Sagicor putting J$500m sheen on Jewel Paradise - Hotel to reopen as 'adults only'
Published:Friday | July 5, 2013 | 12:00 AM
Sagicor Jamaica's newest hotel acquisition, Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa, is undergoing US$5 million (J$500 million) of renovations ahead of its planned reopening in the upcoming winter tourist season.
A similar sum was spent last year on upgrading the other two hotels managed under the Jewel brand.
The newest Jewel, bought two months ago, is expected to employ 300 at opening, said Sagicor executive vice-president and chief investment officer Rohan Miller.
The all-inclusive property is being marketed as "adults only", but Miller said the product will not follow the risqué path of predecessor Hedonism III; and that its offerings will track with the 'couples only' properties run by other chains.
"The upgrading and refurbishing works are focused on the rooms and bathrooms, as well as the pools and other central facilities to bring the property in line with the Jewel Resorts' brand standard," said Miller.
"The spa and fitness centre will also be upgraded to better meet the needs of the markets being targeted. The renovation is expected to cost US$5 million. The hotel is expected to hire more than 300 employees."
Jewel Paradise's activities and cuisine will emphasise health, sports and wellness, Miller said.
The property will be managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, which is currently promoting the hotel for the high travel season, which kicks off annually in December.
"A new addition to the resort will be The Radiant Spa, the Jewel-branded spa concept, acclaimed for its specialty spa treatments such as the in-ocean three therapist massage," Aimbridge Hospitality says in its marketing pitch.
According to Aimbridge, all 225 rooms and suites will be redesigned as colonial contemporary, yet casual island style, with the modern amenities, including designer bath areas, high-speed Internet access, flat-screen TV, and plush white duvet bedding.