Excellence and luxury as standards in Mexico’s top destinations A dreamy environment in Costa Rica
Unique charm at its South Beach and Central Park properties
Meliá’s flagship in the luxury all-inclusive segment
10 Tourist Attractions in Latin America 10 World Destinations
Managing Director
Jassen Pintado
Creative Director
Omar Rodríguez
Editor in Chief
Rafael Tablado
Finance Director
Christina Schoch
Social Media Director
Maria Elena Gastelum
Content Coordinator
Alicia Barrantes
Project Directors
Ana Macfarland
David Alarcon
Giuseppe Modenesi
Lucy Verde
Marcelo Modenesi
Summer’s here in the Northern Hemisphere and there’s nothing on our minds rather than shed the routine for a while and head somewhere nice to kick back and relax. Some restrictions seem to be back at some places and others are there just to keep us in check during the ongoing pandemic, though.
In this issue, we have two of the most iconic properties run by the 1 Hotels brand. Both the South Beach and Central Park facilities have unique appeal with details bringing unity to them as a brand with a purpose.
Across the Southern border, TAFER Hotels & Resorts boast unique properties in
Mexico’s top tourist destinations, displaying excellent service and a luxury ambiance as a concept. Meanwhile, Meliá Hotels
International thrusts Paradisus Los Cabos as its flagship resort for the luxury all-inclusive segment.
Further south in Costa Rica, the Enjoy Group has a jewel in Central America called Fiesta Resort All Inclusive, ideal setting for multiple purposes, be it family vacations, couple getaway, social event and even as a corporate retreat.
Also, don’t miss our features about a few of the destinations that do more than just grab our attention and curiosity...
Mateo Rafael Tablado, Editor in Chief at The Boston Business Review
Email: rafael.tablado@thebostonbr.com
Written by
Mateo Rafael Tablado
Sometimes, those things that we are not allowed to do are those we most yearn for. Even if restrictions derived from the COVID19 pandemic have limited travel -specially pleasure travel-, we’d still like to share with you a few places we would love to set our foot in once it’s possible again...
One of the jewels of the Malaysia archipelago is a feast of natural attractions as well as of man-made beauty. Besides amazing sunsets, the island offers marvels such as Mount Batur, site for astonishing sights at dawn, the Sacred Monkey Forest
Sanctuary, in Ubud, and Nusa Dua beach, among other sites.
Malaysian temples not only hold a beauty unto itselves, but some of them are to be found among dreamy landscapes, such as Ulun Danu Bratan, Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temples.
The African version of the Southern Hemisphere offers white sand beaches, vineyards, natural attractions as well as museums and other iconic places in the country’s history.
Neighborhoods such as District Six and Bo-Kaap are perfect examples of the city’s history and cultural diversity; exhibits are not far behind,
with museums such as Zeitz, for contemporary arts, the eleven Iziko museums and the Heart of Cape Town museums.
Natural attractions nearby include the mountain and sea views when riding the Chapman’s Peak route, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Table Mountain, and Clifton and Camp Bay beaches.
Modern architecture, all-around sophistication, skyscrapers, artificial islands and lagoons... Shopping malls boasting not only fashion’s trendiest brands but also giang aquariums and indoor ski resorts... Because just creating an oasis in the middle of the desert is not enough when oil can build a solid, tangible mirage. Dubai is also
host to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
There are also museums and a taste of old Dubai, with traditional mosques and other Arab constructions, as well as rides on Dubai’s water stream. This city is more than a mix of past and present, but also a blend of tradition with modernity and luxury.
We’re talking about the queen of the Balearic Islands and one of the Mediterranean’s and Europe’s referents in nightlife and resorts. If that wasn’t enough, the small island (about 220 sq. miles, eighth largest of the Spanish islands) also offers water rides across crystal-clear waters and scuba diving. Beautiful sights are a norm, and places
such as Sa Caleta and Necropolis also share the island’s history from ancient times.
Ibiza’s nightlife has been a show in itself for decades and offers different options. It depends upon each visitor if once out of the island this results in a hangover of biblical proportions or memories for a lifetime.
This European island nation hosts astonishing nature phenomena bordering on the magical and beyond unique. From whale-watching in Reykjavik, the country’s capital, to geysers, vulcans in the middle of snow and the thrilling show of the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) which can be
witnessed from most cities, though being in the middle of nature as it happens brings something special to it.
Any touring may begin from a geothermal water spa 40 minutes from Reykjavik all over the country into natural parks to experience unique atmospheres full of ice and snow.
There’s more to Miami and its surroundings than year-round fair weather and sunny beaches. It’s also a great place to go shopping and its vivid nightlife is simply unique.
Once past South Beach and other beautiful spots and into the water, Biscayne Bay offers the best water
sports and rides. Besides the city tours and visiting in-town attractions, Miami’s vicinities also offer singular attractions such as visit the everglades and amusement parks in Florida.
If you need an ideal place to stay, there’s no better than 1 Hotel South Beach
Is it necessary to remind everyone about this city’s grandeur in so many aspects? From arrival -by land, air or sea- its skyline is simply breathtaking.
Now, having this same city host iconic constructions such as the Empire State building, the Statue of Liberty and a place like Central Park is something widely known. But then just add it’s also the world’s capital for musicals and
theater, and home of a business center such as the NYSE, in Wall Street. And most of those visiting this city for the first time will identify a place or two they’ve already seen in movies and TV shows.
When visiting, why not begin by staying a block from Central Park, 1 Hotel.
The former Lutetia keeps being, maybe, the most beautiful city in the world. Its buildings have breathed history across centuries past to blend with modernity and avant-garde style in the Parisien grace, producing a unique feeling. Museums? The Louvre is a few days’ worth of touring just to complete a decent view of all it has to offer; D’Orsay and the Pompidou Center also host classic masterworks across time. Is the Eiffel Tower either impressive or simply beautiful? Is there anything else like a walk along the Seine River, or, better yet, a boat ride in it?
