Jewel Resorts awarded top Aimbridge Hospitality honours IMBRIDGE HOSPITALITY, the Anation’s second-largest Our independent hotel management and investment firm, awarded employee three top performance awards to training, educa- Jamaica’s Jewel Resorts last week at “ its Annual Sales Conference. All three Jewel Resorts are owned tion and recog- by Sagicor Life Jamaica and its nition helps us fund, Sagicor Real Estate X Fund Limited. The hotels are managed by to exceed our Aimbridge Hospitality. Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort performance and Spa was awarded the President’s Award for Best Year over Year Per- goals in the formance for 2014, which is a top honour. highly competi- The new Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa was awarded tive all-inclusive for Best Online Reputation, hold- ing the number one position in arena. Jamaica Runaway Bay on TripAdvisor.com, and Jewel work while Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort claimed the Service hard to maintain Excellence Award for number two positions on TripAdvisor and for our worldwide the most improvement in Employee Opinion Surveys. status ... General manager of the newly An aerial shot of Jewel’s Dunn’s River. acquired Hilton Rose Hall Resort for Families in the Caribbean, as & Spa and area spokesperson, TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Carol Bourke expressed her appre- Awards for Hotels in 2015. For the ciation and attributed the award 13th year, TripAdvisor highlighted” to the dedicated team of managers the world’s top properties based on and staff at all the Jewel Resorts in the millions of reviews and opin- Jamaica, as well as to the Aimbridge ions collected in a single year from training platform which encour- travellers around the globe. The ages and mentors staff members to hallmarks of Travelers’ Choice win- provide the best and most unique ners are remarkable service, quality hospitality guest experience. and value. HIGH STANDARDS Aimbridge senior vice-president Bourke explained: “Our employee of Caribbean operations and devel- training, education and recognition opment, Rich Cortese applauded helps us to exceed our performance the accomplishment and his team in goals in the highly competitive all- Jamaica. inclusive arena. Jamaica and Jewel “We don’t rest on our laurels, work hard to maintain our world- we continue to strive to excite, wide status as a renowned destina- delight and surprise our guests, tion for upscale all-inclusive making sure their all-inclusive resorts, and myself and my fellow experience is as good as it gets,” general managers, Scott Robbins, he detailed. “Our high rate of Barbara Burton and Anne-Marie repeat guests at all of our properties Goffe-Pryce, and their 1,200 plus is a good measure that we are associates, are dedicated to this giving to our customers the pro- mission,” Bourke added. gramming, amenities and hospi- Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & tality they have come to expect Golf Resort was also most recently from us,” emphasised the veteran selected as one of the Top Hotels The Vichy shower spa. hotelier.

