SANDALS DUNN'S River Golf Resort & Spa closed its hotel on Friday to start the final phase of a major upgrading project, which began earlier this year.
After its completion, the US$14 million (J$868 million) renovation project will significantly improve the resort. Guests booked to stay at the resort have been upgraded at no extra cost to other Sandals/ Beaches resorts in the chain. It is anticipated that the resort will reopen on December 18, 2005.
During the temporary closure, all 400 employees will receive 50 per cent basic pay and will continue to enjoy full medical and other staff benefits. A skeleton staff drawn from all departments will be retained at the resort.
RE-EMPLOYING STAFF
In a release, Sandals said that where possible, staff will be re-employed to other Sandals/ Beaches resorts. The hotel is encouraging employees at the line, clerical and management levels to take all outstanding vacation during this period.
When Sandals Dunn's River reopens some of the enhancements will include:
A redesigned lobby with new furniture and fittings.
Deluxe, premium and grande luxe ocean-view rooms in the Florence wing will be upgraded with brand new furnishings.
A brand new porte cochère leading to the gazebo and garden.
An improved elevator entrance way.
A Red Lane spa featuring indigenous ingredients to the region in treatments that combine European traditions with distinctive Caribbean flair.
Exclusive butler service in top category suites.
Sandals has a total of 12 couples-only properties, including seven in Jamaica, three in St. Lucia, one in Antigua and one in Nassau, Bahamas. Recently unveiled, is the newly refurbished Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Resort and the brand new Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa.
