Kontacto Magazine #44 English|B

Mexico

Dominican Republic

Belize

Jamaica

Montenegro

Serbia

Kontacto Magazine Vol. 44 | Enero 2024

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From the

perspective of: Facundo Herrero

Vice President, Hotel Finance | Building a solid financial foundation.

Mario Dorantes

General Manager Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun | Promotion, Growth and Development at Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

Good news to share:

Karisma Hotels & Resorts and its presence at FITUR KARISMA Foundation : New Mobile Medical Unit

Recognition :

The best of the best

Digital Transformation Processes and stages

From the

perspective of: Facundo Herrero

Vice President, Hotel Finance | Building a solid financial foundation.

Ver Video

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Facundo Herrero Vice President, Hotel Finance | Building a solid financial foundation.

Facundo, brings with him a vast experience of 16 years in the financial field, excelling in crucial roles linked to tourism.

Born in picturesque Patagonia Argentina and based in Mexico since 2016, Herrero has demonstrated his commitment to the company’s success.

As head of the financial area, Facundo embarks on a collaborative work with various sections of the company and, specifically, with the hotel teams to ensure the achievement of corporate objectives.

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Finance In the current era of hospitality, focused on personalized experiences, Karisma Hotels & Resorts stands out with innovative concepts such as “Gourmet Inclusive” and themed hotels, providing exceptional guest service.

His passion lies in solving problems, focusing on solutions and immersing himself in operations, anticipating potential impacts to safeguard the company’s financial health.

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The success story of Karisma Hotels & Resorts, which has become a benchmark thanks to the vision of its founders and continuous execution, captivated Facundo Herrero, the vision of Esteban Velasquez, CEO of the company, and the innovative energy of David Coffey, financial leader, were decisive elements for Herrero to join this leading company.

Facundo’s commitment is to turn the financial area into an agile and collaborative team, working with multicultural talent in positive environments.

Facundo Herrero

Its objective is to incorporate new generations, mix talents and join the digital transformation led by Esteban Velasquez.

The hotel industry demands unique and personalized experiences, and Karisma Hotels & Resorts, at this crucial moment, is positioning itself with unique brands and concepts, ready for new projects.

From the financial area, Herrero seeks to accompany this evolution, aspiring to consolidate Karisma Hotels & Resorts as the number one reference in the industry.

From the

perspective of: Mario Dorantes

General Manager Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun | Promotion, Growth and Development at Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

Ver Video

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Subsequently, he assumed the role of Hotel Manager at Nickelodeon Dominican Republic, describing it as a jewel in this country.

During these two years, Mario has faced significant challenges and learning, emphasizing that the beauty of his profession lies in the ability to challenge himself daily and evolve.

Their focus is on positively impacting the guest with exceptional experiences.

Openness to technological advances and new tools has been an opportunity to understand and adjust their leadership styles.

Mario Dorantes

General Manager Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun

Mario, recently promoted to General Manager of Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun at Karisma Hotels & Resorts, shares with us his trajectory over the past two years.

Joining Karisma marked the beginning of a challenging adventure, participating in the creation from scratch of the Margaritaville St. Somewhere hotel in Holbox.

This experience turned out to be memorable for him, both professionally and personally.

Emphasizes the importance of discipline and consistency to achieve results and the need to challenge oneself.

“Success is not the work of an individual, but of the collaboration of all team members.”

Mario Dorantes

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“The variability of every day, living with a daily purpose, has allowed me to build highperformance teams.”

Mario Dorantes

Regarding Karisma Hotels & Resorts, Dorantes highlights and appreciates the constant evolution and openness to new horizons, as well as the importance of the sense of belonging that team members manage to have towards the brand.

It recognizes that the company fosters identity and opens doors to new internal talent, betting on the personal development of its teams.

Thankful for his experience in these two years, considering himself an example of development and growth in Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

His perspective highlights the passion, nobility of the hotel industry and Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to constant growth.

Good

news to share: Karisma Hotels & Resorts and its presence at FITUR KARISMA Foundation : New Mobile Medical Unit

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Karisma Hotels & Resorts announces expansion plans Madrid International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR 2024).

With the opening of new hotels, as well as a series of strategic partnerships, the hospitality giant works to continue redefining the industry the brand redefines luxury within the hotel sector to enhance the guest experience.

Madrid, Spain, January 23, 2024.- As part of the Madrid International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR 2024) Karisma Hotels & Resorts, the hospitality pioneer, celebrates achievements that consolidate its position as an industry innovator.

With the best hotel locations, innovative guest experiences, unique seasonal programming and collaborations with renowned brands, Karisma Hotels & Resorts redefines hospitality at all price points by inviting visitors to enjoy a wide range of resort offerings tailored to every type of vacationer.

“Our recent milestones and future initiatives underscore Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to creating extraordinary experiences,” says Esteban Velasquez, CEO of Karisma Hotels & Resorts, during his presence at FITUR. “In our quest, we go beyond redefining luxury within the hotel sector; we wholeheartedly embrace innovation by ensuring that each guest enjoys stays that leave an indelible mark in their memory,” he added.