2 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 Teresa Clarke, 2013 Taste of the Caribbean Cheesecake winner, proudly displays one of the dishes prepared by Alberto Atiles (fourth from right), executive sous chef, Sandals Grand Riviera. Dennis Mcintosh (centre), president of the Culinary Federation of Jamaica, and his Team Jamaica colleagues, look on. Taste of the Caribbean showcases region’s food and beverage industry masters TASTE OF the Caribbean, the exploring industry trends and one manager. The participating markets,” Lee noted. competition events are not included Caribbean Hotel and Tourism exchanging ideas, skills and tech- team members represent hotels, For more gastronomic delight, and are an additional US$40 for Association’s (CHTA) premier niques. restaurants or educational institu- Caribbean cuisine and culture will Taste of the Islands and US$50 culinary competition and cultural “We’re excited about the oppor- tions in the Caribbean which are be on display for the public to each for the competition lunch and showcase, brings food and beverage tunity to showcase the depth and members of CHTA. experience at the Taste of the competition dinner. specialists together to witness the variety of the Caribbean’s incredible COMPETING FOR HONOURS Islands Festival taking place on The CHTA has arranged a group culinary offerings,” said Frank Comito, latest techniques utilised during Saturday, June 13 from 6:30-9 p.m. rate of US$149 plus taxes and service chief executive officer of CHTA. During a series of competitions, at the Hyatt Regency, Miami. Con- the competition. Chefs and bar- charges (run of house, single or double “The three-day event is designed to chefs and bartenders from each sumers can gather information tenders can meet face to face with occupancy) per night at the Hyatt appeal to the tastes of consumers, country will present a variety of about their favourite Caribbean their peers from around the indus- professionals and Caribbean enthusi- Caribbean entrées and cocktails as destinations, sample gourmet appe- Regency, Miami. The group rate is try to discuss industry trends that asts who want to learn, connect, and they battle for top honours includ- tisers and signature cocktails, and available until May 10, 2015 and can will help them in their respective enjoy the delights of our unique ing: Caribbean Culinary Team of the listen to authentic Caribbean be made via the hotel website: fields. Taste of the Caribbean region,” he added. Year, Caribbean Chef of the Year, music. For tickets and display infor- miamiregency.hyatt.com. returns to Miami for its fourth con- A highlight of the event is the Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year, mation, contact CHTA at Taste of the Caribbean is staged secutive year and will take place at head-to-head competitions between Caribbean Bartender of the Year, and events@caribbeanhoteland- by the CHTA in conjunction with the Hyatt Regency, Miami, June Caribbean culinary teams vying for Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year. tourism.com. sponsors Anco, Aloutte, Esser 12-14, 2015. top honours in Caribbean cuisine “The Caribbean has a unique food REGISTRATION Wines, International Dairy Farms Each year, the Caribbean’s top and beverage creation. There are culture that enhances guests’ vaca- and Interval International. tion experience,” said Emil Lee, Full event registration, applicable chefs and culinary teams unite to currently 10 culinary teams regis- The CHTA is accepting addi- learn and compete, providing a tered for the event from Anguilla, president of CHTA. “Taste of the to hoteliers, government entities tional sponsors for Taste of the dazzling exhibition of eclectic dishes The Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, Caribbean provides a platform for and food/beverage professionals Caribbean. Companies interested and drinks from the islands, and British Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Puerto showcasing the best of our region’s attending the entire duration of the participants enjoy some of the best Rico, St Lucia, Suriname and the US cuisine and unique drink offerings to event, is US$175 for CHTA mem- in learning more about sponsorship Caribbean cuisine and libations the Virgin Islands. professionals and consumers attend- bers and US$225 for non-members. opportunities should contact Matt region has to offer. Each national team is comprised ing the event, driving awareness of The registration fee includes access Cooper, chief marketing officer, via Participating teams, event spon- of two senior chefs, one junior chef, the Caribbean brand throughout the to all events on the programme, matt@caribbeanhoteland- sors and all attendees benefit from one bartender, one pastry chef and south Florida area, one of our priority including the awards dinner. The tourism.com or (305) 443-3040.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 3 Holiday Inn rebrands after US$15M renovation Barrington Flemming impacting the tourist market. Hospitality Jamaica Writer “The investment that my family made at a time when the industry was going through HE INTERCONTINENTAL Hotels tremendous challenge – our main market, Group (IHG) rebranded the 518 Holi- the United States, was going through one of day Inn Sunspree Resort, following the T the worst recessions in history – but together completion of a US$15-million renovation at my family, the staff and the IHG team weath- the more than 45-year-old property, which is ered the storm. I am confident we have a situated along Montego Bay’s elegant corridor. bright future ahead of us.” Dr Wykeham McNeill, minister of tourism, Nicola Madden-Greig, group director of mar- said the refurbishing and rebranding was a keting and sales said while the Holiday Inn strong show of the confidence that stake- Resort – synonymous with families – will continue holders in the industry have in Brand to be the mainstay of the rebranded resort, she Jamaica and its ability to deliver. was pleased to introduce the Rose Hall Club “What this shows is a strong level of confi- Concept, designed specifically for couples. dence in the Jamaican tourism product, when “We recognised that couples find the lay- our partners are investing in their properties out amenities and services perfect for their and keeping them on the move. This is good needs so we have strictly dedicated an for Jamaica. What you have happening here is adults-only area where they have their own part of a larger process – there is an energy in private lounge, access to their own pool and our tourism product where we are constantly bar as well as other premium amenities.” reinventing, moving ourselves upwards.” Kevin Hendrickson (fourth left), managing director, Holiday Inn Resort, prepares The newly renovated property also boasts Kevin Hendrickson, managing director, to cut the ribbon to unveil the new sign and logo of the resort. Sharing in the 161 standard rooms, 143 superior rooms, 107 Holiday Inn Resort, said the partnership with occasion with him are (from left) Clark Lobban, general manager; Jackie junior suites, 73 deluxe rooms, 26 one-bedroom the IHG since acquiring the property in 2008 Hendrickson (Kevin’s wife); Nicola Madden-Greig, group director of marketing suites and 10 spacious kid suites, as well as a has been rewarding, resulting in record rev- and sales; Wykeham McNeill, minister of tourism and entertainment; Glendon Japanese Tapanaki restaurant, a small private enues and profits, despite the dire challenges Harris, mayor of Montego Bay; and Paul Pennicook, director of tourism. island and a miniature nine-hole golf course.

