The Omicron variant has thrown a wrench into travel industry recovery, but Jasmine Grant, BDM for the AIC Hotel Group, says the human need for connection and desire for new experiences means that massive pent-up demand for travel is straining to be unleashed.
"People have faith that the wind is changing direction," Grant told TravelPulse Canada. "What I've noticed is that people who have followed all the rules and done their part in the pandemic have a need for experiences and a desire to do something special as soon as they can."
The upscale all-inclusive hotels represented by AIC include Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, and UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya.
With Hard Rock's philosophy of fun and ever-present entertainment for the whole family, and UNICO's blend of 5-star luxury and Mexican authenticity, experiences are a big part of the AIC Hotel Group experience.
From cuisine and mixology classes to state of the art gaming, and from waterparks and live concerts to innovative spa treatments, there's always something on the schedule to get guests active and engaged.
Grant says Canadian travel advisors have been steadfast in their support for a product that makes their clients happy.
"The past two years have been very tough on them, but they're a group of really strong people. There are some very creative agents working in Canada and we're just here to support them and help with whatever they need."
AIC's Canadian representatives have worked hard to maintain connection with Canadian travel sellers during a difficult period. Their enthusiastic response has given Grant lots of hope for the future.
"We've held events like ceramic painting, so agents could get out and chat while having some fun. We've rented a skating rink at Wayne Gretzky Estates, so agents can connect with friends from the industry. We held a dinner in Toronto that was amazing, and the desire for connection was just so strong. That gives me confidence as we move toward the end of this."
Grant says the quality and evolution of the product she represents gives her plenty of confidence too. Here are a few of the current developments she's excited about:
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
The big news at HR Punta Cana is the return of live concerts, including a show by Maroon 5 in April. As well, guests booking by January 31 get free tickets to an off-resort Cirque du Soleil show that runs through April 10.
"It's something fun and different to look forward to," Grant says. "You can't not think of entertainment when you think of Hard Rock."
Room renovations at the Punta Cana property are near complete, and Grant says the modern, contemporary design she witnessed on a November agent fam were impressive. "It blew me away and I work for the company. I can't wait to welcome Canadian agents and clients back."
A new waterpark is coming to the property, with a late 2022 opening date.
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
The home of what Grant calls an "incredible" waterpark is getting some new accommodations this year in the form of swim-up suites in the adults-only Heaven section of the property.
The restaurants in the Heaven section are also getting a makeover, with inspiration from Tulum beach clubs, Grant says.
UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya
Grant calls UNICO "a really unique, really, really special property" that marries luxury with a deep respect for Mexican culture and authenticity."
"It's not in your face, it just is. It's not sleepy, it's full of fun targeted to an adult audience. You really feel like you're in Mexico, which is not always the case at luxury all-inclusive resorts."
Grant was able to visit almost all the Hard Rock properties and Unico between August and December of last year. She says staff have done an amazing job of preserving service levels and showing guests a great time, despite extensive protocols designed to keep everyone safe.
"The fun factor is still there," Grant said. "The safety measures didn't inhibit anything on property."
Grant says there have been some cancellations since the Omicron variant swept in, but there's still business coming through from Canadians, including wedding bookings.
"My fingers are crossed and I think we're in a great position for when the situation improves. And I think it's coming soon."
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