Montmartre, Pigalle, Clignancourt...
Tired of this lifetime? Even the dead have something to offer when strolling along the Pere Lachaise and Montparnasse cemeteries, full of artists’, writers’, musicians’ and intellectuals’ mausoleums.
May you grow tired of a city unlike any other, there’s always a ride to Versailles, just a few minutes away by train.
Probably considered one of Western Civilization’s starting points. There’s a bit of history mostly everywhere around Rome’s central area, with sites such as the Coliseum and its surroundings -including Circus Maximus and the Forum- standing out. The Trevi Fountain is also a must-see as are the Spanish Steps leading to Trinitá dei
Monti. The Pantheon and the Vatican are also a reference to the city.
New attractions honoring modern aspects of Italian culture have opened in recent years, as is the case with Cinecittà World, honoring Europe’s largest film studios, those who created an identity for Italian cinema.
New South Wales’ state capital is one of Australia’s most important cities. It’s not only the country’s oldest city, but it’s also considered the most beautiful. Sydney’s immediate reference is its Opera House, whose surroundings can be explored in different kinds of boats.
Sydney also offers the kind of attractions you may find in most cities, such as museums -like the ones sharing the country’s and its ethnic group’s history- and also offers beautiful beaches.
A
The 1 Hotels brand goes beyond the concept of lodging and into sustainable living with its flagship, the 1 Hotel South Beach, in Miami
Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado
by Jassen Pintado
Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach
For decades, Miami has been an attractive destination both for leisure and business, and seems to remain this way, as its fair weather and sunny beaches provide a warm welcome to visitors.
The SH Hotel & Resorts management company (affiliate of the Starwood Capital Group) opened 1 Hotel South Beach in March 2015, which became the flagship of the 1 Hotels brand. From 1 Hotel South Beach, guests experience astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay and the skyline at Downtown Miami.
The 425-room facility built on an entire bock on Collins Avenue was awarded #1 in Conde Nast Traveler’s top 10 Hotels in Miami, and it’s not hard to find out about the attributes contributing to earning such an accolade for 1 Hotel South Beach, whose blend of nature and comfort in
an environmentally-friendly atmosphere becomes the perfect setting for an ultimate vacation experience in Miami.
1 Hotel South Beach also earned the LEED Silver certification under the New Construction standards, which is also the starting point for the hotel’s maintenance and operations.
The driftwood furnishings, a 600 feet long beach and the sound of the ocean bring a very special connection to the area’s natural habitat
“Guests continue to choose the hotel because our team provides an unprecedented level of service matched with understated luxury. The hotel celebrates nature and sustainability,” Xavier Moulin commented.
Xavier Moulin is the general manager for 1 Hotel South Beach. He’s gathered more than 25 years of successful experience after graduating in International Hospitality Management from the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne (Switzerland). Previous experience for SH Hotels & Resorts after joining
-Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach
the company include his tenure as Managing Director of the 1 Hotel & Homes Cabo development (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico) and also neighboring sister property Hacienda Beach Club & Residences; his outstanding work for the 1 Homes Preview and the upcoming 1 Hotel Cabo received coverage in Travel+Leisure magazine and the Robb Report during 2019.
Moulin’s experience has also spread through the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, French Riviera, Germany, Switzerland and the United States in places such as The St. Regis (Los Angeles), Raffles (Beverly Hills), Société des Bains de Mer (Monte Carlo), in AMAN Resorts, sbe properties, SLS hotels and Starwood Hotel & Resorts, among others, earning awards from Conde Nast Traveler, Travel+Leisure magazine; “Best Guest Experience
Index”, “Top Regional Production” and “Best HR Practices” among Starwood Hotels and the “Outstanding GM Leader” award by Hotel Management Magazine in November of 2013.
The kind of habitat that makes it hard to leave
1 Hotel South Beach offers different kinds of accommodation according to the number of guests in each
group. Room categories at 1 Hotel South Beach include rooms & suites, homes & penthouses and the Retreat Collection, which can be personalized according to required services.
Aside from all the furnishings a highend lodging facility is expected to meet in every room, the whole concept bringing every accommodation together is the blend of nature accents within a comfortable ambiance, where
you may come across wooden flooring and bookcases, rattan seats, hempblend mattresses by Keetsa, oak platforms and other elements bringing an organic feel.
While in Miami staying at 1 Hotel South Beach, guests must make sure to take time to visit the many attractions the city and its vicinity have to offer, since amenities at the hotel can make it hard to leave after experiencing all that 1 Hotel has to offer.
Four swimming pools -including a rooftop pool-, seven different food & beverage outlets and a 18,000 sq.ft. wellness center -host to the award-winning Bamford Wellness Spa and Anatomy gym are some of the building’s different places to enjoy anyone’s stay. And the 600 feet long unsullied beachfront -which is also a serviced area- is enhanced by the Atlantic Ocean.
“It’s the best natural amenity. We have four pools that face the ocean. So
whether guests want to relax in the sea or pool, they can enjoy endless ocean views from all,” the general manager pointed out.
To enhance the beachfront’s appeal, 1 Hotel South Beach offers the Beach Club exclusive memberships, allowing members to indulge all of the amenities offered by the hotel. Younger guests 4 to 10 years old can take part of the Seedlings program, which offers fun and learning activities and shows.
1 Hotel South Beach offers seven different options for food and beverages. WATR at the Rooftop offers full menu service while sharing unique sights with the pool; WATR has earned OpenTable
Awards for Best Sushi, Best Scenic View and Best Late Night Find. Habitat, on its behalf, serves Mexican dishes for breakfast and dinner offering both indoor seating and an outdoor patio featuring live music four nights a week. PInthouse offers snacks and other healthy options
We created a food & beverage program while staying true to the 1
- Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach
in a plant-decorated terrace, while Neighbors also offers ready-to-go healthy dishes. Drift serves the best cocktails surrounded occasionally by live music. And Wave at 1 Beach Club offers a an outdoor sea-to-table dining experience.
