Business View Caribbean - Sept. / Oct. 2014

%XVLQHVV 9LHZ ‡ &DULEEHDQ ² 6HSWHPEHU ‡ 2FWREHU 'RPLQLFD 'RPLQLFD 6HSWHPEHU ‡ 2FWREHU ² &DULEEHDQ ‡ %XVLQHVV 9LHZ Thomas said the resort’s master plan includes the creation of a dedicated spa facility, though she concedes that the nature of the guests – the overwhelming majority of whom are celebrating honeymoons or anniversaries – may necessitate that portion of the plan being scrapped to maintain a more individualized approach. Among the spa services available are massages, manicures, pedicures and waxing. “We haven’t decided if we’ll do a full-service spa or continue to do treatments in the villas or bungalows or down by the beach,” she said. “They like it because they don’t have to dress up to go to the spa. They can be watching their favorite program or watching the birds sing and be getting a facial or a pedicure or a manicure at the same time while just relaxing in the space.” The resort, according to Thomas, maintains a steady flow of traffic throughout the year, but the island becomes a particular tourist destination in high season – from December to March. Another peak period is October, which is home to the World Creole Music Festival and an opportunity for guests to not only enjoy the resort, but also learn about the island and its food and dance. Another recent addition to the guest mix has been increased interest from corporate entities. Thomas said one individual company rented the facility as a whole and will use it for a retreat to help employees relax and create an environment to generate new ideas. “For them, it’s the relaxing surroundings that were attractive and the owner thought it would be a nice and open and free environment,” she said, “rather than a large resort with many distractions.” Some, in fact, love their stays so much that the true challenge comes on the day they depart. “Most guests don’t want to leave,” Thomas said. “We laugh and tell them we have a secret program where you can burn your passport and start a life here, and sometimes I think we could really do it.”