TRANSPORTATION IN Montego Bay and Negril received a major boost this week following a $2 mil- lion contribution from Jamaica’s Transportation booster! leading hotel company. The Montego Bay and Negril chapters of the Jamaica Union of JUTA set for new offices as Sandals partnership kicks in Travellers Association (JUTA) each in their ongoing efforts to advance.” received $1 million to go towards “This contribution is just one in upgrading their existing headquarters a long line of initiatives that are as a part of their ongoing relationship designed to, not only strengthen with Sandals Resorts International our relationship with JUTA, one of (SRI). Specific focus was placed on our most trusted partners, but also the Negril Chapter which recently suffered a fire at its offices and has help to heighten the standards that since been renovated. Work on the both locals and visitors expect and Montego Bay Chapter is ongoing. deserve.” Wayne Cummings, director of The two organisations have business processes and administra- enjoyed a long and fruitful relation- tion at SRI, commented, “There is ship which began with JUTA over- no question that tourism is the seeing the transportation needs of engine driving many of the one resort in Negril 30 years ago economies in the Caribbean, includ- and has since developed to see the ing Jamaica, but like all engines, our organisation now responsible for an tourism product needs maintaining estimated 99 per cent of Sandals’ and upgrading to take us to the next guest transportation needs. level and compete in the global The contribution forms part of marketplace. JUTA, like Sandals, Sandals and JUTA executives celebrate their ongoing relationship. From left: Don Smith, Sandals ongoing programme announced in invests heavily in its product so that vice-president of guest transport and airport operations; Charles Myrie, immediate past president, November last year that will see the it can continue to offer the best JUTA Negril; George Witter, president, JUTA Ocho Rios Chapter; Garfield Williamson, president, introduction of an awards scheme, service imaginable. We’re happy to JUTA Montego Bay Chapter; and Wayne Cummings, Sandals director of business processes and enhanced customer service training be a long-standing partner to JUTA administration. and tour visits.

4 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 PHOTOS BY Sandals Ocho CARL GILCHRIST From left: Ricky DuQuesnay, Rios rebrands Chris Mullins, Tiffany Mullins, Jennifer Kruse and Adam It’s now Sandals Stewart are all smiles at the reopening of Ochi Beach Resort the Sandals Carl Gilchrist when it comes to offering top-class Ochi Beach Hospitality Jamaica Writer service, reminding that in their 34 Resort. years, the company has been voted ANDALS RESORTS last the world’s Best All-inclusive weekend rebranded its 529- Resort chain for 20 years in a row. Sroom Ocho Rios property and He thanked all the stakeholders is now known as Sandals Ochi for making Sandals what it is today, Beach Resort. highlighting the important role of The former Sandals Grande guests to the resort. Riviera Beach and Villa Golf Resort boasts several new amenities as out- REPEAT VISITORS lined by the company’s CEO, Adam “The most important persons to Stewart, and is expected to continue us are all you past guests that are offering the first-class service that here, that come back year after has characterised the company over year after year,” Stewart said. its 34 years in existence. On the back of three new hotels The property was branded Sandals which opened in the Caribbean Grande in 2004 after a merger (Barbados, Grenada, and Turks and between the then Sandals Ocho Caicos) since last year, Stewart said Rios and Grande Sport Villa Golf Sandals has eight new projects Resort and Spa by Beaches and under development, including became the largest Sandals property moving into new islands. in the chain. These plans also include several Dozens of travel agents and for Jamaica. media partners from the United Meanwhile, director of tourism, States, Canada and Europe, along Paul Pennicook, congratulated with guests, several of whom were Sandals for the “tremendous work” returning for the umpteenth time, that the company has been doing. were present at the new beginning. “I want to use this opportunity to The rebranding took place really congratulate Sandals for the during Reunion Week, a time tremendous work that they have when Sandals recognises loyal been doing,” Pennicook stated. visitors (dubbed Sandals Select “Sandals has become such a pow- Guests) who make frequent visits erful brand and such a trendsetter to the resort. that when you talk about all-inclu- Describing the occasion as “a sive industry today, Sandals is the special night”, Stewart spoke of standard by which all-inclusive Sandals’ tremendous track record resorts are judged.”

Paul Pennicook and Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart share lens time.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 5 THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM Time to consider the future shape of Caribbean tourism N A previous column, I suggested that as with the nations in which such properties There are already in the region some inter- Caribbean tourism continues to recover choose to locate. esting examples of how the vernacular might Ifrom the lows it experienced following the Worse, in their desire to attract globally be achieved. At its most obvious, the approach global economic crisis of 2007/8, the industry branded properties that put the destination has tended to be in old colonial districts. At its ought to consider taking a much longer-term on the map, governments unintentionally most successful, it is a few streets in the colo- view of how to reorient and develop the imply that these are benchmarks that all nial part of old Havana, but it also exists in a regional tourism offering so as to better should aspire to. The effect is to promote number of largely upscale hotels and some reflect changing international demand for emulation and a clash in its broadest sense restaurants in Barbados, Jamaica, the Domini- the authentic. with local culture, homogenising architec- can Republic, and Cuba. By this, I meant that the present return to ture and cuisine, dumbing down entertain- This is not to set aside what the Caribbean profitability ought to offer a space in which ment and much else that is unique to the already has, but to suggest that there is a those who think about the future of the indus- Caribbean. need in future for a more creative approach try organise a retreat to debate whether there is that ensures that from the moment a visitor a need to reconceptualise Caribbean tourism, David Jessop MORE TO OFFER arrives, they are not in a pastiche of the hotels, and the tourism offering; that is to say in what it might mean in the context of region- This is not to suggest that achieving this in a authentic. ways that meet changing demand and guaran- al tourism. rational and balanced way is easy, or even This will not be easy. It requires the indus- tee that the product is uniquely Caribbean, By the vernacular in tourism, I meant giv- viable for certain parts of the tourism market, try and government to consider how best to globally competitive and sustainable. ing greater consideration to the genuine in but if the Caribbean does not recognise that it renew and develop the product in a manner I suggested that one line of thought might the physical, cultural and social environment has more to offer than a smart international that promotes the uniqueness of the involve thinking about developing part of the in which tourism takes place. Simplified, hotel, with smart international cuisine, set on Caribbean nations in which it is located. product in a vernacular manner that better while there is a place for Disney, the Hard a white sand beach with a golf course, it is nei- There is now every reason to take a much reflects the real Caribbean. Rock, and the Ritz Carltons, these offerings ther doing the country in which the property is longer-term view on these and other issues, Since first writing about this, I have been have nothing to do with the region. They located a service nor underwriting long-term to look over the horizon, and to try to envis- happy to receive emails suggesting that I bring visitors, but they are based solely on competitiveness in an international market age what a competitive Caribbean tourism expand on the idea of the vernacular and generic global brands that have little to do where almost everyone else is doing the same. mix might look like in 20 years’ time.