The newly opened Margaritaville Island Reserve® Riviera Maya features luxury coastal design, exceptional service and world-class dining. This property is the first adults-only hotel within the Island Reserve® Inclusive Collection and offers a world-class experience.

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The resort invites guests to a world of firsts, including an oceanfront LandShark beer garden, new room categories and suites, nine world-class restaurants and bars, a 10,000-square-foot spa and conference rooms with premium space for up to 280 people, with three additional rooms offering views of the Mexican Caribbean Sea. Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize, celebrated its opening with a ceremony attended by Belize’s prime minister, government officials and key executives.

Nestled on Ambergris Caye with crystal clear Caribbean waters, the resort offers a stunning adventure retreat with spacious suites, island-inspired dining options.

Just steps from the beach that is home to the world’s second largest coral reef, Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize, offers unforgettable experiences for the adventurous traveler. Karisma Hotels & Resorts, in collaboration with Margaritaville, also announced an upcoming addition to the Island Reserve® Inclusive collection.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras.

This new property, scheduled for completion in 2025, will feature 164 guest rooms, live music venues, a world-class spa and iconic brand restaurants, including LandShark Brewery, JWB Steakhouse, The Beach House and 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar.

Welcoming the first five-star mountain hotel last December, Karisma Hotels & Resorts opened BOR Hotel

by Karisma. Located in the picturesque Zlatibor region of Serbia, the hotel features 93 luxurious suites, exceptional dining options, pet-friendly amenities and a state-ofthe-art Vassa Spa, designed for those seeking an idyllic retreat.

BOR Hotel’s premium offerings provide a luxurious and personalized experience, while the enchanting natural beauty of Zlatibor adds to the stay with its rich culture and lush landscape.

Originally planned for 2024, Azul Beach Resort Negril’s adults-only transformation will open in 2025.

The resort will debut new programming and amenities designed specifically for adults, offering enhanced spa services, new wedding packages and exclusive activities.

Azul Beach Resort Negril aims to elevate the guest experience and offer a perfect destination for romantic getaways. In addition, the award-winning Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is pleased to announce a series of exciting new openings and renovations.

Designed to create an unprecedented guest experience, the extensive transformation includes tantalizing new culinary experiences, upgrades to the resort’s unique and immersive features and an expansion of the familyfavorite Aqua Nick® water park.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to excellence, innovation and strategic partnerships reinforces its position as a powerful force within the industry.

With cutting-edge advancements, world-class operating standards and award-winning amenities, as well as the innovative Gourmet Inclusive philosophy, Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to reshaping the industry sets a benchmark for the all-inclusive sector.

Renewed for you The foundation’s operational infrastructure has grown thanks to the construction of alliances with public and private organizations.

The integration of a multidisciplinary team implied the need to expand the mobile medical unit in order to multiply our outreach to the community.

That is why, during the month of December, the foundation directed its efforts to the remodeling of the mobile medical unit, which consists of two private medical offices in order to provide more medical services.

The mobile medical unit has equipment for the prevention, detection and control of patients with chronic degenerative diseases and consolidates its lines of action through two programs: • •

• •

Timely detection.

Monthly visits providing capillary glucose, blood pressure, weight and obesity index services.

Follow-up of chronic degenerative diseases.

Medical follow-up in terms of improvements, treatment modifications with our database of beneficiaries suffering from diabetes or hypertension.

More and better services!

Starting in January, the foundation will be able to simultaneously attend its control beneficiaries and perform complementary studies such as electrocardiogram, VaSera (arterial evaluation system), bone densitometry, glycosylated hemoglobin, blood chemistry, lipid profile and spirometry.

Oscar Polanco Bar assistant

Housekeeper Supervisor

Nise Vilchez

Carlos José Reyes Mejia Administrative Driver

Two years ago, he was recognized as “Team Leader of the Year” at the Margaritaville Cap Cana Christmas party. Oscar lives the “Fins Up” philosophy in every aspect of the job, reflecting effort and passion. He is grateful to colleagues and management, committed to lead with inspiration and contribute to the continued success of the team.

At 7 years and 7 months, Nise has been with the department the longest. Her responsibility and collaboration have positioned her as a figure appreciated by colleagues and departmental leaders due to her sense of belonging and constant willingness to collaborate.

With 5 years and 5 months at Cedar Creek International, Carlos stands out as a valuable colleague, providing support to his colleagues.

We recognize his effort and perseverance, and he always expresses gratitude to the leaders who have guided him.

Marcelina Choco Kitchen

Shadae Louden Talent Acquisition

Ana Rubio Martínez Front to Middle

She excels at presenting attractive dishes with quality. Her colleagues look to her for guidance; she is agile in assisting.

She is recognized for her flexibility, valuable ideas that simplify tasks.

She is an inspiring human being, with a story of self-improvement, who motivates young people to pursue ideals.

She started as a human resources intern in the summer of 2022 and advanced to her current position.

Her exceptional work ethic and dedication to excellence led her to receive the Heart of the House Employee of the Year award in 2023. Team player and ability to exceed expectations in all facets of her role.

