BANGKOK, THAILAND — Six Senses Resorts & Spas is set to establish its first Caribbean property in the Turks & Caicos, following the signing of an agreement with Salt Cay Devco Ltd. In the initial phase, the project will comprise a Six Senses resort, Residential Villas, Six Senses Spa, and Golf Course. According to a press release received by Elite Traveler, the proposed opening date is 2013.
Salt Cay is one of only 10 inhabited islands in a group of 40 islands and cays that make up the Turks and Caicos. The island has remained virtually unchanged from an era when the salt industry, dating back to the 17th century, dominated the economy for over 300 years. Covering just 6.5 square kilometres, or 2.5 square miles, Salt Cay is scattered with historical sites and ruins from the salt raking days, inciting the enthusiasm of historians, photographers and tourists alike who enjoy exploring these many attractions.
Six Senses Salt Cay has been designed to introduce the group’s SLOW LIFE* philosophy with the Turks and Caicos positioning as the undiscovered Caribbean – from an earlier time when relaxation was unavoidable and rejuvenation assumed.
Salt Cay is easily accessible by an 80-minute flight from Miami or a three-hour flight from New York to Providenciales, then a 30-minute hop to Salt Cay in the resort’s own airplane. Described as home to the best beaches in the world, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing, the Turks and Caicos are a tropical classic that embraces the concept of beautiful by nature; perfectly aligned with Six Senses’ environmental commitment – intelligent luxury.
Initially, the project will comprise a total of 40 one-bedroom villa suites, two-bedroom villa suites and three-bedroom retreats, plus 13 four-bedroom residential villas. Many villas will make dramatic use of the slope of the site, affording wonderful panoramic views.
In addition to several dining alternatives, including an organic garden restaurant, there will be a jazz bar, an observatory, and Cinema Paradiso – classic movies in an open environment that has proved a winning double feature in many Six Senses properties. Leisure activities will by the very nature of the location focus on water activities, but will also include tennis and an eco-friendly golf course.
A feature of Six Senses Salt Cay will be the Six Senses Spa. A team of highly skilled international therapists will take guests on sensory journeys with Six Senses’ a la carte and local salt-inspired treatments for balancing the senses. Visiting practitioners will bring unique talents to the spa to enlighten and inform guests. A little luxurious pampering never goes amiss and will be on hand to complete the total relaxation experience.
An international team of partners and consultants was been brought together for the project by Salt Cay Devco Ltd., which is owned by Mario Hoffmann, a financier and keen sportsman who made the Turks and Caicos his second home in 1999; and CEO Stefan Kral.
Total investment for phase one of Six Senses Salt Cay will be US$200 million and will create more than two hundred jobs for the local community.