Magazine | World Destinations | BBR - 2021

2021 | www.thebostonbr.com

Excellence and luxury as standards in Mexico’s top destinations

Special Edition

Meliá’s flagship in the luxury all-inclusive segment

A dreamy environment in Costa Rica

10 World Destinations Unique charm at its South Beach and Central Park properties

10 Tourist Attractions in Latin America Iceland

WHO WE ARE Managing Director

Social Media Director

Jassen Pintado

Maria Elena Gastelum

Creative Director

Content Coordinator

Omar Rodríguez

Alicia Barrantes

Editor in Chief

Project Directors

Rafael Tablado

Ana Macfarland David Alarcon

Finance Director

Giuseppe Modenesi

Christina Schoch

Lucy Verde Marcelo Modenesi

EDITOR’S LETTER: Special Edition | World Destinations | 2021

Summer’s here in the Northern

Mexico’s top tourist destinations, displaying

Hemisphere and there’s nothing on our

excellent service and a luxury ambiance

minds rather than shed the routine for a

as a concept. Meanwhile, Meliá Hotels

while and head somewhere nice to kick back

International thrusts Paradisus Los Cabos as

and relax. Some restrictions seem to be

its flagship resort for the luxury all-inclusive

back at some places and others are there

segment.

just to keep us in check during the ongoing pandemic, though.

In this issue, we have two of the most

Further south in Costa Rica, the Enjoy Group has a jewel in Central America called Fiesta Resort All Inclusive, ideal setting for

iconic properties run by the 1 Hotels brand.

multiple purposes, be it family vacations,

Both the South Beach and Central Park

couple getaway, social event and even as a

facilities have unique appeal with details

corporate retreat.

bringing unity to them as a brand with a purpose.

Across the Southern border, TAFER

Also, don’t miss our features about a few of the destinations that do more than just grab our attention and curiosity...

Hotels & Resorts boast unique properties in

Mateo Rafael Tablado, Editor in Chief at The Boston Business Review Email: rafael.tablado@thebostonbr.com

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TEN

WORLD DESTINATIONS

06.

All inclusive luxury and nature

82.

A blend of comfort and nature

28.

Idyllic environment for a vacation

94.

A warm atmosphere enclosed in the big city

44.

TEN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS 60.

Ambition for excellence in accommodations

110.

in Latin America

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Special Edition

Ten

WORLD DESTINATIONS Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado

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World Destinations

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...

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Special Edition

BALI INDONESIA

One of the jewels of the Malaysia archipelago is a feast of natural attractions as well as of man-made

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Sanctuary, in Ubud, and Nusa Dua beach, among other sites.

Malaysian temples not only hold

beauty. Besides amazing sunsets, the

a beauty unto itselves, but some of

island offers marvels such as Mount

them are to be found among dreamy

Batur, site for astonishing sights at

landscapes, such as Ulun Danu Bratan,

dawn, the Sacred Monkey Forest

Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temples.

World Destinations

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Special Edition

CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA

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World Destinations

The African version of the Southern

with museums such as Zeitz, for

Hemisphere offers white sand

contemporary arts, the eleven Iziko

beaches, vineyards, natural attractions

museums and the Heart of Cape Town

as well as museums and other iconic

museums.

places in the country’s history.

Neighborhoods such as District Six

Natural attractions nearby include the mountain and sea views when

and Bo-Kaap are perfect examples

riding the Chapman’s Peak route,

of the city’s history and cultural

Kirstenbosch Gardens, Table Mountain,

diversity; exhibits are not far behind,

and Clifton and Camp Bay beaches.

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Special Edition

DUBAI UAE

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World Destinations

Modern architecture, all-around sophistication, skyscrapers, artificial islands and lagoons... Shopping malls

host to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.

There are also museums and a taste

boasting not only fashion’s trendiest

of old Dubai, with traditional mosques

brands but also giang aquariums

and other Arab constructions, as well

and indoor ski resorts... Because just

as rides on Dubai’s water stream. This

creating an oasis in the middle of the

city is more than a mix of past and

desert is not enough when oil can build

present, but also a blend of tradition

a solid, tangible mirage. Dubai is also

with modernity and luxury.

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Special Edition

IBIZA SPAIN

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World Destinations

We’re talking about the queen of

such as Sa Caleta and Necropolis

the Balearic Islands and one of the

also share the island’s history from

Mediterranean’s and Europe’s referents

ancient times.

in nightlife and resorts. If that wasn’t

Ibiza’s nightlife has been a show in

enough, the small island (about 220

itself for decades and offers different

sq. miles, eighth largest of the Spanish

options. It depends upon each visitor

islands) also offers water rides across

if once out of the island this results in

crystal-clear waters and scuba diving.

a hangover of biblical proportions or

Beautiful sights are a norm, and places

memories for a lifetime.

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Special Edition

ICELAND

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World Destinations

This European island nation hosts

witnessed from most cities, though

astonishing nature phenomena

being in the middle of nature as it

bordering on the magical and beyond

happens brings something special to it.

unique. From whale-watching in

Any touring may begin from a

Reykjavik, the country’s capital, to

geothermal water spa 40 minutes from

geysers, vulcans in the middle of snow

Reykjavik all over the country into

and the thrilling show of the Northern

natural parks to experience unique

Lights (aurora borealis) which can be

atmospheres full of ice and snow.

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Special Edition

MIAMI USA

There’s more to Miami and its surroundings than year-round fair

tours and visiting in-town attractions,

weather and sunny beaches. It’s also

Miami’s vicinities also offer singular

a great place to go shopping and its

attractions such as visit the everglades

vivid nightlife is simply unique.

and amusement parks in Florida.

Once past South Beach and other

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sports and rides. Besides the city

If you need an ideal place to stay,

beautiful spots and into the water,

there’s no better than 1 Hotel South

Biscayne Bay offers the best water

Beach.

