“JAKES IS THE JEWEL of Jamaica’s South Coast”
MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF TOURISM, HON. EDMUND BARTLETT
Iam pleased to extend sincere congratulations to the Henzell family and the team at Jakes Hotel Villas & Spa on the occasion of your 30th anniversary.
Jakes is the Jewel of Jamaica’s South Coast – a charming and imaginative resort that provides an authentic Jamaican experience for visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the island’s captivating culture. More and more visitors are travelling to fulfil their passions and embrace new experiences that take them beyond the traditional sun, sand and sea. They want to feel the heart and soul of the destination – the local cuisine, music, art and history. In this respect, Jakes is on point as a true champion of community tourism, eco-tourism and agrotourism in Jamaica. Their visitors get to experience the real Jamaica.
I am always proud of the success of home-grown talent but I am even more heartened by Jakes’ corporate citizenship, which underscores the true meaning of community. I am aware that in almost every decision made, you ask: Is it good for the local community, and is it good for the people? Your unwavering commitment to safeguarding the environment; your partnership with local entrepreneurs, and your provision of jobs and training for residents of the Treasure Beach community represent sustainable tourism at its finest.
Weaving the community into the fabric of the resort’s everyday life has created a sense of ownership, pride and excellence evident in the Jakes vacation experience and the South Coast tourism product overall. As a result, locally and internationally, Jakes is recognized as one of Jamaica’s finest tourism establishments and has numerous accolades to show for it, including being listed as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s “Best Family Hotels in the World 2022”.
I commend the Jakes team for playing a significant role in helping to foster the continued development of the nation’s tourism product. The Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies look forward to continuing our excellent partnership as we work together to build a sector that provides real prospects for enduring and inclusive economic growth and development.
Once again, congratulations on your 30th anniversary. I wish you many more years of success.