The main trait shared by all of these options is offering fresh, seasonal, local ingredients in every dish.
Timely resolutions to surpass COVID-19
Beyond local ordinance to close facilities at the beginning of the quarantine as consequence of the global pandemic, the 1 Hotel South Beach ramped up a strategy that began with the creation of the Director of Environmental Health & Safety position, which implemented different measures
once hotels were allowed to reopen on June 1st, 2020:
• Hotel personnel have been involved in regular COVID-19 testing and new health and safety training sessions and screened for temperature as they begin their shift.
• Property entrances are equipped with temperature scanners, public areas are equipped with hand sanitizing
stations and proper signage has been placed for social distancing and other measures.
• Elevators are being sanitized and their capacity is limited and monitored.
• In-room air filtration systems have been enhanced.
• Guests are encouraged to download the 1 Hotel App for contactless communication.
-
Guests continue to choose the hotel because our team provides an unprecedented level of service matched with understated luxury
Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach
“1 Hotel South Beach was one of the first in the market to reopen and welcome guests incorporating procedures to ensure both guests’ and team members’ safety,” Moulin declared. Transcendental purposes beyond business goals
As organic and nature accents along most of the hotel furnishings and decorations display, there is an attitude encompassing the purpose of 1 Hotel South Beach, which is its aim
toward sustainability, having earned the property the LEED Silver certification.
The hotel’s construction took place in a previously developed site with a number of nearby attractions and high interconnectivity with public transportation. The property features vegetated wide open spaces and features several living plant walls. Electric vehicles have plenty of charging stations at 1 Hotel South Beach. Other elements, including energy-related systems reduce heat and energy consumption. Finishes such
as painting, ceiling, flooring and adhesive products with low-emissions were used to avoid air contamination. Intelligent toilets and sinks along with a highly-efficient irrigation system reduce water use and recycling policies are implemented for elements such as cardboard, paper, plastic, glass and metals.
The hotel is accessible to guests with special mobility requirements.
The atmosphere among the staff at SH Hotels & Resorts and 1 Hotel South Beach is one where love, inclusion, respect, and trust are shared values. Growth and development are not unforeseen factors and the COVID pandemic has only enhanced the entire personnel’s skills through cross training.
“At 1 Hotels, we consider ourselves a family of likeminded individuals,” the executive said.
In every 1 Hotel location, listening to guests’ and members’ feedback is a top priority. The recently opened 1 Beach Club is a result of tapping into guests’ inquiries and suggestions. Plans to enhance the experience at 1 Hotels are being developed.
“We know what they want and they like. We took that feedback to create our newest outdoor venue, 1 Beach Club. We created a food & beverage program with their likes in mind all while staying true to the 1 Hotel brand standards,” Moulin declared. Also, new locations are set to open in the United States and abroad in cities such as London, Nashville, Toronto and San Francisco, to name a few.
FOUNDED: 2015
INDUSTRY: Hospitality WEBPAGE: www.1hotels.com/south-beach
CONTACT: +1 (833) 625 3111
The uniqueness of one of the most iconic places in New York blends into 1 Hotel Central Park, providing a welcoming environment amidst skyscrapers and sidewalks Produced by Jassen Pintado
Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado
Interviewee
Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park
New York is certainly one of the world’s top travel destinations, hosting visitors with different purposes, mainly business and leisure; when traveling with the latter in mind, the different areas in town host attractions for a variety of tastes, but few as iconic as Central Park, featured in films, TV, host to musical events and host also to New Yorkers and visitors who like this place to take a walk, exercise, to have some kind of contact with nature, or simply to lay down in the grass.
It is clear to see why Central Park became the second location and the first property in New York City for 1 Hotels -the SH Hotels and Resorts brand-, which opened in August 2015.
1 Hotel Central Park is located at the corner of 58th Street and Sixth Avenue, just a block south from Central Park, in an 18-story building, offering
229 guest rooms and suites. 1 Hotel Central Park is a 100% Carbon Neutral and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified property.
Barry Sternlicht, the 1 Hotel brand creator, knew this location had to capture the essence of Central Park and still blend with some downtown vibe to it.
“This hotel truly is nature-inspired and you feel that calmness throughout the entire building. There is no hotel like us in Manhattan,” declared Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park.
Pichler was born in Austria, where he completed his education in hospitality. His work for Langham Hotels took him to Toronto (Canada), London (UK) and Valencia (Spain), where he opened his own restaurant.
Afterwards, Pichler joined Fairmont
Hotels & Resorts, working in Abu Dhabi (UAE - United Arab Emirates) and different hotels across the USA.
Pichler also worked at the RitzCarlton Lake Tahoe before becoming part of the SH Hotels & Resort by joining 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in early 2019. Pichler has combined work and continuing education having attended
This hotel truly is natureinspired and you feel that calmness throughout the entire building. There is no hotel like us in Manhattan
- Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park
college programs in Canada, Spain, and finally obtaining his Asset Management certification at Cornell University.
In Bernd Pichler being the general manager for its Central Park operation, 1 Hotels counts with a highly-skilled individual that shares company values such as a passion for nature, sustainability and a healthy lifestyle.
“Either I found SH or SH found me, but no day feels like work if you love what you do, and at 1 Hotel Central Park we do just that,” said the executive.
Amidst all the concrete and the shadow of skyscrapers, 1 Hotel Central Park offers astounding surroundings
indoors and outdoors. Central Park is just a few steps away to bring that sense of being in the middle of nature with its unique scenery.
This same lush feel translates into the hotel, as its whole concept is inspired by its surroundings, welcoming guests with a three-story exterior living green wall, and furnished with reclaimed, repurposed and recycled materials such
as fallen twigs as ornament and wood from New York City water towers.
