The luxury resort brand reveals top practices and innovations transforming Caribbean vacations moving into 2025 and beyond
Last week, more than 1,000 travel advisors, industry partners, dignitaries, government officials, and resort executives gathered in Jamaica to explore the island’s tourism offerings through the lens of the Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts brands. The dynamic one-day Jamaica Love Showcase, hosted by Sandals Resorts International Executive Chairman Adam Stewart and featuring keynote speaker Dr. The Most Honorable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, highlighted a wealth of insights and emerging trends. Attendees delved into a new wave of sustainability practices, innovative culinary concepts enhancing the all-inclusive experience, product advancements, and the strong connection between high employee engagement and exceptional guest satisfaction, among other impactful takeaways from Sandals’ largest-ever travel advisor gathering to date.
Sustainability Is In Its “Regeneration” Era
As Kirstin McCarthy, Corporate Director of Sustainability for Sandals Resorts International, highlighted during the panel discussion titled “Our Paradise, Our People,” sustainability is entering an era of regeneration—one that focuses not just on minimizing the brands’ footprint but actively enhancing the communities and ecosystems where Sandals and Beaches operate.
McCarthy emphasized that the shift towards regeneration is about adding value. “Rather than leaving a smaller footprint, we will be contributing more powerfully to the region,” she explains. This approach is particularly evident in Sandals’ innovative handling of food waste. By recycling and segregating waste, the company collaborates with local farmers, funneling leftover food back into the community to support livestock development. This initiative exemplifies a circular economy model, which McCarthy says Sandals is eager to expand across Jamaica and the broader Caribbean.
Moreover, Sandals is making strides toward renewable energy, aligning its goals with governmental ambitions to boost carbon efficiency in resorts. This commitment is particularly timely as the brand’s philanthropic arm, the Sandals Foundation, celebrates its 15th anniversary with the new “Power of 15” project. The initiative seeks to bring solar energy to school computer labs in the Caribbean, starting with a pilot program in Jamaica and further underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainable community development.
Central to this regenerative vision is the Linkages Program, which reinforces the symbiotic relationship between tourism and the local economy. McCarthy points out that each visitor to Jamaica contributes significantly to the economy, illustrating how tourism can be a powerful driver of local prosperity. “The economic penetration of the U.S. dollar in Jamaica not only supports livelihoods but fosters a richer cultural exchange,” she said, “creating a more vibrant community for both locals and visitors.”
By investing in local communities, promoting renewable energy, and embracing circular economy principles, Sandals is not only redefining luxury travel but also setting a benchmark for others in the industry. In doing so, they invite travelers to participate in a more meaningful experience, where every stay contributes to a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
The Global Appetite for Caribbean Cuisine is Thriving
The Caribbean is set to redefine its culinary identity, moving beyond traditional perceptions of all-inclusive dining through a vibrant focus on food and beverage that celebrates local culture. This transformative vision is centered on an ambitious goal: to tell the story of the Caribbean through its diverse ingredients, rich flavors, and unique narratives.
“Food is a lens into a culture, and we want to enable our guests to experience more of the Caribbean than ever before,” said Luke Mathot, Vice President of Product Innovation, Food & Beverage, adding that this commitment is shaping everything from plating and cocktails to uniforms and ambiance, creating an immersive Caribbean experience.
The global appetite for Caribbean cuisine is thriving, with cities like New York, Austin, and Los Angeles boasting some of the finest Caribbean restaurants, according to Mathot: “The flavors are vibrant and bold, and this culinary heat—almost as fiery as Sandals’ famed blaze fire sauce—is driving innovation in how Sandals approaches food and beverage.”
Beyond culinary venues, Mathot says the plan includes incorporating more local ingredients and storytelling into retail offerings, allowing guests to bring a piece of the Caribbean home and continue sharing their culinary journey with friends.
Nutrition and sustainability are also at the forefront of this culinary evolution at Sandals. By prioritizing local sourcing and minimizing waste, the resorts aim to create a lasting impact on both the environment and the communities they serve. Highlighting the rich tapestry of Caribbean food, new concepts like BLÜM, which celebrates Blue Mountain coffee, and Sweet Wood – a barbeque meets Jerk concept debuting soon at Sandals Ochi – provide guests with deep cultural connections with each dish served as a narrative that invites guests to savor the history and tradition behind it.