World Destinations

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Special Edition

NEW YORK USA

Is it necessary to remind everyone about this city’s grandeur in so many

such as the NYSE, in Wall Street. And

aspects? From arrival -by land, air or

most of those visiting this city

sea- its skyline is simply breathtaking.

for the first time will identify a place

Now, having this same city host iconic constructions such as the Empire State building, the Statue of Liberty and a

or two they’ve already seen in movies and TV shows.

When visiting, why not begin

place like Central Park is something

by staying a block from Central Park,

widely known. But then just add it’s

1 Hotel.

also the world’s capital for musicals and

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theater, and home of a business center

World Destinations

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Special Edition

PARIS FRANCE

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World Destinations

The former Lutetia keeps being, maybe, the most beautiful city in the world. Its buildings have breathed

Seine River, or, better yet, a boat ride in it?

Montmartre, Pigalle, Clignancourt...

history across centuries past to blend

Tired of this lifetime? Even the

with modernity and avant-garde style

dead have something to offer when

in the Parisien grace, producing a

strolling along the Pere Lachaise

unique feeling. Museums? The Louvre

and Montparnasse cemeteries, full

is a few days’ worth of touring just to

of artists’, writers’, musicians’ and

complete a decent view of all it has

intellectuals’ mausoleums.

to offer; D’Orsay and the Pompidou

May you grow tired of a city

Center also host classic masterworks

unlike any other, there’s always

across time. Is the Eiffel Tower either

a ride to Versailles, just a few

impressive or simply beautiful? Is there

minutes away by train.

anything else like a walk along the

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Special Edition

ROME ITALY

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World Destinations

Probably considered one of Western Civilization’s starting points. There’s a bit of history mostly everywhere around

Monti. The Pantheon and the Vatican are also a reference to the city.

New attractions honoring modern

Rome’s central area, with sites such

aspects of Italian culture have opened

as the Coliseum and its surroundings

in recent years, as is the case with

-including Circus Maximus and

Cinecittà World, honoring Europe’s

the Forum- standing out. The Trevi

largest film studios, those who created

Fountain is also a must-see as are the

an identity for Italian cinema.

Spanish Steps leading to Trinitá dei

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Special Edition

SYDNEY AUSTRALIA

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World Destinations

New South Wales’ state capital is one of Australia’s most important

different kinds of boats.

Sydney also offers the kind of

cities. It’s not only the country’s oldest

attractions you may find in most

city, but it’s also considered the

cities, such as museums -like the

most beautiful. Sydney’s immediate

ones sharing the country’s and its

reference is its Opera House, whose

ethnic group’s history- and also offers

surroundings can be explored in

beautiful beaches.

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comfort & nature

A blend of

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

Produced by Jassen Pintado

Interviewee Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach

F

1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

an environmentally-friendly atmosphere becomes the perfect setting for an ultimate vacation experience in Miami.

1 Hotel South Beach also earned the or decades, Miami

LEED Silver certification under the

has been an attractive destination both

New Construction standards, which is

for leisure and business, and seems

also the starting point for the hotel’s

to remain this way, as its fair weather

maintenance and operations.

and sunny beaches provide a warm welcome to visitors.

The driftwood furnishings, a 600 feet long beach and the sound of the ocean

The SH Hotel & Resorts management bring a very special connection to the

company (affiliate of the Starwood Capital Group) opened 1 Hotel South

“Guests continue to choose the

Beach in March 2015, which became

hotel because our team provides

the flagship of the 1 Hotels brand.

an unprecedented level of service

From 1 Hotel South Beach, guests

matched with understated luxury.

experience astonishing views of the

The hotel celebrates nature and

Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay and the

sustainability,” Xavier Moulin

skyline at Downtown Miami.

commented.

The 425-room facility built on an

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area’s natural habitat

Xavier Moulin is the general

entire bock on Collins Avenue was

manager for 1 Hotel South Beach.

awarded #1 in Conde Nast Traveler’s

He’s gathered more than 25 years of

top 10 Hotels in Miami, and it’s not

successful experience after graduating

hard to find out about the attributes

in International Hospitality Management

contributing to earning such an

from the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne

accolade for 1 Hotel South Beach,

(Switzerland). Previous experience

whose blend of nature and comfort in

for SH Hotels & Resorts after joining

1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

At 1 Hotels, we consider ourselves a family of like-minded individuals -Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach

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1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

the company include his tenure as

through the Bahamas, the Dominican

Managing Director of the 1 Hotel &

Republic, French Riviera, Germany,

Homes Cabo development (Cabo San

Switzerland and the United States

Lucas, Mexico) and also neighboring

in places such as The St. Regis (Los

sister property Hacienda Beach Club

Angeles), Raffles (Beverly Hills), Société

& Residences; his outstanding work

des Bains de Mer (Monte Carlo), in

for the 1 Homes Preview and the

AMAN Resorts, sbe properties, SLS

upcoming 1 Hotel Cabo received

hotels and Starwood Hotel & Resorts,

coverage in Travel+Leisure magazine

among others, earning awards from

and the Robb Report during 2019.

Conde Nast Traveler, Travel+Leisure

Moulin’s experience has also spread

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magazine; “Best Guest Experience

Hospitality

1 Hotel South Beach

Index”, “Top Regional Production” and

group. Room categories at 1 Hotel

“Best HR Practices” among Starwood

South Beach include rooms & suites,

Hotels and the “Outstanding GM

homes & penthouses and the Retreat

Leader” award by Hotel Management

Collection, which can be personalized

Magazine in November of 2013.

according to required services.

