ROOMS
OCHI'S HOTEL HIDEAWAY

Janet Silvera, Hospitality Jamaica Coordinator

TWENTY-NINE years after creating Jamaica's first all-inclusive resort, predictions are that John Issa's recent foray into Continental Plan lodging is poised to become a major success.

In December 2004, Mr. Issa opened the 97-room SuperClubs 'ROOMS' resort in the town centre of the cruise ship capital of Ocho Rios, on the former Club Jamaica
property. The hotel was leased a few years ago by SuperClubs from the Urban Development Corporation (UDC).

"The unique thing about ROOMS is its compatibility with the development of town of Ocho Rios," Mr. Issa told Hospitality Jamaica, who also remarked that he really enjoyed developing this new product.

According to the businessman who operates 16 hotels worldwide, if the opportunity arises, he is more than willing to replicate the ROOMS brand in other resort areas.

Noting that the property was relatively small and didn't lend itself to the all-inclusive concept, the hotel mogul said the service would be no less than what his guests had come to expect.

"A high-quality vacation experience ­ whether all-inclusive or not ­ that's what they'll find at ROOMS."

VARIOUS AMENITIES

The new venture is centrally located on a crescent-shaped beach, just steps away from many attractions, restaurants and shopping areas that the garden parish is known for. The resort's on-site restaurant, 'FUSION', offers something for everyone with full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus infused with Jamaican, West Indian, Western and Asian flavours.

"Celebrated chef Jing-Shi has created a sumptuous menu that will tempt guests to plan their vacation around meals
at the resort," explained Zein Nakash, SuperClubs' vice-president of marketing.

The three-storey resort offers guests fully-appointed
air-conditioned rooms, featuring satellite television, direct dial telephone, safe deposit box, hair dryer, CD clock radio and tea and coffee making facilities.

A central swimming pool with swim-up bar is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. High-speed Internet connection is available, and wireless connection is available in the lobby and pool area. An Internet café is also accessible on-site.

ROOMS guests also receive daily continental breakfast.