First Sandals reopens in Antigua

The Sandals Grande Antigua Resort has reopened, making it the first Sandals resort in the Caribbean to do so since the pandemic began.

The all-inclusive property officially began welcoming guests on June 4 as Antigua and Barbuda reopened its borders to international travellers with new entry protocols.

“We have been highly anticipating this moment and have spent this time strengthening every element of our health and safety protocols with our guests in mind. We are pleased to report that The Ministries of Health and Tourism have certified that we have successfully completed the stringent registration and inspection protocols with flying colours,” said Gordon “Butch” Stewart, founder and chairman of Sandals Resorts.

“We are eager to provide that much-needed escape for travelers who have been cooped up and are now seeking a place to relax that gives them the privacy, reassurance and the space they’re looking for. At Sandals, we include everything but worries, so guests can leave those behind and take this time to recharge with the ones they love. That’s our promise.”

Sandals has launched a health and safety campaign that includes measures like either in-room check-in or “at-home” check-in before they arrive; the addition of hospital-grade disinfectants and electrical aerosol sprayers for guest room cleaning; and the introduction of protective face gear and gloves for staff.

Hand sanitizing stations have been installed across public spaces, in rooms and in dining locations, and added measures like air-duct sanitization for each arrival and departure and the use of UV-LED lighting equipment.

All the company’s resorts are also equipped with medical stations staffed daily with a registered nurse and “24-7 on-call medical personnel.” The Jamaican Sandals is expected to open this week.