Sandals
Sandals
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Sandals
The skilled Bars team at Sandals Emerald Bay was given a unique and valuable opportunity to enhance their mixology abilities. This was made possible by receiving specialized training from none other than the Bahamian Mixologist Global Cocktail Champion, Marv Cunningham. The team was able to learn hidden secrets and treasures of mixology, which are sure to elevate the quality of cocktails served at the resort.
Team members at Sandals Royal Plantation came together to honour those who recently celebrated birthdays, spreading joy and camaraderie in our tight-knit community!
The queens of Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean were each feted to a luncheon held in recognition of International Women’s Day. The ladies enjoyed the afternoon of respite and many won several prizes throughout the scheduled activity.
The very first of many ‘Feel Good’ Fridays to happen at Sandals Royal Caribbean courtesy of the Sports & Social Club in collaboration with HR was a resounding success! The afternoon in Café de Royale was a beautiful display of camaraderie and fun for the world’s best team! The Feel Good session was all about the bubbling game of Bingo! Winners of the Bingo matches were gifted upwards of $1,000 call credit, bottles of wine and assorted gift items which served as a pleasant surprise to the lucky patrons.
The Women’s Empowerment Health Fair, organised by Sandals Ochi on Women’s Day in collaboration with the St Ann’s Bay Health Department, benefited almost 400 team members. Many services were provided, such as pap smears, nutritional consultations, HIV/Syphilis testing, blood pressure tests, blood sugar testing, cholesterol testing, vision testing and consultations, and drug abuse awareness. The team was happy the resort arranged the vital services in their workspace to keep them informed and to know their numbers.
The team members—especially the women—embodied the perfect Women’s Day celebration, delighted that the resort had set up the necessary amenities in their workspace to keep them informed and vigilant.
Celebrating the diverse and talented women within our team, Sandals South Coast hosted a special luncheon, complete with prizes and surprises, in recognition of International Women’s Day. Embracing this year’s theme of “Inspire Inclusion,” our South Coast team aimed to advocate for the idea of freedom and empowerment for our female colleagues. We recognise and celebrate their ability to pursue training and education in various departments and fields, and we applaud their roles as mothers, daughters, managers, supervisors, caregivers, and leaders in their communities, among many others.
Sandals Upton Estate Golf & Country Club is now offering an enticing perk for Sandals & Beaches team members - playing opportunities and complimentary clinics, subject to availability. This initiative not only fosters a sense of camaraderie among staff members but it also promotes a healthy work-life balance, as well as knowledge and awareness of the sport to share with colleagues and guests alike. Under the expertise of seasoned instructors, team members can refine their swing techniques or learn the intricacies of the game from scratch. Beyond honing their skills, these afternoon sessions provide a refreshing break from the demands of the workday, encouraging relaxation and recreation on the lush green fairways. Interested team members may contact the Golf & Country Club to book an appointment.
Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines opened its doors in March with a view straight to the cobalt blue Caribbean sea, welcoming its first guests to a nature-forward experience brimming with island inspiration and stirring ‘Sandals Firsts’. The opening marks Sandals Resorts’ eagerly anticipated introduction to the largely undiscovered Eastern Caribbean destination of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, where –
enveloped by a mountain backdrop – the brand’s 18th all-inclusive resort offers an unrivaled sanctuary where guests can commune with nature, foster wellness, and cultivate lasting connections.
Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offers 301 rooms and suites across 50 lush-laden acres, authentically embracing its Saint Vincent location with an experience that is as thoughtful as it is meticulously
local – from built-in programming celebrating the island’s illustrious botanical gardens to the introduction of new dining concepts like Buccan, a large-format style dining experience that creates conversation and connection over locally harvested food roasted in an open hearth.
“With its dramatic blues and incredible beauty, the Caribbean sea was meant to be explored. But at more than a million square miles, it was also meant to be discovered,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. “Sandals Saint Vincent unveils a little-known wonder we are proud to bring forward, not only for its show-stopping beauty but for the warmth and grace of its people. There is a joy here that pulses throughout and beyond 32 incredible islands. Sandals Saint Vincent was designed to honor that spirit, encouraging carefree exploration, pampered relaxation, and deep connection.”
Basking under the Vincy sun has never been more delightful with access to a 300-foot linear pool that connects the flora-framed lobby terrace to the horizon. Along the way, cabanas and cocktails invite guests to loll the day away, with three other pools among lush vegetation.
