It’s not just a hotel; we offer our guests a home away from home.
Photos by Elton Callwood
Quito Rymer
styled, split-level restaurant on the water, Quito’s Gazebo; cosy accommodation just metres from the beach, Ole Works Inn and Jan’s Potpourri and Art Gallery, a well stocked gift-shop that offers beautifully crafted souvenirs and all the conveniences required for a resort stay. Typical, you might say, but the uniqueness of the business is illustrated in the fine details and the way they complement each other. An accomplished musician, who has written countless songs and produced nine albums, Quito adds an authentic flavour to the dining experience of customers, crooning a multitude of genres, from folklore to roots rock reggae. For those who desire more than a mere taste, his music is also on sale at the gift shop. Quito’s artistic talent is portrayed throughout the restaurant – he lovingly but painstakingly hand-painted all of tables with prints featuring flowers and the covers from some of his albums. His artistic work is also on display in the gift shop and patrons have a variety of prints to choose from. At the inn, across the street, the manager’s cocktail is a mustdo for guests and there, they are also treated to the crooning of the BVI’s very own musical legend. That’s the business as it exists today but it has taken years to achieve this product. The idea however, had its genesis in the 1970’s as Quito honed his culinary craft at hotels in neighbouring St. Thomas and St John and even the state of Wyoming in the
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United States. With noble intentions, the couple initially set out to make fine dining available in rural BVI, Quito’s hometown to be precise. The intention was not just to create a business but the impetus stemmed from a deeper, heart-felt love for community and a desire to contribute to the neighbourhood where he grew up. Patrons however, had a slightly different perception. By now, Cane Garden Bay had become a popular anchorage and the customers were primarily sailing enthusiasts who desired a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. As you know, the customer is always right, so what the customer wants, the customer gets. Being the savvy entrepreneurs that they are, the Rymers immediately saw the wisdom in responding to the needs of customers. Thus came the move to the actual beachfront property and the establishment of a gazebo. “People wanted more of a laid back beach-type atmosphere and wanted to be closer to the water.” The cuisine is distinctly BVI, to give you a true taste of the islands with menu items like chicken and Johnny cake, fish and corn but the desire is to please everyone’s palate. Having satisfied the needs of the customers, the business was reaping the rewards of having a growing clientele. Partly through natural progression and a desire to remain at the cutting edge of the business and again in response to the needs of customers, many of whom had inquired about the availability of rooms while dining at the restaurant, the Rymers transformed the old restaurant into a hotel. In 1987, the 18-room Ole Works Inn opened its doors. It began with standard hotel rooms, but has evolved over the years – suites have been added so long-stay guests have the amenities to facilitate cooking and there’s also two units called ‘Honeymoon Towers’. “These are octagon-shaped units with swinging love seats, king-size beds and a complimentary bar for occupants. It’s something different designed with newlyweds in mind.” What’s unique about Ole Works Inn? “Our personal touch,” the Rymers respond in unison. From inception, the motto of Ole Works Inn was simple – “Your home away from home”. To ensure that the establishment unfailingly delivers its personal touch, the proprietors of Ole Works Inn screen potential employees very carefully. “We employ people who understand what we are about. It’s not just a hotel; we offer our guests a home away from home so we need persons who will genuinely care about the well-being of our guests and create that kind of environment where they feel truly at home.” Just how far does this homely feeling extend? “As far as the airport,” was the response with a distinctive chuckle, leaving me with a momentary quizzical look, pondering the meaning of that statement. An explanation was quickly forthcoming. “We have a designated taxi driver who will meet the guests at the airport and drive them to the hotel. He would have a key and will take them directly to their room.” By way of further explanation, he added, “Some of our guests arrive late, they may be tired and the reception area may be already closed. It’s almost like being met at the airport by a
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