IN the heart of Ocho Rios, St Ann, there is a special place that has become more than just a resort for Americans Randall and Cynthia Kubich.

The two are devoted patrons of Sandals and Beaches resorts and have returned to that place, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort, to celebrate a remarkable 375 paid nights, solidifying their bond with the Caribbean paradise.

They vividly recall their first visit to the resort in 1991 when they met Fitzroy Christie, the current food and beverage director.

Back then, Christie was one of their special waiters based at the Reef Restaurant. The Kubich’s have not only been guests but have woven themselves into the fabric of Sandals Resorts as part of their extended Caribbean family.

They have witnessed the staff’s growth, followed their progress and maintained close connections over the years.

“Sandals Ochi will always be special to us, this is where our love affair with these amazing team members all began,” Randall said.

The couple’s love story with Sandals extends beyond mere visits, it’s where they chose to celebrate their 25th, 30th, and 35th wedding anniversaries on three different islands. These special occasions were shared with Greg and Krista-Lee Walters, long-time friends they met in the hot tub back in 2011 at Sandals Royal Plantation. The friendship blossomed and today they not only travel together but constantly stay in touch.

“The best part of our last day at any Sandals resort is that we are one day closer to coming back. It’s not just a resort, it’s a part of our journey and each visit adds another layer to our story as a couple,” shared Randall.

They revelled in the joy of discovering new cultures, cuisines and breathtaking sights, all while indulging in the comfort and luxury that Sandals offers.

“Our passion for visiting different Sandals resorts took us to exotic destinations and beautiful locations, creating unforgettable memories along the way,” explained Cynthia.

What keeps drawing them back? It’s the unparalleled trifecta of food, service and the warm embrace of the local people that defines the Sandals resorts experience.

Their sentiments are encapsulated in the leather sandals necklaces they personalise with coloured beads, each colour representing a cherished visit to a special Sandals or Beaches resort.

A stand out moment for the couple was the opportunity to meet the visionary leader behind it all, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, the late chairman of Sandals Resorts.

In 2016 at Sandals Barbados, they presented him with one of their special leather necklaces with their special beads as their ‘gift of love,’ and this encounter left an indelible mark on their hearts.

Remarkably, they had crossed parts with Stewart at other Sandals resorts and he not only remembered their names but always made time for them, reinforcing their admiration for him as an incredible and personable leader.

As they eagerly anticipate their 400 nights, Randall and Cynthia Kubich stand testament to the enduring magic that is Sandals resorts, a place where hospitality transcends into cherished memories and life-long connections.