By Steve Grasso
Resorts and destinations in Mexico are leaning into the country's cultural heritage to craft unique programs that let groups experience local authenticity, while steadily investing in meeting spaces and venues.
"Thanks to the attention to detail and excellent service of Palladium Hotel Group’s Infinite Indulgence, where everything is included—from a wide selection of top-quality beverages to exquisite dishes that takes 'all-inclusive' to a new level—attendees will experience a place of outstanding beauty that will be nothing short of incredible," says Pilar Arizmendi-Stewart, VP of Sales and Marketing for the Americas, Palladium Hotel Group. "Palladium Hotel Group provides a wide range of activities and amenities to choose from, ensuring groups are entertained and well taken care of. With an assortment of restaurants and themed bars offering a variety of cuisines, there's something for every palate."
Palladium has recently announced the launch of its Grand Palladium Select Collection, with the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa rebranding as Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres when it becomes the first hotel to join the collection in January 2025. The collection will showcase the finest examples of the Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts brand, and will include an extensive array of premium dining options; the Piaccere Coffee Shop; the new Grand Gelateria, inspired by traditional Italian ice cream; and a unique fitness entertainment program during the day at the pools.
"POP Entertainment at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts is a delightful and engaging experience designed to provide attendees with an unforgettable stay filled with fun and excitement," says Arizmendi-Stewart. "The POP Entertainment team offers a unique program curated daily; this daily itinerary covers all the bases and has something for all types of travelers from the active, to the foodie to the experiential. Some of the activities include dance classes, Spanish lessons, mixology and local dishes workshops, art shows and guided classes, as well as fitness classes such as aqua aerobics and beach yoga."
Other entertainment options include the award-winning Chic Cabaret & Restaurant dinner and show concept at TRS Hotels. The experience includes a 6-course menu, accompanied by acrobatics, dance and a music show of all genres. Additionally, at the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre in Costa Mujeres, groups can enjoy tennis programs developed by Rafa Nadal and his technical team, recognized as one of the top-rated tennis facilities in Mexico.
"Meeting attendees now seek personalized, wellness-focused experiences that blend business with leisure, often referred to as 'bleisure' travel," says Arizmendi-Stewart. "There's growing demand for events that incorporate wellness activities, sustainability practices and unique local experiences like cultural tours or teambuilding with a creative twist. Hybrid meetings with seamless virtual integration and shorter, flexible schedules are also essential. Attendees want curated, immersive events that reflect personal or corporate preferences, combining relaxation, work and memorable moments that go beyond traditional conference setups."
"Club Med stands out in Mexico by combining all-inclusive luxury with unique, customizable experiences for planners," says Ron Gulaskey, VP Sales & Strategy, USA, Club Med. "Our resorts, like Club Med Cancun and Club Med Ixtapa, offer stunning venues, immersive cultural activities and sustainable practices, all backed by over 70 years of hospitality expertise. With everything from gourmet dining to teambuilding included, planners can deliver seamless, memorable events without unexpected costs."
Club Med Cancun added a Sports & Wellness Island in April 2024, featuring an over-the-lagoon yoga palapa, mini golf, bocce ball courts, pickleball courts, bungee, trampoline and more. In 2026, the resort will renovate its main pool area with a refreshed deck area, and add a new beach bar offering all-day grab & go snacks, as well as 12 new deluxe rooms. The resort has 500 rooms and is available for full buyouts or groups of up to 300. Meeting spaces include a theater area that can accommodate up to 300 and many private areas that can be used for events including on the beach. Club Med Ixtapa has 296 rooms and is also available for full buyouts or smaller groups. It has a theater area that can accommodate up to 250 and is also divisible into eight separate spaces.
"The amount of activities you have to choose from for teambuilding as a corporate group is just outrageous, and it's all fun stuff," says Gulaskey. "It's trampolines, the circus, pickle ball, archery, bungee jumping and all the watersports too, such as competitive racing with canoes, kayaks or sailboats. So if you're a meeting planner, it's so easy to come up with things to do throughout the day for your attendees. Club Med makes you feel a positive energy and our biggest differentiator—as the pioneer of all-inclusive—is that we always want to make sure that people are happy, that they fit in and that they truly feel like they are part of a team."
