INTERNATIONAL REPORT—A Nickelodeon Resort is opening in Riviera Maya, Hyatt Hotels Corp. is adding to its portfolio in Mexico, and resorts are unveiling renovations. Here’s a look at what’s going on in Mexico.
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya to Open in 2019
Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) a division of Viacom Inc., will open Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya in 2019.
Representing Mexico’s first and only Gourmet Inclusive Nickelodeon resort, the property marks the second within the collection of five-star experiential resorts, following the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya will offer water attractions, suites with oceanviews and private swim-ups, memorable character experiences, and high-end cuisine as a part of Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive Experience.
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya will offer 276 oceanfront swim-up Pad Suites and Flat Suites, plus four Nickelodeon-themed signature Penthouses perched on the top floor of two modern six-story buildings. The Penthouses are being designed in accordance with favorite Nickelodeon content and characters including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob SquarePants.
The epicenter of the property’s entertainment will be Aqua Nick, affording nearly 500,000 sq. ft. of family fun with activities including a lazy river, waterslides, a splash park, an interactive water playground for toddlers, and mini relaxation pools. On-site lockers, bathrooms, showers and towel service will also be available.
At Nickelodeon Place in the heart of Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, guests will be able to meet and mingle with favorite Nickelodeon characters such as Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Within Nickelodeon Place is Club Nick, a hangout for kids; Plaza Orange, for music, games and tropical fun; and Mainstage, a theater for hosting an array of immersive entertainment experiences. Other resort amenities will include a fitness center and spas.
Hyatt Signs Hyatt Place Aguascalientes
An affiliate of Hyatt Hotels Corp. has entered into a franchise agreement for the 144-key Hyatt Place Aguascalientes with affiliates of Promotora Comercial Abadan, S.A. de C.V. The hotel will be managed by Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe. Upon its expected opening in 2019, Hyatt Place Aguascalientes will be Mexico’s sixth Hyatt Place hotel.
The hotel will be located in the southern area of the city in close proximity to industrial parks, automotive manufacturing plants and downtown Aguascalientes, where all municipal and central government offices are located. Aguascalientes serves as an industrial and manufacturing hub with an extensive network of modern highways, multiple free trade zones, the two largest railway centers in Mexico, and Lic. Jesus Teran Peredo International Airport.
Playacar Palace Unveils Reno
Palace Resorts has reopened Playacar Palace, the brand’s luxury retreat in Playa del Carmen, following a $14-million, multiphase remodel.
Since opening its doors to guests in December 2005, this is the hotel’s second phase of renovations. Refresh details include upgrades to guestrooms, lobby, front desk, restaurants and lounge areas. Playacar Palace’s new interiors were envisioned by architect Roberto Elias and interior designer Francois Frossard.
Each of the 201 rooms offers new decor, installation of modern furnishings, enhanced showers and vanity areas, top-of-the-line Lavazza coffeemakers and advanced jets added to the in-room double whirlpool tubs. The property’s existing Walk Out suites now feature a private terrace.
Suite access is now readily available via wristbands allowing guests to open the door to their suites with a wave of the hand. Keeping the keyless addition consistent, by downloading the Palace Resorts app, guests can also use it to open their room doors. Technological upgrades were also made to the property’s air conditioning systems, featuring new hydraulic systems to ensure the resort meets eco-friendly standards.
Playacar Palace has also given its dining a new look and flavors. Its main restaurant, Café del Mar, now features a cold show cooking area. In addition, the Italian cuisine restaurant formerly known as Terraza has reopened as Bocelli, sporting a new style and menu that’s in-line with the brand’s look and feel.
Costa Sur Resort & Spa Expands Offering With 48 Remodeled Suites
Puerto Vallarta’s Costa Sur Resort & Spa has enriched its inventory with 48 renovated suites; the investment follows the introduction of the first 12 Honeymoon Ocean-Front Suites in February 2015 as part of its LGBTQ and adults-only floor option. The property now has 60 renovated Ocean-Front Suites.
Three floors of the hotels North Tower have been re-envisioned with 36 units becoming Deluxe Studios with all the amenities of a Honeymoon Suite and are available for families traveling with children. One additional floor with 12 Honeymoon Suites has also been added to the inventory. All remodeled suites, Deluxe and Honeymoon, have been detailed with touches of natural stones, modern furniture, spotlighting and chromotherapy techniques. The suites are also equipped with a granite-surfaced kitchenette with stainless steel appliances, free WiFi, and an oversized smart television with access to YouTube and Netflix.