Innovative and thoughtful touches extend across each of the resort’s exquisitely appointed rooms and suites, where guests are welcomed with a refreshing, in-room signature cocktail of rum and coconut water. A pioneering concept for the brand, the Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas will feature expansive spaces spanning two stories above the sea, as well as dedicated villa perks including an exclusive table at Buccan. Beachfront Villas offer a tranquil retreat just steps from the sand; inside, guests are met with warm neutrals, organic textures, locally-sourced volcanic materials and pops
of cool blue to create a harmonious connection with the island’s natural surroundings. Many of the resort’s suites also feature elevated amenities – from a dedicated media room and private pool to a personal fitness room with exercise bikes, yoga mats and a library of fitness classes. The brand’s signature butler service adds an additional level of luxury, with butler-level room guests treated to memorable moments.
At the heart of Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is the destination itself – bold, bountiful and richly colorful – with opportunities for exploration infused into nearly every touchpoint. On site, guests will bask in guided kayak experiences to Buccament Bat Caves and bikes for winding throughout the resort’s gardens and trails surrounded by the destination’s natural flora. Interactive classes and tastings highlight the
region’s rich agricultural heritage, from aloe vera to local fruit like mango and breadfruit. Along the water’s edge, artisans bring forward soap making and handmade jewelry, among other crafts. As night falls, the essence of the island comes alive with vibrant festivities, from sunset parties on the beach to rum sensory experiences and movies under the stars.
Off site, a kaleidoscopic selection of adventure –from marveling at the foot of a towering waterfall to frolicking on volcanic black sand beaches, sailing the clear blue seas and waving hello to abundant marine life below the surface via Sandals’ awardwinning, unlimited scuba diving program. With adventure available at every turn, guests will find balance and serenity at Red Lane® Spa, offering the soothing ambiance of flowing water and lush greenery, and treatments that harness the natural minerals found in volcanic sand to exfoliate and detoxify.
Our Sandals Foundation is celebrating its 15th anniversary, and activities have been happening across the Caribbean to mark this significant milestone. One such celebration was a coordinated sunset sip and paint toast held at our resorts in the region. Additionally, our Executive Chairman and President of the Sandals Foundation, Adam Stewart, visited an inspirational community mural in Montego Bay, Jamaica, commissioned to commemorate the Foundation’s 15th anniversary.
Reflecting on the journey of the philanthropic organisation, Stewart expressed pride in the Foundation’s evolution and achievements.
“From the beginning, our commitment to transformational projects has remained unwavering. We’ve witnessed firsthand the power of partnerships and the resilience of Caribbean people.”
Stewart continued: “The mission of the Sandals Foundation is deeply rooted in the belief that empowered Caribbean people can shape a brighter future for themselves, their communities and generations that follow. We have achieved significant milestones in this respect. Our endorsement by the United Nations Department of Communication as an organisation helping to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) gave us great confidence in knowing that our work while helping to solve local challenges was also positively contributing to a broader global agenda.”
Reaching this 15-year milestone has strengthened the Foundation’s dedication to improving the lives of people across the Caribbean. Through initiatives focused on education, community development, and environmental conservation, the Sandals Foundation has positively impacted 1.5 million lives, leaving an indelible mark on the region. Happy Anniversary, Team SF!
In a decisive move to strategically engage, listen to and empower young women across the Caribbean, the Sandals Foundation partnered with Sandals Corporate University and the Learning and Development team at Sandals Resorts International to inspire more than 700 women.
Through a series of uniquely curated sessions for teenage girls and young adults, a contingent of just over 60 volunteers visited high schools, learning centres and girls’ homes across eight
islands to explore the importance of training and education to make their mark in the world.
“Since the theme for IWD is “Inspire Inclusion” we wanted to focus on the importance of education and training for growth, confidence and selfesteem to ensure that our young women are ready to take their place in the workplace and society,” says Dr. Luz Longsworth, Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University.
Using personal stories and experiences as anecdotal lessons of transformation, the Sandals
Corporate University and foundation team sparked enthusiasm and honest interaction from the targeted young women who engaged in a series of carefully curated activities.
Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at Sandals Foundation said “as we enter our 15th year of operation, the Sandals Foundation is placing sharp focus on tangible ways we can empower lives in every respect. We were delighted by the enthusiasm shown by the Sandals Corporate University to partner with us on this initiative, bringing their expertise to the lesson development for this special day.”
“Our young women are powerful beyond measure with sometimes only needing a guide to help direct their path,” Clarke continued, “And as a Caribbean organization, it is our duty to lend our resources, time, and expertise to empower the next generation in any way we can.”