"The Hilton All-Inclusive experience means everything is taken care of for you," says Nicole Tilzer, VP, All-Inclusive & Resort Strategy. "As innovators in the meetings and events space, Hilton caters to groups, meetings and events of all sizes delivered alongside our incredible leisure offerings and amenities. With flexible event spaces, inspiring packages, exciting perks and dedicated Event Specialists, Hilton ensures, memorable events and experiences. From beachfront private dining with local musicians to chef-led cooking classes, local tequila tastings or impressive arrival experiences with local artisans and their crafts, our tailored on-property activities will provide something for every type of event."
The Sens Cancun Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort, Tapestry by Hilton is expected to open in 2026 after undergoing a complete renovation, transforming all guest rooms and public spaces with new design, decor and artwork. The resort will also feature elevated food and beverage concepts, including nine restaurants and a brand-new rooftop bar with views over the Nichupte Lagoon.
"In addition to having plenty to do, the convenience of an all-inclusive stay eliminates concerns about additional expenses or planning during downtime, making it especially appealing for MICE groups so they can focus on bonding outside of their meeting or conference agenda," says Tilzer. "Hilton takes this a step further at our all-inclusive resorts by providing wearable-tech wristbands at check-in that serve as a digital room key, a way to communicate with the resort, make dinner reservations and more. For planners, Hilton’s All-Inclusive model streamlines the billing process, from budgeting to invoices to setting up accounts, as the majority of items are included under one rate. This makes budgeting and invoicing simple while enhancing value with pre- and post-stay rates available for those extending their visit beyond meetings and conferences."
Hilton all-inclusive properties in Mexico include the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya, All-Inclusive Resort, which offers 735 rooms plus 13 restaurants and bars. As well as the 21,500-sf Conrad Spa, the property is home to Tulum's only purpose-built event center with more than 55,000 sf of indoor/outdoor space. Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort, is a secluded beachfront property located on 100 acres of the Mayan coastline. It offers 715 rooms and 70,000 sf of event space, with its largest ballroom able to accommodate up to 1,600. Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort, located on a beachfront between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupte Lagoon, offers 540 rooms and a spa with hydrotherapy circuits. It offers more than 2,000 sf of space including a penthouse-level meeting room with ocean views. Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adult-Only Resort, located in the Riviera Maya region, offers 524 rooms including swim-up suites with semi-private pools. It offers 6,400 sf of event space, including a grand ballroom that can host up to 700.
"The location and venue continue to play an integral role in shaping the attendee experience," says Melissa Daniels, Hyatt Sales Force Sr. Global Sales Director of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection. "We select locations and design resorts to celebrate culture on- and off-property, including immersive and inspiring experiences that provide that sense of home in the places they want to travel. Whether nestled near historical landmarks, national parks or vibrant local markets, our resorts provide proximity to off-resort attractions that allow guests to explore the heart of their destination—which in many cases are bucket-list locales. For example, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana offers guests a privileged location on the pristine Macao Beach, while Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa is ideally located near many of Mexico’s most significant Mayan archaeological sites. From cenote-inspired courtyards to teambuilding experiences that incorporate wellness and local traditions, our resorts ensure that guests not only enjoy world-class amenities but also connect with the spirit of the location."
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort opened in April 2024 as the Inclusive Collection’s first resort in Mazatlan, Mexico. The 350-room resort features diverse dining options, a spa and 11,000 sf of meeting space, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 700 attendees and five private meeting rooms. Also debuting in April 2024, Hyatt Vivid Grand Island opened as the first property from the Inclusive Collection’s newest brand, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts. The all-inclusive adults-only resort offers 400 rooms and eight diverse event venue areas. Guests also have access to the Ennea Beach Club, a white-sand beach located on Playa Delfines, just a 10-minute shuttle drive away.
New at Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club is Casa Zamna, a 21-room luxury addition located just 15 minutes from the resort’s main property at Zamna Beach Club. The property offers private 5-bedroom villas as well as exclusive amenities such as the Rosewater restaurant and Preferred Club access, making it ideal for a full buyout or executive retreat. For 2025, the Inclusive Collection has announced two new openings: The family-friendly Dreams Grand Island will offer more than 600 rooms and is suitable for group events and corporate retreats; and the adults-only Breathless Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa will offer 450 rooms, and is also ideal for incentive trips, group meetings and corporate events.
"Meeting attendees today seek more than just a traditional conference room; they crave dynamic, experiential environments that inspire creativity, engagement, and connection," says Daniels. "At Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, for example, groups can immerse themselves in the region’s culture through tequila tastings or participate in cooking classes that celebrate local Mayan cuisine. Meanwhile, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts offer holistic wellness journeys—such as meditation sessions, yoga and personalized spa treatments—that enrich the attendee experience with a focus on wellbeing."
