Sandals host Super Bowl watch party

The Super Bowl came to Barbados last night, as the action from Levi Stadium in California was the focus at Sandals Royal Barbados

Hundreds of guests at the property attended the annual Super Bowl watch party, as the Seattle Seahawks produced a fantastic defensive performance to beat the New England Patriots 29-13.

The Seahawks dominated defensively to claim six sacks, while forcing three turnovers and scoring a defensive touchdown.

Speaking to Barbados TODAY during the event, resort manager John Patrick Drake, said the concept was a simple one.

“The good thing about tonight, it’s not hard, you’re already on vacation and the whole idea is for us to just create that vibe. So what we’ve done is really recreate a tailgate party and we actually have some trucks in the courtyard. 

“The whole idea is camaraderie, when guests see the vibe, it’s a vibe that everybody can enjoy themselves and have a little fun, even if they don’t understand the game,” Drake said.

According to Drake, the event has become one of the resort’s annual traditions, with events also staged for Valentine’s Day and major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving and Crop Over. He also revealed that the property is currently carrying out a refurbishment exercise. 

“We are always refreshing, so all of our restaurants, all of our rooms, everything is getting that nice gradual makeover, because we recognize when people pay a premium they expect a certain quality and that’s what we’re going to give. 

“We’re going to continue to refresh from our grounds, the quality of our air conditioning and upgrading televisions. We want to say first world service, first world accommodation in a first world setting,” he added.

While several Sandals resorts sustained damage during the passage of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica last year, Drake says the restoration and repair work has been rapid.

“All but three of our properties are now open and fully operational, the two located in Montego Bay and the one along our Southern Coast. Those are going to be a little later down in the year, but again, they’re going to use that opportunity to not only rebuild, but bigger and better. So, you know, sometimes it’s a win-win and the guests are excited,” Drake said.