The women’s empowerment sessions form part of the Sandals Foundation’s Women Helping Others Achieve (WHOA) Programme which provides mentorship, education, training and other tools needed to help marginalized women across the Caribbean find inspiration and strength to advance and transform their personal and professional lives.
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Angella Richards-Farrier, Sandals Montego Bay’s newly minted Manager of the Year and a 22-year hospitality veteran, is not just a Bar Manager; she’s a force of nature and a guiding light at her resort. Hailing from Lincoln, Manchester, Richards-Farrier, who is affectionately known as ‘Miss Angie’ is the product of a journey characterized by resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for service.
Before beginning her illustrious career in hospitality, Miss Angie was a Data Entry Clerk, which assisted her greatly in honing her organizational skills and attention to detail. “It was my entry into hospitality at Merrils Beach Resort in Negril that truly ignited my love for serving others,” she says. Starting as a cashier in Food & Beverage, Miss Angie’s leadership abilities and dedication to excellence quickly set her apart and allowed for her steady ascent through the ranks to Dining Room Supervisor.
After departing Merrils Beach Resort Miss Angie sought to expand her hospitality career and so began her tenure at Beaches Negril. This marked a pivotal moment in her career. From a casual in the bar to a Supervisor and eventually promoted to a management position at Sandals Montego Bay, Miss Angie’s journey has been fueled by relentless ambition and a thirst for knowledge.
She wholeheartedly embraced the on-the-job training for which Sandals is known and constantly sought opportunities to expand her skill set and expertise.
Over the years, Miss Angie has amassed a treasure trove of memories, but one of her fondest revolves around the planning and participation of her team in her first JAPEX function in 2016. “I remember feeling so nervous leading up to the event. With a crowd of up to 500 esteemed guests in attendance, the occasion was a resounding success and under my guidance, the Bar Department, truly sparkled, earning me the commendations of my superiors and cementing my reputation as a capable manager within a traditionally male-dominated space.”
Angie attributes much of her success to the training and support she received at Sandals. From certifications in Beverage Management from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) to leadership and customer-focused programmes, Angie’s dedication to personal and professional growth knows no bounds. She believes in leading by example, and fosters a culture of excellence and continuous learning within her team.
As a female Bar Manager who has held her own for almost a decade, Angie’s advice to aspiring women in the industry is simple yet profound: “embrace the opportunities available and be willing to make sacrifices.” She also emphasizes the importance of
planning, proactive communication, and maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of challenges.
Despite the demands of her role, Miss Angie also understands the importance of work-life balance. When asked how she has managed to so gracefully accomplish this, she provided a gem of advice. “I place a lot of emphasis on empowering my team to confidently manage operations in my absence, celebrating successes, and fostering strong partnerships with vendors and colleagues.”
Miss Angie also takes pride in grooming and mentoring her team members. From bartenders to supervisors, she has played an essential role in the development and success of numerous individuals within the organization. Individuals such as Dandre Dockery, a young bartender who was groomed by Ms. Angie and is now the Assistant Bar Manager at Sandals’ newest resort in Jamaica – Sandals Dunn’s River or Camille Spence who started as a beach server and is now a bar supervisor at Sandals Montego Bay or Shinton Dixon, once a supervisor who Miss Angie has groomed into her current Assistant Bar Manager.
Angella Richards-Farrier’s decorated journey within Sandals is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and service. Through her steadfast pursuit of perfection and unyielding loyalty to her team, Miss Angie continues to inspire and uplift all those fortunate enough to cross her path at Sandals Montego Bay.
She believes in leading by example, and fosters a culture of excellence and continuous learning within her team.
Sandals Grenada’s Annual Prestige Awards was a totally glamourous affair with a Las Vegas theme. Here are some of the best looks from the event.
To commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2024, female team members of Beaches Turks and Caicos, also serving as representatives of the Sandals Corporate University, hosted a Women’s Empowerment Seminar at the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre, which turned out to be a very inspiring, emotional, and riveting session.
Topics of individuality and self-expression, self-discipline and perseverance, self-care, self-growth, and overcoming life’s challenges were covered by three presenters from the Beaches Turks and Caicos team. Tanya Swann, Director of Sales spoke on “The Importance of Education and Training for Growth”. Michelle Parker, Village Manager discussed “The Importance of a Young Woman’s Development of Confidence and Self-Esteem” and Mirlande Nomincy, Front Office Shift Leader, helped the young women “connect the dots” by guiding them on how to use what they had learnt as she transitioned to the topic, “Taking Your Rightful Place in the Workplace and Society”. These topics were explored in relation to the IWD theme, “Inspire Inclusion”.
