CASTRIES, Saint Lucia — One of the newest additions to Saint Lucia’s tourism scene, Secrets Saint Lucia Resort and Spa, celebrated its first anniversary on September 18 with an immersive experience showcasing the island’s sights, sounds, flavours and culture.

To mark its paper anniversary, the resort hosted guests as well as more than 100 travel agents, buyers and media from around the world who were on island for the inaugural St Lucia International Showcase hosted by the island’s tourism authority.

The anniversary event, themed “Carnival of the Senses”, was designed to give guests, media and travel buyers an opportunity to taste and experience what Saint Lucia has to offer.

Secrets Saint Lucia opened on June 1, 2025. 

The property was previously operated as St James’s Club Morgan Bay before being acquired by Apple Leisure Group and its parent company, Mullen Real Estate Capital, who carried out an extensive redevelopment.

Secrets is Apple Leisure Group’s second AMR Collection resort in Saint Lucia, joining Zoetry Marigot Bay St Lucia.

Apple Leisure Group and its AMR Collection of resort brands (Secrets, Dreams, Breathless, Zoetry, Alua and Sunscape) are part of Hyatt Hotels Corp.

The property has also received a AAA Four Diamond designation, recognising its commitment to an elevated standard of hospitality, attentive service and memorable guest experiences.

The designation is reserved for properties that demonstrate a consistently high level of service, amenities and overall guest experience.

Located along the shores of Choc Bay, the adults-only, all-inclusive resort and spa offers luxury accommodation and culinary experiences.

The resort has 355 modern suites, nine dining venues and a full-service spa. It is also pet-friendly and is among the few hotel properties in the English speaking Caribbean that is Queer Certified.

Christoph Lorvo, vice president of operations for Hyatt Inclusive Collections, congratulated the resort’s employees, management and owners, Mullen Real Estate Capital, on its first year of operation and the AAA Four Diamond achievement.

Lorvo highlighted the homely feeling guests experience at the resort, saying it is not by chance, with the majority of senior executive positions on the property held by locals. He also noted that 50 per cent of executives are female leaders.

“We hope this evening gives you a true feel of the care and amenities that Secret Saint Lucia is known for. Once again, enjoy the evening, and thank you for being with us,” he said.

Jeff Mullen, president of Mullen Real Estate Capital, said Saint Lucia has always held a special place in the company’s heart.

“St. Lucia always held a special place in our hearts. From our first visit here 30 years ago, we were so captivated by the island’s beauty, its people, its culture, and its unmistakable spirit.

“So when the opportunity arose to acquire this property, we knew we could create something extraordinary. And today, thanks to the dedication of so many people, we stand before the finished result of that shared vision. Mr. Minister, we commend you for your team’s support and your unwavering availability and leadership.

“It’s been invaluable. Your commitment to strengthen the island’s tourism product, encouraging guests to explore St Lucia’s experiences has directly shaped what we have built here.

“So thank you for the partnership, your trust, your warm welcome that you’ve extended to my family. Your support has been essential in bringing Secret St Lucia to life.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Dr Ernest Hilaire commended the hotel’s owners for their dedication and commitment to Saint Lucia.

He highlighted the company’s policy of hiring locals, paying them above-average salaries and promoting them into management roles throughout the resort.

Hilaire also recognised the resort’s support for the St Lucia Kings cricket team and Miss Universe St Lucia.

“I commend them for this. I want them to continue to be part of the St Lucia’s landscape, in encouraging and supporting the creatives, supporting young people who are looking for opportunities in the hospitality sector,” he said.