Mayor of Falmouth Councillor Garth Wilkinson (left) engages in intense discus- sion with Richard Campbell, chief, culture and tourism section, the Organization of American States (OAS), on issues including ways in which Falmouth can benefit from participating in global sustainable tourism initiatives such as the new Sustainable Destinations Alliance for the Americas (SDAA). The discussion formed part of a meeting held recently at Glistening Waters, Falmouth, Trelawny. This as Jamaica embarked on the first phase of its participa- tion in the SDAA, supported by the OAS and other partners such as Sustainable Travel International. Jamaica’s participation in the programme is being coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment and its agencies. Involvement in the three- phased initiative will help Jamaica balance the protection and enhancement of its rich natural and cultural assets, while managing long-term risk and appealing to the growing tourism market interested in responsible management practices and authentic travel experiences. The representatives also met with various other officials and tourism partners from across the island.

6 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 7 Tremendous support for MoBay City Run IU RESORTS walked away enrolled in four institutions in west- with the Largest Corporate ern Jamaica included Royalton Mayor of RGroup trophy at the second White Sands, Holiday Inn, Round Montego staging of the MoBay City Run last Hill Hotel and Villas, Tryall Club, Bay, Sunday at the Old Hospital in Iberostar, Sunset Beach Resort, Councillor Montego Bay. Secrets Resorts and Coyaba Beach Glendon The Spanish chain had 521 Resort. Harris pres- entries in the 10K/5K Run and The tourism players were comple- ents the First Walk, which closed down sections of mented by several business opera- Runner-up the tourism capital. RIU had a 50 tors, including Lloyd’s Department 10K Female per cent increase in registration over Store, Caribbean Producers Jamaica, prize to their 2014 numbers. Rainforest Seafoods, one of the The event, held in collaboration many sponsors that provided mini- Allison with US carrier, JetBlue and tele- breakfasts for the event, Scotiabank, Sutherland of coms giant, Flow, received tremen- National Commercial and First Rainforest dous support from the hospitality Global banks. Seafoods. sector. Sandals Resorts International, The event was sponsored by the one of the major sponsors of the Jamaica Tourist Board, Courts Uni- event, took home second place in comer, Wata, Bigga, The Gleaner, the corporate section, with Courts Power 106 FM, Billy Craig Insurance The largest corporate team, RIU Resorts, at the MoBay City Run. Team RIU Supreme, all of 521 strong. Unicomer placing third. Brokers, Harley Davidson, Ward’s The Jamaica This is the second year the furniture Power Tools, Guardsman Group, Tourist Board’s and appliance giant is sponsoring the Last Resort, John Swaby, Dwight regional director, event in a big way. Troupe, Cover Me Up Tents, ATL, Janice Allen, in The other hotels that participated Rosh Marketing, Royalton White a good mood at in the charity event aimed at provid- Sands and Holiday Inn. Organisers the MoBay City ing scholarships for students hope to raise $4 million this year.. Run finish line at the Old Hospital Park in Montego Bay on Sunday morning. The dance group Har-H-Mony performing at the MoBay City Run post-race ceremony.

The CPJ team makes its way to the Second-place corporate team, Sandals Resorts, pose for the The Royalton team in a celebratory mood at the second staging of the finish line camera at MoBay City Run. MoBay City Run at the Old Hospital Park in Montego Bay on Sunday. during the MoBay City Run.

