Sandals Palmcast

Today, we’re joined by none other than Karl Thompson, Managing Director of Unique Vacations UK Ltd. — the UK affiliate of the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts — and the visionary behind the Sandals Foundation Island Challenge. He’s joined by Karen Zacca, Operations Director of the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, and the driving force behind the execution of this incredible initiative. Now in its third year, the Sandals Foundation Island Challenge began as a spark of inspiration during a casual conversation at a British pub. What started as an idea has since evolved into a powerful movement spanning the Caribbean. This unique four-day charity event combines running, kayaking, and trekking across various Caribbean islands, all in support of the Sandals Foundation’s pediatric and neonatal care programs. For both organizers and participants, the Island Challenge has become far more than just a physical feat — it’s a transformative experience that blends adventure, purpose, and the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean, leaving a lasting impact on the communities it serves.

On today’s episode, we’re joined by Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, to talk about the return of a festive favorite — The Elf on the Shelf® Santaverse™– back in the Caribbean for the third year in a row. This beloved holiday tradition, which has been celebrated around the globe for two decades, has also found a warm and whimsical home in the Caribbean. Adam shares how it all began in his own household and how it’s since grown into a magical part of the holiday experience at Beaches. From special themed events to thoughtful details infused with Caribbean flair, he shares how families can create unforgettable holiday memories at Beaches—complete with a little island spice and a whole lot of cheer that have made Beaches Resorts the Official Caribbean Vacation of The Elf on the Shelf. Tune in next to part two of this special series, where we’ll hear from Beaches’ General Managers about what guests can expect when vacationing during the most wonderful time of the year.

Next Stop: Beaches! We're trading snow for sand and rockin' around the palm trees this holiday season! Joining us are Jamie McAnally, Managing Director of Beaches Turks & Caicos and Lancelot Lebert, General Manager at Beaches Negril—our festive boots on the ground. They're here to give us the inside scoop on all the merry magic happening across the Beaches Resorts, which have lovingly earned their place as the Official Caribbean Vacation of The Elf on the Shelf®. From V.I.E. (Very Important Scout Elf) treatment for butler suite guests to Sweet Island Soirées and Santaverse Movie Nights under the stars for the whole family, there’s no shortage of tropical cheer. Whether you're dreaming of sunny skies or candy cane cocktails by the pool, this episode is packed with everything you need to make your holidays unforgettable. For more information, visit https://www.beaches.com/the-elf-on-the-shelf/.

Today on the Sandals and Beaches Palmcast, we’re thrilled to welcome two familiar voices from Elvis Duran and the Morning Show—national radio personalities, Danielle Monaro and Medha Gandhi. Fresh from their Caribbean escapes, Danielle and Gandhi are bringing island vibes to the airwaves. Danielle just returned from a fun-filled family vacation at Beaches Negril, while Gandhi recently explored the breathtaking Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. In this episode, Danielle shares highlights from her Jamaican getaway, including her beachfront villa, ziplining over YS Falls, and a heartwarming experience with the Sandals Foundation. Gandhi, a seasoned Sandals traveler, calls this her best trip yet. From her stay in the luxurious Vincy Overwater Villas to ticking off her bucket list with a stunning volcano sunset cruise, she dives into everything she and her travel partner loved—like biking through the lush resort grounds and indulging in incredible dining experiences. Want a closer look at their adventures? Follow along on social media, @radiodaniellemonaro and @babyhotsauce, to see more from their unforgettable Caribbean escapes!

Today, we’re hearing from the person who knows Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines best: the resort’s General Manager, Tamon Allen. Describing the island as the “true gem of the Caribbean,” Tamon reveals what truly sets this resort apart, offering something for every type of traveler. Among the resort’s newest and most exciting additions are The Three Jewels Rum Bar, where guests can sample a curated selection of 32 rums, and Buccan, an immersive family-style dining experience offering a taste of Vincy cuisine. For those seeking a perfect blend of activity and relaxation, the resort offers unique experiences like pickleball lessons with certified pros and kayaking excursions to the nearby Buccament Bat Caves.Guests can also enjoy the resort’s stunning luxury accommodations—including breathtaking two-story overwater bungalows—making it clear why Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines is quickly becoming the Caribbean’s must-visit destination.