Aside from all the furnishings a high-

The kind of habitat that makes

end lodging facility is expected to

it hard to leave

meet in every room, the whole concept

1 Hotel South Beach offers different

bringing every accommodation

kinds of accommodation according

together is the blend of nature accents

to the number of guests in each

within a comfortable ambiance, where

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1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

you may come across wooden flooring

whether guests want to relax in the sea

and bookcases, rattan seats, hemp-

or pool, they can enjoy endless ocean

blend mattresses by Keetsa, oak

views from all,” the general manager

platforms and other elements bringing

pointed out.

an organic feel.

To enhance the beachfront’s appeal, 1 Hotel South Beach offers the Beach

Captivating surroundings While in Miami staying at 1 Hotel

Club exclusive memberships, allowing members to indulge all of the amenities

South Beach, guests must make

offered by the hotel. Younger guests

sure to take time to visit the many

4 to 10 years old can take part of the

attractions the city and its vicinity have

Seedlings program, which offers fun

to offer, since amenities at the hotel can and learning activities and shows. make it hard to leave after experiencing all that 1 Hotel has to offer.

Four swimming pools -including a

Enjoying more than a meal 1 Hotel South Beach offers

rooftop pool-, seven different food

seven different options for food and

& beverage outlets and a 18,000

beverages. WATR at the Rooftop offers

sq.ft. wellness center -host to the

full menu service while sharing unique

award-winning Bamford Wellness

sights with the pool; WATR has earned

Spa and Anatomy gym are some of

OpenTable Diner’s Choice Awards for

the building’s different places to enjoy

Best Sushi, Best Scenic View and Best

anyone’s stay. And the 600 feet long

Late Night Find. Habitat, on its behalf,

unsullied beachfront -which is also

serves Mexican dishes for breakfast

a serviced area- is enhanced by the

and dinner offering both indoor seating

Atlantic Ocean.

and an outdoor patio featuring live

“It’s the best natural amenity. We

music four nights a week. PInthouse

have four pools that face the ocean. So offers snacks and other healthy options

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1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

We created a food & beverage program while staying true

to the 1 Hotel brand standards - Xavier Moulin, General Manager for 1 Hotel South Beach

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1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

in a plant-decorated terrace, while

Timely resolutions to surpass

Neighbors also offers ready-to-go

COVID-19

healthy dishes. Drift serves the best

Beyond local ordinance to close

cocktails surrounded occasionally by

facilities at the beginning of the

live music. And Wave at 1 Beach Club

quarantine as consequence of the

offers a an outdoor sea-to-table dining

global pandemic, the 1 Hotel South

experience.

Beach ramped up a strategy that began

The main trait shared by all of these

with the creation of the Director of

options is offering fresh, seasonal, local Environmental Health & Safety position, ingredients in every dish.

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which implemented different measures

Hospitality

1 Hotel South Beach

once hotels were allowed to reopen on

stations and proper signage has been

June 1st, 2020:

placed for social distancing and other

• Hotel personnel have been involved measures. in regular COVID-19 testing and new

• Elevators are being sanitized and

health and safety training sessions and

their capacity is limited and monitored.

screened for temperature as they begin

• In-room air filtration systems have

their shift.

• Property entrances are equipped with temperature scanners, public

been enhanced.

• Guests are encouraged to download the 1 Hotel App for

areas are equipped with hand sanitizing contactless communication.

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1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

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

toward sustainability, having earned the

of the first in the market to reopen

property the LEED Silver certification.

and welcome guests incorporating

The hotel’s construction took place

procedures to ensure both guests’

in a previously developed site with

and team members’ safety,”

a number of nearby attractions and

Moulin declared.

high interconnectivity with public transportation. The property features

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Transcendental purposes

vegetated wide open spaces and

beyond business goals

features several living plant walls.

As organic and nature accents

Electric vehicles have plenty of

along most of the hotel furnishings

charging stations at 1 Hotel South

and decorations display, there is an

Beach. Other elements, including

attitude encompassing the purpose of

energy-related systems reduce heat

1 Hotel South Beach, which is its aim

and energy consumption. Finishes such

1 Hotel South Beach

Hospitality

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1 Hotel South Beach

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Hospitality

Hospitality

1 Hotel South Beach

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.

Company culture 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.

Pipeline: enhancing the experience and new locations 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.

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1 Hotel South Beach

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Hospitality

Hospitality

“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

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A WARM ATMOSPHERE ENCLOSED

in the big city

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

N

t

Hospitality

1 Hotel Central Park

ew York is certainly one of the world’s top travel

destinations, hosting visitors

with different purposes, mainly

business and leisure; when traveling

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

with the latter in mind, the different

creator, knew this location had to

areas in town host attractions for a

capture the essence of Central Park

variety of tastes, but few as iconic as

and still blend with some downtown

Central Park, featured in films, TV, host

vibe to it.

to musical events and host also to New

“This hotel truly is nature-inspired

Yorkers and visitors who like this place

and you feel that calmness throughout

to take a walk, exercise, to have some

the entire building. There is no hotel

kind of contact with nature, or simply to

like us in Manhattan,” declared Bernd

lay down in the grass.

Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel

It is clear to see why Central Park

Central Park.

became the second location and the first property in New York City for 1 Hotels -the SH Hotels and Resorts

completed his education in hospitality.

brand-, which opened in August 2015.

His work for Langham Hotels took him

1 Hotel Central Park is located at

to Toronto (Canada), London (UK) and

the corner of 58th Street and Sixth

Valencia (Spain), where he opened his

Avenue, just a block south from Central

own restaurant.

Park, in an 18-story building, offering

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Pichler was born in Austria, where he

Afterwards, Pichler joined Fairmont

Hospitality

1 Hotel Central Park

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

Hotels & Resorts, working in Abu Dhabi

college programs in Canada, Spain, and

(UAE - United Arab Emirates) and

finally obtaining his Asset Management

different hotels across the USA.

certification at Cornell University.

