Greetings to All,

Nearly ten years ago, Deborah and I honeymooned at Sans Souci Resort & Spa. (Actually, it was a pre-wedding honeymoon before we were married in Negril.) We fell in love with the resort’s architecture, intimate surroundings, cliffside ocean views, UNBELIEVABLE PENTHOUSE, mineral springs and refined elegance - hallmarks of Sans Souci for over 40 years.

When I was first asked by our Chairman, Lee Issa, whether or not I thought Sans Souci would be a good fit for Couples Resorts, my answer was a resounding “YAH MON!” On September 7 - nearly two years later - we concluded the purchase of this fantastic 148 all-Suite, all Oceanview resort. Everyone in the organization is thrilled and we look forward to writing a new chapter in our company’s history with the new Couples Sans Souci.

Phase II construction at Couples Swept Away is well-advanced now. We still anticipate opening more rooms for Christmas and New Years, as well as additional facilities such as new restaurants, gift shop, pool with a swim-up bar, and (my favorite) a Misting Beach Grill.

Couples Negril has completed the main pool resurfacing, added one beachside Jacuzzi with another one slated for completion in the next several days, and updated all room blocks. During the pool closure from September 5-19, the resort introduced the island’s only “Floating Ocean Bar” as a temporary fix to the pool closing. As you noted on the message board, the FOB was a smashing success.

At Couples Ocho Rios, much has been done behind the scenes this year. A new elevator, A/C handler, water softener system, new kitchen equipment - all have been installed to improve our guests’ experience. Work continues to upgrade several room blocks. New tile floors and soft furnishings are being installed just in time for our peak winter season.

The Issa Trust Foundation is up and running and has already collected over $3,000. On October 8th the first pediatric medical mission trip to Ocho Rios took place with volunteers from Blank Children's Hospital in Iowa. The hospital supported a team of providers and staff in their efforts to provide healthcare services to children in Jamaica.  The team consisted of three physicians, one nurse practitioner and six nurses. Along with their expertise and kind hearts, the team from Blank Children’s Hospital has arranged to donate medical equipment and much needed medications.

All signs indicate that this year will be one of the company’s best ever and 2006 is pacing ahead so far as well. On behalf of everyone at Couples Resorts, THANK YOU.

We look forward to your continued support and friendship.

Luv n Life,


Randy Russell
Chief Romance Officer and Senior Vice President
aka "Randymon"