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Five trends that will define travel experiences in 2020

December 2019.- In a world flooded with alternatives for travellers, there are still niches to be targeted.The Barceló Hotel Group has used its social media channels to survey nearly 100,000 users across the world and present the travel trends for next year. The hotelligence culture, sustainable hyperlocalism, phygitalism, culinary tourism and personalised experiences that create knowledge will form part of travel agendas in 2020.

In response to the latest trends and traveller needs, the Barceló Hotel Group has launched Barceló Experiences, a digital platform featuring the best guides on what to see and do at every destination.Starting with Granada as the pilot, this new online channel is available to everyone and contains a comprehensive array of activities that invite visitors to explore Granada like a local.Over the course of 2020, new destinations, features and unique experiences will be added.

The hotel group, which has more than 250 establishments in 22 countries, is transferring its extensive experience and expertise to a digital platform that will enable travellers to become immersed at a destination, just like locals.This is a new way of travelling by the hand of a destination’s experts.

Hotelligence

Faced with excess information, comments on social media and reviews on digital platforms, a growing number of travellers prefer to turn to local opinion leaders that guarantee reliability and address their needs.

The hotelligence culture will define trends for 2020.Hotels remain positioned as reliable hosts that provide local knowledge and personalised service.

According to data from the survey carried out by the Barceló Hotel Group, 85% of people trust the recommendations provided by the hotel where they are staying.

Sustainable hyperlocalism

To reduce the environmental impact, travel to secondary destinations and a focus on local experiences will be on the rise.

In 2020, travellers will opt to explore authentic destinations that are lesser known.Local experiences will gain ground over mass tourism.

Along these lines, Barceló Experiencesshowcases destinations and supports hyperlocalism as a form of local expertise.

75% of the travellers surveyed prefer authenticity and a local feel, but without omitting the most emblematic features of a destination.

Phygitalism, the great ally of travellers

In 2020, travellers will have higher expectations as they search for a comprehensive experience that combines digital aspects—through continuous technological innovations—and friendly service.

The Barceló Hotel Group’s study on trends has concluded that there are three phases in which the use of technology varies: 40% of those surveyed search for inspiration on social mediabefore going on a trip, and more than 50% of users prefer to book their experiences through online platforms.However, once they reach their destination, recommendations from hotel staff and feedback from other travellers are the most reliable sources of information in 80% of instances.

Barceló Experiences leverage their phygital characteristics to combine in-person service and a trustworthy digital platform.

The Group views technology as a fundamental pillar for any trip, but without losing sight of the emotional and human aspects. More than 30,000 employees comprise this vast network of guest services at the destination, all backed by an extremely useful and accessible digital platform.

Foodie trips

In 2020, food will be chosen by travellers as the top experience to be explored through locally-sourced ingredients and the regional culture.

Discovering dishes, restaurants, recipes and chefs, and becoming thoroughly familiar with the local cuisine, will be the alternative selected by 46% of those surveyed.

Additionally, most participants view good service and hospitality as a key element of the culinary experience.

The Barceló Hotel Group understands the importance of this trend and has positioned itself as a trustworthy adviser that offers proven experiences, all arranged with a maximum focus on customer service.

Personalisation: DIY plans

Travellers enjoy planning their stay based on local experiences that provide knowledge.

More than 80% of travellers enjoy organising their activities before reaching the destination.

Barceló Experiences is one step ahead of this trend by providing an array of detailed information that travellers can use when planning their trip.

With Barceló Experiences, visitors can tailor their trip with a clear focus on personalisation and the peace of mind that only a local expert can provide.

Upon reaching the destination, travellers want positive and enriching experiences that will create unforgettable memories.

57% of travellers want to expand their knowledge on trips.

In this phase, hotels play an active role in the decisions made by travellers and in improving their trip through transformative experiences that make them feel at ease, regardless of whether or not they are hotel guests.

About the Barceló Hotel Group:

The Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of Barceló Corporación Empresarial, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 31st in the world.It currently has 251 urban and leisure hotels with 4 and 5 stars, and over 55,000 rooms spread out across 22 countries and marketed under four brands:Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels.

Information regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

At Barceló Hotel Group, the safety and well-being of our employees and customers are our top priority

Those of us who are part of the Barceló Hotel Group and I personally, want to deliver a message of reassurance at these uncertain times. As the situation around the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve, we are doing everything we can to ensure security and provide maximum flexibility for your travel plans at any of our hotels around the world.

Our thoughts today are with all those people affected by the coronavirus and their families. We are especially proud of the extraordinary work of the medical services, as well as of civil society in general, an example of sacrifice and effort in which we must all recognize ourselves. And of course, our company is at the disposal of the authorities for whatever is necessary.

We have implemented the most demanding security measures

Let me extend this gratitude to all the people of the Barceló Group who, from a personal commitment that exceeds the professional, are acting with determination to minimize the effects of this pandemic. Today, our entire chain has implemented demanding security measures to face this extraordinary situation. All these protocols are under permanent review to ensure that they are always the most appropriate.

We have increased the cleaning frequency of community areas and reinforced the techniques used in the hygiene of rooms with professional hospital-grade products, paying special attention to high-touch areas.