Pichler also worked at the Ritz-

In Bernd Pichler being the general

Carlton Lake Tahoe before becoming

manager for its Central Park operation,

part of the SH Hotels & Resort by

1 Hotels counts with a highly-skilled

joining 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in early

individual that shares company

2019. Pichler has combined work and

values such as a passion for nature,

continuing education having attended

sustainability and a healthy lifestyle.

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

“Either I found SH or SH found me,

indoors and outdoors. Central Park is

but no day feels like work if you love

just a few steps away to bring that sense

what you do, and at 1 Hotel Central Park

of being in the middle of nature with its

we do just that,”

unique scenery.

said the executive.

This same lush feel translates into the hotel, as its whole concept is inspired

A NATURAL REFUGE IN THE MIDDLE OF MANHATTAN Amidst all the concrete and the shadow of skyscrapers, 1 Hotel Central Park offers astounding surroundings

48

by its surroundings, welcoming guests with a three-story exterior living green wall, and furnished with reclaimed, repurposed and recycled materials such

Hospitality

1 Hotel Central Park

as fallen twigs as ornament and wood

that are ideal for business meetings and

from New York City water towers.

social events, boasting floor to ceiling

The “Field House” is a very complete fitness center, open 24 hours and it’s

windows and views of Central Park.

Award winning Chef Johnathan

furnished with the best equipment for

Waxman brings his farm-to-fork cooking

exercise and yoga, and counts with

to Jams Restaurant and Bar. Executed

expert coaches and trainers for personal

by Executive Chef Ginger Pierce, these

sessions.

seasonal menus are offered through

Among other amenities, the hotel offers nature infused, flexible spaces

in-room dining and also as customized menus for meetings and events.

Cent ra l Pa r k i s not fa r not on ly i n d i stance, but al so in concept

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1 Hotel Central Park

Nature accents are a presence i n eve r y accommodation

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Hospitality

Hospitality

1 Hotel Central Park

FOOD & BEVERAGE 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

guests and our neighbors are aware and involved,” said Pichler.

THE OPPORTUNITY OF REOPENING 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

bar also from Waxman, showcasing

in each location is a priority. 1 Hotel

market-fresh, organic ingredients. Once

Central Park was one of the first

reopening after the pandemic shutdown, midtown hotels to reopen last fall, Jams is offering exciting new dishes and doing the best to bring back to work a patio on 6th Avenue.

as many team members as possible.

Last October, 1 Hotel Central Park

After weekend travel returned to the

opened Jams Café, a new concept for

“Big Apple”, weekday lodging is also

guests and locals to enjoy. Executive

increasing, which means more team

Chef Ginger Pierce created a Jar Return

members are being called back to work

Program, reducing waste en route to a

at the hotel.

reusable, zero waste carry out system with rewards for guests.

“It is important that we continue to

“Guests are consistently commenting on how warm and genuine our team members are: like-minded individuals,

evolve our footprint and celebrate ‘day

passionate about the same core values,

life’ in the community and make sure

sharing them with our guests and

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

among ourselves,” the general

Additionally, SH Hotels & Resorts

manager commented.

properties are among the first hotels in the world to become Sharecare

SHARECARE HEALTH SECURITY VERIFIED® WITH FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE

Health Security VERIFIED® with Forbes Travel Guide, a comprehensive facility

Commitment to its personnel’s health

verification ensuring guests to book with

and safety has taken 1 Hotel Central

confidence of places with the proper

Park, as every other brand’s properties,

health and safety procedures.

to create the Director of Environmental

“We are also looking forward to

Health & Safety role, in charge of the

welcoming back our loyal and new

implementation and surveillance of new

guests that were not able to travel this

procedures and safety protocols.

past year,” added Pichler.

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

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

1 Hotel Central Pa r k of fe r s fu r nishings fo r any k ind of meeting

THE DRIVE TOWARD SUSTAINABILITY The 1 Hotel brand bases all design, construction and operation in five

At 1 Hotel Central Park, an intelligent guest room energy management system

pillars: environmental impact, advocacy,

with motion and infrared sensors was

education and engagement, health

installed. This system allows HVAC

and wellbeing, and food and beverage

systems to go into “set back” mode

responsibility. And in 2020, 1 Hotels

based on area occupancy.

directed efforts to increase sustainability

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and reduce energy consumption.

This system is fully integrated into

1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

Pr ivate events i n a unique set ting a re possible at 1 Hotel Cent ra l Pa r k

the front desk property management

offset the climate impact of their stay

system, allowing the HVAC system

by donating their reward dollars toward

to go into an energy savings mode

carbon offset projects.

depending on the sold/unsold status of rooms.

Also, 1 Hotels just announced.

And besides the multiple options for public transportation New York City has to offer, 1 Hotel Central Park has an

MISSION by SH™: a cause-driven

Audi e-tron electric vehicle available for

rewards program that allows guests to

guests to use within a 15-block radius.

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

We are constantly updating and improving our efforts to drive our mission of sustainability forward - Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park

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1 Hotel Central Park

Hospitality

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1 Hotel Central Park

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.

COMING SOON...

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 Locally-sourced seasonal products are the backbone of t h e h ote l’s m e n u s

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to come back to New York City,” concluded Bernd Pichler, General Manager of 1 Hotel Central Park.

Hospitality

FOUNDED:

2015 INDUSTRIY:

HOSPITALITY LOCATION:

NEW YORK WEBPAGE: www.1hotels.com/central-park

Meals at Jams are also focused on concepts such as sustainabi l it y and the use of organic ing redients

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Edición especial

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 ...

TEN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS in Latin America

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Latin America Destinations

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

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Special edition

RIO CARNIVAL BRAZIL

62

Latin America Destinations

The sacred and the profane, “eros”

the symbiosis of the African-origin

and “thanatos” coexist in this festival

faith with ethnic theology, hosting an

which origins probably occurred during

average of two million participants,

the Middle Ages, and some date it

beyond samba schools and the dance

back to the Greeks, prior to being

‘blocks’ giving life to it.

