T&T Government Recognizes Coco-Reef Tobago
At a presentation event held earlier this month, Minister of Tobago Development, Dr. Delmon Baker, presented hotel developer John Jefferis with an award in recognition of the 50th anniversary of Trinidad & Tobago’s independence and Mr. Jefferis’ contributions to Tobago’s tourism industry.
Trinidad and Tobago achieved independence from Great Britain on August 31st, 1962 and is observing 50 years of Independence this year.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is remembering and celebrating this important milestone with a series of initiatives. These aim to recognize and celebrate some of the important events, people and places that helped shaped the country’s rich and diverse history.
“I am delighted to have received this high-profile award from the Government of Trinidad and Tobago on behalf of Coco Reef – Tobago,” said Mr. Jefferis.
“The management and staff have worked extremely hard to ensure that all guest needs are met and that we continue to be the leading hotel on the island. I accept this award on their behalf and wish the Government much success over the next 50 years.”
Minister Baker said: “We expect that Coco Reef will continue to be the flagship hotel contributing to the long term success of Tobago’s tourism industry.”
Since opening in 1996, Coco Reef has been the winner for four years in a row of the World Travel Award for the “Leading Hotel in the Caribbean.”
The hotel project, which was designed by Mr. Jefferis, included the construction of a 400-metre white sand beach, using sand shipped in from Guyana and a protective rock reef, which subsequently became a coral reef that serves as the habitat for 24 different species of fish.
Mr. Jefferis added: “No matter how much was spent on capital improvements at the property, our customers tell us it is not the marble and gold that makes them want to return, but the exceptionally friendly and professional management and staff at Coco Reef.”
The 10 acre property is renowned for its manicured tropical gardens, 140 rooms, suites and villas, including the US$4,000 per night Sunset Villa that is popular with celebrities. The project architects for the construction of the hotel were the Bermudian architectural firm, Cooper Gardner.
Following in its big sister’s footsteps, Coco Reef – Bermuda opened in 2004 and consists of 64 rooms situated on a spectacular beachfront location. The hotel features an atrium lobby, two restaurants and private dining facilities.
Did the T&T Government also provide a sweetheart lease that was subsequently amended on even more favourable terms without the consent or knowledge of Parliament?