Sandals Palmcast

Episode 174 - Back to Jamaica Series: The Heart of the Mission — How the Sandals Foundation is Making Its Impact in Jamaica with Heidi Clarke

In today’s episode of Back to Jamaica, Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, shares an inspiring look at how the Sandals Foundation continues to uplift Jamaica and support the communities that make the island so special. Guided by its mission to uplift Caribbean communities, she shares how the Foundation mobilized quickly after Hurricane Melissa, and continues to provide meaningful support where it’s needed most.  Heidi also highlights the powerful role tourism plays in these efforts, with travelers making a meaningful impact through initiatives like Pack for a Purpose— a program where visitors can pack school supplies, books, and baby essentials that help children and classrooms thrive. With the help of strong global partners, local government collaboration, and visitors who care deeply about Jamaica, she is confident the island is already moving forward quickly and will emerge stronger than ever.

Episode 173 - Back to Jamaica Series: Why Jamaica Belongs on Your Travel List

In today’s episode, we’re chatting with Alicia Rampy, a travel advisor and owner of Two Pineapples in Paradise, who joins us from the recent “Back to Jamaica” event at Sandals Dunn’s River. Alicia offers a heartfelt firsthand perspective as she returns to the island, describing the signature warmth and hospitality she felt the moment she arrived - those unmistakable Jamaican vibes that welcome you back like family. Drawing from her expertise as a travel advisor, Alicia shares why Jamaica deserves a top spot on your travel list. She also dishes out plenty of tips and inspiration for your next getaway, including hidden gems, immersive cultural experiences, and what to expect from a Sandals experience. Along the way, she highlights the value of working with a travel advisor who can match you with the perfect resort, accommodations, and help you have a seamless vacation experience.

Episode 172 - Back to Jamaica Series: Paradise Reopened, Live from Sandals Dunn’s River with General Manager, Kevin Clarke

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Clarke, General Manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, who shares his heartfelt gratitude and excitement to be back at the iconic resort, welcoming guests once again. Describing Sandals Dunn’s River as the “quintessential Caribbean experience,” Clarke reflects on the deep personal and cultural significance the property holds for many team members. After Hurricane Melissa, the resort remained virtually untouched, allowing the Sandals team to turn their attention toward supporting Jamaica and its surrounding communities as the world rallied behind the island. Throughout the episode, we see how Sandals approaches moments like these—with compassion, positivity, and a genuine dedication to its people. For those considering their future visit, Clarke shares more about the stunning accommodations that await, one-of-a-kind excursions, how to make the most of their visit to the beautiful island, and how guests can give back to local communities through the Sandals Foundation.

Episode 171 - Back to Jamaica Series: Adam Stewart Welcomes You Home

In this powerful and timely episode, Adam Stewart — Executive Chairman of Sandals and Beaches Resorts — joins us from Sandals Dunn’s River to share about Jamaica’s vibrant return and remarkable journey of resilience and renewal. Stewart takes us behind the scenes of Jamaica’s comeback after Hurricane Melissa — from the first days of response to the uplifting moment of reopening its doors to travelers around the world.  This episode highlights the dedication of Sandals team members and showcases how the Sandals experience is now back in full force — delivering the vibrancy and energy that make Jamaica such a beloved destination.

 

Episode 170 - Sun, Sand & Santa's Storyteller: A Holiday Chat & Storybook Reading with Chanda Bell, the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of The Lumistella Company, creators of The Elf on the Shelf®

As the holiday season approaches, The Elf on the Shelf® returns to the sunny shores of Beaches Resorts for its third annual celebration—marking another magical year as the Official Caribbean Vacation of The Elf on the Shelf. In today’s episode, we’re joined by a very special guest: Chanda Bell, Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Chief Marketing Officer of The Lumistella Company. As Lumistella celebrates 20 years of The Elf on the Shelf tradition, Chanda – also known as Santa’s chief storyteller – shares the heartwarming origin story of a brand that began with her own childhood holiday memories, along with insights into this merry partnership with Beaches Resorts. Plus, don’t miss an exclusive preview reading from Chanda herself of her newest book release: The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse: The Rise of Nicholas the Noble.

Episode 169 - What to Expect for the all-new Treasure Beach at Beaches Turks and Caicos

On today’s episode, we’re giving you an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos, joined by the resort’s Managing Director, Jamie McAnally. This exciting addition introduces 101 brand-new concierge and butler-level suites as part of the brand’s ongoing evolution, innovation, and expansion. Overlooking a breathtaking half-mile stretch of Grace Bay’s pristine shoreline, Treasure Beach Village is set to elevate the family vacation experience with standout features like a 15,000-square-foot oceanfront pool, a modern food hall-style dining concept, a 32-seat Starfish Cinema, and spectacular new accommodations, including multi-room beachfront villas with rooftop decks and private pools, perfect for multi-generational vacations. It’s an exciting addition for Beaches Turks & Caicos, bringing elevated luxury and fresh innovation to this beloved family-favorite resort.

Episode 168 - Sandals Foundation’s Island Challenge: Where Adventure Meets Philanthropy

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.

Episode 167 - More Elf-citing Conversations: Beaches GMs Reveal How the Holiday Magic Comes to Life

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/.

Episode 166 - An Elf-citing Update from Adam Stewart: The Elf on the Shelf® Returns to Beaches

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.

Episode 165 - Radio Favorites Danielle Monaro and Medha Gandhi Trade the Studio for the Sandals and Beaches Experience

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!