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,

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Special edition

CARTAGENA COLOMBIA

64

Latin America Destinations

An excellent example where the

In addition to everything that

modern Latin America of skyscrapers

Cartagena offers in terms of aesthetics,

coexist with an environment of

the most unique attractions are the

the colonial era that preserves its

Totumo volcano, to immerse yourself in

aesthetics and its beautiful architecture

mud, and Playa Blanca, in the Rosario

of buildings adorned with tile roofs, in

Islands, to fully enjoy the Colombian

a city that has been walled since the

Caribbean.

Spanish conquest.

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Special edition

MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK COSTA RICA Costa Rica’s main attractions are its jungles and mountains, the natural

pandemic, tickets to the park should

habitat of countless species of flora

be purchased in advance. Manuel

and fauna unique in the world. Among

Antonio Park is huge and also

all the natural beauties that Costa Rica

offers horseback riding and even a

has to offer, Manuel Antonio Park also

revitalizing natural pool.

boasts Manuel Antonio beaches, as

Our option to design a starting point

well as Espadilla, to enjoy the Costa

on this side of Costa Rica and to enjoy

Rican Pacific coast.

this national park and other attractions

In addition to the protocols

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established after the COVID19

is Fiesta Resort All Inclusive.

Latin America Destinations

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Special edition

EASTER ISLAND CHILE

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.

68

Latin America Destinations

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Special edition

GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS ECUADOR

70

Latin America Destinations

These 22 islands and 107 islets are

marine biologists in view of the great

approximately 1,000 km from mainland

biodiversity of reptiles that inhabit this

Ecuador and make up a paradise in

area, including giant tortoises.

itself, inhabited by various species,

Four of these islands are inhabited,

including flora and fauna exclusive to

but there are still restrictions on the

this archipelago.

annual number of tourists who can

The larger and medium-sized

visit them.

Galápagos islands are a paradise for

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Special edition

TIKAL GUATEMALA

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Latin America Destinations

Believing that the best of the Mayan

There are little more than 200

civilization is found exclusively in

buildings that belonged to that era

Mexico is a mistake, since Tikal --

that are in conditions to be visited

located in the Petén Department,

by tourists. Tikal was the first World

Guatemala -- was one of the great

Heritage site, declared as such

Mayan urban centers along with

by UNESCO in 1979. Noteworthy

Calakmul, Chichén Itzá and Palenque,

buildings include the Great Jaguar, the

and historically it is considered the

Temple of the Masks, the Temple of the

capital of this civilization. Tikal was

Two-headed Serpent and the Temple

also the largest pre-Hispanic human

of the Inscriptions.

settlement in Guatemala.

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Special edition

LOS CABOS MEXICO

Among the many attractions in Mexico, the tourist corridor between

tranquility offered by the hotels

San José del Cabo and Cabo San

in the area.

Lucas provides a unique atmosphere

For a comfortable stay in Los Cabos,

where nature offers a unique mixture

we highly recommend staying and

of desert joined to the sea, while

enjoying the surroundings offered by

the entrepreneurs’ vision and hands

TAFER Resorts’ Garza Blanca, and

have created different attractions in

Paradisus, from renowned Spanish

this area: sport fishing, multiple golf

firm Meliá.

courses and a prime night scene

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with variety that join the peace and

Latin America Destinations

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Special edition

PANAMA CANAL PANAMA

This 82-kilometer-long engineering

In 2016, a recent extension to this

masterpiece connecting the Caribbean

work was opened. It has two different

with the Pacific Ocean is a great

areas for observation by tourists along

attraction considering its operation,

its route, as well as museums that offer

in which several locks are filled and

details of this great work.

emptied with water to ease ship transit.

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Latin America Destinations

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Special edition

MACHU PICCHU PERU

Although archaeological ruins are a kind of standard in many of the Latin American countries, Machu Picchu

nowadays.

Machu Picchu is located about

has the peculiarity of having been built

50 miles from the city of Cuzco; it

over more than 6,500 ft above sea

was discovered in 1911 and in 1983

level, in the Andes mountains, without

it was declared a World Heritage

resources such as the mortar, and

site by UNESCO.

obviously less yet the sophisticated

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construction machinery that we know

Latin America Destinations

PERU

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Special edition

PUNTA CANA DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

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Latin America Destinations

Costa del Coco’s jewel is a tourist

various water sports; and there is

paradise with more than 18 miles of

also the possibility of exploring its

beaches with crystal-clear waters.

surroundings in different ways, either

The hotel business along this coast is

by visiting nearby islands in boats that

highly competitive, so it is easy to find

offer diving, or renting off-road vehicles

excellent first-rate service.

to explore its surroundings.

Punta Cana is also a paradise for

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All inclusive

LUXURY AND NATURE

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.

Written by Mateo Rafael Tablado

Produced by Jassen Pintado

Translated by Flávia Brancato

Interviewee Jaime Piedras Martínez, General Manager for Paradisus Los Cabos

Paradisus Los Cabos

P

Hospitality

aradisus 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

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Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

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

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Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

the World select organization. It also holds certifications such as the “Stay

Paradisus Los Cabos has one of

Safe with Meliá”, a program endorsed

the few swimmable beaches in Los

by the Bureau Veritas; it’s also AAA-

Cabos, in addition to other attractions

certified (American Automobile

provided by nature.

Association), by the Cristal

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Choice, of the TripAdvisor website.

“We can watch whales from our

International Standards (now Intertek

rooms or having breakfast in one of

Cristal) for quality and hygiene; by

our restaurants,” said Jaime Piedras

Safe Travels, from the World Travel

Martínez, General Manager of

and Tourism Council; and by Traveler’s

Paradisus Los Cabos.

Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

GLOBAL EXPERIENCE IN CHARGE

Reserve, at Paradisus Palma Real,

OF THE OPERATION

in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Jaime Piedras Martínez has been

Piedras’ extensive experience spans

in charge of Paradisus Los Cabos

more than 20 years to destinations as

since April 2020. This is the second

remote as fascinating, such as Bali

time he has been appointed to lead

and Jakarta (Indonesia), China, Spain

this operation, which he ran between

and Puerto Rico.

2017 and mid-2018. Between these

Piedras graduated in Economics

two cycles, Piedras was in charge of

from the University of Malaga, in his

the opening of The Circle and Grand

native Spain, and didn’t just settle

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Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

Paradisus Los Cabos is a key player for the company to continue growing in the Luxury segment

- Jaime Piedra Martínez, General Manager of Paradisus Los Cabos

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Hospitality

Paradisus Los Cabos

for this, as he attended specialized

side or frontal views of the Sea

management courses in hospitality at

of Cortés.

Cornell University (New York, USA).

The entire hotel has been refurbished; attractions and

LOCATION AND AESTHETICS AS KEY ASPECTS Paradisus Los Cabos has an excellent location: ten minutes from downtown San José del Cabo, 25 minutes from Cabo San Lucas and half

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,

an hour from Los Cabos International

since the very first moment you know

Airport.

that you are in a hotel in Los Cabos”,

The landscape of the region is

said the general manager.

displayed at the outside of the hotel, whose gardens resemble the flora of

POST-PANDEMIC RECOVERY

Baja California Sur. The inside has

The global COVID19 pandemic

decoration and architectural details

had a terrible impact on the tourism

that make it unique.

sector and Paradisus Los Cabos was

The property has 350 rooms and

no exception. The hotel, like many

its horseshoe-shaped structure

other destinations, remained closed

provides an almost total view of the

from March to August 2020, when it

hotel from every point. Brightness and

was reopened.

minimalism come together in each room, and almost all of them provide

For the reopening, strict hygiene and safety protocols were implemented,

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Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

Mel iá Hotel s Inter national car r ied out a full refurbishment of the proper t y after the H u r r i c a n e O d i l e i n 2 0 14

thus caring for the health and well-

Los Cabos and its immediate

being of guests and staff. Since

community is nurtured by programs

then, the recovery of Los Cabos

based on three pillars:

has taken an enviable pace, getting close to 2019 numbers before other

• Commitment to the community’s

destinations.

children

“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.

COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT The relationship between Paradisus

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• 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

Hospitality

Paradisus Los Cabos

children from marginalized areas

at Paradisus Los Cabos are far from

of Cabo San Lucas every day. This

being the only attractions the hotel

effort is joined by the hotel staff for

offers.

special celebrations and allows guests

The hotel takes actions to protect

to make contributions through the

endemic fauna through the “Welcome

“Travelers with a Cause” program.

to Life” program, designed to protect

With this action, Paradisus Los Cabos was ranked first as “Hotel with Best Sustainable Practices” in 2019.

COMMUNION WITH NATURE AS AN ATTRACTION The all-inclusive operation and the luxurious aesthetics of each space

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

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Paradisus Los Cabos

Hospitality

FOUNDED: 1989 2016 AS PARADISUS LOS CABOS INDUSTRY: HOSPITALITY www.melia.com Jaime.Piedras@melia.com

92

Hospitality

in Los Cabos as “ECO-Resort”, from Travel Booking, Expedia and TripAdvisor travel websites.

THE MELIÁ SIGNATURE 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.

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Idyllic

environment for a vacation

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

Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

C

osta Rica’s forests,

Five Star hotel by the Costa Rican

beaches and other natural Tourism Institute (ICT); it’s also ranked areas are outstanding

in the Elite Level, the highest category

attractions able to

for Sustainable Tourism Certification.

bring swarms of tourists, a reason

In 2020, it found its way into the top 5

why this Central American country

TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice “Best of

boasts a highly competitive hotel

the Best” list in the Central America’s

industry. Among a wide range of

Family Hotels category. For the last 15

accommodation offers, Fiesta Resort

years, it has been nominated as the

& Club Vacacional stands out. The

“Best all-inclusive hotel” in Mexico and

property has been managed by

Central America, and in 2021 Fiesta

the Enjoy Group since 2018, a

Resort received new nominations

company specialized in the hotel

to the “Best family hotel” and “Best

and restaurant sector.

resort in Costa Rica” categories at the

In more than thirty years, Fiesta

World Travel Awards. In addition to

Resort has been an excellent host in

these accolades and certifications, the

the “all inclusive” mode for the family,

hotel earned the Escudo Puntarenas

couple, corporate and social event

Saludable (Healthy Puntarenas

segments, as well as for trips with

Emblem), a local certification from

friends. Guests are distributed in three

the Puntarenas Chamber of Tourism,

main areas: Premium, Family Suite and and the ICT “Safe Travels” seal, the Vacation Club area.

Fiesta Resort is recognized as a

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awarded in 2020 for its excellent security protocols.

Hospitality

“ 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

A PUSH FORWARD FROM THE ENJOY GROUP 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,

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Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

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Hospitality

Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

executive president, keeps excellence

in Mexico). Since September 2019,

standards in every property the group

Ramos has been in charge of the

operates, and obviously Fiesta Resort

Fiesta Resort operation in Costa Rica;

is no exception. The Enjoy Group

he’s also a member of the Board of

undertakes an ambitious investment

Directors of the Puntarenas Chamber

project to refurbish hotel facilities

of Tourism.

to keep them in tune with the guests’ taste.

Ramos’ training as a hotel manager led him to obtain a Master’s degree

“In addition to the many investments in Tourism Management from the made in the last two years, we will

University of Matanzas (Cuba) and

soon be working on approved projects

Hotel Management Certification from

that will be highly appreciated by our

Cornell University (USA); previously, he

visitors,” said Eidel Ramos, General

had studied Computer Engineering.

Manager of Fiesta Resort.

