Why Is Jolly Beach Resort Closed?

By Michael Ferguson

In recent news, the Jolly Beach Resort in Antigua has been closed for an indefinite period of time. This has left many tourists and locals wondering about the reasons behind its closure. Let’s take a closer look at why this popular resort has shut down.

Financial Struggles

One of the main reasons behind the Jolly Beach Resort’s closure is financial struggles. In 2019, the resort’s parent company, Elite Island Resorts, filed for bankruptcy due to mounting debts and unpaid bills. This bankruptcy filing affected several of Elite Island Resorts’ properties, including Jolly Beach Resort.

COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the tourism industry worldwide, and Antigua was no exception. In March 2020, the government of Antigua and Barbuda closed its borders to international tourists in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. This travel ban had a significant impact on Jolly Beach Resort since it relies heavily on tourism.

Renovations and Upgrades

Another reason behind Jolly Beach Resort’s closure is renovations and upgrades. The resort has been operational since 1985 and was in need of some major updates to keep up with modern trends. The renovations were initially planned for 2020 but were delayed due to the pandemic.

Future Plans

Despite its closure, there is still hope for Jolly Beach Resort’s future. Elite Island Resorts has stated that it intends to reopen the resort once renovations are complete and when it is financially feasible to do so. The company also plans to invest in other areas of Antigua’s tourism industry.

Conclusion

In summary, Jolly Beach Resort’s closure can be attributed to financial struggles, the COVID-19 pandemic, and renovations/upgrades. However, there is still hope for the resort’s future as it plans to reopen once renovations are complete and tourism picks up again.