Sandals Resorts Decides To Terminate Their Blue Chip Hurricane Guarantee

PR Log (Press Release) – Dec 27, 2007 – After careful deliberation, Sandals Resorts International announced the decision to terminate their exclusive signature Blue Chip Hurricane Guarantee. The program cancellation will be effective December 3rd, 2007 and onward. All bookings made prior to December 3rd, 2007 will still be able to take advantage of the Blue Chip Hurricane Guarantee. Sandals Resorts International, recognized as the “Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Group” by the World Travel Awards, has suggested that their new “Cancel Anytime” insurance is a good replacement for the Blue Chip Hurricane Guarantee program.

Jason True, President of TotallyTrips.com (http://www.totallytrips.com/sandals.html ) and TropicalSunTrips.com (http://www.tropicalsuntrips.com), a Sandals specialty site, commented, “We are disappointed to see Sandals get rid of such a longstanding and successful program. It is understandable in light of the tremendous cost this program has been in the last two years. One hurricane alone in 2007 triggered the Hurricane Guarantee for 13 of Sandals and Beaches 16 properties.”

All Certified Sandals Agencies were advised of the change the week of December 3rd. Each Sandals agent was encouraged by both their inside Sandals Sales manager and their regional Sandals BDM (Business Development Manager) to suggest Sandals’ “Cancel Anytime” insurance, which allows cancellations for any reason within 24 hours prior to travel. This insurance protects against weather disruptions, illness, and other unforeseen circumstances. The major deviation is the fact that the insurance is a cost to the traveler whereas the Blue Chip Hurricane Guarantee was a complimentary feature to the Sandals Vacation package.

Sandals Resorts has earned a worldwide reputation for providing couples with a romantic vacation experience in the Caribbean. Currently, there are 12 Sandals properties located in Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia and The Bahamas. Each offers beachfront locations; a choice of à la carte restaurants, from white-glove dining to barefoot elegance; all premium brand wine and spirits; luxurious accommodations in a range of categories; water sports including the Caribbean’s largest PADI certification program; Butler Service; Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons® and Red Lane® Spas, with services and treatments inspired by the region.  In September 2007, the five-star, all-suite Mediterranean Village debuted at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa.