Marriott Is Now Offering Caribbean “Workations”

Carribean Journal ^ | 8-11-20 | Dana Niland

[SJackson]

The San Juan Marriott.

It began with destinations like Barbados and Bermuda offering travelers the opportunity to apply for permits to work remotely from the islands for one year. 

Now some major hotel companies are embracing the new “workation” trend amid the pandemic, including the world’s largest one: Marriott.

Several Marriott resorts have announced new extended-stay “workation,” combining all the technology and connectivity workers need with amenities and Caribbean ambiance.

The new packages are designed not only to allow travelers to continue their virtual commutes seamlessly but also to provide downtime and leisure options, which in turn can help spark new inspiration and productivity, Marriott said in a statement. 

That includes the Courtyard by Marriott Bridgetown, Barbados, which is offering plans for guests who book a stay for 7 nights or more through December 2020. 

Guests are “welcome to use the hotel as a home away from home,” Marriott said, and the rooms recently underwent renovations to create comfortable workstations. 

Additionally, the complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and even at the pool deck, allows guests to work throughout the entire property.

The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino also has a workation plan. 

Guests who book a long-term stay can work remotely with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property as well as enjoy a Cabana room with an ocean view and balcony, a complimentary microwave and fridge, half price self-parking and 15 percent off all food and beverage, Marriott said. 

Another major resort company, Playa Hotels and Resorts, last week announced a similar plan for remote work from several of its Caribbean properties. 

[SJackson]

I have an idea for Joe, Kamala and Nancy.

It's not fair that only working people can take advantage of this. Why not offer a week vacation in Puerto Rico for everyone on unemployment. I recall being in San Juan briefly several months after the last hurricane. All the rooms at upscale hotels were taken by federal workers so there is a precedint. Kinda.

[cuban leaf]

My manager has a place in the Carribian. St Thomas I believe. We have all been working from home since the beginning of April. She’s been doing a LOT of it from there. :)

[outofsalt]

In PR you avoid federal income tax, but the rates are very high;

Net taxable income (USD)
Not over 9,000 0%
Over 9,000, but not over 25,000 7% of the excess over USD 9,000
Over 25,000, but not over 41,500 USD 1,120 plus 14% of the excess over USD 25,000
Over 41,500, but not over 61,500 USD 3,430 plus 25% of the excess over USD 41,500
Over 61,500 USD 8,430 plus 33% of the excess over USD 61,500

San Juan has a 6% sales tax. Not sure if there is a hotel tax on top.

[BenLurkin]

Interesting concept.

[gibsonguy]

I can see the teachers unions reserving entire floors

[SJackson]

Hadn’t considered that. PR isn’t a state, but I presume you’d have to pay the territorial tax. But only on the income for the time you were working there. And I wouldn’t be shocked if most don’t

[CincyRichieRich]

Do the workstations start late? Take their time? Screen savers say, “No worry mon”?

[Sgt_Schultze]

Bump

[ClayinVA]

$134 a night, not too bad. Not sure how you get there other than an airline.

[SJackson]

Check first, but there are flights to PR, it’s in the US, and I don’t think there’s a quarantine restriction but there are others.