social media, which will bring the activity to the entire global wellness tourism community,” Minister Bartlett outlined. 

Additional information on both events can be accessed at: wellnessinja.com

More news about Jamaica

MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications Division, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4924, Fax: 906-1729

Sandals Foundation Helps Schools Prepare for New Academic Year

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To help Sandals Resorts International continue to make a difference in the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation was launched in March 2009 as a non-profit organization. The Foundation believe that the action of inspiring hope is a force that can move mountains.

In today’s pandemic world, the seemingly simplest of acts can provide huge benefits. To that end, as part of ongoing efforts to invest in the island’s education infrastructure and support the academic growth of students, the Sandals Foundation is constructing handwashing stations at twelve infant and primary schools across St. Ann, St. Mary, Westmoreland, and St. James.

The construction of the handwashing stations, which is valued at approximately US$22,000, is made possible due to support from Tito’s Handmade Vodka, a spirits company based in Austin, Texas, USA. In April, the company’s philanthropic arm, Love, Tito’s, donated a total of US$25,000 to the Sandals Foundation to give back to the island’s hospitality workers and communities affected by the pandemic.

Keeping in mind the COVID-19 safety requirements for schools, the Sandals Foundation is working to help the island’s learning institutions meet health, safety, and sanitation measures.

Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation, said upon reviewing the Ministry of Education’s manual for the reopening of schools published in May, the team reached out to a number of institutions within tourism-dependent communities to assess their needs.

“We support the government’s efforts to minimize the risks and spread of the coronavirus especially within our schools, so it was important for us to see how we could help make the process as smooth as possible.”

Through these handwashing stations and sanitation resources, Clarke continued, “we hope we will help promote best practices amongst students, parents, guardians, and teachers alike; create safer spaces for our young ones as they re-enter schools; and help ease the anxiety of everyone involved.”

In addition to the handwashing stations, plumbing and drainage infrastructure which will be erected at the entrance of schools and institutions will be provided with automatic hand soap dispensers, start-up hand soap, paper towels, signage to encourage proper handwashing, hand-held thermometers, and reusable masks for teachers and staff.

Benefiting schools in Westmoreland are West End Early Childhood Institution, Torrington Early Childhood Institution, West End Infant School, Culloden Infant School, Kings Infant and Primary School, and Whitehouse Early Childhood Institution. 

Exchange All Age, Seville Golden Preschool, and Ocho Rios Primary School will benefit from the upgrades in St. Ann, while in St. Mary, Boscobel Primary and Infant School will see the new handwashing stations erected. Finally, the targeted schools in St. James are Leonora Morris Infant and Primary School and Whitehouse Basic School.

All costs associated with administration and management is supported by Sandals International so that 100% of every dollar donated goes directly towards funding impactful and meaningful initiatives within the key areas of Education, Community and Environment.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Tourism must get back on track, Bartlett

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Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the industry is a key driver of the Jamaican economy and urges stakeholders to view the unprecedented crisis brought on by the pandemic as a transformational opportunity to help get tourism back on track.

Speaking at the opening of the first-ever virtual staging of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX), the Minister said, “Tourism must get back on track. Pre-pandemic, there were 1.5 billion international tourist arrivals; travel and tourism accounted for 10.3% of global GDP, and it employed 1 in 10 persons around the world.  At home, as we welcomed 4.3 million visitors, the sector earned US$3.7 billion, contributed 9.5% to the nation’s GDP and generated some 170,000 direct jobs.”

Bartlett noted that the Government is doing its part to rebuild the economy and tourism will play a key role. He shared that despite Covid-19, proactive measures were being implemented that will ensure a tourism product that is safe, attractive for visitors, and economically viable for all tourism stakeholders.

Despite the challenges caused by the pandemic, Bartlett remains cautiously optimistic as data from the Jamaica Tourist Board indicate that the industry is slowly rebuilding.

Preliminary JTB figures indicate that since reopening on June 15, the country has recorded a little over 211,000 passengers to the island; June to September earnings amounted to US$231.9 million, and hotel occupancy rates are slowly inching up. A 40% increase in arrivals over the winter season when compared to the preceding periods of massive downturn, is also projected.  

“In terms of airlift, most of the major airlines serving the destination are increasing service as the demand picks up. These include the following airlines in the Americas: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Southwest, Air Canada, WestJet, and Copa,” he said. 

Expedia also reported that searches for Jamaica’s Montego Bay rose 15 percent in July, and Jamaica was among the most-searched-for destinations in the Caribbean.