Have you ever wondered about the thought process behind different tour experiences? Or which one should be at the top of your list for your next Sandals or Beaches vacation? In this episode, we’re chatting with Ryan Terrier, the VP of Tour Operations for Island Routes, the Caribbean’s Premier Curator of Authentic Island Excursions. Ryan shares his insights with us, having explored each of these islands firsthand and having worked with various destination partners to create truly unforgettable experiences, crediting Island Routes’ success to the feedback and perspectives of their guests. Whether it’s chasing adventure or looking to immerse yourself in the local island culture, Island Routes offers something for everyone and if you still can’t decide, Ryan shares his own top picks too!

Today’s guest, Sandals Select Guest and Emerald member Amelia Salerno, is here to share why Beaches Resorts has become her family’s go-to vacation spot—and the perfect destination for every generation (grandma included!). Having experienced multiple Sandals and Beaches properties, Amelia and her family bring us a firsthand look at what makes Beaches their ultimate getaway. If you’re searching for the perfect multigenerational escape, take it from a Beaches regular: this resort truly has something for everyone. From splash-filled days at the waterpark and snorkeling adventures, to indulgent spa treatments and spacious accommodations, every member of the family will discover their own piece of paradise.

In this episode, we sit down with Executive Chairman Adam Stewart for an inside look at what’s next for Beaches Resorts. The brand is making waves with a billion-dollar expansion, beginning with Beaches Turks & Caicos, where the all-new Treasure Beach Village is set to debut in Spring 2026, along with multiple new resorts and island destinations to join the resort family. Stewart shares how these developments are redefining family travel for generations to come, with multi-generational experiences always in mind. From walking the sands of future resort sites to shaping experiences that anticipate guests’ desires, Stewart offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how Beaches is building the future of Caribbean vacations.

Sitting down with us today in celebration of National Rum Month is Ricardo Henry, Dunn’s Rum Club’s Bar Manager at Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios. To honor this Caribbean spirit, Ricardo dives deep into rum’s role in Caribbean culture and top-tier guest experiences, from Rum Tasting Classes to Appleton Estate Distillery Tours. Bringing us behind the scenes, he spills some secrets regarding the bar’s top sips as well as his favorite drink and dish pairings recommendations. Grab a glass, sit down, and tune in for a lesson on rum’s revival.

In today’s episode, we sit down with Jamie McAnally, Managing Director of the Northern Caribbean, and longtime General Manager of Beaches Turks and Caicos, and Lancelot Lebert, General Manager of Beaches Negril - otherwise known as the friendly faces behind the fun, the resort rockstars, and the heart behind the hospitality. Today’s episode takes you inside the best of Beaches Resorts -- what to expect when choosing between the two stunning destinations. From luxurious accommodations to authentic island experiences, and what makes each resort truly special. Whether it’s the world-renowned beach at Beaches Turks and Caicos or the breathtaking sunsets over Jamaica’s iconic Seven Mile Beach at Beaches Negril, each property offers something unforgettable. These two island experts also take us behind the scenes, sharing what it’s really like to run a resort, the passion that fuels their approach to hospitality, and why creating exceptional family experiences is at the heart of everything they do.

In this episode we’re joined by Heather Effs, Corporate Manager of Entertainment at Beaches Resorts, to hear about Beaches’ all-new Fall Fam Jam! With fall right around the corner, and the big kids headed back to school, Beaches is rolling out the red carpet for tiny travellers. Heather joins us to share all that’s in store for Beaches’ Fall Fam Jam - with a fun-filled itinerary including activities like sunrise yoga and breakfast with Sesame Street, a Pirates Island Splash Bash, music-inspired Baby Jammers Sessions - and more! Tune in to this episode to discover why Beaches is the ultimate fall getaway for little ones — plus all the extra perks that make it even more magical!

Today, we are joined by Adam Duckworth, founder of Travelmation, a travel agency aimed at creating unforgettable experiences and one of the most recognizable advisor communities. In this episode he covers Travelmation’s intense evolution, from what began as a hobby and love for helping families plan their trips to a community of 2,500 advisors today. He delves deeper into the evolution of the travel industry, highlighting rising and continuing trends such as the use of AI and multi-generational travel, and secret weapons for travel advisors tuning in. Additionally, he offers insight on Sandals and Beaches Resorts’ special offerings, why Beaches should be on every family’s travel bucket list, and which Sandals and Beaches resorts are at the top of his list.