Twenty-one travel agents from Canada participated in the MoBay Outgoing director of the University of the West Indies, Mona, City Run. Here, there are posing with the Jamaica Tourist Board’s Children of the Drums dancers perform at the MoBay City Run Western Jamaica Campus, Dr Luz Longsworth, presents the The Courts Unicomer team, which received the third-place corpo- Marjorie Cunningham (left) and Dan Hamilton (hidden in the back, pre-race pasta party at the Doctor’s Cave Beach on Saturday Children of the Drums drummers drumming away at the MoBay Fastest Foreigner prize to international journalist, David Alm. rate prize at the MoBay City Run. third right). night. City Run pre-race pasta party at the Doctor’s Cave Beach.

8 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 9 HE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB) kicked off its Tdomestic campaign, Experience Jamaica, with a travel trade show Experience Jamaica 2015 at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on April 30. The day began with a live outside broadcast from the JTB’s Kingston office and featured inter- views with the organisation’s repre- kicks off with trade show sentatives and tourism partners heralding the benefits of vacation- ing at home. The Experience JTB ramps up domestic campaign for 60th anniversary Jamaica promotion encourages Jamaicans to taste, see, feel and enjoy the island’s tourism product. The Grand Ballroom at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel was trans- formed into an exhibition hall with over 60 tourist stakeholders offer- ing significantly discounted prod- ucts and services which will also be available throughout the campaign. The summer months provide excellent opportunities for persons TOURIST BOARD to reconnect and rekindle deep family and friendship bonds. The Experience Jamaica campaign is a call to action inviting Jamaicans and persons living in Jamaica to go out and enjoy Destination Jamaica. In this, the JTB’s 60th anniver- sary, tourism partners have committed to providing Experience Jamaica discounts of 20 per cent to 60 per cent. The offerings by hotels, attraction companies, tour operators and transportation companies avail- able during The Experience Jamaica campaign afford a rich menu from which persons can create an exciting, relaxing and culturally engaging staycation. These are available across the island’s six resort areas of Ocho Rios, the South Coast, Montego Bay, Negril, Port Antonio and Kingston. LOCAL MARKET IMPORTANT Director Pennicook (centre) speaks with Georgette McCallum of “The domestic market is hugely Chukka Caribbean Adventures, one of the partners in the important for the tourist industry. Experience Jamaica 2015 campaign. We continue to capitalise on any opportunity that we get to encourage Jamaicans to vacation at home,” said Paul Pennicook, director of tourism. “The Experience Jamaica cam- Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook officially launches paign presents a unique opportu- Experience Jamaica 2015 campaign. nity for Jamaicans to enjoy the best of our tourism products at a The Spanish Court, The Jamaica 30, and from August 15 through fraction of the cost. There are no Pegasus, The Knutsford Court November 15. visa requirements or foreign- Hotel, Goblin Hill Villas, Coco-La- This is not the only opportunity exchange needs, or waiting in Palm and The Cardiff Hotel & Spa. that the public will have to interact long lines to enjoy a truly memo- Participating attraction companies with tourism partners, as there will rable vacation. The trade show is include: Dolphin Cove, Island be upcoming Experience Jamaica bringing many of our partners Routes, Green Grotto Caves, roadshows in Montego Bay on together so persons can see the Devon House Heritage Site, Chuk- August 15 and in Mandeville on wide options available for their ka Caribbean Adventures Limited August 29. on-island vacation,” he added. and Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours With over 80 participating partners Major industry partners are on Limited. Transportation partners in this year’s campaign, a truly board this year are: Hyatt Ziva comprise interCaribbean Airways Jamaican adventure awaits. Persons Rosehall, Royalton White Sands, and Island Car Rentals. can view the list of participating com- Half Moon, A RockResort; Sandals Patrons can start benefiting from panies at: www.visitjamaica.com/ Patrons visit booths on the trade show floor at the Experience Resort International, RIU Hotel, great deals from now through June experiencejamaica. Jamaica campaign launch at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel.

10 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 11 Plans unveiled for Trelawny’s Meliá Braco Village Janet Silvera in addition to the Islands of the Hospitality Jamaica Coordinator Pacific and Indian Oceans, South- east Asia and, of course, the ELIÁ, AN international Mediterranean.” leader in resort manage- Excited about the prospects of Mment, has expanded its providing hundreds of jobs to footprints to Jamaica. Jamaicans, Kosvogiannis is boast- The Spanish group two Fridays ing of an all-Jamaican team of ago unveiled plans for the new contractors. Meliá Braco Village in Trelawny. The colonial-style property, for- From left: Opposition Spokesman on Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Edmund Bartlett shares The 226-room hotel is owned by merly operated by SuperClubs, is lens time with president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, William Mahfood, and the National Insurance Fund home to the most stunning beaches Island Routes’ David Shields. (NIF). in the Caribbean, and features sev- Speaking at the ground-break- eral restaurants and a variety of ing ceremony, the hotel’s general bars, pools and spas. manager, Dimitris Kosvogiannis, The property will undergo a They are told the large gathering that comprehensive renovation. the most Jamaica was a long-awaited desti- “Once it is adapted to the high dapper in the nation for Meliá Hotels Interna- standards of the Meliá brand and tourist industry tional. the newly heightened quality of the and they both In fact, the English-speaking destination, the property will be know it. island has been a major focus of the managed as an upscale Meliá Inter- Royalton hotel group’s global expansion national all-inclusive hotel,” said White Sands’ strategy. Kosvogiannis. general “Meliá, as an international manager, leader, is expanding in the region, [email protected] Armando Puzzuti (left), and Secrets Resorts’ Emilio Huhn at the ground- breaking ceremony for the Meliá Braco Village.