Total flexibility in all our reservations

For your maximum peace of mind, if you have a reservation with us, do not hesitate to contact our call center, website and social networks to make sure we answer any questions you may have. We will facilitate maximum flexibility in all our reservations, and we will inform you promptly, through our communication channels, of any aspect that we consider relevant.

Hospitality, at times like today, is more important than ever. From the strength and capacity that our 90 years of history gives us, we are very aware today of what it means to be part of the Barceló Group and what is expected of us.

I am confident that this health crisis will be resolved as soon as possible and that we can welcome you again. Meanwhile, I take this opportunity to thank you for your trust.

Warm regards,

Raúl González

CEO EMEA

Barceló Hotel Group

The Barceló Group ends 2019 with a historic set of results

17 January 2020 To coincide with the up-coming Madrid International Tourism Fair (FITUR), the Barceló Hotel Group’s Chief Executive Officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Raúl González, today took part in a press conference held at the Barceló Torre de Madrid Hotel, where he took stock of the results for the end of 2019, and the development of the company during the year.

Maintenance of historic results:

In spite of the fact that during 2019 the tourist industry has been characterised by instability and a complex competitive climate (a consequence of factors such as the slowdown in economic activity and the demise of Thomas Cook; a reduction in the number of international tourists arriving due to the short-term cyclical change facing the industry; the significant increase in competition in distribution and the concentration of the industry), Barceló Group’s results at the close of the year have remained strong for the third consecutive year, approaching new historic levels.

Although the figures are as yet only provisional, the group estimates that its sales will exceed 3,100 million euros, and that the Recurring EBITDA and the Consolidated Net Profit will be similar to those of the previous year: at around 350 million euros and 180 million euros, respectively.

With regard to the hotel division, sales figures are expected to show an increase of 4% compared with 2018, reaching 1,355 million euros, a percentage increase similar to that calculated for the hotel sector EBITDA, which is forecast to be close to 320 million euros.

Growth towards new territories:

The good results are partly due to the growth experienced by Barceló Hotel Group throughout 2019, a year in which the hotel chain took on 12 new hotels and 3,700 new guest rooms, raising its offer to a total of 251 hotels and 57,493 guest rooms in 22 different countries.

The expansion achieved has allowed the Mallorca-based group to consolidate its position in North Africa through its advancement into a new destination, Tunisia where the chain has opened 6 hotels, to become that country’s leading international hotel operator. In addition, the acquisition of a hotel in Marrakesh (the Barceló Palmeraie) has enabled the group to consolidate its existing presence in Morocco’s principal cities (Agadir, Fez, Casablanca and Tangier).

During 2019, Barceló Hotel Group continued its growth in the United Arab Emirates (with the incorporation of Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway hotel, located in the exclusive area of Palm Jumeirah), and strengthened its presence in Continental Europe by moving into Hungary with a hotel in the heart of Budapest. In addition, the chain has maintained its commitment to two of its main destinations: Mexico, where it has completed the construction of the fourth phase of the Barceló Maya Grand Resort complex with the opening of a stunning, 850-room, adults-only hotel (Barceló Maya Riviera), whose guests have access to all the resort’s facilities and services; and Spain, where the group has expanded its offer with the opening of the Occidental Fuengirola and of the Almirante Bonifaz in Burgos.

Furthermore, during 2019 Barceló Hotel Group’s Expansion team entered into contracts for 18 new projects in existing destinations and in new markets such as Sri Lanka and the Maldives (which will allow the Barceló brand to position itself in Asia), as well as in Poland, Slovenia and elsewhere. Thanks to these new contracts and to others previously agreed, the chain has a portfolio of future additions amounting to over 25 hotels and almost 7,000 guest rooms, of which 14 establishments and 2,500 guest rooms will come on stream in 2020.

The Mallorcan group’s aim is to attain a size that will establish Barceló Hotel Group as one of the great hotel groups, and will position it among the leading players in the sector at an international level. To this end, it plans to continue working to set up projects in strategic destinations across Continental Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia — while not forgetting its firm commitment to continued growth in Spain.

Disfruta de Expo Dubai 2020 de la mano de Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel

Hotels added in 2019:

– Barceló Palmeraie (Morocco): 5 stars and 252 guest rooms.

– DukesDubai, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (UAE): 5 stars and 566 guest rooms.

– Hotel Almirante Bonifaz (Spain): 4 stars and 79 guest rooms.

– Occidental Fuengirola (Spain): 4 stars and 316 guest rooms.

– Barceló Budapest (Hungary): 4 stars and 179 guest rooms.

– Occidental SousseMarhaba (Tunisia): 4 stars and 240 guest rooms.

– Barceló Maya Riviera (Mexico): 5 stars and 850 guest rooms.

– Barceló Concorde Berges du Lac (Tunisia): 4 stars and 129 guest rooms.

– Occidental Paris (Tunisia): 4 stars and 70 guest rooms.

– Occidental Sfax (Tunisia): 4 stars and 130 guest rooms.

– Occidental Marco Polo (Tunisia): 4 stars and 464 guest rooms.

