British Colonial Announces Leadership of Highly Anticipated Nassau Opening

NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS (FEB 2024) – British Colonial, Nassau’s most storied hotel, made a triumphant return with a ribbon cutting on December 18th. Following a 22-month closure and $50 million investment, the 228-room property has reopened as an independently operated boutique hotel managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, a leading global hospitality management company and the world’s largest third-party operator. At its helm, General Manager Dan McDermott and Director of Sales and Marketing Michelle Serra are primed to lead the charge as the newly redesigned property reinvigorates downtown Nassau — one of the Caribbean’s most iconic vacation destinations. 

With more than two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, McDermott, who was named HSMAI General Manager of the Year for South Florida in 2022, is well-positioned to lead the reopening of British Colonial to success. McDermott’s previous experience includes directing the launch of Telluride Mountain Lodge in Colorado, renovating Nashville's historic Union Station, serving as General Manager of the Hilton in Irvine, California, and overseeing operations at Puerto Rico's renowned El Conquistador resort. Most recently, McDermott was based in Miami where he led the team at Accor Group’s Pullman Miami hotel. He now makes his debut in Nassau, where he will look after all aspects of the hotel’s opening and subsequent daily operations. Guided by McDermott’s visionary leadership, British Colonial is set to regain its status as Nassau's premier destination for business and leisure travel. 

“I’m honored to lead the transformation of British Colonial,” said McDermott. “This property is a quintessential icon that has been such an integral part of Nassau’s fascinating narrative. Its reopening will set the bar for an entirely new level of hospitality in The Bahamas, breathing new life into downtown with a guest experience that pays homage to local tradition and the vibrant and colorful culture that defines this destination. We look forward to welcoming our guests, both repeat and new, and showcasing a refined and redefined Caribbean resort experience.” 

Director of Sales and Marketing Michelle Serra brings more than 25 years of industry knowledge and experience to the British Colonial team. A Nassau local with a background in collaborative marketing and selling of resort lifestyle, luxury rental properties, and convention centers, Serra has worked with a variety of major hotel brands and assets, including Margaritaville Resort Orlando and Hilton Hotels and Resorts in Tampa, Charleston, Oklahoma City, and other key U.S. markets. A creative, results-driven individual, Serra has consistently proven to deliver top results by contributing her extensive knowledge and implementing innovative strategies. Her expertise in sales, catering and events management will undoubtably contribute to her success at the newly renovated Bahamian property. Serra earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at University of South Florida. 

About British Colonial Nassau

The long-awaited rebirth of The Bahamas’ most iconic hotel, British Colonial, marks the renaissance of downtown Nassau and a highly anticipated revival of the local area. Steeped in 100 years of rich history, the boutique property has been immaculately restored to feature 288 guest rooms and suites with original artwork and early 20th century design touches, seven food & beverage outlets including a sultry supper club that throws it back to a bygone era, two freshwater oceanfront pools that overlook a 300-foot private beach, and lush tropical gardens. Not to mention, a prime location on Bay Street that’s just steps from Nassau’s colorful cruise port, famed straw market, beaches, and more. The property expertly blends an upscale and sophisticated ambiance infused with key aspects of Bahamian culture, catering to both leisure and business travelers with a uniquely varied room product and approachable price point while paying tribute to its local surroundings and The Bahamas’ past and present.

For more information, visit www.britishcolonial.com and follow their social media @britishcolonialnassau.