Three the hard way. From left: William Craig, Philipp Hofer and Carlos Moleon. General manager of the Meliá Braco Village, Dimitris Kosvogiannis and Anushca-Mai Walton.

12 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 Sandals Annual Prestige Award winners 2014 HE FOLLOWING is a Royal Caribbean and Sandals Sandals Montego Bay Prestige Team pictorial of the Sandals Carlyle. Member of the Year, Andrea Henry (second T Montego Bay region’s The award winners represent Words could not express just how excited the left); and Runner-up Team Member of the Annual Prestige Awards. Sandals some of the very best in the Dining Room team of Sandals Montego Bay Year, Michael Smith (right), proudly display hotels in this region include hospitality industry. Congratu- were when they were announced as the Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals lations on your performance! their awards following the Sandals flagship resort’s Department of the Year for 2014. resort’s Annual Prestige Awards held recently. Making the presentation and sharing in the Sharing in the moment are resort general excitement is resort human resources manager, manager, Carl Beviere, and hotel manager, Shirleene Armstrong (left). Dawn Smith.

Sandals Carlyle’s recently held Prestige Awards will be long remembered by the resort’s engineering department, which won the 2014 Department of the Year Award. Here, some members pause for a photo moment at the awards ceremony. Sharing Team members from the kitchen are caught on camera in in the moment is resort a celebratory mood after being awarded the 2014 general manager Carl Department of the Year for Sandals Royal Caribbean at Beviere (second right), as the resort’s Annual Prestige Awards ceremony, recently well as chief engineer Errol held on Sandals’ private island. Reid (second left), who was also awarded the coveted 2014 Manager of the Year.

Shanetta Bloomfield (centre) from Weddings at Sandals is all smiles as she humbly accepts the Team Member of the Year award from general manager, Carl Beviere and a beaming Doreen Allen, Shanetta’s former manager, at the resort’s annual Prestige Awards ceremony, held recently at the resort under the theme, I Am Sandals – Striving for Excellence.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment Damion Crawford (standing left); Sandals Royal Caribbean general manager, Gerald Christ (standing right), and hotel manager, Brett Castleman (second left), share a photo moment with some of the Prestige Awardees from Sandals Royal Caribbean. Front row, from left: Andre Hamilton, Team Member of the Year; Chad Gabbidon, Supervisor of the Year; Jean-Pierre Brown, Most Improved Team Member; Tamara Wallace, the General Manager’s Award recipient; Dezreen Reid-Stewart, Manager of the Year; and Jevon Down, Most Guest-Nominated Team Member. (Back row, standing from third left) are Joseph James, Smile and Courtesy Award recipient; Levor Ricketts, Top Revenue Earner; Matthew Haughton, Sandals Foundation Community Spirit Awardee; and Gregory Headley, Hotel Manager’s Heart of the House Awardee. Missing from the photo are Andrew Cole, Runner-up Team Member of the Year; Boysie Blake, Sandals Earthguard Awardee; and Ann-Marie Gayle, recipient of the Financial Controller’s Award.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 13 AROUND JA WITH PAUL H.

A breathtaking view of the cloud-covered valley as seen from Fyahplace, Rock A view of the cloud-covered valley as seen from the Fyahplace at Rock Hall, St Hall, St Andrew. Andrew. The view from Fyahplace