The “Field House” is a very complete fitness center, open 24 hours and it’s furnished with the best equipment for exercise and yoga, and counts with expert coaches and trainers for personal sessions.
Among other amenities, the hotel offers nature infused, flexible spaces
that are ideal for business meetings and social events, boasting floor to ceiling windows and views of Central Park.
Award winning Chef Johnathan Waxman brings his farm-to-fork cooking to Jams Restaurant and Bar. Executed by Executive Chef Ginger Pierce, these seasonal menus are offered through in-room dining and also as customized menus for meetings and events.
Nature accents are a presence in every accommodation
Meals and refreshments available in 1 Hotel Central Park are not an afterthought, as the food and beverage programming is aligned with the brand’s principles about minimizing waste and plastic use.
Ingredients are sourced from local vendors, offering seasonal menus at Jams, the 100-seat restaurant and bar also from Waxman, showcasing market-fresh, organic ingredients. Once reopening after the pandemic shutdown, Jams is offering exciting new dishes and a patio on 6th Avenue.
Last October, 1 Hotel Central Park opened Jams Café, a new concept for guests and locals to enjoy. Executive Chef Ginger Pierce created a Jar Return Program, reducing waste en route to a reusable, zero waste carry out system with rewards for guests.
“It is important that we continue to evolve our footprint and celebrate ‘day life’ in the community and make sure
guests and our neighbors are aware and involved,” said Pichler.
The shutdown caused by the COVID19 pandemic brought along terrible consequences in every line of business, and it especially affected the travel and lodging industry.
For 1 Hotels, taking care of its staff in each location is a priority. 1 Hotel Central Park was one of the first midtown hotels to reopen last fall, doing the best to bring back to work as many team members as possible. After weekend travel returned to the “Big Apple”, weekday lodging is also increasing, which means more team members are being called back to work at the hotel.
“Guests are consistently commenting on how warm and genuine our team members are: like-minded individuals, passionate about the same core values, sharing them with our guests and
Commitment to its personnel’s health and safety has taken 1 Hotel Central Park, as every other brand’s properties, to create the Director of Environmental Health & Safety role, in charge of the implementation and surveillance of new procedures and safety protocols.
“We are also looking forward to welcoming back our loyal and new guests that were not able to travel this past year,” added Pichler. among ourselves,” the general manager commented.
Additionally, SH Hotels & Resorts properties are among the first hotels in the world to become Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED® with Forbes Travel Guide, a comprehensive facility verification ensuring guests to book with confidence of places with the proper health and safety procedures.
No day feels like work if you love what you do and at 1 Hotel Central Park we do just that
-
Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park
The 1 Hotel brand bases all design, construction and operation in five pillars: environmental impact, advocacy, education and engagement, health and wellbeing, and food and beverage responsibility. And in 2020, 1 Hotels directed efforts to increase sustainability and reduce energy consumption.
At 1 Hotel Central Park, an intelligent guest room energy management system with motion and infrared sensors was installed. This system allows HVAC systems to go into “set back” mode based on area occupancy.
This system is fully integrated into
the front desk property management system, allowing the HVAC system to go into an energy savings mode depending on the sold/unsold status of rooms.
Also, 1 Hotels just announced. MISSION by SH™: a cause-driven rewards program that allows guests to
offset the climate impact of their stay by donating their reward dollars toward carbon offset projects.
And besides the multiple options for public transportation New York City has to offer, 1 Hotel Central Park has an Audi e-tron electric vehicle available for guests to use within a 15-block radius.
We are constantly updating and improving our efforts to drive our mission of sustainability forward
- Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park
Locally-sourced seasonal products are the backbone of the hotel’s menus
We are focused on our positive comeback as business continues to come back to New York City
- Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park
“We are constantly updating and improving our efforts to drive our mission of sustainability forward,” said the executive.
The beauty of 1 Hotel Central Park is currently being upgraded, as the building’s top floor is to undergo a renovation that will include brand new rooms and suites with patios with unparalleled views of Central Park.
“We are focused on our positive comeback as business continues to come back to New York City,” concluded Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park.
Our continent has so much to offer in places to kick back or that are simply very interesting to explore. Such is the variety it offers in terms of beaches, climates and the balance between attractions of nature and those that are the outcome of human ingenuity, that it was very difficult for us to exclude some options when picking ...
Such are lists: limited, unfair, even possibly cruel. There are places that might seem small to us and yet offer infinite charm, there are places with many attractions from which endless lists can be generated. We even had to leave out wonders such as the Iguazú Falls, which are admirable between two countries and which river also flows into a third one. However, we are confident that there will be opportunity to create and share more lists of what our continent has to offer ...
Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado
Translated by Flávia Brancato
The sacred and the profane, “eros” and “thanatos” coexist in this festival which origins probably occurred during the Middle Ages, and some date it back to the Greeks, prior to being conquered by Romans. However, the one in Rio de Janeiro is simply THE carnival. There will be carnivals all over the world where the Judeo-Christian faith claimed territory along with conquests, and each one will have something special, but Rio is simply the global benchmark due to its color and magnitude,
the symbiosis of the African-origin faith with ethnic theology, hosting an average of two million participants, beyond samba schools and the dance ‘blocks’ giving life to it.
An excellent example where the modern Latin America of skyscrapers coexist with an environment of the colonial era that preserves its aesthetics and its beautiful architecture of buildings adorned with tile roofs, in a city that has been walled since the Spanish conquest.
In addition to everything that Cartagena offers in terms of aesthetics, the most unique attractions are the Totumo volcano, to immerse yourself in mud, and Playa Blanca, in the Rosario Islands, to fully enjoy the Colombian Caribbean.
