Sandals Palmcast

In this episode, we’re diving beneath the waves of Curaçao to uncover the incredible work happening below the surface to protect one of the Caribbean’s most precious treasures: its coral reefs. Join us as we explore the partnership between the Sandals Foundation and BRANCH Coral Foundation, from the launch of a new coral nursery at Sandals Royal Curaçao to exciting guest experiences that bring conservation to life. Hear from Max van Aalst, Director of BRANCH Coral Foundation, and Ryan Johnson, Watersports Manager at Sandals Royal Curaçao, as they share how innovation, collaboration, and a shared passion for the ocean are helping restore Curaçao’s reefs–one coral at a time.

What does it mean to "Lively Up"? This week, we're joined by the PR Manager at Sandals Grenada to explore what it truly means as she shares how the spirit, culture, and warmth of the Spice Isle shine through every aspect of the guest experience. From the vibrant flavors of Grenadian cuisine and the rhythms of local music to immersive entertainment and authentic cultural experiences, Deleon shares how Sandals Grenada celebrates the island in meaningful ways.  Whether you're planning your first escape to the Spice Isle or simply looking for a dose of Caribbean inspiration, this conversation captures the energy, authenticity, and hospitality that make Grenada unforgettable—and what it truly means to "Lively Up."

In this episode, we’re talking all things rum with Michael Martensen, Corporate Director of Product Development for Food and Beverages. In honor of National Rum Day on August 16, Michael is sharing Caribbean rum’s rich culture, history and evolution with us. As Sandals Resorts is gearing up for the reopening of Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Caribbean Cay, and Sandals South Coast, the conversation dives deep into how elevated rum bar experiences will only add to the memories made by guests staying at these resorts. Michael shares the inspiration behind these immersive spaces, the cultural importance of rum in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, and how the success of the Dunn’s Rum Club at Sandals Dunn’s River helped inspire the next generation of cocktail experiences for travelers. This episode celebrates the flavors, storytelling, and spirit of the Caribbean.

As pickleball continues to take the world by storm, we sit down with Megan Fudge, the #1 player in the Association of Pickleball Players, in honor of National Pickleball Day to talk about what makes the sport so much more than just a game. Megan shares her journey from first picking up a paddle to competing professionally, while reflecting on the friendships, family memories, and sense of community that keep players coming back. She also discusses how Sandals and Beaches Resorts have embraced the sport’s rapid growth through on-resort clinics, official partnerships, and year-round programming. Filled with coaching insights, friendly competition, and plenty of Caribbean sunshine, this conversation captures the fun, connection, and energy that have made pickleball a true phenomenon.

Recorded live from Beaches Turks & Caicos, this episode of the Sandals Palmcast invites Zane Kerby, President and CEO of the American Society of Travel Advisors. While at Beaches Turks and Caicos’newest village providing a firsthand look at how family travel preferences are evolving, Randi and Zane dive into the biggest trends shaping the industry today, from the rise of AI and the influence of social media to the growing demand for meaningful family vacations and memory-making experiences. Zane shares insights into what travel advisors across North America are seeing right now, why advisors are more valuable than ever, and what distinguishes a good advisor from a truly exceptional one. The discussion covers the evolving interests and preferences shaping today's travel landscape, provides insights for aspiring travel advisors, and highlights what continues to make the Caribbean a top destination.

In this episode, we’re joined by Heather Effs, Regional Entertainment Manager at Beaches Resorts, who unveils all that’s in store for Beaches Resorts’ Fall Fam Jam this year. From live performances by toddler techno sensation Lenny Pearce and globally renowned Kidz Bop®, to all-new Sesame Street® experiences, and thoughtful curated activities for even the youngest travelers, Beaches Resorts is expanding its lineup of family entertainment this fall.  Tune in to see what families can expect and how Beaches Resorts are taking family entertainment to the next level.

In this episode of the Sandals Palmcast, host Randi West sat down with Adam Anderson, CEO and Lead Travel Advisor of VibeGetaways and a Chairman’s Royal Club Diamond Elite member. Adam shared insights from his unique perspective as a travel advisor, loyal guest, and group host on the brand, discussing the rise of passion-driven travel, bringing different hobbies into play, including pickleball, golf and scuba. Throughout the episode, he shared how advisors guide travelers toward the right Sandals or Beaches resort, why room categories can have a major impact on the vacation experience, and how personalized planning helps match guests with the experiences that best fit their travel style. From group travel trends and family vacations to luxury accommodations and unforgettable Caribbean escapes, Adam offered an inside look at the evolving role travel advisors play in creating meaningful and memorable vacations.

Grab your Mahjong set and head to the beach! On this week’s episode, we’re sitting down with Kari Long, a lively South Florida mahjong instructor, known to many on social media as @mahjonthebeach. As mahjong continues to surge in popularity, Beaches Resorts joins the conversation around one of today’s fast-growing social games. Kari shares how mahjong has evolved from a classic tabletop pastime into one of today’s most sought-after social experiences, gaining traction across restaurants, social clubs, luxury resorts, and beyond. She also reflects on her own journey with the game, from casual player to full-time instructor and event host, and explains how mahjong fosters connection, conversation and community. From friendly competition to meaningful moments, this conversation explores why Mahjong fits so seamlessly into the Beaches Resorts experience,–bringing people together in a way that feels refreshingly present and leaving even first players asking for “just one more round.”

Today the Sandals Palmcast welcomes a royal as Randi West is sitting down with Elreka Gaymes, the reigning Miss Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and a Club Concierge at Sandals Saint Vincent, for a conversation about Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ most vibrant cultural celebration: Vincy Mas. Through Elreka’s unique perspective as both a national titleholder and proud Vincentian, she shares with us the traditions, energy, and community spirit that makes carnival season in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines such a unique experience. Elreka shared what visitors can expect to see, feel, taste, and hear at Vincy Mas, from the music and costumes to the events that bring the islands to life each year. Throughout the episode, she also reflects on her journey to becoming Miss Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and her dedication behind pageantry, the responsibility of representing her country, and how her role at Sandals Saint Vincent allows her to share the warmth and culture of her homeland with guests from around the world.

In this episode, we’re shaking things up and bringing you the freshest cocktail inspiration for summer. Joining us is Michael Martensen, Corporate Director of Product Development for Food and Beverage, as we explore Caribbean-inspired cocktails that just may be the drink of summer, and how you can make them at home. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or prefer a refreshing mocktail, Michael shares his wealth of expertise, from emerging beverage trends and tropical ingredients to the evolution of the beverage program across Sandals and Beaches Resorts, including a sneak peek of the special 2026 FIFA World Cup beverage menu curated for resort guests to enjoy while watching the World Cup from the Caribbean. Capturing the Caribbean’s laid-back spirit, this episode pours sun-soaked inspiration and serves as the perfect reminder that every great summer starts with a well-shaken drink.