Last Updated on February 5, 2020, 10:37 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Koi Resort at St. Kitts, Curio Collection by Hilton has opened, representing the brand’s debut on island and Koi Hospitality’s first step into the hotel space.
The 102 rooms oceanfront haven is the latest addition to St. Kitts’ growing hotel portfolio, having most recently welcomed the Park Hyatt St. Kitts at Christophe Harbour to the destination in 2017.
Both brand name hotels were atttracted to St Kitts and Nevis by the St Kitts-Nevis Labour Party administration of former Prime Minister Dr Denzil L Douglas. Senator the Hon Richard “Ricky” Skerritt held the tourism portfolio at the time.
The formal announcement of Koi’s decision to establish a hotel on St Kitts was made on February 6, 2013 to coincide with a visit to the site by then St Kitts and Nevis’ Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas and Koi CEO, Mr. Nick Haque.
“KRL Hospitality, Inc. (“KRL”) announces a new development, Koi Resorts and Residences in St Kitts, in the Caribbean consisting of a government approved Citizenship-by-investment (CBI) project in partnership with the internationally renowned Koi Brand and by CEO Nick Haque. Koi Brand is already established in the United States, Abu Dhabi and Thailand. Through a distinguished history, KRL and its affiliated companies has been involved in decades of real estate development, hospitality, healthcare, infrastructure, education, banking, and multiple charitable foundations,” said the statement dated February 6, 2013.
The official statement added: “With the spectacular sweeping views of crystal-clear blue waters, Koi Resort & Residences will be located on 16 acres of beachfront property in Half Moon Bay, and will be adjacent to the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club. The Resort will be a luxurious internationally branded hotel with meticulously appointed villas and suites, which will be available for purchase, and will include the renowned Koi Restaurant, beach club, and exclusive ultra-lounge. KRL has expressed thanks to Prime Minister Douglas and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for its substantial support, “which will make a significant contribution to the country’s economic growth and development and will directly benefit the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis.”
Now with the opening, Juan Corvinos, Hilton’s vice president of development for the Caribbean and Latin America, said that finally putting a property in St. Kitts was a no-brainer for Hilton.
“Now growing at one of the fastest rates in the Caribbean, we recognize the demand for upscale accommodations, intuitive service and authentic experiences in this market. We look forward to providing travelers with a one-of-a-kind experience that can’t be found elsewhere on the island, as we continue to expand Curio Collection by Hilton’s presence globally reaching more than 80 properties.”
The resort features a full-service pool and a well-equipped gym and spa. The famed KOI Restaurant brand brings its signature restaurant to St. Kitts featuring Asian-influenced design and Japanese-inspired cuisine. Jaya Kitchen & Cocktail is the resort’s poolside bar and restaurant and the Jaya Ultra Lounge is for a sexy night out with dancing and cocktails.
“KOI is one of the world’s largest hospitality brands and most iconic, offering memorable experiences in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, New York, Bangkok and Abu Dhabi,” said Nick Haque, CEO of KOI Hospitality Group.
“Today is a dream come true for our evolving brand as we open the first KOI Resort on the beautiful island of Saint Kitts. Our new oasis will retain the same vision of our restaurants with design that appeals to all the senses.”
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