Costa Rica’s main attractions are its jungles and mountains, the natural habitat of countless species of flora and fauna unique in the world. Among all the natural beauties that Costa Rica has to offer, Manuel Antonio Park also boasts Manuel Antonio beaches, as well as Espadilla, to enjoy the Costa Rican Pacific coast.
In addition to the protocols
established after the COVID19 pandemic, tickets to the park should be purchased in advance. Manuel Antonio Park is huge and also offers horseback riding and even a revitalizing natural pool.
Our option to design a starting point on this side of Costa Rica and to enjoy this national park and other attractions is Fiesta Resort All Inclusive.
Although technically Easter Island is located in Oceania, it is, in fact, a province of Chile. The ancient Rapa Nui -- the name of the ethnic group that inhabited the island-- is located almost 4,000 km from the continental platform and is not only the most distant of the Chilean islands, but also the largest one.
The most interesting aspect of Pascua Island are the moai, these giant stone heads considered a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
These 22 islands and 107 islets are approximately 1,000 km from mainland Ecuador and make up a paradise in itself, inhabited by various species, including flora and fauna exclusive to this archipelago.
The larger and medium-sized Galápagos islands are a paradise for
marine biologists in view of the great biodiversity of reptiles that inhabit this area, including giant tortoises.
Four of these islands are inhabited, but there are still restrictions on the annual number of tourists who can visit them.
Believing that the best of the Mayan civilization is found exclusively in Mexico is a mistake, since Tikal -located in the Petén Department, Guatemala -- was one of the great Mayan urban centers along with Calakmul, Chichén Itzá and Palenque, and historically it is considered the capital of this civilization. Tikal was also the largest pre-Hispanic human settlement in Guatemala.
There are little more than 200 buildings that belonged to that era that are in conditions to be visited by tourists. Tikal was the first World Heritage site, declared as such by UNESCO in 1979. Noteworthy buildings include the Great Jaguar, the Temple of the Masks, the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent and the Temple of the Inscriptions.
Among the many attractions in Mexico, the tourist corridor between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas provides a unique atmosphere where nature offers a unique mixture of desert joined to the sea, while the entrepreneurs’ vision and hands have created different attractions in this area: sport fishing, multiple golf courses and a prime night scene
with variety that join the peace and tranquility offered by the hotels in the area.
For a comfortable stay in Los Cabos, we highly recommend staying and enjoying the surroundings offered by TAFER Resorts’ Garza Blanca, and Paradisus, from renowned Spanish firm Meliá.
This 82-kilometer-long engineering masterpiece connecting the Caribbean with the Pacific Ocean is a great attraction considering its operation, in which several locks are filled and emptied with water to ease ship transit.
In 2016, a recent extension to this work was opened. It has two different areas for observation by tourists along its route, as well as museums that offer details of this great work.
Although archaeological ruins are a kind of standard in many of the Latin American countries, Machu Picchu has the peculiarity of having been built over more than 6,500 ft above sea level, in the Andes mountains, without resources such as the mortar, and obviously less yet the sophisticated
construction machinery that we know nowadays.
Machu Picchu is located about 50 miles from the city of Cuzco; it was discovered in 1911 and in 1983 it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Costa del Coco’s jewel is a tourist paradise with more than 18 miles of beaches with crystal-clear waters.
The hotel business along this coast is highly competitive, so it is easy to find excellent first-rate service.
Punta Cana is also a paradise for various water sports; and there is also the possibility of exploring its surroundings in different ways, either by visiting nearby islands in boats that offer diving, or renting off-road vehicles to explore its surroundings.
Meliá’s all-inclusive luxury line is led by its hotel in Los Cabos, Mexico, bringing together attributes such as location, natural attractions nearby and the Iberian giant’s usual standards of hospitality.
Paradisus Los Cabos is a luxury hotel operating in the “All Inclusive” modality on the tourist corridor between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Prior to the transformation that turned it into Paradisus, the immediate past of the property was to serve as Meliá Cabo Real, an iconic hotel in the region opened in 1989, which suffered terrible damage after the Hurricane Odile in 2014.
Meliá Hotels International not only took on the task of refurbishing the hotel, but also improved it as a product in every way, making it the cornerstone of Paradisus, its line of Luxury All-Inclusive hotels.
Paradisus Los Cabos is the only hotel in this region boasting a membership of The Leading Hotels of
The hotel has a lot of personality, since the very first moment you know that you are in a hotel in Los Cabos
- Jaime Piedra Martínez, General Manager of Paradisus Los Cabos
the World select organization. It also holds certifications such as the “Stay Safe with Meliá”, a program endorsed by the Bureau Veritas; it’s also AAAcertified (American Automobile Association), by the Cristal International Standards (now Intertek Cristal) for quality and hygiene; by Safe Travels, from the World Travel and Tourism Council; and by Traveler’s
Choice, of the TripAdvisor website.
Paradisus Los Cabos has one of the few swimmable beaches in Los Cabos, in addition to other attractions provided by nature.
“We can watch whales from our rooms or having breakfast in one of our restaurants,” said Jaime Piedras Martínez, General Manager of Paradisus Los Cabos.
Jaime Piedras Martínez has been in charge of Paradisus Los Cabos since April 2020. This is the second time he has been appointed to lead this operation, which he ran between 2017 and mid-2018. Between these two cycles, Piedras was in charge of the opening of The Circle and Grand
Reserve, at Paradisus Palma Real, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Piedras’ extensive experience spans more than 20 years to destinations as remote as fascinating, such as Bali and Jakarta (Indonesia), China, Spain and Puerto Rico.
Piedras graduated in Economics from the University of Malaga, in his native Spain, and didn’t just settle
Paradisus Los Cabos is a key player for the company to continue growing in the Luxury segment
- Jaime
General
Paradisus Los Cabos has an excellent location: ten minutes from downtown San José del Cabo, 25 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and half an hour from Los Cabos International Airport.
