The founder of Couples Resorts is known as the father of modern
Jamaican tourism. In 1943, Abe Issa convinced his father, Elias
Issa, a successful businessman, to venture into the hotel industry
and purchase the Myrtle Bank Hotel in Kingston. Abe thrived in the
hotel industry, and continued to expand his influence. As a result
of continuous remarks from guests of Myrtle Bank expressing the
desire for a resort hotel on the north coast, Abe set out to make it
happen as only he could.
In 1948, Abe set out to build Tower Isle Hotel, and in January
1949, after 365 straight days of intense manpower, Tower Isle opened
its doors. Word spread quickly and Tower Isle soon became a popular
Hollywood hangout. Stage and screen stars, sports heroes and
political figures frequented the resort. Walt Disney, actress Eva
Gabor, screen sensation Debbie Reynolds, movie star Errol Flynn,
boxer Joe Louis and playwright Noel Coward are just a few that were
drawn to the old world charm of the resort. Even Princess Margaret
stayed at the resort on one of her many visits to the island.
Tower Isle established the start of a new era of tourism in
Jamaica. It also became the first resort to remain open year round,
thus creating a summer season where there had not been one before.
In 1955, Abe Issa was appointed chairman of the Jamaica Tourist
Board, and from 1955 to 1963 he led “The Golden Age of Tourism” in
Jamaica and visitor arrivals surged from 86,000 to 227,000 per year.
During these years Abe contemplated the concept of a pre-paid
Jamaican vacation and began researching the idea. In 1978 he
turned the concept into a reality and pioneered the
all-inclusive concept in Jamaica – turning Tower Isle into the
first all-inclusive resort for couples only, aptly named Couples
Resort. In 1984, after a rich and full life, Abe Issa passed
away. Now, over 31 years after the inception of the first Couples
Resort, Abe has left behind a legacy and the all-inclusive
concept in Jamaica has flourished. All thanks to the dedicated
efforts of one man, the father of Jamaican tourism.
Today, Couples Resorts proudly owns and operates four luxury
all-inclusive, couples-only resorts on the beautiful island of
Jamaica. The properties include the first-ever couples-only,
all-inclusive resort, Couples Tower Isle, along with Couples Sans
Souci, Couples Swept Away and Couples Negril. The company that
was pioneered in 1978 by the legendary Abe Issa, is today led by
Abe’s son, Elias “Lee” Issa. A dedicated and loyal group of
employees are inspired to provide a truly memorable vacation
experience for adult couples.
Each Couples property is an unsurpassed model of the
all-inclusive concept. Bold design elements and local
inspiration create a laid-back natural setting infused with an
authentic Caribbean spirit. For over 30 years, Couples has
delighted guests with outstanding service, exceptional dining
and unparalleled value-added experiences.
We are different from other all-inclusive resort companies. We
consider ourselves Artisanal, not Mass Market; more of a
Boutique-style collection of unique resorts within the
all-inclusive category. We are driven to provide the highest
quality product with the most inclusions, all at a competitive
price.
Our loyal guests are those who value the experience over price,
who appreciate being pampered in an environment conducive to
romance, who respect and are eager to learn more about the
culture we represent. The foundation of our continued success is
our people. Our staff strives to Engage Your Hearts and Enrich
Your Spirits. We aspire to create emotional connections so
satisfying to our guests and employees that loyalty is assured.
Rediscover the passion and connection that first brought you
together. Rediscover one another at Couples Resorts.
