Despite talk of Jamaica's deteriorating economic climate and poor national image, the achievements of House of Issa's Couples Negril, shows that there is still much to be salvaged.
The international acclaimed Travel and Leisure Magazine recently lauded the all-inclusive resort in its August 2002 issue, featuring its "World's Best Awards".
On the heels of the resort's success at the recent Jamaica Cultural and Development Commission's culinary arts competition, this latest news has provided a much-needed boost for Jamaica's waning hotel and tourism industry. Formed in 1996, the Travel and Leisure Magazine evaluates the standards of everything from hotels to spas to cruise lines, and has become the most reliable key to unlocking an optimum travel experience.
Its 2002 "World's Best Awards" is the product of hundreds of thousands of worldwide surveys, from which Couples Negril has garnered high ratings.
"We are overwhelmed by such recognition in the global arena," said the resort's Manager, Mr. Gary Stephens, "which is attributable to the collaborative and industrious efforts of the Couples Negril team and our commitment to excellence."
Mr. Stephens also noted that in order to remain competitive in the local, regional and international market, hotels needed to adopt proactive and innovative marketing, financial and administrative strategies. "Above all quality customer service is key," added Mr. Stephens. "No institution can survive without serving the needs of its patrons and serving them well."
The positive impact of the "World's Best Awards" is not limited solely to Couples Negril. By widening the international appeal of Jamaica, the resort has provided an incentive for all sectors of the society to apply result-oriented techniques, attitudes and economic strategies to further the nation's potential.
In the all-inclusive category, Couples Negril ranked number one in the Caribbean followed SuperClubs Grand Lido Negril, Sandals St. Lucia and Sandals Dunns River.
Overall the resort ranked number seven in the Caribbean, amongst the outstanding resorts such as The Reefs (Bermuda), Peter Island Resort (BVI), Cap Juluca (Anguilla), Biras Creek Resort (BVI), Four Seasons Resort (Nevis), and Little Dix Bay (BVI).