"All of our properties are all-inclusive, but now we have the new concept of 'More Inclusive,'" says Diana Martinez, Group Sales & Weddings Director, Lomas Hospitality. "So it's not just 24-hour F&B that's included, we also include transfers back and forth to Cancun International Airport and unlimited access and transportation to Marina Maroma, which is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here, groups can enjoy a catamaran and snorkel experience, an exhilarating guided tour aboard a wave runner and a brunch that's served daily from 10am to 4pm. We also offer unlimited access and transportation to the Aqua Nick Water Park, which is the water park of Nickelodeon Riviera Maya Hotel, and that's also included in the room rate. So basically you have all these great experiences in just one room rate and that's a key differentiator for groups."
Grupo Lomas has been operating in Mexico for 40 years, beginning as a transportation company before diversifying into hotels and resorts. Initially its hotels were managed by another brand, but have now been taken back under the Lomas umbrella. Grupo Lomas is divided into two different sections, Lomas Travel, which is a DMC and offers transportation services, and Lomas Hospitality, which focuses on managing the brand's existing hotels and expanding to take over other smaller hotels that are looking for a brand to manage them.
The company has eight hotels located in Riviera Maya, including five hotels in its adults-only El Dorado collection; the family-friendly Generations Riviera Maya; the secluded Hidden Beach Au Naturel Resort; and the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows. Outside Riviera Maya, Hotel Maison Mexico Roma is a 25-room boutique property located in the heart of Mexico City.
"One of the best things that we have at our hotels is the food and beverage experience," says Martinez. "It's absolutely amazing. We are working with one of the most recognized chefs in Mexico, Franco Maddalozzo, who is the head of culinary experiences at our hotels. Another thing we have is access to Maroma Beach, which can host events for up to 5,000 people. It's one of the most pristine beaches that I have seen and offers a wow factor for group events."
"We have a very thorough corporate social responsibility program, where we have been working with the local communities to offer experiences that are connected not just to wellness, but to the wellness of the region," says Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director, Los Cabos Tourism Board. "What we have seen is that when meeting planners and groups come to Los Cabos, they want to connect in a meaningful way with the place. We have a variety of options such as environmental programs with whales, turtles and rays, as well as programs to take care of the reefs. Our CSR initiatives have shown that you can contribute to regenerating the environment, not just maintaining it, but regenerating and making things better in the region."
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol opened in May 2024, joining its sister property Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas. The new resort offers 96 guest rooms and 61 residences, all with views of the Sea of Cortez, where whales visit annually from November to April. Located just 30 minutes from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and 15 minutes from Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL), the property boasts a swimmable beach ideal for snorkeling and water activities, three pools, three restaurants, five bar options and 19,827 sf of event space.
February 2025 will see the opening of The St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira, offering 120 rooms and 60 residences. The new property is located on a 33-acre site in the Quivira Los Cabos community that includes access to a 2.5-mile stretch of beach and the internationally acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature course at Quivira Golf Club. The secluded resort will feature multiple culinary options, the St. Regis Spa and 30,000 sf of meeting space. Set to open August 2025, Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo Del Sol will offer 163 rooms, including 88 suites and three villas. As well as three dining options and a full service spa, the resort will feature 35,000 sf of meeting space.
"The rural communities in the mountains of Los Cabos are connected to the original ranches and go back 200-300 years," says Esponda. "What we've been doing for the last two years is working with the communities to help them to develop their product. Santiago is a town that is on the way to the Four Seasons, just a half-hour outside San Jose del Cabo. It's one of the traditional missions that were established in the year 1724 and it has a natural lagoon. One of the locals whose family has been there for four generations offers a hiking and kayaking experience, where he will explain the sights and history of the area. Groups can then learn how to work pottery using clay from the local soil, while he prepares food in his oven with local ingredients. You can have a full day experience with the community, which is something that we believe meeting and incentive groups are looking to do."
