Catch Up on These Resort Updates and Openings

With a quarter of 2024 already under our belts, it’s hard to believe March, and spring break travel is already here. To help keep you in the loop, we’ve rounded up a few hotel openings and renovations from around the world that caught our eye. From all-inclusive stays and the ultra-luxurious to city escapes and reclusive getaways, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Newly Opened

Kimpton Hotel Theta

An opulent retreat located footsteps from some of New York City’s most iconic sights ؅— Times Square, Broadway Theater, Hell’s Kitchen —, Kimpton Hotel Theta is a stylish and comfortable place to catch a break from all the action. Featuring 364 rooms, this modern hotel was originally ideated by famed architect Morris Lapidus who designed the space based on inspiration from the Theta brainwaves found during moments of meditation, a sentiment reflected throughout the property’s décor in the form of asymmetric details, gentle layering and engaging textures.

Each room at Kimpton Hotel Theta includes a comfortable bed and cozy window nook as well as high-end amenities like luxe Atelier Bloem bath products, Kassatex linen robes and complimentary yoga mats upon request. Guests can also take advantage of Café Otto — the onsite coffee house serving brews from Afficionado Coffee Roasters —, Bar Sprezzatura — a rooftop restaurant inspired by the Italian Riviera — and the hotel marketplace which features a selection of gifts and snacks.

Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres

In early February 2024, Hyatt Hotels Corporation opened Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, an idyllic 507-room adults-only property with unbeatable seaside views. The new resort is one of the latest Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt resorts to open in Mexico, and features coveted amenities like four large swimming pools, two oceanfront infinity pools, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, an upscale spa and more. As far as accommodations go, Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres features a variety of suites for travelers to choose from, each of which are outfitted with neutral tones and natural materials to transport travelers to a vacation state of mind.

On the food front, the hotel has nine delectable dining experiences, many of which have gluten-free and vegetarian menu options. Visitors can explore local and international flavors including Mexican, Japanese, Pan-Asian and Italian fare. Finally, to whet their whistles, Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres has eight bars and lounges serving top-shelf spirits and premium brand domestic and international beverages in addition to tequila and wine tastings.

Sunscape Coco Punta Cana

Situated along Bavaro Beach in the charming town of Cabeza de Toro is Sunscape Coco Punta Cana, a new, all-ages resort perfect for travelers looking to get away from it all. The recently opened property features 1,059 rooms and 12 onsite restaurants in addition to kid-friendly amenities. Whether they’re looking to relax on the beach or stay active, guests will find plenty to do with onsite activities like water sports, games, beach volleyball, yoga lessons and more.

“The opening of Sunscape Coco Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic presents an opportunity to bolster family-friendly, all-inclusive options in a diverse and vibrant market for travelers worldwide,” said Gonzalo del Peón, group president for the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt, Global Commercial. “The Dominican Republic continues to be a destination of immense importance to the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt, and this stunning backdrop offers a cost-conscious ideal setting for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.” 

Sunscape Dominicus La Romana

Located on the sunny shores of the Dominican Republic, after much anticipation, Sunscape Dominicus La Romana recently opened its doors to eager visitors. The stunning new property features 854 rooms and has a special focus on family-friendly fun with no shortage of kid-approved amenities including a custom check-in experience for kiddos, welcome treats, personalized resort passports and onsite Explorers’ and Core Zone Teen Clubs. While young travelers are kept entertained, adults can relax as they take in the beauty of Sunscape Dominicus La Romana’s captivating views, vibrant gardens and sparkling pools.

“The Debut of Sunscape Dominicus La Romana reinforces the Inclusive Collection’s commitment to fostering family-friendly experiences for guests seeking a fun-filled getaway where everything is included,” said del Peón. “With continued demand within the four-star all-inclusive category, the Inclusive Collection made a strategic decision to expand the Sunscape Resort & Spa brand’s presence in the idyllic destination of La Romana, offering memorable amenities to create the vacation of their dreams.”

