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| Oceanfront suite at the Regent Palms Turks & Caicos |
Representatives of the Regent Palms Turks & Caicos sat down with Travel Agent recently to talk about what’s new at the 72-suite resort hotel and tell us how they were able to see a stellar 10 percent increase in occupancy from this time last year. General Manager Karen Whitt told us that the shareholders decided last year to incorporate more value into the resort—from butler service for guests staying in Penthouse rooms to a revamped spa to a free children’s club and free American breakfast.
“Ever since 2009, the way people travel has become much different,” says Whitt. “They used to call a travel agent and say, ‘OK, so where are you sending me?’ And now people call their agents and say, ‘OK, so I looked up this deal and that deal.’ They are so researched now. They know the value that is out there today, so we felt like we really needed to give them more of it.”
For the first time, the resort recently added six butlers to serve clients staying at any one of the six Penthouse rooms. In fact, Whitt says the butler service has been received so well that she is already looking to expand it. She says the resort will extend the service for the three-bedroom categories too, but a time frame for the same hasn’t been set yet.
Regarding the resort’s newly revamped spa, no physical changes were made (or needed—the aesthetics of the area are about as tranquil as it gets), but the menu has undergone a major overhaul, combining the best treatments of the Caribbean with a heavy Asian influence.
The spa uses products from organically formulated lines, Sothys and Zents. Some of its world-renowned experiences include signature Caribbean-inspired treatments such as the “Mother of Pearl Conch Polish,” which uses a precious blend of hand-crushed local queen conch shells to gently revitalize and soften the skin, and the indigenous island “Zareeba” treatment, where guests inhale aromatic steam from a blend of freshly-brewed therapeutic herbs followed by a toxin-releasing massage.
Signature Asian-inspired treatments include the “Oriental Essence Ceremony”—a ginger-infused salt scrub followed by a massage inspired by ancient Asian and Indian techniques which uses an aromatic spice sachet filled with smooth pebbles and soaked in warmed exotic oils. The “Bamboo Massage,” practiced throughout Asia as an ancient form of bodywork, combines elements of a technique where therapists use varying lengths of bamboo to provide maximum muscle tension release in key areas of the body.
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| The aesthetics of the spa area at Regent Palms Turks & Caicos enhance its tranquility. |
Dining Value, New Options
Whitt also tells us that as part of the resort’s value enhancement efforts, it was decided to change the Continental breakfast to an American one and is included in the room rate. Also, the resort’s children’s club—the Conch Kritters Club—is now free. There used to be a $40 charge for a half day and $75 for a full day plus lunch. While the club is free, guests still have to pay for lunch.
Speaking of meals, Regent Palms recently introduced new Executive Chef Ingo Moller to kick off updated culinary programming for clients. Moller will be responsible for the food and beverage operations at the resort’s fine dining restaurant Parallel23, the casual eatery Plunge, in-room dining, and catering and banquet services.
Parallel23 offers Caribbean fusion cuisine with alfresco dining option and a casual restaurant ambience. Plunge, the restaurant’s casual eatery, serves guests items from the wood-burning oven as well as lighter salads and sandwiches.
Initiatives to be introduced at Regent Palms include: Spa Cuisine, a separate menu with heart-healthy cuisine, gluten-free menus and vegan options; Moonbathing, a new nighttime trend where guests enjoy desserts and drinks on the beach; Water Condiments, presented to guests with a number of fresh ingredients to enhance their water; and in-room Chef’ing, an elevated private dining experience that will take room service to another level.
Emerging Markets
Whitt tells Travel Agent that the resort is seeing a major influx of South American clients. Though they still make up only a small percentage of overall guests, he says clients are beginning to come more frequently from Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela. As for the U.S., Whitt says it continues to be the resort’s biggest market, usually making up about 85 percent of the guests. He points to the Midwest, mainly Chicago, as an American market that the resort is starting to see a slight increase from.
Packages and Promotions
Through December 19, clients can book the “Junior Suite Super Deal” to receive 25 percent off regular fare and a $50 resort credit per day. Or, guests can choose to book any other room category for four nights and get the fifth night free along with a $200 resort credit.
The “Family Getaway” is a wonderful way for families to enjoy a truly memorable vacation in Turks and Caicos. Including transportation to and from the airport, a family dinner night on the beach with a three-course menu, complimentary nanny services, and a special welcome amenity for the children, this package is designed for spending quality time with the family and creating lasting memories. Rates start at $495 per night, plus the cost of accommodations.
The “Caribbean Spa ‘Trilogy’ Getaway” provides guests with the chance to experience the recently named “Caribbean’s Leading Resort Spa” with a choice of any three body, facial, or massage treatments. Clients will enjoy unlimited, complimentary fitness classes and a healthy lunch served at the spa. Topped off with a chilled bottle of champagne upon arrival, this package is a great escape from a stressful work environment or for a girlfriend getaway. Rates start at $475 per person plus the cost of accommodations.
The “Romance Package,” is aimed at couples celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or just looking for an island escape. Regent Palms staff will pamper guests with a private dinner for two on the beach, signature couples massage, romantic turndown during one night of the stay, and champagne upon arrival. Rates start at $575 plus cost of accommodations.
Agents should reach out to Joanne Hogg ([email protected]), director of travel industry sales, with any queries.