VUE

Despite the fact that he received his knighthood for the work he's done for his country, one might argue that he's every bit worthy of the distinction for how he's changed the lives of those on his staff. "I've always been an advocate for education. When I bought this hotel, 75 percent of my staff were illiterate. Today, 100 percent are literate. You can only develop a business if your staff is competent and can train and go along with your vision. I dropped out of school, but the message I always give to the disenfranchised is: 'I will try to help, I will continue to help and there is a place in this world if you apply yourself.' And that is my message to everybody. All my staff come out of training schools with their associates degree. I refer to my staff as my extended family. In my life, I serve. I still serve. It gives me tremendous satisfaction." "Running a hotel is a different thing. All of us individuals have aspirations. When I bought Spice Island, I wanted to create a first-class resort. But I didn't start out and say I wanted to be a Six Star Diamond. I want to exceed what I am doing everyday and improve. During that journey, I've ended up where I am today. at's how life is, because you do what you have to do and try to do it as best you can and exceed your customers' expectations. My three kids, Ryan, Janelle and Nerissa, are all in the business with me." Sir Royston and his staff work hard to make everyone feel welcomed, but the truth is, they're genuinely happy doing their day-to-day. Spice Island's rooms follow suit with a genuinely homey, first-class feel. I had the chance to visit each suite level, all aptly named for the island's many spices including Cinnamon, Saffron, Sage, Clove, Mace, Ginger, and of course, Seagrapes which grow right on the beach. All entrances are from the interior garden area, which adds a pleasing level of privacy. But while the beautiful white sands of Grand Anse are only 10 steps from the 32 beachfront terraces, there was something so enchanting about my own suite, the Ginger. Part of the Royal Collection Pool Suites, the 1,500-square-foot "room" was reminiscent of a mini villa rather than a hotel room. Outfitted with a private cedar sauna, a 20-foot residential-sized swimming pool, spice-scented garden and a necessary marble bathroom with a jacuzzi tub, Spice Island references local architectural influences with a generous stroke of elegance. V U E N J . C O M 120

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