Today, we're diving into the deep end with Tiffany Duong, Scuba Diver, Environmental Journalist and Ocean Advocate. Originally a Renewable Energy Attorney, everything changed for Duong after her first dive. Today, Duong shares her experiences diving at five different Sandals resorts, Curacao, Grenada, and three in Jamaica, highlighting the most memorable sites at each! She also goes into environmental education, giving some helpful and easy tips and tricks on protecting our oceans through simple, everyday choices.

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Philip Rose, Deputy Director of the Jamaican Tourism Board—who reminds us with a smile, “Everyting cris!” (That’s “everything is perfect” in Jamaican patois.) Philip takes us on a true insider’s tour of the island, unveiling tucked-away corners, local gems, and expert tips on how to spend 48 hours, or more, in Jamaica. From how to sip Jamaican rum the right way to discovering the island’s authentic rhythm, this episode is packed with local insight. We also invite travel advisors to tune in, as Philip shares how Jamaica champions its advisor community and the valuable perks that come with partnering together.

Ever wondered what really goes into planning that perfect beach escape? On today's episode, we’re joined by Garth Laird, VP of Trade Sales at Unique Vacations, Inc., affiliate of the worldwide representative for Sandals and Beaches Resorts. With 30 years of experience working closely with the brand, Garth shares what makes these resorts a fan favorite, why using a travel advisor is a total game-changer, and a few little-known tips that could make your next vacation even better. If you’re dreaming of sun, sand, and stress-free planning—you’ll want to hear this.

In this episode, we go beyond the beaches and explore what truly makes Jamaica unforgettable. From breathtaking sights and must-do adventures to resorts like Sandals South Coast and Sandals Ochi, you’ll get a full picture of where to go, what to do, and where to stay. Whether it’s your first visit or a return to the island’s magic, we dive into what makes each region and resort unique. Plus, learn how a trusted travel advisor can simplify planning and help you create the ultimate Jamaican escape.

In celebration of World Oceans Month, Sandals Royal Bahamian is inviting guests to become part of the ongoing mission to preserve and protect our ocean’s coral reefs. Introducing a special and exclusive dive certification, Sandals has partnered with the Perry Institute for Marine Science's “Reef Rescue Network” to invite guests to learn from PADI certified instructors, take the Reef Rescue Diver Distinctive Specialty Course and adopt the skills and knowledge necessary for coral gardening. Join us as we sit down with Georgia Scarlett, Environmental Manager for the Sandals Foundation, and Tarjanique Ferguson, Dive Instructor at Sandals Royal Bahamian, to explore what guests can expect from these reef restoration dives, and how they can get involved to make a lasting impact on our world’s oceans.

Leading up to National Composting Day, today's episode invites listeners to learn more about composting and why it matters. As leaders of the Caribbean, Sandals and Beaches Resorts is proud to champion important initiatives like composting that nurture the local community and protect the environment. We're joined by special guest, Georgia Lumley, from the Sandals Foundation, whil will share what composting is, why it's so important, how joins us to explain first and foremost, how Sandals and Beaches Resorts puts it into practive, and how you, as a guest, can get involved and make a positive impact. To learn more, visit: https://www.sandals.com/corporate-responsibility/

In this special episode of the Sandals and Beaches Palmcast, we're celebrating National Vow Renewal Month with the inspiring story of Kristy Durso — a remarkable woman who, despite now being wheelchair-bound, never gave up on her dream of a beautiful, accessible beachside vow renewal. Kristy shares her personal journey, including the challenges of traveling with mobility needs, and how the team at Beaches Turks & Caicos went above and beyond to make her dream weekend a reality. From custom-built ramps and a wheelchair-accessible beach dance floor to a stunning ceremony and even a cake designed to meet her family’s dietary needs, every detail was thoughtfully planned — including unforgettable snorkeling excursions and world-class dining.

In today's episode, we're celebrating Global Travel Advisory Day by spotlighting a Sandals and Beaches top trusted travel advisor, Kristi Upton, of AdventurUS Travel. Kristi joins us to share the advantages of working with a travel advisor -- from elevating your vacation experience to serving as your personal expert for everything from booking flights to selecting the perfect resort and island destination. With deep knowledge of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, Kristi offers insider tips and insights, showing how a skilled travel advisor can transform your vacation into a seamless, unforgettable experience.