"We provide exceptional value for MICE groups in Mexico by combining all-inclusive packages, extensive meeting facilities and unique perks designed specifically for event planners," says Carmelina Iannarone, CMP, CMM, Director of Group Sales, MICE North America, Melia Hotels International. "Our all-inclusive model not only simplifies budgeting but also elevates the overall group experience. Many of our properties, such as Paradisus Los Cabos with its stunning beachfront venues and Paradisus Playa del Carmen with its versatile ballrooms, feature state-of-the-art conference centers and meeting spaces. Additionally, we offer a variety of group benefits, including complimentary upgrades, discounts on bookings and customized teambuilding activities, such as private culinary classes. Melia is an ideal choice for groups seeking to blend luxury, functionality, and cultural immersion."
Melia Casa Maya Cancun opened in December 2024, located on the Caribbean coast and with direct beach access. The all-inclusive resort offers 260 rooms and will bolster Melia's presence in Cancun. The ME by Melia brand will open in San Miguel de Allende, Guadalajara and Sayulita in 2025, further growing Melia’s luxury presence in Mexico. These openings will complement existing properties such as ME Cabo, and reinforce the ME brand's presence in culturally rich destinations.
"Our all-inclusive resorts are designed to immerse guests in local culture, showcasing unique architecture and authentic cuisine," says Iannarone. "Dining is an important highlight, with gourmet options ranging from upscale restaurants to international cuisine, complemented by premium drinks. Our guests can enjoy exclusive experiences such as private beach parties, sunset cruises and curated local excursions that make their stay memorable. Sustainability is also at the forefront of our mission, as we prioritize environmental responsibility and social commitment. To enhance the guest experience further, we integrate technology seamlessly into our services, providing smart hotel features for convenience. Our prime locations—whether in vibrant city-centers, stunning beachfronts or amidst natural wonders—ensure that guests are always close to the best attractions."
"Fiesta Americana Travelty Meetings & Events, the MICE umbrella for Posadas, continues to redefine the all-inclusive experience by ensuring each and every group is a customized experience," says David Manzella, Sr. VP, Sales & Marketing, Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts/Posadas. "From the physical buildings themselves and the ability to choose from a multitude of unique resorts and destinations, as no two resorts are the same, to the overall experience at the resort itself by ensuring you and your attendees enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes of that particular destination and get truly immersed into the local culture. We redefined the experience by ensuring each and every scheduled food function is not just another group meal but a culinary celebration, which allows our talented chefs to utilize their creativity with our all-inclusive menus. Then, we provide the very best service so each attendee leaves with an amazing impression of our Mexican culture."
Over the past year, the brand has added new restaurants and experiences at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, a brand-new re-envisioned SOMMA Wine Spa at Grand Fiesta Americana, and renovated event spaces at Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun. 2025 will see the opening of the Cevicheria Restaurant and Ultra Lounge at Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta. The beachfront restaurant will feature an adults-only sky bar and lounge with sunset views as well as an oceanfront deck. The property will also update its roof with state-of-the-art solar panels and a desalination plant that will enhance its commitment to sustainability.
Other developments in the works include the new Live Aqua Riveira Cancun and Grand Fiesta Americana Riviera Cancun, anticipated to open mid-to-late 2026 in Puerto Morelos, located just outside of Cancun and a short distance to the Cancun International Airport. The resort will feature 1,000 guest rooms, shared amenities between the two properties and a separate convention center with a 50,000-sf ballroom.
"Fiesta Americana Travelty offers a streamlined, customized approach when it comes to understanding the business, and providing the best possible solution for that business, at the best all-inclusive price," says Manzella. "We offer two very concise packages—our deluxe package, which includes private events for the opening and closing nights; and our premium package, which provides private group events for each peak day and night. A simple solution that is customized for each meeting, event or conference. Simply put, we offer uniqueness and unsurpassed experiences, and we continue to challenge ourselves to find new culinary, technology, sustainability and event advances and offerings."
"Yucatan stands apart from other destinations through its deep connection to the living Maya culture, which continues to thrive and shape daily life," says David Escalante, Director of the Trust for the Development of Meetings Tourism in Yucatan. "What truly differentiates Yucatan is that the Maya heritage is not just part of the past, it is alive and vibrant in its traditions, gastronomy and communities. Visitors can explore world-renowned archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Ek Balam, marveling at the grandeur of ancient civilizations, while also experiencing modern Maya influences in everything from culinary creations to artisanal crafts."
Katanchel, A Belmond Hotel is a new luxury property under development near Merida. Formerly a hacienda dating back to the 17th century, it will open in 2027 with 35 suites following a comprehensive restoration program. The hotel is set on an estate that is also home to a cenote (underground river), a sacred well, native flora and fauna and the remains of an ancient Mayan pyramid, in addition to the historic hacienda.