HERE WERE chills up my spine, and some thrills I can’t define,” “Tare two lines from a George Gershwin tune called How Long Has This Been Going On. In it, the writer sings about rediscovering kissing, after detesting it when he was a tot. It’s one of my favourite Sarah Vaughan’s songs, and that line aptly describes how I felt when I saw the most enchanting view ever. It was from Fyahplace, an Afrocentric cre- ative space perched on a hill at Rock Hall on the border between St Catherine and St Andrew. I had gone there to ‘create and con- nect’. There were two workshops going on, clay pottery and basket-making. I chose to participate in the former because I was always fascinated by the process of moulding earth into works of art. Making objects from clay is one of the oldest Clay objects created by Hospitality creative activities, and I was thrilled to get Jamaica writer, Paul H. Williams. the opportunity. After a brief introduction by the tutor called Marlon, it was time to get from time to time, Marlon would go to poke down and dirty. It was Marlon who wet the some firewood through three apertures at the dark brown deposit and mixed it, making base of the kiln. In this oven, our objects sure to eliminate air pockets. would also be baked, but before that, they Sunset over Rock Hall, as seen from Fyahplace. would have to be dried. I was anxious to see LEARNING POTTERY how mine turned out. The wet clay was then rolled and pounded A candleholder was the first thing I decided inspired by what other participants were From the pottery workshop, I lumbered up in a sort of dough. It was from this big piece to make, and it was not going to be anything making, I embarked upon my second piece, a a hill to see what was going on with the of dough that we, the participants, tore por- like the fancy brass ones which I own. I was platter. It was really challenging, but with basket-making. ‘Class’ was in session, tions to fashion our own magnificent works thinking outside of the box, and so I created patience, I ended up with something similar ‘teacher’ and ‘students’ were laying the foun- of art. The dough reminded me of making a square object looking like a box. But it wasn’t to a platter. From the platter I moved to a dation for the baskets. I stuck around for a dumplings. I rolled, twisted, flattened, and neat, so I got a piece of board to flatten the heart-shaped mould, which I crammed with while, but I was not prepared for the intricacy balled my piece while deciding what I would sides. Then I used a cylindrical piece of stick the dough. That was the easiet part. Getting of basket-making. do with it. And it was definitely not going to to make two holes in it. And there it was, my the ‘heart’ out was a bit testing. Absorbing the unbelievably captivating be a pot, which I watched Marlon shape with clay candleholder! Nearby the hive of activities was a kiln in view of the valley and yonder mountains and much dexterity. Impressed by my candleholder, and which several pots were being baked, and hills, I spent some time doing. Everything

14 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 Tutor, Everan Whyte (second left), looks on as his students perform a task during Another idyllic view from the Fyahplace, Rock Hall, St Andrew. a basket-making workshop at the Fyahplace. was so near yet so far, far away to St Mary, and Portland, perhaps. It changed from clear, to hazy, to shadowy, eerie if you will. When evening came, the sun took up position over the western hills, and flirted with white, grey and black clouds, playing hide-and-seek, masking itself, and then reappearing with a burst of heavenly glory. BEAUTIFUL SUNSET Then it slowly slid behind the hills, illuminating the sky with its afterglow, and heralding the onset of twi- light, in whose misty charm, a Catholic church, also perched on hill, stood in solitude. The worshippers had long gone. And when night finally came, the fireside was set ablaze in the Fyahplace. And what happens when creative people are in a creative space? We create! A jam session of sort, we transformed the space into. While Everan Whyte and a student were completing a basket, Jahanigh, a rising singer with a unique style, got the connection going. We sang, drummed, danced, recited, played the guitar, gave jokes, drank ‘engine oil’, and laughed uproariously until we were tired, drained and dazed. After the hugs and good-byes, those of us who camped out soon collapsed, and rolled into repose. When morning came, I rose to hear birds sing and to feel the cool air on my tired face. I stepped outside to speak with Jahanigh, and was brought to my knees upon seeing what the huge expanse of valley was offering me. It was a scene I had never seen in my entire life. It was like looking down upon clouds in a sort of wonder- land, a river of milk. All the hills had disappeared, only their dark tops were visible above the clouds in the morning twilight. It was a transformation that only nature could create, and I bit myself to prove that I was still alive. And then the outlines of the eastern hills were highlighted by the glare of the rising sun, creating a light-and-shadow effect on nature’s palette. I watched as the fury of the morning stared from the behind the hills, and in a few minutes it Rising singer, the talented showed me its golden rays as I stood and looked at Jahanigh, performing during a the valley of cotton candy, from the Fyahplace. ‘jam session’ at the Fyahplace. Participants in a clay pottery workshop at the Fyahplace.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015 15 SCU principal receives international award RINCIPAL OF the Sandals ment to advancing the quality of the company remained committed Corporate University (SCU), professionalism and education in to developing its human resources. PDr Phillip Brown, was among the hospitality industry. He said, “Investing in the educa- six persons recently honoured by Dr Brown has played a leading tion and development of our staff the American Hotel & Lodging role in the implementation of the remains one of our top priorities. As Educational Institute (AHLEI) for SCU, which was launched in important as infrastructure is to our outstanding leadership in hospitality March 2012 and represents the first business, the real heart and soul of training and education. university of its kind within the our company is our team members. Dr Brown, who is also the group hospitality sector. Among the Providing opportunities to enhance director, training standards at SCU’s mandate is to provide schol- their skills and facilitate their devel- Sandals Resorts International (SRI), arships, training, education and opment is, therefore, of paramount received the AHLEI’s coveted certification opportunities to the importance to us as the success of Lamp of Knowledge Award for over 13,000 employees at all our team members is the success of Outstanding International Educator. Sandals, Beaches and Grand our brand.” The awards were presented on Pineapple resorts across the region. Under Brown’s leadership, the Tuesday, April 14 at the American SCU has become one of the largest HUMBLED AND PLEASED Hotel & Lodging Association’s users of AHLEI’s professional cer- Stars of the Industry Awards In acknowledging the award, Dr tifications, from line-level and Brunch held in Washington, DC. Brown said, “The partnership with guest service through supervisory, The AHLEI is considered the the AHLEI has allowed our team managerial, and executive designa- preferred provider of quality members to grow and develop in tions. Through his efforts, Beaches resources to educate, develop and amazing ways. I am pleased to be a Turks and Caicos became the first certify hospitality professionals part of this process of transforma- Caribbean property to earn the des- worldwide and works with the tion and development and humbled ignation of Certified Guest Service lodging industry, hospitality to have been honoured by this Property. The SCU has enjoyed a schools and related hospitality esteemed organisation.” relationship with the AHLEI since industries. Adam Stewart, SRI’s chief execu- late 2012 when it became a Global The Lamp of Knowledge Awards tive officer, said the award was tes- Academic Partner and the first ever are given to individuals who tament to Dr Brown’s outstanding corporate university to sign such an demonstrate extraordinary commit- Dr Phillip Brown work with the SCU and added that agreement with the AHLEI.