The landscape of the region is displayed at the outside of the hotel, whose gardens resemble the flora of Baja California Sur. The inside has decoration and architectural details that make it unique.
side or frontal views of the Sea of Cortés.
The entire hotel has been refurbished; attractions and experiences have been added, boasting seven restaurants and four bars, so that guests can enjoy their food and drink without feeling crowded.
“The hotel has a lot of personality, since the very first moment you know that you are in a hotel in Los Cabos”, said the general manager.
The global COVID19 pandemic had a terrible impact on the tourism sector and Paradisus Los Cabos was no exception. The hotel, like many other destinations, remained closed from March to August 2020, when it was reopened.
For the reopening, strict hygiene and safety protocols were implemented, for this, as he attended specialized management courses in hospitality at Cornell University (New York, USA).
The property has 350 rooms and its horseshoe-shaped structure provides an almost total view of the hotel from every point. Brightness and minimalism come together in each room, and almost all of them provide
thus caring for the health and wellbeing of guests and staff. Since then, the recovery of Los Cabos has taken an enviable pace, getting close to 2019 numbers before other destinations.
“It has been a ‘crossing in the desert’- never better said in Los Cabos - that is already coming to an end, luckily for us,” said Piedras.
The relationship between Paradisus
Los Cabos and its immediate community is nurtured by programs based on three pillars:
• Commitment to the community’s children
• Protection and preservation of endemic wildlife
• Promotion of local products
The hotel sponsors the Por los Niños de la Sierra, A.C. [For Children of la Sierra] dining room, which feeds
children from marginalized areas of Cabo San Lucas every day. This effort is joined by the hotel staff for special celebrations and allows guests to make contributions through the “Travelers with a Cause” program.
With this action, Paradisus Los Cabos was ranked first as “Hotel with Best Sustainable Practices” in 2019.
The all-inclusive operation and the luxurious aesthetics of each space
at Paradisus Los Cabos are far from being the only attractions the hotel offers.
The hotel takes actions to protect endemic fauna through the “Welcome to Life” program, designed to protect whales, least terns, and different species of marine turtles.
With these practices, Paradisus Los Cabos has earned awards such as the first place for the “Best Wildlife Program” by the Latin America Green Awards, and the third place
in Los Cabos as “ECO-Resort”, from Travel Booking, Expedia and TripAdvisor travel websites.
Being part of a global giant as a player in the hotel sector such as Meliá Hotels International provides Paradisus Los Cabos with infrastructure support in every aspect, from marketing, brand positioning, training and compliance with high standards, among others.
“Paradisus Los Cabos is a key player for the company to continue growing in the Luxury segment and in the U.S. market, which is our main business issuer for Los Cabos,” concluded Jaime Piedra Martínez, General Manager of Paradisus Los Cabos.
An
“all inclusive”
for all tastes, close to the most important attractions of natural beauty Costa Rica has to offer
Produced by Jassen Pintado
Translated
by
Flávia Brancato
Interviewee
Eidel Ramos, General Manager of Fiesta Resort & Club Vacacional
Costa Rica’s forests, beaches and other natural areas are outstanding attractions able to bring swarms of tourists, a reason why this Central American country boasts a highly competitive hotel industry. Among a wide range of accommodation offers, Fiesta Resort & Club Vacacional stands out. The property has been managed by the Enjoy Group since 2018, a company specialized in the hotel and restaurant sector.
In more than thirty years, Fiesta Resort has been an excellent host in the “all inclusive” mode for the family, couple, corporate and social event segments, as well as for trips with friends. Guests are distributed in three main areas: Premium, Family Suite and the Vacation Club area.
Fiesta Resort is recognized as a
Five Star hotel by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT); it’s also ranked in the Elite Level, the highest category for Sustainable Tourism Certification. In 2020, it found its way into the top 5 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice “Best of the Best” list in the Central America’s Family Hotels category. For the last 15 years, it has been nominated as the “Best all-inclusive hotel” in Mexico and Central America, and in 2021 Fiesta Resort received new nominations to the “Best family hotel” and “Best resort in Costa Rica” categories at the World Travel Awards. In addition to these accolades and certifications, the hotel earned the Escudo Puntarenas Saludable (Healthy Puntarenas Emblem), a local certification from the Puntarenas Chamber of Tourism, and the ICT “Safe Travels” seal, awarded in 2020 for its excellent security protocols.
“ My professional career took the path of the hospitality industry and I felt happy and completely fulfilled when I had this opportunity”
- Eidel Ramos,
General Manager of Fiesta Resort & Club Vacacional
The Enjoy Group is a leading Costa Rican company standing out for the development and management of hotels and other properties focused on restaurants and tourism in Costa Rica and Central America.
The company, led by its founder and president Rubén A. Pacheco Lutz and Javier Pacheco Albónico,
executive president, keeps excellence standards in every property the group operates, and obviously Fiesta Resort is no exception. The Enjoy Group undertakes an ambitious investment project to refurbish hotel facilities to keep them in tune with the guests’ taste.
“In addition to the many investments made in the last two years, we will soon be working on approved projects that will be highly appreciated by our visitors,” said Eidel Ramos, General Manager of Fiesta Resort.
Eidel Ramos is an experienced hotel manager who has worked for almost two decades in renowned chains in the sector, such as Meliá Hotels International, in destinations such as Jardines del Rey (Cuba), Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos (both
in Mexico). Since September 2019, Ramos has been in charge of the Fiesta Resort operation in Costa Rica; he’s also a member of the Board of Directors of the Puntarenas Chamber of Tourism.
Ramos’ training as a hotel manager led him to obtain a Master’s degree in Tourism Management from the University of Matanzas (Cuba) and Hotel Management Certification from Cornell University (USA); previously, he had studied Computer Engineering.
“Due to life circumstances, my professional career took the path of the hospitality industry and I felt happy and completely fulfilled when I had this opportunity,” said the executive.