Experiential dining is also taking center stage, with a focus on maximizing the emotional connection within each venue, said Mathot. Guests are not just enjoying meals; they are partaking in experiences that leave lasting impressions. Buccan at the newly opened Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines exemplifies this approach, utilizing sustainable cooking methods with locally sourced ingredients and traditional techniques, such as cooking with coconut husks. Named after the buccaneers of the Caribbean, Buccan aims to create an environment where each bite tells a story. A second Buccan location is opening in the next three months at Sandals La Toc in St. Lucia.
This initiative signals a broader shift within the industry, where the rich flavors and stories of the Caribbean will take center stage, creating unforgettable experiences for travelers. In doing so, Sandals and Beaches resorts in the Caribbean are poised to not only change perceptions of all-inclusive dining but also establish themselves as a culinary destination that celebrates its unique heritage and vibrant culture.
Design and Product Innovation are Driving Emotional Engagement
As the hospitality industry evolves, a compelling trend is emerging: the desire to connect guests with experiences that truly matter. Sandals and Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean are reimagining their offerings, creating purposeful platforms that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s unique culture and natural beauty, from suite to sand.
“We are purposely adding amenities and outlets to experience the Caribbean through our eyes. From luxurious bathtubs for two to inviting outdoor showers, the focus is on crafting moments that guests will cherish and want to relive long after their stay,” said Danielle Darling, Senior Manager of Interior Design.
Authenticity is at the heart of this movement. Resorts are integrating natural materials and finishes throughout their spaces, sourcing locally and globally to create environments that resonate with the rich tapestry of the islands. “The emphasis is on timeless design elements that not only look beautiful but also feel inviting and comfortable,” says Darling. “This thoughtful approach ensures that every space has a story to tell, connecting guests more deeply to their surroundings.”
Moreover, the value added through these meaningful experiences far outweighs the price tag, says Darling. At Jamaica’s newest Sandals Resort, Sandals Dunn’s River, a collection of Coyaba Sky Villa Swim-up Rondoval Butler Suites come complete with a private rooftop with telescope for stargazing. Bridging the gap between innovation and experiential moments, and leveraging trends surrounding ‘noctourism,’ a Stargazing Concierge orchestrates unforgettable celestial moments for guests. At Sandals Ochi, four newly debuted One-Bedroom Butler Villa Suites are designed with groups in mind, joined by a private courtyard and pool that offers guests plenty of space to get together and plenty of privacy apart. Elsewhere in the Caribbean, Sandals Royal Curaçao offers guests of its Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows and Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows access to a complimentary MINI Cooper for exploring the Dutch Caribbean island.
“By prioritizing guest satisfaction and creating memorable encounters, Sandals and Beaches are redefining what luxury means in the Caribbean,” says Darling. It’s not just about opulence; it’s about crafting genuine connections and lasting impressions and enabling, guests to engage with the region in ways that are authentic, enriching, and unforgettable.
The All-Inclusive Traveler Now Seeks Active Relaxation
The concept of wellness travel is not just about relaxation; it’s about finding energy and balance through mindful, intentional experiences. Active relaxation.
“Wellness is about finding your energy—however or wherever you find it,” says Stacey Spooner, Corporate Director of Fitness and Spa. “A morning massage after breakfast, paddle after lunch, yoga at sunset and sunrise. It’s about the perfect combination to find your center.” This philosophy forms the foundation of Sandals’ wellness programs, which are tailored to meet a variety of guest needs and preferences. From state-of-the-art fitness centers to an array of unlimited outdoor land and water sports, wellness is a personal journey that varies for each individual.
At the new Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the focus on wellness is woven into the very fabric of the resort. The spa’s design reflects the lush surroundings, featuring open-air spaces and large windows that frame the island’s stunning landscapes. Beautiful flower arrangements pay homage to the island’s botanical gardens—the oldest in the Western Hemisphere—creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere.
Treatments using locally grown hibiscus flowers, naturally fertilized by volcanic sand, reflect the region’s unique offerings and contribute to a truly immersive wellness experience. These special touches not only connect guests to the island’s natural beauty but also emphasize the significance of local culture and resources.
New offerings, like pickleball courts set in a picturesque valley, provide guests with invigorating activities against the backdrop of nature’s beauty. “There’s no better view,” Spooner notes, highlighting the resort’s commitment to creating inspiring spaces for guests to engage in wellness activities. Spooner adds that pickleball courts are thriving in popularity at Sandals and Beaches locations around the Caribbean.
As travelers seek deeper connections with the places they visit, wellness travel is becoming a priority. It’s about more than just self-care; it’s about experiencing the beauty of new cultures and landscapes while finding personal balance and rejuvenation. By embracing this trend, Sandals and Beaches are not just offering amenities; they’re creating transformative experiences that inspire guests to discover wellness in their own unique ways.
High Team Member Engagement A Must To Deliver Great Guest Experiences
In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, one thing remains clear: the heartbeat of any successful brand lies in its people. For Sandals Resorts International, this is more than a mantra—it’s a guiding principle. Chief Experience Officer Jessica Shannon stated, “We are a big global brand, but what makes us distinct is our Caribbean family feel and our unwavering commitment to elevating our people.”
At the forefront of this commitment is a powerful belief: engaged team members create exceptional guest experiences. Jamie Green, Corporate Manager of Employee Experience, reinforces this notion, explaining that the brand’s vision centers around empowering team members to become well-rounded, confident individuals who can deliver unparalleled service. This vision is brought to life through eight strategic pillars, focusing on areas such as communication, health and wellness, and skill development.
Building a Culture of Care
Initiatives like the All That’s Good Fun Day, a spirited celebration that brings together team members from Sandals and Beaches resorts across Jamaica for a day of sports and camaraderie, not only boost morale but also strengthen the bonds within the Sandals family. The Project Art Initiative further showcases the creativity and talent of team members, allowing them to express themselves and share their passions beyond their roles. This commitment to fostering individual talents creates a vibrant, inclusive culture that resonates with both staff and guests alike.
Investing in the Future
The impact of Sandals’ employee-centric approach extends into the community, especially through initiatives like the new early childhood development center in St. Lucia, with plans to expand to Jamaica. This center is designed to support team members and their families. Winston Anderson, a Managing Director at Sandals, emphasizes that this vision extends beyond team members to encompass their families and the community at large.
Echoing the ethos of Sandals’ Executive Chairman Adam Stewart, Ryan Matthew, Director of Human Resources, stated, “You have to get to the essence of self-actualization and at the heart of this philosophy is education.” The Sandals Corporate University (SCU) provides over 18,000 team members access to transformative learning experiences through collaborations with esteemed institutions like the University of the West Indies and Florida International University. The SCU offers a staggering 10,000 online courses to equip Team Members with the skills needed for personal and professional growth. This year alone, 500 chefs have participated in a culinary program, while 1,000 leaders are engaged in leadership training, illustrating the breadth of opportunity available.
Innovative Learning Experiences
Taking education to the next level, Sandals is leveraging technology to enhance training. Through a new partnership with EON Reality, the brand is introducing augmented reality and artificial intelligence into its training programs with team members using Oculus devices to explore lifelike restaurant environments and technicians virtually interacting with equipment to enhance their skills. Green dubs this “the future of hospitality training.”
Creating Magic for Guests
Ultimately, the goal of these initiatives is clear: to empower team members to deliver unforgettable experiences. As Shannon puts it, “Train people so well that they could leave any minute, but treat them so well that they never want to.” This philosophy not only fosters loyalty among team members but also creates an environment where guests receive more than they expect—a crucial factor in ensuring repeat visits.
In a competitive industry, Sandals Resorts stands out by recognizing that its team members are its greatest asset. By investing in their development, well-being, and engagement, the brand not only elevates the employee experience but also enhances the magic that guests have come to love. The trend of prioritizing team member engagement is not just a strategy; it’s a commitment to creating a vibrant, connected community that thrives on shared success.
“We know that when we invest in Caribbean talent, we invest in the future of Caribbean tourism and economic success.”
-Adam Stewart
An Important Factor to Predict Travel Upswing: Relationships
The Jamaica Love Showcase underscored the vital role of relationships in driving the tourism industry. With more than 700 travel advisor partners present, plus the attendance of influential speakers, including Dr. The Most Honorable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica; the Hon. Ed Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism; US Ambassador N. Nick Perry; Scott Laurence, Senior Vice President of Partnership Strategy at American Airlines; and Nino Montagnese, VP of Air Canada Vacations, the event highlighted the collective strength forged through collaboration.
As Executive Chairman Adam Stewart noted, “Build lasting relationships with people who care as much as you do.” This interconnectedness is essential for the Caribbean’s success, weaving together diverse roles—from farmers and taxi drivers to general managers and travel advisors. Each participant contributes to a broader ecosystem that enhances the visitor experience and keeps tourism to Jamaica and the Caribbean at large on a continued upswing.
