HAMAK hotels debuts in Mexico with eco-conscious accommodations. By Melissa Gillespie
Luxury hotel veterans and developers Alberto Remirez, Nicolas Dominguez, and Federico Carstens have joined forces to form HAMAK, a hotel group in Mexico promising a new dimension of accommodations in the region. The trio launched this endeavor with a focus on the creation and operation of eco-conscious hotels throughout Mexico.
“HAMAK focuses on creating guest experiences that recognize, respect, and revive indigenous cultures,” says Dominguez. “We don’t bulldoze a culture to build a resort.”
On the horizon for HAMAK are three distinctive properties throughout Mexico, including Ikal Cancun, a luxury all-inclusive resort set to open October 2011 in Cancún. With seven restaurants and bars, three pools, a 17,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, and interior designs by David Rockwell, the hotel promises to offer guests an experience unlike any other in the city. Their second project is Chable, a destination spa resort in Mérida. Scheduled to open in November 2011, Chable will offer the ultimate spa destination experience for guests to immerse themselves in local customs and traditions. Furthermore, HAMAK’S third project, Itaai, near Tiburon Island along the Sea of Cortez, will feature 25 luxury tents, allowing guests to embark on a journey of self discovery while fully experiencing nature. Embracing the trend of “glamping,” Itaai plans to offer the best of both worlds by introducing guests to “glamorous camping” in the great outdoors, where camping is taken to a whole new level.
With HAMAKÂ’s dedication to creating hotels that preserve civilization comes a new crop of retreats that will awaken guests to authentic experiences. hamakhotels.com.
Spring Awakening
Following new ownership of Petit St. Vincent Resort in the Grenadines, upgrades will begin this spring. The resorts’ existing 22 cottages will be renovated in stages during low season, from April to August. With no structural changes made, rooms will be updated with new bathrooms, A/C, refrigerated minibars, and iPod players. TVs and DVD players won’t be added, as Petit St. Vincent aims to be a destination where guests can detach from some modern conveniences. A new activities desk will allow guests to take part in various sports and programs, like hiking, tennis, sailing, art classes, and wine tasting. Planned additions and renovations include an air-conditioned fitness and yoga center, an open-air spa, a children’s club, an à la carte beachfront restaurant, and a library. psvresort.com
Va Va Villas!
The owners of Lighthouse Bay Resort, an exclusive nine-suite retreat just off the small Caribbean island of Barbuda, have unveiled the development of Lighthouse Bay Villas, a private community of oceanfront homes spread out over nearly 50 acres. The project will consist of 38 villas, ranging in size from 2,500 to 5,500 square feet, and will front more than one mile of coastline. Owners will choose from one of four approved “design-ready” villas—all featuring state-of-the-art technologies, views of the water from every room, and direct beach access—which can be completed within 18 months. As part of the Villa Club membership, all owners will be entitled to 10 nights per month in a suite at Lighthouse Bay Resort for their own use or as they see fit during their time of ownership. Club membership also grants owners access to the resort facilities and staff on an ongoing basis. Lots start at $2.1 million. lighthousebarbuda.com.