“I have received reports that some of our hotel properties have reported that they are reaching up to 60% occupancy through a combination of international and local guests, with numbers reaching nearly 90% around holiday weekends,” he said.

The Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) is the premier trade event and the single most important business generator for Jamaica’s tourism industry. It facilitates pre-scheduled appointments for leading wholesalers and tour operators with hundreds of Jamaica’s leading tourism suppliers to conduct business negotiations.

Since its 1990 inception, The Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) has been a joint project of The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). It is supported by every Jamaican organization involved in the development, promotion and sale of the Island’s tourism product.

According to the organizers, the three-day event, which is being held virtually  this year due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, has more than 2,000 buyer and supplier delegates, travel agents and media representatives from countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, China, India, Russia, Spain, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Argentina.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

Sandals Foundation Receives Agents’ Choice Award for Second Year

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The outstanding work of the Sandals Foundation to develop Caribbean communities and inspire hope in the lives of the region’s people has once again been recognized as it was named “Favorite Responsible/Philanthropic Travel Foundation” at the prestigious Agents’ Choice Awards for the second straight year. The announcement was made at the highly-anticipated Canadian travel industry event held virtually on October 1, 2020.

Sandals Foundation was founded in 2009 by Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart, to expand the philanthropic work that had been a core function of the luxury-inclusive resort chain since opening its doors 39 years ago.

“The Caribbean is home, and its people are family. We are committed to reinvesting in our home and providing opportunities that help our region’s people believe in and create a better future for themselves and future generations,” said Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.

The Agents’ Choice Awards were established in 1999 by Toronto-based Baxter Media and its flagship publications, Canadian Travel Press and Travel Courier. The annual survey is the largest sampling of Canadian travel agents selecting their favorite travel suppliers in various categories. This year, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, close to 6,000 Canadian travel professionals cast their votes in 38 categories.

Stewart, who is also the President of the Sandals Foundation, affirmed: “We are very grateful to be recognized by the incredible travel agents across Canada with this award. They are a critical partner that makes our work possible. Together with our team members, guests, and partners we have made a positive imprint in the lives of more than 990,000 people.”

In 2019, the Sandals Foundation was accepted by the Department of Global Communications of the United Nations as one of the organizations whose efforts are contributing significantly to implementing the Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Even as the region experienced uncertainty due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation remained a beacon, providing relief and support to families and social services.

Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation, said that the registered charity will continue to do its part to ensure that the eight islands in which they operate are on track for a sustainable future.

“As a regional organization, it is our mission to invest in the sustainable development of the Caribbean. We will continue to strengthen communities, invest in literacy and education, support livelihoods, engage our youth, help those in need, strengthen healthcare, and protect the environment through life-changing programs that empower lives,” said Clarke.

The Sandals Foundation operates in Jamaica, St. Lucia, Grenada, Antigua, Barbados, Turks and Caicos, and The Bahamas working in the areas of education, community, and the environment.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Joanne Liebenberg Interview: How Professional Dancing Gives you the Freedom to Travel the World

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Joanne Liebenberg is a Professional Dance Artist from South Africa and her career has taken her around the world. This dance phenom says that she has Dance to thank for it all. Liebenberg’s passion became her career and her career has since taken her around the globe. In an interview, this extraordinary Artist, opens up and answers questions about how ‘Dancing’ has given her the opportunity to travel the world.

Your career has taken you all over the world. Do you enjoy the travel aspect of your work and performing in so many different countries?

Definitely! I have always wanted to travel our beautiful world and growing up I quickly built up a list of so many places I just had to visit. I have Dance to thank for all my world travels, which include more than 20 countries and many cities. I am blessed to have worked with many international choreographers and have gained many international friends along my journey, who all share the same passion. By travelling to all these different countries, this has opened up many more dance opportunities for me and I have also gained a broader knowledge of dance as well. I have a great deal of love and respect for my craft!

Tell us about your contracts with the world’s largest and best cruise ship company in the world, Royal Caribbean International?

This is a dream dance job! I have just completed my second contract performing as a Featured Dancer with the company travelling and performing for audiences around the globe. I was the only South African to have been offered a contract when I auditioned for them whilst when I was dancing in NYC. On ‘Radiance of the Seas’ and ‘Voyager of the Seas’, I have performed in countries and cities such as Miami, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, Australia, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and New Zealand. Hawaii has been my favourite place to visit so far, I had dreamed of venturing there for many years and my job made that a reality for me. There’s no bigger entertainment operation in the world than Royal Caribbean, on land or sea and I feel privileged to be a part of this elite company, dancing with the best talent from around the world.