For wellness-focused groups, Yucatan offers spaces that integrate holistic, cultural and gastronomic experiences. New options include Viatura luxury glamping, Casa Ku Hotel on the Yucatecan Riviera and Destino Mio, nestled deep in the Mayan jungle. These venues provide unique settings for retreats and teambuilding activities, to experiential events that combine relaxation with cultural immersion.
"Yucatan offers planners the opportunity to immerse their groups in a destination where ancient history, cultural authenticity and modern hospitality converge to create unforgettable events," says Escalante. "The region’s colonial cities, such as Merida, Izamal and Valladolid, add another layer of charm, showcasing a rich blend of history and architecture. But most importantly, it is the pride and warmth of the people—descendants of the Maya—who keep their heritage alive in everyday life. Whether through traditional practices, storytelling or festivals, their commitment ensures that the Maya legacy continues to inspire and enrich every visitor’s experience."
"Xcaret stands out for its ability to offer immersive and authentic events, thanks to its unique integration of natural surroundings, luxury infrastructure and deep immersion in Mexican culture," says Manuel Saracho, Corporate Director Of Group Sales. "Xcaret provides planners with extraordinary locations such as crystalline coves, private beaches, natural caves and subway rivers. These locations allow for the creation of customized experiences that are impossible to replicate elsewhere. These locations not only inspire but also reflect the cultural and natural richness of Mexico."
Hotel Xcaret Mexico will expand its room count by 900 in 2025, bringing its total number of guest rooms to 1,800, organized into 10 themed houses that each cater to different segments, such as adults or families with small children. Xcaret's culinary program will also undergo an expansion to feature 20 signature restaurants led by internationally renowned chefs such as Carlos Gaytan and Paco Mendez, both Michelin-starred. Xcaret will also add 37,000 sf of event space bringing its total offering to 48,000 sf with the capacity to host conventions for up to 2,500 attendees.
"The eco-integrated architecture of its facilities, certified by EarthCheck, ensures that each event is not only spectacular but also environmentally responsible," says Saracho. "This commitment is reflected in every aspect of the experience, from the materials used to the design that respects and enhances the natural surroundings. Xcaret’s infrastructure offers unparalleled flexibility, with over 96 event locations and convention centers that can accommodate up to 2,500 attendees.
"From small private meetings to large congresses, planners have access to state-of-the-art technology and a dedicated team committed to ensuring perfection in every detail. Each location offers a chance to surprise attendees with extraordinary settings. From intimate cave receptions to enchanting nighttime events in private coves, the natural spaces are meticulously adapted to provide stunning moments. These environments allow for authentic designs, ensuring that every corner of the event stands out," he says.
By Paloma Villaverde de Rico
Here are two of many selling points for the stunning new AVA Resort Cancun, which opened in late 2024 and is part of AIC Hotel Group: It’s a 10-minute drive from the Cancun International Airport and every single one of its rooms is oceanfront (a dose of wellness attendees will need after a full day of meetings). It’s also quite expansive with 1,622 accommodations ranging from standard rooms to villas spread out over the North and South towers, all connected by a long promenade lined with shops, restaurants and bars
Ash Tembe, VP of Global Field Sales for AIC Hotel Group, tells Prevue about another major selling point: "One of the great things about AVA Resort Cancun is its flexibility for groups. The scale can range from small businesses hosting annual retreats to a [large group] of 150+ [attendees]. During the development phase of the hotel, event spaces were top of mind because we understood that venues play a crucial role in the destination selection process for group bookings."
Planners will find an array of spaces to hold customized events and meetings, including the 50,000-sf AVA Salon (holds 5,000 theater-style, 3,200 banquet-style and 4,200 for a cocktail party) and the more intimate GALA Salon at 10,559 sf with space for 1,100 theater-style or 980 for a cocktail event. Other spaces include 12 meeting rooms (approximately 560 sf) designed for smaller meetings and collaboration activities, five breakout rooms, a 10,800-sf theater and two board of director rooms for hosting private meetings. Additionally, with its oceanfront location, the resort features a large collection of outdoor event spaces, ranging from the 11,840-sf AVA Terrace to the 570-sf DEZ Terrace.
Tembe lets planners know that the hotel has a competitive offer on the table, with groups booking a minimum of 10 rooms for three nights or more instantly qualifying for benefits, which can include complimentary room upgrades, additional private functions and even complimentary room nights.
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