photo by Everton Barnes
The government continues to signal strong support for the tourism sector.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Tourism Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez met with the new owners of Curtain Bluff Resort, Tim and Pat Scott of the United Kingdom. The couple, long-time visitors to the island, have owned a residence at Jumby Bay for the past decade and are now steering the future of the 72-room luxury resort.
photo by Everton Barnes
During discussions, Tim Scott outlined his vision to elevate Curtain Bluff—already a Caribbean leader in hospitality—into the premier resort in the West Indies. The plan, a $40 million three-phase master redevelopment, includes major upgrades and new amenities.
This summer, $10 million is being invested in gutting and refurbishing 42 suites and rebuilding the Sea Grape restaurant. By next summer, the original block of 18 rooms will be replaced with three modern beachfront villas, while a redesigned reception area will take prime position along the shoreline. A new jetty will also allow for larger yachts and waterfront events.
The final phase calls for replacing the current bluff house with an iconic seven-bedroom villa, featuring a wraparound infinity pool dramatically cantilevered over the sea. When completed, the resort will employ 300 staff and expand to 88 suites.
photo by Everton Barnes
The project comes as Antigua and Barbuda sees a wave of new tourism investments. Construction is about to begin on a new Marriott Hotel following the arrival of equipment and supplies, while Global Ports Holding is set to complete the first phase of its landside development on Lower Newgate Street by October. Over in Barbuda, the luxury Robert De Niro-backed Nobu Hotel is moving forward, with 50 villas expected to be ready for the upcoming tourist season.
Officials say these projects will boost employment and strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a world-class, high-end destination.
photo by Everton Barnes
$40 million going into Curtain Bluff plus new hotels and ports, that’s hundreds of jobs for locals. Can’t complain about that.
Government always has something up their sleeves.
Antigua and Barbuda is clearly positioning itself as the Caribbean’s luxury capital. That’s a smart move.
Some have money and others don’t. Those who have can afford to do this and all we can do is wish them well.
I may not be able to afford a night at curtain bluff but I ain’t mad at those who can
Truly the best country for white people
Great to see government engaging directly with investors tourism is our bread and butter.