The planned opening will be under Harlequin’s newly created Luxury Boutique Hotel division and is scheduled to open in April 2012.
“Harlequin also hopes to announce later this week the commencement of works in September on the first stage of its development at the Merricks Resort. They are working with the Barbados Government to gain all the necessary support so that the project can move forward quickly,” the company said in a press statement.
The renovation, interior redesign and remodel of the former Allamanda Hotel, will be overseen by Harlequin Developments, Development Director, David Campion, based in Barbados. Harlequin will focus on using several local Barbados based companies and sub-contractors to carry out the works and the company said the project will bring a much needed boost to the local construction business.
“This Boutique Hotel offering will bring further investment to Barbados and provide more employment opportunities as well as bringing many new holidaymakers to this Caribbean Jewel,” said Chairman of Harlequin Hotels & Resorts Dave Ames.
Speaking from Harlequin’s office in Barbados, Vice President of Hotel and Resort Development Garrett Ronan said the launch of Harlequins Boutique Brand in Barbados will bring a new ultra-chic “South Beach” style hotel to the market.
When completed, it will offer 46 luxury suites, a new cocktail style bar, upscale restaurant, spa garden, pools and gym.
“The hotel will offer a new level of anticipatory yet discreet service infused with Barbadian hospitality,” Ronan said.
Harlequin successfully opened its first ever luxury resort at Buccament Bay, in St Vincent and the Grenadines in August 2010. Despite the difficult world economy and declining tourism travel, the company said it has managed to increase tourist volume and bring many first time travellers to the Caribbean and are currently running at 85 percent occupancy in low season.