What performances were you featured in before you started working with Royal Caribbean International?

Before my incredible journey with Royal Caribbean International, I performed in the show ’Another Day’ as Lead Dancer at the Kalk Bay Theatre in South Africa with Followspot Productions. This show was very special to be a part of, especially seeing my face on posters advertised all over Cape Town for the show. My ‘office’ had a view of the sea and the theatre was situated in the heart of Kalk Bay. This was a beautiful change of scenery for me as right before this I was dancing in the hustle and bustle of New York City. In NYC, I performed on the Alvin Ailey Citigroup Theater with Broadway Dance Center. I also became BDC’s ‘poster girl’ in NYC.

You’ve also earned many international awards. Do those awards change your view of your dance abilities in any way?

Before Dance became my career, I represented my country, South Africa, internationally for 5 consecutive years. I’ve been to Germany for the World Showdance Championships, Poland for the World Ballet, Jazz and Modern Championships, Portugal for The World Dance Week and USA for the American Dance Awards. By achieving Gold, Silver and Bronze medals for my country, it has proven my extraordinary ability for Dance and boosted my confidence in my dance ability. Dance has just taken me everywhere!

How do you like to stay in practice when you’re in between tours and performances?

Dance is such an exciting career as you never know what audition is coming up next. You always have to be ready and need to stay on top of your game. In between big dance contracts and tours, I Perform, Choreograph and Teach with different companies in South Africa such as Vole Ballet School and DS Dance. Due to the global pandemic, it’s been a struggle for Artists, but I have had the privilege to take international classes online as well as teach and perform virtually.

Where do you hope your dance career will take you next in the world?

I already have two future dance contracts lined up for me in America which I am extremely excited about. I have been offered to be the ‘Dance Specialist’ at the internationally renowned, Chace Dance Company in Orlando Florida where I will demonstrate choreography for the company and perform as a Soloist at company exhibits, showcases, classes and workshops. I have also been offered a contract with the well-established dance and performing arts facility, Center for Performing Arts Methuen in Massachusetts as the company’s ‘Dance Demonstrator’ where besides demonstrating choreography in all genres, I will perform as a soloist in classes at the studio as well as workshops and as a Lead Dancer at future end of term showcases around Massachusetts area, live as well as virtually.

What other interests do you have besides Travel and Dance?

Besides singing and acting which all play a part in the performing world, I recently became a certified and registered Yoga Instructor and certified Nutritionist. These certifications and experiences have opened up new doors for me. They also expand what I am able to offer as an artist. This was the case when I ran the social media division for a magazine-style website called iDiveblue during the Covid-19 lockdown in South Africa. iDiveblue provides quality content covering travel, adventure sport, and marine conservation. Furthermore, I also love the ocean, swimming, reading books, baking vegan desserts, photography, videography, and anything adventurous in nature. It doesn’t end there – I am a qualified PADI Scuba Diver, and I enjoy playing my ukulele which has never left my side during my worldwide travels.

What is your advice you would like to share with aspiring dancers?

My advice is that your dreams and goals will present themselves to you – trust in that process, what is meant for you will come. Your heart will whet your appetite for the goals that you need to work towards. Never stop believing that you can achieve them. Stay humble and work relentlessly with all your passion to back you up. Most importantly, enjoy the journey as it’s all part of the growth that will get you to where you are meant to be.

Joanne Liebenberg is proof that you can maintain a top-tier Dance career and still travel the world. Artists and Athletes, with the correct self-discipline, can be inspired and follow by example. Proving to be the talented Artist that she is, Liebenberg’s determination has carved out a highly successful career for her and fulfilling her desire to travel and experience the world. It is obvious that her humility, drive, and talent will keep propelling her to new heights!

Source: Dance Roots Media

Get Your Spooky Halloween on at Sandals Beaches and Resorts

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As it’s spooktacular gift for resort guests, Sandals Beaches and Resorts Halloween Sale offers a free romantic private candlelight dinner for two. Couples will be seated at a table specially decorated with tropical floral arrangements and glowing with candlelight.

A four-course gourmet meal will be served by a personal waiter and will include a bottle of Ruffino Prosecco and unlimited pours of Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks® wines.

All guests need to do is pick their location of choice to partake in this free enjoyable dinner experience.