After several weeks of intensive training, team members enrolled in the Sandals Corporate University Customer Service Excellence Course showcased their newfound skills and enthusiasm at their final group presentations held recently. Beaches Turks and Caicos (BTC) was abuzz with anticipation as 68 participants demonstrated their proficiency in delivering quality customer service. A certification ceremony was subsequently held to acknowledge their achievements.
Led by the Assistant Learning and Development Manager, Xiomara Adderly–Daniel, the training programme saw collaboration from the Learning
and Development Manager, Phildreka Mayham and guest lecturers, Luke Moorely and Patrice Beckford, directors of guest service. Their collective expertise and guidance shaped the participants’ journey towards becoming effective communicators in the realm of customer service.
Mayham was thrilled with the outcome of the programme and said, “the primary aim of our Learning and Development Department is to train, certify and develop our team members to excel as service professionals. The Customer Service Excellence Course provides the necessary knowledge and skills for our team to offer top notch service.” She further highlighted that the thrust is towards not only external guest satisfaction but also an enhanced internal guest experience. This is in reference to how well team members collaborate.
Sandals Resorts International’s Watersports Department recently added eight certified Open Water Scuba Instructors (OWSI) following a graduation exercise at the Instructor Development Course Centre at Beaches Turks and Caicos. These newly minted instructors from Sandals Royal Bahamian, Sandals Emerald Bay and Beaches Turks and Caicos will add more to the watersports offerings at the resorts. Members of the graduating class shared their gratitude on achieving this milestone.
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LATOYA TITUS, LOYALTY & TRAVEL AGENT: “Our guests are truly excited and this has made me intrigued as well! As our Chairman, Mr. Adam Stewart has said, ‘Sandals 2.0’. It definitely feels like we’re stepping into the future with this modern concept; the rooms are sleek and chic. I think not just as a company, but also as a resort, we strive to meet the demands of our valued guests and this is just one of the ways in which we are doing so. Team Loyalty and Travel has been getting a lot of questions from our guests regarding the new rooms, and we have been more than ecstatic to answer every one”.
SHINNEL LEE-CHANG, CONCIERGE AGENT: “I’ve had the chance to be a part of the snagging process and experience sleeping in a few of the rooms and I must say this is a big improvement considering what the previous French Village, now Longbeach Buildings were. Majority of the new rooms will be club-level suites and though as a team we are a bit nervous, we know we are more than ready to meet the needs and go above and beyond for our guests! The clean finishes in these new rooms are really something to talk about”.
YANIQUE WILSON, HOUSEKEEPER: “The new Longbeach Building has definitely been a buzz on resort. The sizes of the rooms and swimup concept that will be introduced to that block is refreshing. I am excited to see what it will look like once it is open and the reaction from our guests when they return and see the work that has gone into this space”.
Reginald Edgecombe Jr. is a social host and male vocalist at Sandals Emerald Bay. He found his hidden talent at the age of 13. After joining the Sandals team, he blossomed into a nightingale for the guests and team members. The guests rave about his talent and said his singing evokes pleasurable emotions.
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Committed to the protection and preservation of the environment, some members of the Beaches Negril Earth Guardians Club journeyed to Sandals South Coast for the first staging of the Western Environment Health and Safety meeting. This provided them with an opportunity to liaise with members from other resorts on all matters pertaining to keeping things green and clean.
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Catching up on the latest TikTok dance is Sandals Barbados’ Learning & Development Assistant Manager Rhea Griffith during a recent talk with 4th form female students of the Deighton Griffith Secondary School, as part of celebrations to mark International Women’s Day.
Sandals Royal Curaçao recently held a spectacular staging of its annual Prestige Awards.The night sparkled with excitement as team members gathered under the glittering lights to honour the exceptional hard work and dedication of its top performers. Laughter and cheers filled the air as the team announced its 2023 winners, each shining brightly in their unique way. It was a joyous celebration of talent, teamwork, and triumph.
The Sandals Foundation recently held its annual Careers Day Expo at the Warren Cohen Center of Sandals Emerald Bay. The main objective of the event was to broaden the horizons of senior students from the island of Exuma by introducing them to a diverse range of job opportunities.
It’s Revenue Day at Sandals Emerald Bay. The resort was bustling with excitement as staff members prepared for all the action. Two individuals, Ruthlyn Munroe and Ashandie Sifort, were beaming with welcoming smiles.
