Introducing: Sandals Insiders

Cast your memory back to last year when an invitation to apply to be the very first ‘Sandals Insiders’ went live. This September, the program launched as a pilot at Sandals South Coast, bringing together three couples who are passionate about all things Sandals Resorts and eager to share that love with the world.

The pilot program helps capture what Sandals Resorts means to guests who have truly grown to love our destinations. With the help of these guests – the Sandals Insiders – we’ll be creating content that resonates with guests already part of our family, and inspires those considering joining us.

Where's the perfect spot to see a radiant Caribbean sunset? How does it feel to tie the knot at Sandals? How exhilarating is a trip to YS Falls? We collaborated with our Sandals Insiders to help show you!

What does being a Sandals Insider entail?

The role of a Sandals Insider is all about helping us bring the Sandals Resorts experience to life! Over the course of a week spent on the resort, Insiders work with some of the Sandals Resorts team to capture the extraordinary moments, big and small, that they experience during their stay.

Working collaboratively, we capture a vacation itinerary that perfectly encapsulates the resort's beauty – from excursions to beach time, sampling the cuisine to reconnecting with familiar faces. This also involves taking part in interviews and being on hand for us to capture content as and when special moments occur.

Throughout their trip, the Sandals Insiders capture stunning video and photography, documenting their experience on the resort from start to finish.

Insider trips are all about showing Sandals Resorts through the eyes of those who know them best - our guests!

How were the Insiders chosen?

The Insiders applied through a form shared on the Sandals Official Fans Facebook Group, sharing their resort experiences and top travel tips. After reviewing their stories, three couples were selected based on their unique perspectives and how well they fit the program. We were looking for a variety of interests and experiences, as well as couples comfortable with being filmed and capturing their own moments throughout the week.

How did the first trip go?

The pilot trip took place at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica – a destination very close to one of the Insiders’ hearts, as the trip marked his 10th stay at the resort. The two other Insiders who attended the trip were visiting South Coast for the first time, which allowed us to capture a breadth of content representing both new and returning guest experiences.

A Warm Jamaican Welcome

Our team members are the heart and soul of our resorts—the ones who make every stay feel intimate and personal.

“It was raining a bit when we arrived, but we were still greeted with the warm welcome song and cool towels. We don’t drink alcohol, and they happily swapped our welcome drink for something we preferred.”
— Rebecca Dradi

From the moment our Insiders arrived at Sandals South Coast, the essence of Sandals’ renowned hospitality was immediately apparent. Personalized touches tailored to each guest’s unique preferences set the tone for their stay. It’s this genuine care and attention to detail that turns first-time visitors into loyal guests who return time and time again.

Exploring Jamaica’s Natural Wonders with Island Routes

Jamaica is home to some of the Caribbean’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, and our Insiders had the opportunity to discover them firsthand with Island Routes.
Aboard the Reggae Catamaran Cruise, they sailed the waters of Jamaica’s south coast, taking in breathtaking views of the island’s legendary sunsets and uncovering hidden gems like Scott’s Cove.

At YS Falls, they experienced the beauty of seven cascading waterfalls, each pouring into tranquil natural pools and surrounded by lush tropical gardens—a true paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. To top it off, our Insiders ventured beneath the surface on a snorkeling excursion, capturing vibrant marine life with their GoPro in hand, offering a whole new lens through which to experience Sandals South Coast.

The Flavors of Jamaica

No trip to Jamaica is complete without savoring its bold and vibrant flavors, and our Insiders dove headfirst into the island’s dynamic culinary scene. From the sizzling spice of Jamaican jerk at the Jerk Shack to the fresh local fruits, they savored the diverse tastes that make the Caribbean so special.

At Schooner’s, they delighted in the freshest Caribbean seafood, with local favorites like Caribbean Snapper & Clams. At Eleanor’s, they experienced authentic West Indian cuisine, where the warm hospitality of the island was as inviting as the flavorful dishes served.

With every meal, our Insiders were reminded of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Jamaica—and the entire Caribbean—a feast for the senses.

Signature Cocktails and Sandals Hospitality at Latitudes Overwater Bar

What’s a Sandals Resorts vacation without signature cocktails crafted to perfection?
“I had a blast making martinis with the talented Steve at Latitudes. He’ll make your day unforgettable!” — Jeff Black

The fun didn’t stop there. Our Insiders took the time to bond with our team members, capturing joyful moments while learning the art of mixology at the Latitudes Overwater Bar. Whether they were filming their favorite activities or simply sharing stories over a cocktail, the connections made during their stay turned every moment into a cherished memory.

Giving Back: Voluntourism with the Sandals Foundation

True to the spirit of Sandals, our Insiders also embraced the opportunity to give back by participating in the Reading Road Trip, a voluntourism initiative with the Sandals Foundation to support literacy at a local schools.

“It was a great week with fellow Sandals Insiders! Not only was it amazing to experience the property, but it was also incredibly fulfilling to take part in the Reading Road Trip with the Sandals Foundation.” — David Schade

These moments of giving back add an enriching layer to every vacation, allowing guests to connect with the communities that make the Caribbean so special. By supporting causes like literacy, our Insiders helped make a lasting difference in the lives of local children, turning their vacation into a meaningful contribution.
This carefully crafted itinerary offered a well-rounded experience, capturing not just the thrill and adventure of a Sandals vacation, but also the emotional connections that make it truly unforgettable. From the heartfelt Jamaican welcome to the adrenaline rush of exploring natural wonders, from savoring authentic Caribbean cuisine to giving back to local communities—these are the experiences that guests take home as their most treasured souvenirs.

What next?

You may see our Insiders pop up in some content across our social media channels over the next few months. We hope that you enjoy seeing some of what they got up to – and that it brings back cherished memories of your own trips!

If the pilot program is successful, we’ll look at running it again on an annual basis. We know there are so many members of our Sandals community who have rich stories, insightful tips and exceptional experiences to share – and we’d be honored to consider your applications if we continue the program so watch this space.