Located on the islands of Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, and Saint Lucia, guests can book, register, and check into:

  • Sandals Grande Antigua
  • Sandals Grenada
  • Sandals Royal Bahamian
  • Sandals Emerald Bay
  • Sandals Barbados
  • Sandals Royal Barbados
  • Sandals Regency La Toc
  • Sandals Halcyon Beach
  • Sandals Grande St. Lucian
  • Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
  • Sandals South Coast
  • Sandals Royal Caribbean
  • Sandals Montego Bay
  • Sandals Negril
  • Sandals Royal Plantation

This free private candlelight dinner for two is available when booking 6 paid nights or more. Guests must register their booking in order to receive this special dinner offer through a registration form submitted within 72 hours of booking.

Guests who are already booked – have no fear! They can take advantage of this offer as well simply by registering.

From the moment guests arrive at the resorts’ airport lounges, through to the entire on-resort experience, Sandals wants their visitors to feel safe and enjoy a worry free vacation. Despite what is going on in the world today, guests can relax knowing the Sandals Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness is in effect at all their resorts.

So don’t be afraid… book with Sandals Beaches and Resorts and let them welcome you to paradise.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Sandals and Beaches Resorts Announces New Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us and Offers New Cancellation Protection Benefit

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Trust and confidence are increasingly becoming top priorities for consumers as they begin to safely travel to their dream destinations once again. This is why Sandals® Resorts and Beaches® Resorts are giving guests sun, sand, relaxation and even more confidence when booking thanks to two new added perks to its Book With Confidence program. The Luxury Included® resort company is offering a new Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us, powered by Trip Mate, that will be purchased on behalf of guests automatically and is part of their travel reservation as of October 6, 2020. Not only does this apply to new reservations, but this perk built to help put consumers’ minds at ease also applies to all pre-existing Sandals and Beaches bookings made prior to October 6, 2020 and traveling through May 31, 2021. Additionally, travelers can cancel their resort getaway at any time and plan their future vacation with confidence thanks to a new Cancellation Protection Benefit* by Unique Vacations.

“Travelers making vacation plans to the beautiful Caribbean can feel more confident than ever about their trip to paradise thanks to these two new added perks to our Book With Confidence program,” stated Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. 

“We know couples and families alike are yearning for a much-needed Luxury Included® getaway, and we’re pleased to offer these benefits so they can book their vacations with an added layer of reassurance.”

As island nations began to open borders, Sandals Resorts became the first resorts to open its doors across the Caribbean. The strict protocols that Sandals and Beaches Resorts developed allowed for 12 of its 18 resorts to open, showing that Sandals and Beaches Resorts goes above and beyond to ensure consumers can enjoy their vacation with confidence, from arrival to departure. With its reimagined Book With Confidence program in place, travelers can book their vacation and focus on what really matters – quality time with loved ones at the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean.

Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us!

To offer guests even more protection, Sandals and Beaches Resorts have added a new Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us powered by Trip Mate that will be purchased on behalf of guests. The plan offers couples booked now through December 31, 2020, expanded medical benefits during their resort stay. 

What the Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us covers: 

  • Medical expenses incurred as part of a treatment for illness, condition and/or accident. COVID-19 is treated the same as any other sickness.
  • Transportation expenses to the nearest facility capable of providing treatment for a sickness or injury that is acute, severe or life-threatening.  Transportation expenses to return home are also covered following an emergency medical evacuation (or a covered injury or sickness). Maximum Benefit of $100,000 Per Person
  • There is no exclusion for pre-existing conditions.  
  • If a guest’s travel plans are delayed due to the guest being quarantined, the Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us reimburses expenses for additional accommodations, meal and local transportation. Maximum Benefit $200 Per Day, Per Person and up to $2,800
  • There is no minimum or maximum age limit for eligibility.

All bookings made prior to October 6, 2020 with a purchased add-on of the Trip Mate Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us Plan will receive a Supplemental Travel Protection Plan that covers:

  • Expanded insurance coverage for Emergency Medical Evacuations. Additional $50,000 per person
  • Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses. Additional $75,000 per person
  • If a guest’s travel plans are delayed due to the guest being quarantined, the Supplemental Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us covers up to an additional $2,050 per person Maximum.

Cancellation Protection Benefit*

From now until December 31, 2020, guests booking a Luxury Included® Vacation will have the added perk of knowing they can cancel their vacation at least 31 days before arrival and receive a full refund on the land portion of their vacation with zero penalties. Guests cancelling 30-15 days before arrival will receive a combination of a 50 percent refund and 50 percent travel certificate for future travel to any Sandals or Beaches Resort within 12 months. Travelers also have the added perk of canceling within 14 days and up to the day of arrival for a travel certificate valid for 12 months from original travel date. 