Sandals Emerald Bay recently sponsored the 2024 Bahamas Music & Heritage event. The resort entered two bartenders into the mixology competition and both finished in the top three. Torez Smith was the first-place winner and Alexander Colby placed third.
Sandals Emerald Bay recently held its Annual Prestige Awards, with the theme “All around the World Celebrating Cultural Excellence”.
Introducing the tie-dye queens from the Resort Shop at Sandals Halcyon Beach.
More training was on the horizon for these super Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort stars! They are on their way to Sandals St Vincent, part of the task force to help lead the way. We wish them God’s speed. L-R: Nadia, Nia, Alliah, Christine and Eva.
Training was the new buzzword for the month of March. We captured the Watersports team at Sandals Grande St Lucian Spa & Beach Resort deep in conversation with the GM, on a picturesque blue-sky day.
The International Women’s Day celebration at Sandals Regency La Toc was an enchanting tribute to women’s strength, resilience, and brilliance everywhere. The women were pampered and celebrated in style, with professional makeup artists attending to their beauty needs, enhancing their natural radiance, and encouraging them to feel confident and empowered.
At Sandals Regency La Toc, St. Patrick’s Day was a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and merriment, infused with the warmth and hospitality of the Caribbean. Guests and staff alike donned their green attire and gathered for a day filled with festive activities. The resort buzzed with excitement as music filled the air, setting the stage for a lively atmosphere of cheer. Guests indulged in fun-filled games and activities and lively dance performances, ensuring that the day was celebrated in true Sandals style – with laughter, joy, and a touch of Irish luck.
Sandals Regency La Toc’s Prestige Awards soared to new heights with a captivating theme of “To the Moon,” transforming the evening into a gala occasion like no other. Amidst the glitz and glamour reminiscent of a James Bond affair, team members gathered to receive their well-deserved accolades for their exceptional efforts throughout the past year. The venue shimmered with celestial decor, evoking a sense of mystery and adventure as guests embarked on a journey to honour excellence and achievement. With an aura of sophistication and intrigue filling the air, the atmosphere was electric as attendees embraced the spirit of camaraderie and celebrated the stellar accomplishments that propelled the resort to extraordinary heights.
Empowered women empower others and this was exactly how Learning and Development Manager, Kristen Dowe, spent International Women’s Day. As she reasoned with young ladies from the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation about personal branding and development, they found light in her mentorship and left feeling motivated to take up space in the world.
Can’t you tell that the Sandals Negril team is always happy and ready to inspire hope? Well, the smiles from ear to ear from our Hotel Manager, Mr Jason Lynch (left) and the Director of Guest Services Mrs Tessian Todd-Bandoo (right) as we commemorated the 15th Anniversary of the Sandals Foundation should be convincing enough. Our team is pumped for the year-long celebration!
St Patrick’s Day had all the vibes and specialty cocktails for our guests to enjoy and of course team Entertainment’s Prince (left) and Brianna (right) were poolside with the excitement. Bottoms up!
It was lights, camera, action at the 2023 Prestige Awards show held at the Negril Hills Gold Club. The Hollywood theme brought the stars out dressed in all the glitz and glamour to collect their awards for a job well done. Striking a pose at the end of the night, it was clear that the affair was an evening well spent.
At the Sandals Ochi Beach Resort’s Annual Prestige Awards, the Weddings Department was ecstatic to learn they won Department of the Year for 2023. The delighted squad was seen posing with their oversized cheque of US$13,000.
Sandals Ochi’s Food & Beverage team stands proud with their seven winners – including Diamond Team Member of the Year 2023 - as they pose for photos with the General Manager, Carol Bourke; Executive Chef, Rodroy Thomas; and Fitzroy Christie, F&B Director during the Annual Prestige Awards Ceremony.
Two of Sandals Ochi’s radiant ladies from the Front Office Luckie Dyer & Trisan Elliott strike a pose at the 2023 Annual Prestige Awards Ceremony, exuding confidence and style.
15 years of inspiring hope! The ladies of the regional Sandals Montego Bay PR team celebrated the Sandals Foundation’s anniversary at the newly painted mural in the community of Whitehouse, St. James.
It was an endearing moment when Sandals Royal Caribbean General Manager Dawn Smith and 2023 Diamond Team Member Paul Clarke celebrated Paul’s award at the annual Prestige Awards.
March was Women’s History Month and the PR-razzi got busy capturing and covering the women of Sandals Royal Bahamian. We couldn’t help but snap the warm smile of Chenia, Sales Representative in the resort shop.