Fiesta Resort is located on a wide stretch of beach in the central part of the country, on the Pacific coast, in
the Gulf of Nicoya, approximately an hour and a half drive from the capital San José. The area provides extensive contact with nature and offers excursions to attractive destinations such as the Tortuga Island, Carara, Manuel Antonio and Monteverde natural parks, as well as the Central Valley.
The hotel itself offers a dreamlike setting decorated by vegetation with a captivating aesthetic and species from the local flora and fauna.
Aquatic entertainment is spread out in three large swimming pools and a small one set in a relaxing atmosphere. Fiesta Resort also offers tennis courts, a gym and other
sports activities, also on the beach. Youngsters will find educational and fun activities in spaces such as Kids Club and Teen Zone.
Fiesta Resort offers special areas to hold different kinds of social events, including four halls, conditioned to host corporate meetings, seminars, and other celebrations.
For those interested in wellness, Heliconia Spa offers a unique environment to provide body treatments in palapas equipped for this purpose.
The amazing sunsets over the Pacific Ocean at Fiesta Resort are just the prelude to nights with astounding artistic shows.
Fiesta Resort offers multiple options in terms of food and refreshing drinks.
Macarela, Macondo and the Fuego grill offer a variety of dishes from Latin American cuisine and fine meat cuts to be enjoyed in the unique setting of the hotel’s beautiful surroundings. Fiesta Resort also offers the Calypso and El Pelícano Snack Bar buffets.
Refreshing drinks can be enjoyed in different environments; noteworthy are the El Malecón and El Pargo wet bars, which are aligned with the concept of offering a unique environment and a very appealing variety, since El Mástil, the Fruit Bar and Sunset offer a wide array of national, international and topclass mixology spirits in very pleasant environments.
The Enjoy Group created the Club Vacacional Fiesta Resort program with frequent customers in mind, so that they can enjoy Fiesta Resort with their whole family.
Among the perks this program offers, clients are allowed to choose between four possible seasons of
the year, which are classified as the Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver tiers.
“This program was created to offer options to our most loyal clients, whose frequent visits had to be rewarded with privileges, including an option of guaranteed benefits for their vacations,” added Ramos.
The main purpose of adopting cutting-edge technology at Fiesta Resort is to further improve and ease customer experience, from getting to know the hotel and book online to intelligent processes supported by QR code to obtain information on specific services.
The administrative, backoffice
and operation areas have extensive technological support, which is subject to continuous improvement processes in the supply of air conditioning, electricity, lighting in rooms and common areas, among other aspects.
“Innovation is part of our company’s DNA of and we are always in search for and implementing improvements,” said the executive.
It is known that one of the most affected industries during the COVID-19 pandemic was undoubtedly the hospitality industry. Fiesta Resort and all the hotels in Costa Rica reached “zero occupancy” levels. The company made efforts to affect its employees as little as possible and, on the contrary, to provide the “Fiesta
Family” with the necessary help in that time, not only in economic matters, but also regarding their health.
Fiesta Resort was the first hotel in its kind to resume operations, once restrictions were eased, and it has remained as the leader in occupancy rates nationwide. The “Fun with Caution” program was implemented, which includes processes and
“Innovation is part of our company’s DNA and we are always in search for and implementing improvements”
- Eidel Ramos, General Manager of
Fiesta Resort & Club Vacacional
procedures designed to create a safe environment for visitors, hotel employees and suppliers.
In addition, the “Health Heroes” campaign was created to reward healthcare professionals in Costa Rica, offering so far more than 100 free stays at the Fiesta Resort.
“We are confident to say that our guests can safely enjoy their stay,” said Ramos.
The staff that operates Fiesta Resort is called the Fiesta Family,
and they are considered as hosts. This workforce is made up of 550 employees, of which approximately half are women, thus promoting gender equality.
Another noteworthy aspect of the Fiesta Resort staff is its permanence.
Considering the high turnover rates in the industry, 75% of hotel employees have worked at Fiesta for more than two uninterrupted years and 30% of them have been more than ten years with the company, which is one of the most important employment sources in the area.
“HUMAN” is an acronym formed by the Spanish words - and conceptsHuella, Unión, Movimiento, Altruismo and Nobleza (respectively, Footprint, Union, Movement, Altruism and Nobility) that represents the efforts made by Fiesta Resort in terms of sustainability and social responsibility.
All the activities and initiatives adopted by the company contributing to its community are organized, integrated and carried out under the “HUMAN” program, including donations, activities for children, beach cleaning events, community work, tree planting campaigns, training and health campaigns, among other actions.
“We feel represented in each contribution made, or in any of the many activities we carry out for the common good,” concluded Eidel Ramos, General Manager of Fiesta Resort All Inclusive.
Properties managed by TAFER Hotel & Resorts take care of every detail, particularly aesthetics and excellent service, offering ideal options in the most attractive destinations in Mexico
Written
by
Mateo Rafael Tablado
Produced
by
Jassen Pintado
Interviewee Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts
he TAFER Hotels & Resorts chain, shareholder of The Villa Group, operates seven mixeduse properties in Mexico for hospitality, residential use and vacation club, with presence in Cancun, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.
Almost four decades of operations serving the tourism sector are the result of a group of professionals with experience in the hospitality industry who developed the best management process and strategies for these properties.
The properties operated by TAFER earned accolades such as the “Four Diamonds” and “Five Diamonds”, granted by the AAA (American Automobile Association); distinctions from the Preferred Hotels & Resorts online catalog (including in the L.V.X. category), the Conde Nast Johansen
awards (2015 and 2016), the “Traveler’s Choice 2020 and 2021” award, from Tripadvisor; Crown of Gold and Excellence, by the timeshare company RCI and among the best tourism centers in the U.S. News in 2021, among others.
“Our purpose is to create iconic hotels and vacation experiences that remain in our guests’ memories of a lifetime,” said Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer of TAFER Hotels & Resorts.