“Due to life circumstances, my professional career took the path of

EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP IN SEVERAL MARKETS Eidel Ramos is an experienced hotel manager who has worked for almost two decades in renowned

the hospitality industry and I felt happy and completely fulfilled when I had this opportunity,” said the executive.

Hotels International, in destinations

ATTRACTIVE ENVIRONMENT INDOORS AND OUTDOORS Fiesta Resort is located on a wide

such as Jardines del Rey (Cuba),

stretch of beach in the central part of

Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos (both

the country, on the Pacific coast, in

chains in the sector, such as Meliá

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99

Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

the Gulf of Nicoya, approximately an

The hotel itself offers a dreamlike

hour and a half drive from the capital

setting decorated by vegetation with a

San José. The area provides extensive

captivating aesthetic and species from

contact with nature and offers

the local flora and fauna.

excursions to attractive destinations

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Aquatic entertainment is spread

such as the Tortuga Island, Carara,

out in three large swimming pools

Manuel Antonio and Monteverde

and a small one set in a relaxing

natural parks, as well as the Central

atmosphere. Fiesta Resort also

Valley.

offers tennis courts, a gym and other

Hospitality

F ive s w i m m i ng poo l s fo r dif ferent pu r poses ... from fun to relaxation

sports activities, also on the beach.

For those interested in wellness,

Youngsters will find educational and

Heliconia Spa offers a unique

fun activities in spaces such as Kids

environment to provide body

Club and Teen Zone.

treatments in palapas equipped for

Fiesta Resort offers special areas to hold different kinds of social events,

this purpose.

The amazing sunsets over the

including four halls, conditioned to

Pacific Ocean at Fiesta Resort are just

host corporate meetings, seminars,

the prelude to nights with astounding

and other celebrations.

artistic shows.

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Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Refreshing drinks can be enjoyed in

Fiesta Resort offers multiple options

different environments; noteworthy are

in terms of food and refreshing drinks.

the El Malecón and El Pargo wet bars,

Macarela, Macondo and the Fuego

which are aligned with the concept of

grill offer a variety of dishes from Latin

offering a unique environment and a

American cuisine and fine meat cuts to very appealing variety, since El Mástil,

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be enjoyed in the unique setting of the

the Fruit Bar and Sunset offer a wide

hotel’s beautiful surroundings. Fiesta

array of national, international and top-

Resort also offers the Calypso and El

class mixology spirits in very pleasant

Pelícano Snack Bar buffets.

environments.

Hospitality

LOYALTY IS REWARDED AT THE CLUB VACACIONAL FIESTA RESORT The Enjoy Group created the Club Vacacional Fiesta Resort program with

the year, which are classified as the Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver tiers.

“This program was created to offer

frequent customers in mind, so that

options to our most loyal clients,

they can enjoy Fiesta Resort with their

whose frequent visits had to be

whole family.

rewarded with privileges, including an

Among the perks this program offers, clients are allowed to choose

option of guaranteed benefits for their vacations,” added Ramos.

between four possible seasons of

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Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

OPERATION OPTIMIZATION

and operation areas have extensive

The main purpose of adopting

technological support, which is subject

cutting-edge technology at Fiesta

to continuous improvement processes

Resort is to further improve and ease

in the supply of air conditioning,

customer experience, from getting

electricity, lighting in rooms and

to know the hotel and book online to

common areas, among other aspects.

intelligent processes supported by

“Innovation is part of our company’s

QR code to obtain information on

DNA of and we are always in search

specific services.

for and implementing improvements,”

The administrative, backoffice

said the executive.

F iesta Reso r t of fer s a va r iet y of menus and set tings fo r enjoyment of the Costa Rican gastronomy

104

Hospitality

OVERCOMING THE PANDEMIC

Family” with the necessary help in that

It is known that one of the most

time, not only in economic matters,

affected industries during the COVID-19 pandemic was undoubtedly

but also regarding their health.

Fiesta Resort was the first hotel in

the hospitality industry. Fiesta Resort

its kind to resume operations, once

and all the hotels in Costa Rica

restrictions were eased, and it has

reached “zero occupancy” levels. The

remained as the leader in occupancy

company made efforts to affect its

rates nationwide. The “Fun with

employees as little as possible and,

Caution” program was implemented,

on the contrary, to provide the “Fiesta

which includes processes and

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105

Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

“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

and they are considered as hosts.

safe environment for visitors, hotel

This workforce is made up of 550

employees and suppliers.

employees, of which approximately

In addition, the “Health Heroes” campaign was created to reward healthcare professionals in Costa Rica,

half are women, thus promoting gender equality.

Another noteworthy aspect of the

offering so far more than 100 free

Fiesta Resort staff is its permanence.

stays at the Fiesta Resort.

Considering the high turnover rates in

“We are confident to say that our

the industry, 75% of hotel employees

guests can safely enjoy their stay,”

have worked at Fiesta for more than

said Ramos.

two uninterrupted years and 30% of them have been more than ten years

THE FIESTA FAMILY The staff that operates Fiesta Resort is called the Fiesta Family,

106

with the company, which is one of the most important employment sources in the area.

Hospitality

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Fiesta Resort All Inclusive

- Lic. Delmy Romero, Gerente General de Santos Industria

INDUSTRY:

Hospitality RESERVATIONS: reservaciones@fiestaresort.com

CONTACT: +506 2664-9400 www.fiestaresort.com

The hotel of fer s educational and enter tainment spaces and activities fo r children and teenagers

108

Hospitality

THE “HUMAN” PROGRAM “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.

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excellence

Ambition for

in accommodations

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

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

he TAFER Hotels & Resorts chain, shareholder of The Villa

awards (2015 and 2016), the “Traveler’s Choice 2020 and 2021” award, from

Group, operates seven mixed- Tripadvisor; Crown of Gold and use properties in Mexico for hospitality, residential use and vacation club, with presence in Cancun, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta.

