NEW YORK—Meliá Hotels International officially introduced the city to the all-inclusive Meliá Braco Village in Rio Bueno, Jamaica, at an event held at Innside New York, a sister hotel located at 127 West 27th St.
During the evening cocktail reception, travel agents, members of the media and Meliá Braco staff ate jerk chicken, goat with coconut milk over rice and other uniquely Jamaican dishes. The island ambiance was enhanced by the music of Caribbean Splash Entertainment, a Jamaican mento band.
Noting what sets this resort apart from others, Dimitris Kosvogiannis, the property’s GM, spoke about how the 232-guestroom resort encompasses 84 acres of land with two swimming pools, restaurants and bars. “It’s not all occupied. It’s a natural environment, very unspoiled,” he said.
Additionally, Nashelly Tapia, director of sales for the resort, spoke about a $24-million investment that was made to the property when it was purchased. "There's a beautiful soccer field. It's really the most amazing property," she said. Also on property is a basketball court and football pitch.
In addition to the villa-style guestrooms, the resort has 61 suites. Guest amenities include bathrobes and slippers, Nespresso coffee machines, minibar, iron, WiFi and 24-hour room service.
Additionally, The Level is a VIP package for guests with a lounge featuring private check-in service and light bites in the afternoon. Guests of The Level have access to Golden Sand, a beachside restaurant, as well as designated areas for families, couples and groups. VIP service also includes a personalized concierge and top-category rooms such as oceanfront and beachside rooms. In addition, guests of The Level are given complimentary sunscreen and aloe vera lotion at a dedicated pool, as well as daily turndown service.
Kosvogiannis traveled with many of his staff members to introduce Meliá Braco Village to the city. One special guest was the resort’s Chef Frederic Gayle, who spoke about the resort’s restaurants, including O’Grille, 876 PRIME, Nikkei and Rasta Pasta. “I love the peppered shrimp,” Gayle said of the menu choices for the evening event. “Curried goat is a favorite in Jamaica, especially around Christmas time.”