Experience in success stories
Milojevic earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration with specialization in Hospitality from the Braca Karic University, in Belgrade, Serbia.
He’s had successful experiences over 25 years in hotel chains such as Allegro, Buenaventura and Karisma (where he
reached the position of executive officer) mainly in Mexico, the Caribbean and other countries in Latin America, Europe, in addition to Southeast Asia.
Milojevic’s management of each company has been distinguished by conducting operations achieving excellence while supervising multiple locations, increasing revenue and guest satisfaction. He has also developed
strategies that have led multiple properties under his management to achieve recognition from specialized and globally famous entities.
Among the most important awards he has received individually, the Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 award, by the Latin American Quality Institute, stands out.
At TAFER Hotels & Resorts, the concept of QUALITY is more than just a strategy;
it is part of our philosophy and our vision
-
Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts
“At TAFER Hotels & Resorts, the concept of QUALITY is more than just a strategy; it is part of our philosophy and our vision”, explained the executive.
Properties in operation sharing a clear focus
The brands and properties that TAFER Hotel & Resorts currently manages in Mexico are:
• Garza Blanca: in Cancun, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta
• Hotel Mousai: in Puerto Vallarta
• Villa del Palmar: in Cancun
• Sierra Lago: in Mascota, Jalisco, two hours from Puerto Vallarta
• Sian Ka’an Village: in Quintana Roo
This list is intended to grow with upcoming tourism developments and goals such as optimizing customer
service aligned with marketing strategies to implement new technology in each business segment, both for the guest and for administrative and operational matters.
Resources and strategies
From a guest’s perspective, each of the properties operated by TAFER Hotels & Resorts display a complete concept of the brand across unique, captivating environments, capable of conveying - in common areas, restaurants and in the privacy of each room - the intention of all attributes, making any stay a pleasant one.
Beyond the appeal of finding out and experiencing what each of these properties have to offer, taking an operation like TAFER Hotels & Resorts to high standards in hospitality and keeping it at this point involves strategies such as a tactical and full
The flagship programs at each TAFER property allow guests to find impeccable appearance in every detail
distribution, trend marketing, a highly efficient operational management of luxury properties, innovative management of the Vacation and Residential Club, and the iconic design of new concepts. It also includes offering comprehensive travel agency services in each destination.
An outstanding aspect in management is the physical
maintenance of each property through CAPEX (investment in capital goods), preventive maintenance and the flagship programs “Perfect Room” and “Perfect Plate”, among others, which guarantee the quality and condition of the properties to always offer the best image and comfort, along a customized service that creates added value for the guests’ and partners’ experience.
Staff training is a priority to keep the same service and attention in all the chain’s hotels
Surpassing the pandemic
Regardless of the consequences of the global emergency caused by COVID19, TAFER Hotels & Resorts has always prioritized hygiene as a brand, adapting the best practices in the sector.
During 2020, the company was able to contain income loss, maintaining a positive EBITDA of 33% thanks to
timely decisions and diversification through the product mix.
Over 100 new protocols have been implemented to ensure and guarantee the well-being of guests and collaborators. Regarding properties, state-of-the-art technology was used to install new air purification systems, UV disinfectants, and digital solutions to avoid, as much as possible, contact
Updated Health and Sanitization Protocols at Tafer Hotels & Resorts
The pandemic has helped us reorganize our company; it has made us stronger and more efficient to face challenges
- Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts
-
Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts
with paper, also innovating with new rules for disinfection of bags, suitcases, room service and minibar, among others.
In terms of personnel, it has been possible to keep most of the employees on the payroll, aiming to keep providing the exceptional service earning recognition for TAFER Hotels & Resorts.
“Guests come to relax and escape the stresses of everyday life, reason why we have to provide them with peace of mind in terms of cleanliness and hygiene standards,” said Milojevic.
staff in each property
Among the most important investments for TAFER Hotel & Resorts, staff training is noteworthy as is the approval and standardization of services and processes guaranteeing excellence in each property.
The Company’s employees have
access to development plans, continuous training, online university programs, English lessons (also for their families), access to the “Young People Building the Future” program (along with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare), counseling, access to yoga and meditation programs, shared experiences with managers for feedback, family events and competitive salaries, among other incentives that have reduced staff turnover.
Purposes and actions aligned with sustainability
At TAFER Hotels & Resorts, each operational and administrative department is aligned with the chain’s policies for reduction of environmental impact, respect for human rights and risk management, maintaining
Guests come to relax and escape the stresses of everyday life, reason why we have to provide them with peace of mind in terms of cleanliness and hygiene standards
- Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts
safe operations and conditions for staff and guests.
These efforts are combined with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
An encouraging future and forecasted growth
The forecasts for TAFER Hotels & Resorts are encouraging: a reactivation
in tourism is expected for the second half of 2021, with additional improvement in 2022.
During these periods, the completion of the Garza Blanca Cancun hotel, with 453 suites is expected, as well as doubling the space at Hotel Mousai Puerto Vallarta with the opening of the South Tower to reach 145 suites; the opening of Villa La Valencia (Los
TAFER plans to continue growing in the main destinations: Los Cabos, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta
FOUNDED:
Cabos) with 308 suites is planned, and the construction of a luxury real estate project in the southern part of Puerto Vallarta will begin: Lemuria Residencies, designed to be an immersive wellness project, scheduled for 2023.
INDUSTRY:
www.taferresorts.com
On a large scale, forecasted growth is to more than double the current stock of rooms in five years, from 3,132 keys to almost 8,000 in important tourism destinations such as Los Cabos, Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit.
“The pandemic has helped us reorganize our company and complete the standardization of operational and administrative procedures, it has made us stronger and more efficient to face the challenges of the present and the future, as well as any crisis situation,” concluded Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer of TAFER Hotels & Resorts.