*This benefit is provided by Unique Vacations and is not an insurance benefit. This benefit is separate from any Travel Protection Plan.

Sandals and Beaches Resorts are doing everything possible to provide a safe, seamless and stress-free experience so that guests can continue to book their Luxury Included® Vacation with full confidence. This Cancellation Protection Benefit, along with the Travel Protection Plan – Insurance Is On Us and the Sandals Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness and Beaches Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness, allows travelers to escape to the Caribbean with the trust they have come to expect.

For more information on how to Book With Confidence, visit:

Sandals: https://www.sandals.com/book-with-confidence/

Beaches: https://www.beaches.com/book-with-confidence/

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Sandals and Beaches Resorts Dive into October With Nine Awards From Scuba Diving’s 2021 Readers Choice Awards

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Sandals® and Beaches® Resorts, home to some of the best all-inclusive dive resorts in the Caribbean, has taken the plunge into October with the early announcement of nine accolades from Scuba Diving Magazine’s 2021 Readers Choice Awards for the Caribbean. Each year, Scuba Diving Magazine’s readers are asked to evaluate the dive resorts they have visited, among other categories, on a variety of subjects ranging from the quality of rooms and quality of restaurants to the quality of staff, best family-friendly experiences and more.

Four Luxury Included® resorts under Sandals Resorts International’s (SRI) award-winning portfolio now proudly boast the following accolades: 

  • #1 Quality of the Resort – Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
  • #1 Quality of the Rooms – Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
  • #1 Quality of the Restaurant – Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa (St. George’s, Grenada)
  • #2 Quality of the Rooms – Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa (St. George’s, Grenada)
  • #2 Quality of the Restaurant – Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
  • #2 Best Family-Friendly Experiences – Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa (Providenciales, Turks & Caicos)
  • Top 5 Quality of Staff – Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
  • Top 10 Quality of Staff – Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa (St. George’s, Grenada)
  • Top 10 Quality of Restaurant – Sandals Negril Beach Resort & Spa (Negril, Jamaica)

“The Caribbean Sea is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs and aquatic life so naturally, scuba diving has always been a popular activity here and has attracted many avid divers to stay at our resorts,” said Adam Stewart, Deputy Chairman of Sandals Resorts International.

“Over the past few months, we’ve actually seen an uptick in diving. Diving is synonymous with social distancing, and that activity checks the box for couples looking to explore our beautiful waters by day and retreat to their private suites by night,” continued Stewart.

Ranked by PADI® as one of the Top 5 Dive Operations in the Western Hemisphere, Sandals and Beaches Resorts offer expert PADI® certification and training to guests staying on-resort and has issued over 100,000 PADI certifications to date. Sandals and Beaches boasts a comprehensive program that includes daily scuba diving for certified divers, and has highly experienced PADI® certified staff that work in partnership with DAN® to bring guests unparalleled dive experiences at exotic sites from spectacular reefs and shipwrecks to drop-offs and underwater caves. Guests staying at any Sandals or Beaches Resort also have access to top-of-the-line equipment with everything from regulators, BCD’s, masks, snorkels, fins and tanks to state-of-the-art, twin diesel Newton boats – all included.

With an interest in diving on the rise amongst travelers, Sandals and Beaches Resorts has conducted nearly 1,000 courses for all certification levels, showing a 28% overall increase in diving certifications from July to September 2020, compared to 2019. According to PADI, the September 2020 numbers show a growth of new dive certifications issued, with an increase in completed courses by 57% for Entry-Level and by 125% for Continuing-Education certification types across all open Sandals and Beaches Resorts, in comparison to the previous year.

With rigorous health and safety protocols set forth in the Sandals Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness, guests can feel at ease both on-resort and underwater knowing that all equipment is thoroughly sanitized including masks, wetsuits, fins and jackets in addition to the sanitization of the dive pool deck, tanks and seats, among other enhanced measures.

Known for its Luxury Included® vacations, Sandals and Beaches Resorts provides 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 21 different restaurants per resort, luxurious accommodations, including some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after suites, endless land and water sports, nightly entertainment and so much more.

For more information on the award-winning resorts or to book your next stay, please visit: https://www.sandals.com/resorts/ or https://www.beaches.com/resorts/. To learn more about special offers for dive groups, please visit: https://www.sandals.com/group-specials/

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com