The Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa Resort & Offshore Island
in Nassau will close from Aug. 15 to Oct. 13 “due to circumstances beyond our
control,” according to a letter sent to travel agents.
Although the letter did not detail the reason behind the
temporary closure of the resort, the decision comes weeks after labor tension led to
a protest staged by the union representing Sandals workers, according to the
Nassau Guardian. The resort employs about 490 line staff and 100
managers.
“We appreciate your patience as we work through this
challenging time,” wrote Gary Sadler, senior vice president of sales for Unique
Vacations, the sales and marketing arm of Sandals Resorts International.
Guests have been offered rebooking at another Sandals or
Beaches resort and were assured that Sandals would absorb all airline change
fees.
In addition, Sandals is extending two complimentary nights
to any stay, valid for one year from original date and based on availability.
Sandals has set up a 24-hour hotline at (800) 965-2364 for
questions and concerns.