The Dominican Republic has always been a hot commodity for travel advisors—and there’s only good news in the pipeline for more bookings and happy clients.
Hyatt and Be Live Hotels Seal a Deal
Hyatt has been growing its all-inclusive portfolio by leaps and bounds, and this latest news is going to increase its Inclusive Collection by nearly 2,000 rooms. Coming soon to its lineup: Two Be Live Hotels (owned by Globalia) properties in the Dominican Republic, which are being upgraded and transformed into Sunscape Resorts & Spas, meaning two new options for family fun to offer clients. The expected opening date is sometime this year.
“This planned expansion of the Sunscape Resorts & Spas brand in the Caribbean marks an opportunity to broaden all-inclusive family-friendly offerings in a desirable market for global travelers. We are seeing great demand for the four-star product and are grateful for the trust of Globalia in the future of these properties as part of our growing global Inclusive Collection brand portfolio,” said Javier Coll, group president of global business development & innovation, Inclusive Collection, Hyatt, in a press statement. “We believe this collaboration showcases the combined strength and potential of Hyatt and Apple Leisure Group and how owners are empowered to remain vested in their assets while achieving success through our brands, distribution channels and global reputation.”
Sunscape Resorts & Spas are focused on families, with fun Explorer’s Clubs for kids 12 and under and the Core Zone for teens, perfect for keeping away the dreaded “I’m bored” comments from the peanut gallery. The brand’s Unlimited Fun program equals not just great service but also gourmet menus for the parents and kid-friendly options, plus nonstop entertainment day and night.
For more information, visit hyatt.com/destinations/sunscape.
The Dominican Republic Gets a Sexy New Neighbor
June is the magic date for the unveiling of the Dominican Republic’s Cayo Levantado Resort, a five-star getaway built on a tiny island just three miles from Samana Bay. Part of Grupo Piñero, the Spanish company that also owns Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, this premium all-inclusive is their entry into the luxury market with a definitive sustainability focus and an eye on the wellness segment.
“With a profound respect for the environment, we focus our expertise on protecting the delicate ecosystem and preserving its spectacular flora and fauna,” said Pablo del Toro, technical environmental advisor, Grupo Piñero, in a press statement. “In order to operate and power the hotel efficiently, gardening, waste management and renewable energy is required. Among the renewable energy sources, you’ll find thermal energy, heat recovery and solar panels.”
Guests will arrive at the 219-guestroom, suite and villa property via a 10-minute private boat ride from the reception area at Simi Baez in Samana. Expect 24-hour room service, themed wellness events—their mantra is “refresh, restore, relax and renew”—, outdoor Crossfit and personal training studio, a botanic garden, a culinary offer that makes the most of the local products, water sports and more. Among the all-inclusive wellness offer, clients booking Cayo Levantado can enjoy YUBARTA, a separate area with a cenote (a freshwater sinkhole), directed activity and meditation rooms. There will be two pools, a beach club, six restaurants and seven bars. Room categories range from Junior Suites to the super-luxe Signature Villa. Of note: The resort has partnered with Forbes Travel Guide to ensure an extraordinarily elevated level of service.
For more information, visit bahia-principe.com.