With approximately 3 years in the company, she feels honored to belong to an environment that gives her the feeling of being at home. She stresses the importance of perseverance, discipline and passion for what she does. Her family is her source of motivation, and she seeks to continue her professional growth in order to achieve personal fulfillment.

Roberto Emilio Mijangos Restaurant Waiter

Bella del Carmen Spa Cleaning Assistant

Jose Luis De la Cruz Maintenance Supervisor

Two years in the company, she radiates kindness with a positive attitude and a constant smile.

His service stands out for its warmth, contagious and motivating to his colleagues.

During 6 months, his commitment to the department and the hotel is reflected in his promotion to supervisor.

His performance stands out for his companionship, being a beacon for his team by providing teaching and knowledge to solve operational incidents.

Ericka Castañeda Booker

Laura Amelia Rosario Front to Middle

Dalia Smith Sales

5 years at Prestige, she stands out as the best of the team. She feels happy and fulfilled.

Her secret lies in not settling. Family, work and the future keep her motivated, constantly seeking to grow and learn.

With nearly 7 years in the company, she is proud to be part of this great family that drives growth and provides resources to achieve goals.

Dedication, constant updating and responsibility are her driving force to grow, not to settle, to keep learning and to always give her best.

She claims to have earned this recognition five times as sales rep of the month to date.

Throughout 11 months, Roberto has excelled as a collaborator, always available to support the team.

His positive attitude, love for his work and excellent comments from guests are constant. At Azul Beach Cancun, he feels supported and grateful to the company.

For him, it means maintaining an optimistic mindset, looking for opportunities for growth and celebrating victories, both small and large, his own and the team’s.

Digital Transformation

Ing. Miguel Ortíz

Chief Information Officer

Digital Transformation Processes and stages

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Focused on the customer, the third phase focuses on CRM, collaborating with Salesforce and Telmex to obtain a 360-degree view of the customer, accompanying them at every stage, from planning to the hotel experience.

The responsibility of representing brands such as Margaritaville Island Reserve, Nickelodeon and Azul Beach Resorts requires proactivity and assertiveness in communicating with different markets.

The adoption of Middleware, with Mulesoft as the connector, facilitates interaction between all applications and consolidates customer information.

Miguel Ortíz Miguel Ortiz Millán, Chief Information Officer of Karisma Hotels & Resorts, shares the company’s exciting journey towards digital transformation.

Transformation Process:

The challenge is to implement cuttingedge technology, abandoning local applications for cloud solutions.

1

Standardization of structures and processes

With differentiated business units in different geographies, the goal is to unify processes under a single work plan.

2

Visibility of results Dashboards

3

CRM 360º Customer Vision in all its stages.

In the first phase, the standardization of structures and processes will be carried out, making information transparent through management dashboards, is a priority.

Middleware a connector between all applications

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This strategic approach seeks to provide exceptional travel experiences, aware of the importance of hotel reputation in the digital era, it is crucial for success, as the opinions of other users significantly influence the decisions of future customers.

Miguel is convinced that Karisma Hotels & Reosrts is living its best moment and will continue to be a leader in the hospitality industry.

Equipo IT Corporativo: Alex Camacho, Miguel Ortíz , Israel Camacho Alfredo Lorenzo, Juan Carlos Carrillo.

Focused on the customer, the third phase focuses on CRM.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts, open to change and talent, invites those seeking development opportunities in the area of technology, under the culture of Ktalent by Karisma.

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About: Serbia, Zlatibor our new destination Karisma Hotels & Resorts expands into new frontiers today in Zlatibor, Serbia, a growing and trending destination in Europe.

The magic of culture, gastronomy, mountain and spa tourism, BOR Hotel where every corner is a high challenge for excellence and hospitality.

Serbia, and in particular the Zlatibor region, has emerged as a trendy tourist destination in recent years, attracting visitors with its natural charm, rich culture and diverse tourism offer.

Zlatibor, located in western Serbia, a picturesque and versatile refuge.

Breathtaking Nature: Zlatibor captivates travelers with its breathtaking mountain scenery.

Dense forests, serene lakes and green meadows create a tranquil and rejuvenating environment.

The region is a nature lover’s paradise, offering opportunities for hiking, horseback riding and outdoor sports, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Zlatibor Mountains.

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Wellness and Spa The tourism trend in Zlatibor has been driven by the growing popularity of wellness and spa centers in the region.

Many hotels and resorts offer spa services that combine traditional Serbian treatments with modern facilities.

Visitors can soak in thermal baths, enjoy relaxing massages and experience Serbian hospitality in idyllic surroundings.

Cultural Tourism: Zlatibor is not only a destination for nature lovers, but also for those interested in Serbia’s rich cultural heritage.

Charming villages with traditional architecture, local markets and folk festivals offer visitors an authentic Serbian experience.

Local gastronomy, with dishes such as grilled meat and traditional cheeses, adds an appealing culinary touch to the experience.

Population 313, 396 inhabitants Official language: Serbian Currency: Serbian Dinar

Zlatibor, with its combination of nature, wellness, culture and exclusive accommodations, has become a trendy tourist destination attracting travelers seeking authentic and memorable experiences in the heart of Serbia.