Almost four decades of operations

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

serving the tourism sector are the

of a lifetime,” said Sasa Milojevic,

result of a group of professionals

Chief Operating Officer of TAFER Hotels

with experience in the hospitality

& Resorts.

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

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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

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

reached the position of executive officer) strategies that have led multiple mainly in Mexico, the Caribbean and

properties under his management to

other countries in Latin America, Europe, achieve recognition from specialized and globally famous entities. 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

Among the most important awards he has received individually, the Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 award, by the Latin American Quality Institute, stands out.

satisfaction. He has also developed

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

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

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

“At TAFER Hotels & Resorts, the

Hospitality

service aligned with marketing

concept of QUALITY is more than just a

strategies to implement new technology

strategy; it is part of our philosophy and

in each business segment, both for

our vision”, explained the executive.

the guest and for administrative and operational matters.

Properties in operation sharing a clear focus The brands and properties that

Resources and strategies From a guest’s perspective, each

TAFER Hotel & Resorts currently

of the properties operated by TAFER

manages in Mexico are:

Hotels & Resorts display a complete concept of the brand across unique,

• Garza Blanca: in Cancun,

captivating environments, capable

Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta

of conveying - in common areas,

• Hotel Mousai: in Puerto Vallarta

restaurants and in the privacy of each

• Villa del Palmar: in Cancun

room - the intention of all attributes,

• Sierra Lago: in Mascota, Jalisco,

making any stay a pleasant one.

two hours from Puerto Vallarta

Beyond the appeal of finding out

• Sian Ka’an Village: in

and experiencing what each of these

Quintana Roo

properties have to offer, taking an operation like TAFER Hotels & Resorts

This list is intended to grow with

to high standards in hospitality and

upcoming tourism developments and

keeping it at this point involves

goals such as optimizing customer

strategies such as a tactical and full

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

T h e f l a g s h i p p ro g ra m s a t e a c h TA F E R p ro p e r t y a l l ow g u e s t s to f i nd i mpeccab l e appea rance i n eve r y deta i l

distribution, trend marketing, a highly

maintenance of each property through

efficient operational management

CAPEX (investment in capital goods),

of luxury properties, innovative

preventive maintenance and the

management of the Vacation and

flagship programs “Perfect Room” and

Residential Club, and the iconic design

“Perfect Plate”, among others, which

of new concepts. It also includes

guarantee the quality and condition of

offering comprehensive travel agency

the properties to always offer the best

services in each destination.

image and comfort, along a customized

An outstanding aspect in

service that creates added value for the

management is the physical

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guests’ and partners’ experience.

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

Staf f t ra i n i ng i s a p r i o r it y to keep the same se r vice a n d a t t e n t i o n i n a l l t h e c h a i n’s h ot e l s

Surpassing the pandemic Regardless of the consequences of the global emergency caused

timely decisions and diversification through the product mix.

Over 100 new protocols have

by COVID19, TAFER Hotels & Resorts

been implemented to ensure and

has always prioritized hygiene as

guarantee the well-being of guests

a brand, adapting the best practices

and collaborators. Regarding properties,

in the sector.

state-of-the-art technology was used

During 2020, the company was able

to install new air purification systems,

to contain income loss, maintaining

UV disinfectants, and digital solutions

a positive EBITDA of 33% thanks to

to avoid, as much as possible, contact

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

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

118

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

- Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer for TAFER Hotels & Resorts

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

120

Hospitality

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

with paper, also innovating with new rules

access to development plans,

for disinfection of bags, suitcases, room

continuous training, online university

service and minibar, among others.

programs, English lessons (also for

In terms of personnel, it has been

their families), access to the “Young

possible to keep most of the employees on People Building the Future” program the payroll, aiming to keep providing the

(along with the Ministry of Labor and

exceptional service earning recognition for

Social Welfare), counseling, access

TAFER Hotels & Resorts.

to yoga and meditation programs,

“Guests come to relax and escape

shared experiences with managers for

the stresses of everyday life, reason why

feedback, family events and competitive

we have to provide them with peace of

salaries, among other incentives that

mind in terms of cleanliness and hygiene

have reduced staff turnover.

standards,” said Milojevic.

Purposes and actions aligned Skilled staff in each property Among the most important investments

with sustainability At TAFER Hotels & Resorts, each

for TAFER Hotel & Resorts, staff training

operational and administrative

is noteworthy as is the approval and

department is aligned with the chain’s

standardization of services and processes

policies for reduction of environmental

guaranteeing excellence in each property.

impact, respect for human rights

The Company’s employees have

and risk management, maintaining

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121

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

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

in tourism is expected for the

for staff and guests.

second half of 2021, with additional

These efforts are combined with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

improvement in 2022.

During these periods, the completion of the Garza Blanca Cancun hotel, with 453 suites is expected, as well as

An encouraging future and

doubling the space at Hotel Mousai

forecasted growth

Puerto Vallarta with the opening of

The forecasts for TAFER Hotels & Resorts are encouraging: a reactivation

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the South Tower to reach 145 suites; the opening of Villa La Valencia (Los

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

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123

TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

TA F E R p l a n s to co nt i n u e growing in the main destinations: Los Cabos, Cancun and P u e r t o Va l l a r t a

1984

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TA F E R H o t e l s & R e s o r t s

Hospitality

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.

On a large scale, forecasted growth is to more than double the current stock FOUNDED:

1984

of rooms in five years, from 3,132 keys to almost 8,000 in important tourism destinations such as Los Cabos, Cancun

INDUSTRY:

Hospitality

and the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit.

“The pandemic has helped us reorganize our company and complete

WEBPAGE: www.taferresorts.com

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,

FOLLOW US:

as well as any crisis situation,” concluded Sasa Milojevic, Chief Operating Officer of TAFER Hotels & Resorts.

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