In September of 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria dealt a double-punch of devastating blows to the Virgin Islands.
At Flamboyan Resort, the physical damage to structures was almost incalculable. Even worse than shattered dwellings and ravaged business operations, the resort suffered the post-storm departures of several key staff members.
When Carla Gifft from Guest Services had the opportunity to board a rescue ship with her family and relocate to Florida, no one could blame her. The island was in shambles. Just the same, her one-way journey was yet another loss felt at the resort.
Carla had become part of the Flamboyan “family” in 2014. Born and raised on St. Thomas, both her mother and grandmother hail from Puerto Rico. As a result, she is fully bilingual — always a ‘plus’ in the hospitality industry. Her innate knowledge of island life was an asset to co-workers and tourists alike.
In addition to her warm, ever-present smile and positive attitude, Carla also brought with her 25-years of solid customer service expertise.

Above: Sporting a festive holiday headband, Carla Gifft poses by the poolside lounge with Diva, one of several resident felines at Flamboyan Resort.

COCO BITS
A BIT ABOUT MAMA JUANA
Popular in the Caribbean, particularly during the holidays, Mama Juana is a flavorful spiced rum drink. The alcoholic beverage is made by infusing a mixture of rum, red wine, and honey with tree bark and herbs. The specific herbs used to create Mama Juana were originally prepared as an herbal tea by native Taíno Indians. Centuries later, alcohol was added to the recipe.
Prior to joining Flamboyan, Carla worked at several of the island’s legendary retail shops including Sparky’s and C&M Caron. Once upon a time, C&M Caron was owned and operated by Claude and Margaret Caron, parents of the iconic French-American actress, Leslie Caron.
Fast forward to the present day. After a four year absence, Flamboyan Resort is delighted to announce the return of our very own multi-talented star, Carla Gifft.
Shining a well-deserved spotlight her way, we see that Carla is once again brightening the reception area with her smile — to the delight of co-workers, island residents, and resort guests.
In her personal life, Carla is the proud mother of three children — and admittedly spoils her precious Toy Poodle, Pierre.
From everyone at Flamboyan Resort, all we have to say is, “Welcome home, Carla.”
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