Sandals Celebrates Ochi Beach Opening
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort, Sandals Resorts’ largest and Jamaica’s newest resort, marked its official grand opening with a celebration June 1 with an audience of celebrities, top travel agents, tour operators and travel media.
Following a multi-million dollar renovation project, the completely redesigned resort in Ocho Rios debuted a fresh, modern design aesthetic along with seven uniquely new “Gourmet Discovery Dining” options, the trendy Ochi Beach Club, reinvented resort entertainment, upgraded luxurious accommodations and more.
“We are thrilled to share the new Sandals Ochi Beach Resort with you,” said Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, chairman of Sandals Resorts International. “What we’ve accomplished here is a game changer for the all-inclusive resort experience in Jamaica, solidifying Sandals Ochi as Jamaica’s most comprehensive resort in the region. We’re leading the next generation of resorts in Jamaica, and while others may try to follow, we will continue to do what we do best – exceed guest expectations. This resort never lets me forget where I began and where I come from and what is possible here in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean.”
The proceedings began with a performance by the Tony Wilson Dance Company, performing Calabash: A Kaleidoscope of Beauty, Passion and Power. The evening continued with a moving rendition of Jamaica’s national anthem by local singers. Speeches were given by government officials and dignitaries, Jamaica Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller.
“Sandals’ story is a well-known one in these parts and most of us here in Jamaica and throughout the region have watched with interest as Sandals has embarked on a meteoric rise to becoming one most well-known brands in the world,” said the prime minister. “[They] are dedicated to investing in their product and their people, our people, and it has propelled them on to a different level.”
The grand opening celebrations included a fireworks display, carnival dancers and beats by acclaimed DJ Tracy Young. The star-studded after party was capped off by an electric performance by Shaggy, Jamaican-born American reggae fusion singer and deejay.
Pictured, chairman of Sandals Resorts International, Gordon “Butch” Stewart and CEO of Sandals Resorts International, Adam Stewart join Shaggy on stage during his exclusive concert at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort.
In the ribbon cutting photo are (l-r) Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment Damion Crawford; Mayor of St. Ann Desmond Gilmore; Stewart; Simpson-Miller; CEO of Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart and general manager of Sandals Ochi Beach Resort Ramel Sobrino.
(Photos by Gustavo Caballero/Getty Images for Sandals Resorts)