Recently Renovated and Under Construction  

Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico

Following a complete refurbishment of all its facilities, Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico is officially reopened for business. The impressive Nayarit, Mexico hotel is now an adults-only establishment and touts exciting new additions like added dining options, the new Elite Club by RIU package and renovated rooms and shared spaces. Speaking of accommodations, each of the hotel’s 445 rooms have been updated to feature soft, elegant tones and naturally lit areas in addition to upscale hardwood finishes.

While the property’s new look is no doubt exciting, perhaps the most anticipated feature of all is the introduction of Riu’s Elite Club service which allows guests access to exclusive areas of the resort including a private area on the beach with Balinese beds and an exclusive bar with premium drinks. Additionally, these guests have access to a new Elite Club restaurant where they can enjoy both a la carte breakfast and dinner service in the evening. And the perks don’t stop there, Elite Club service also includes access to 62 rooms with privileged views and upgraded amenities like premium spirits dispensers, a minibar with snacks, a complimentary bottle of wine, early check-in and more.

Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador

After a multi-million-dollar renovation, Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador recently re-opened to guests looking to experience what it calls “an antidote to ordinary O’ahu itineraries.” Situated in the heart of Waikiki, the revamped property has reemerged as a vital part of the local community, serving as a neighborhood hub where visitors and residents can socialize, dine and learn about one another.

Inside, the hotel’s 368 guest rooms are outfitted with private lanais, plenty of lounge space and no shortage of Big Island Coffee. Every detail of this unique property was designed with O’ahu in mind, and, as such, guests will notice various design elements unique to modern Waikiki including a custom-fit lava rock wall in the lobby, a gallery wall featuring work from local artists and more.

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort

In late December 2023, Sandos Hotels & Resorts announced the completion of a comprehensive expansion project at its popular Playa del Carmen property, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort to include 286 new eco suites. The completion of this project brings the property’s total room count to 386 and comprises three varieties of suites: Eco Family Superior, Eco Family Suite and Eco Family Penthouse.

Also sporting a new look thanks to the remodel is Riviera restaurant, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort’s gastronomic concept featuring French fare. Visitors will also find the hotel’s Santo Taco food truck now offers a wide array of options, including an improved vegetarian menu.

Coming Soon 

Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa

Marking the first Breathless Resort & Spa in Puerto Vallarta and the fourth Breathless Resort & Spa-branded property in Mexico, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, in collaboration with Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe, is slated to open Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa in 2025. Situated just 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the new adults-only property will be one of the newest members of the Inclusive Collection and will feature exciting amenities including four swimming pools, a scenic rooftop with picture-perfect views and a variety of culinary selections for visitors to sink their teeth into.

“We are thrilled by this plan to introduce the Breathless Resorts & Spas brand to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico,” said Javier Coll, global head of Hyatt Inclusive Collection Growth for Hyatt. “Mexico has played a pivotal role in our developmental strategy for many years, and we continue to collaborate with quality owners like Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe to strengthen our leadership in the region and address ongoing consumer demand for luxury, all-inclusive experiences.”

Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort

Set to open in late spring 2024, Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort is bringing ultra-luxurious amenities to the Turkish Riviera. The opulent new property is situated on a private peninsula off the Aegean Sea and will feature a variety of accommodations for visitors to choose from including a collection of swanky Presidential Villas comprising five bedrooms, a heated seawater pool, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and fitness center. Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort was designed by Turkish architect Mahmut Anlar alongside interior design company Geo_ID who worked to give the property a comprehensive look that honors its natural surroundings in the form of a dreamy color palette, locally crafted decor and meticulously landscaped gardens.

Other perks travelers can expect include an onsite kid’s club and activities for teens, seven incredible restaurants such as the popular Caviar Kaspia and BeefBar, tons of opportunities for wellness — the hotel will feature an onsite spa, fitness studio, an indoor Olympic-sized swimming pool, a health-focused restaurant and more — and Scorpios Beach Club, a place the hotel describes as “a world of cross-cultural experimentation in music and art.”