MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – Operators of Island Village, St Ann, are gearing up to welcome more persons, as many of the major hotels suspend the sale of day passes for the Christmas holiday and throughout much of the winter season due to high occupancy.

A hotel day pass allows access to a hotel’s amenities for a day without the cost of a room reservation. Day passes can include access to pools, gyms, spas, restaurants and other recreational facilities.

The Ministry of Tourism is predicting a bumper winter season, and many hotels have been reporting high bookings.

It is also customary for most of the major all-inclusive properties to suspend day passes to all visitors, foreign and local, when accommodation is above 80 per cent.

Speaking with JIS News, Operations Manager for Island Village, Andrew Reid, said that the Ocho Rios-based shopping and entertainment complex is adequately prepared to fill the void in persons being unable to access day passes.

“As the expectedly busy winter tourist season approaches, what many travellers and locals are finding is that the usual day pass option for many of the hotels will not be there. As we successfully did last year, we are stepping up to fill this void, offering a comprehensive day pass experience that promises to deliver excitement, relaxation, and a true taste of Jamaican culture,” he noted.

Reid said Island Village offers more amenities than some of the hotels.

“Visitors can wander through a variety of stores featuring everything from handmade local craft to renowned international brands while enjoying the rich culture of Jamaica,” he noted.

In addition to shopping, guests can also enjoy the movie theatre, the beach, waterslides, dining – including the famous Margaritaville restaurant and bar, Devon House Ice Cream and a chocolate factory. The property also has a beauty salon and banking services.

“We are not exaggerating when we say that once you walk through our gates at say 10:00 am, there is no reason for you to go back out until we close after the movie is over at some time in the night,” Reid said.

He told JIS News that another of the standout features of Island Village is the commitment to family-friendly fun, noting that the Fun Zone, a free amenity for children, offers a plethora of activities that keep “the little ones entertained.”

“From a splash pad perfect for cooling off on a hot day to lawn games and a serene pond where kids can marvel at turtles and fish, the Fun Zone is a paradise for young adventurers. Parents can relax knowing that their children are engaged and enjoying themselves in a safe environment,” Reid said.

For his part, Mayor of St Ann’s Bay, Michael Belnavis, said Island Village has grown to become a community destination where locals and tourists alike can gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories.

He said the complex stands ready to welcome visitors with open arms, ensuring they can enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer.

“Island Village is uniquely positioned to become the go-to destination for those seeking a fulfilling day in Ocho Rios. By providing a comprehensive day pass experience that encompasses shopping, dining, adventure and relaxation, the plaza not only fills a critical gap in the market but also enhances the overall experience of visiting Jamaica,” the Mayor added.

– JIS