BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Four Seasons Resort in Nevis is set to reopen later this year after being closed for almost two years following the ravages of Hurricane Omar in late 2008.
According to a company communiqué issued last week, December 15 is the date that the five-star hotel is scheduled for reopening.
In 2008, the hotel’s closure had resulted in over 1 000 job losses, whether directly or indirectly, and Nevisians are eyeing the reopening with keen interest as it is expected to bring much-needed economic activity on the island.
The hotel is a major economic player in Nevis’ economy and, according to Four Seasons regional Vice President and General Manager Andrew Humphries, the December 15 reopening is a long-awaited silver lining in the life of the hotel.
“We wish to thank the community and our staff for their patience during this challenging period for the resort and the island. We look forward to welcoming guests back to Four Seasons Resort Nevis and the tranquil and beautiful island of Nevis,” Humphries quoted in a recent press release.
Although earlier projections indicated that the resort would have been refurbished and ready for reopening by November 2009, management eventually resorted to mass layoffs and the cessation of the coastal hotel’s operations.
Former Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Timothy Harris revealed that in the first six months of the resort’s closure and the resultant plummet in economic activity, the Nevis Island Administration had lost over EC$20M in direct revenues.
The 196-room Four Seasons Resort serves as an intimate retreat in a low-key destination, known for its romantic settings. The reopening of the hotel will see more than 40 villas and estate homes for rental and also top-rated sporting facilities.