New direct service phase of renovations to its lobby from Toronto this and hotel bar. The property’s What’s new in Curaçao entrance signage and Bligh’s Bar will also be entirely refurbished to summer with IGLTA memberships, which coffee shop, an outdoor pool, fitness New shopping centre reflect a more contemporary look For the first time ever, Canadians reflects the island’s ‘Live and Let centre and flexible meeting area. and feel, and are expected to be can travel direct to Curaçao from opening in May Live’ philosophy to embrace all completed in Spring 2015. Toronto via Air Canada during the travellers. The awards ceremony Slated to open in May 2015 and Baoase Luxury Resort Additional renovations will also summer season. Air Canada flies took place in Los Angeles at located between Willemstad and take place in the third quarter of non-stop to Curaçao on Fridays IGLTA’s 32nd Annual Global debuts new villa-style Curaçao International Airport, is an this year and will include the prop- with an 8 a.m. departure from upscale shopping centre being built Convention, where the island was suites erty’s restaurants and gym facili- Toronto and a 3:15 p.m. return and operated by the Sambil Group. honored alongside influential LGBT ties. For more information, visit flight from Curaçao. For more The new shopping centre, designed advocates. For more information on The island’s five-star upscale prop- www.hiltoncuraçaoresort.com. information, visit vacations.air- in a fish-shape, encompasses over LGBT travel in Curaçao, visit erty, Baoase Luxury Resort, has canada.com/Curaçao. 100,000 square feet and will feature www.gaycuracao.com. unveiled 10 new exclusive suites. 180 establishments, including 156 The new villa-style suites include a Renaissance Curaçao private infinity pool and garden Curaçao Unveils shops, eight movie theatres, four HOTEL NEWS launches new dining restaurants, and a food court offering with a spectacular view over the new winery a variety of local and international New Courtyard by Caribbean Sea as well as either experience direct access to a private beach or cuisines. For more information, visit Renaissance Curaçao, located in Located near Hato International Marriott to open the resort’s beach. Constructed out www.sambilmall.com/Curaçao. downtown Willemstad, has given its Airport, Curaçao recently of natural stone, these secluded in Curaçao CRU Steakhouse & Wine Bar a opened the island’s first-ever one-level luxury suites offer the IGLTA awards Curaçao makeover, transforming it into winery and vineyard. Run by the Marriott International has perfect amount of privacy with Visscher family, the vineyard has with Destination announced plans to open the first unparalleled luxury offerings. For Xquisit, a dining experience with a over 2,000 plants on two acres of Pioneer honour Courtyard by Marriott hotel in more information, visit new modern concept. Xquisit will land, which will eventually be Willemstad. The hotel, set to open www.baoase.com. offer a three-course prix fixe menu of expanded to 25 acres. The wine The International Gay & Lesbian in 2017, will feature 177 rooms and appetizers, main dishes, and desserts will be harvested from the Travel Association (IGLTA) recently will be situated just a few blocks along with a separate steak and wine island’s soil and will be avail- awarded the Curaçao Tourist Board from the existing cruise ship termi- Hilton Curaçao menu. Menus will be changed sea- able to bottle and sell next year. with its prestigious Destination nal. The property will be part of a undergoes second sonally, with sample dishes such as In the meantime, visitors can Pioneer award for its exceptional mixed-used development that will phase of its renovation Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio with enjoy tastings and special events efforts in developing the island into include retail space, an entertain- Truffle Oil, Stuffed Pork Loin with at the winery, open everyday an all-welcoming destination for ment area, three restaurants and a Following refurbishments to its Brie cheese, and Ratatouille. For from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. with Happy travellers. Curaçao boasts a substan- casino. The hotel will feature the hotel rooms in 2013, Hilton more information, visit www.renais- Hour Fridays at 5 p.m. tial number of hotels and attractions brand’s signature business lobby, a Curaçao recently began the second sancecuraçao.com.

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