USA | Club Med has advanced its strategic North American expansion with the redevelopment of Carambola Beach Resort in St. Croix.
Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept with nearly 60 resorts in some of the world's most desired vacation destinations, and VICI Properties Inc., an S&P 500 experiential real estate investment trust, have announced the acquisition and planned redevelopment of the iconic Carambola Beach Resort, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, marking the return of Club Med to U.S. shores. The future Club Med St. Croix will reinforce the hospitality brand's leadership in the premium all-inclusive category, while bringing a renewed spirit to the destination's most historic beachfront property.
The project is a result of a partnership between Club Med and VICI. Following VICI's acquisition of the Carambola Beach Resort, VICI has entered into a long-term triple-net lease with Club Med, and will fund the resort's redevelopment, elevating the property to Club Med's Exclusive Collection standards. Club Med will run the future operations of the historic 150-key resort, transforming it into a model for sustainable, culturally rich and all-inclusive hospitality in the region.
"The U.S. Virgin Islands represent an exciting new chapter for Club Med," said Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med North America and the Caribbean. "For more than seven decades, we've welcomed North American travellers to our destinations around the world, and now we're bringing that experience back home. With St. Croix's natural beauty, strong community spirit, and deep cultural roots, together with the longstanding legacy of this hotel, this project reflects our vision for thoughtful growth, and meaningful connection across the Americas."
"We are very excited to begin our partnership with Club Med, a true pioneer of the premium all-inclusive resort experience and the brand leader in the category,” said John Payne, President and COO of VICI.
“Club Med's approach to growth aligns directly with how VICI partners with best-in-class experiential operators, and Carambola Beach Resort is an ideal asset to launch our relationship. We have tremendous respect for what the Club Med team has built, and we look forward to opportunities to support their continued growth across North America for years to come."
Originally built in 1986 by philanthropist and conservation pioneer Laurance Rockefeller, Carambola Beach Resort reflects his enduring vision for the U.S. Virgin Islands, where hospitality and preservation exist in balance. Club Med's redevelopment plans envision a comprehensive renovation that preserves the property's natural beauty and historic roots.
The resort, nestled between a crescent beach and tropical rainforest, will be part of Club Med's Exclusive Collection, the brand's most refined portfolio of premium all-inclusive resorts, distinguished by elevated design, personalised service, and exceptional experiences in extraordinary settings.
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