– Barceló Concorde Green Park (Tunisia): 5 stars and 452 guest rooms.

Total: 12 hotels and 3,727 guest rooms

A commitment to an operation focused on the creation of value:

It can be seen from the contracts signed during 2019 that Barceló Hotel Group is continuing to grow as a hotel operator. The parent group’s change of model in favour of hotel management has enabled it to enter new markets, including Sri Lanka and Tunisia as already mentioned. In these countries, the company has set up joint ventures with local partners to operate new hotels, with the objective of making them leading players. At present, 57% of establishments are incorporated under the management model.

This success has been achieved thanks to the company’s own business model (which has been adapted to the particular characteristics of each country in which it operates) and to Barceló Hotel Group’s recognised capacity to sign up to contracts that take into account the needs of its local partners. This is something that sets the Mallorca-based group apart and positions it as one of the most flexible and adaptive European companies to become involved in each type of hotel project. This makes Barceló Hotel Group a trusted and flexible partner, capable of forging lasting relationships with all its collaborators.

This clearly defined strategy has positioned Barceló Hotel Group as the second-largest Spanish hotel chain, and led to its selection in 2019 as the World Travel Awards “Best hotel management company in the world”. This accolade marks a milestone at international level, as an acknowledgement of the magnificent work being done by the company to offer an excellent hotel management service throughout the world.

A high level of investment in the portfolio:

Over the past 5 years, Barceló Hotel Group has invested almost 1,500 million euros in refurbishments and new acquisitions in order to present its customers with the finest possible offer. Of these 1,500 million euros, around 380 million, or 25% of the total, were invested during 2019. Two of the major refurbishments undertaken during 2019 were those of the Barceló Maya Riviera and the iconic Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Gran Canaria). The latter, which is an outstanding hotel by virtue of its remarkable history and architecture, received an investment of 24 million euros to restore the hotel to the condition and grade of luxury originally envisaged for it. The Barceló Maya Riviera was an ambitious project involving the refurbishment of 850 guest rooms. It received an investment of over 220 million euros, and includes one of the largest conference centres in the region.

A focus on the customer experience as a differentiating factor:

In addition, the good results obtained by Barceló Hotel Group in 2019 serve to validate and underline the value of the company’s Customer Experience strategy, which sets it apart from the competition. In this area, the company has developed a strategy based on the differentiation and personalisation of key moments in each customer’s experience, in order to excite and impress them.

The strategy is based on the company’s 4 brands (Royal Hideaway, Barceló, Occidental and Allegro); on the design of the individual brands’ differentiated experiences; on technology focused on the customer experience, and on the company’s teams, who are at the forefront of its relationship with guests.

Throughout 2019, Barceló Hotel Group focused on improving customers’ experiences during their stay. Under the premise of experiential innovation, and with an emphasis on local character, the company has developed a wide range of options to enable customers to fully experience the real essence and flavour of each destination.

These initiatives include healthy breakfasts, prepared using home-made, zero-kilometre products (Royal Breakfast, B-Likeat, O!Breakfast and AllegroMornings); the Barceló Experiences (impressive experiences inspired by each destination, such as sailing on a llaüt on the waters around Formentor or discovering the hidden corners of Madrid in the company of locals known as B-Locals); and a series of innovative leisure concepts such as WeHappy — targeted at adults and families aged over 18 years — and Happy Minds, a programme for children based on H. Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences.

This commitment to value creation for guests has a direct impact on the results achieved by hotels through improved income, additional income streams, increased efficiency, and the optimisation of costs. The strategy is not simply a matter of investing in the hotels, refurbishing the guest rooms and facilities and upgrading them in line with new trends, but of going much further to bring innovation into every point of contact with the customer. The objective of Barceló Hotel Group is to continue working towards being able to offer a differential, personalised experience to each of its guests.

Barceló Hotel Group and UFI Group join forces to create Barceló Caravel in Tunisia

16 December 2019. Barceló Hotel Group and Tunisian company UFI Group have signed an agreement to create a new hotel management company: Barceló Caravel. This joint venture was born with the vision to become a leader in the Tunisian hotel sector.

Barceló Caravel will open its portfolio with a total of six4 and 5-star business and leisure hotels and 1,485 rooms, distributed across Tunisia in Tunis, Sfax,Yasmina Hammamet, Port El Kantaoui and Sousse. The agreement envisages an improvement plan for onboard hotelsand the future integration of new establishments.

The company’s portfolio includes five hotels owned bythe UFIGroupand another one already managed by Barceló Hotel Group, which was signed last May.

Portfolio of Barceló Caravel:

Barceló Concorde Berges du Lac ( Tunis): 5 stars. Urban. 129 rooms

Barceló Concorde Green Park (Port El Kanatoui): 5 stars, Leisure. 452 rooms

Occidental Paris (Capital Tunisia): 4 stars. Urban. 70 rooms

Occidental Sfax (Sfax): 4 stars. Urban. 130 rooms

Occidental Marco Polo (Yasmine Hammamet): 4 stars. Leisure. 464 rooms

Occidental Marhaba Sousse (Sousse): 4 stars. Leisure. 240 rooms

Abdelaziz Essassi, President of UFIGroup, said: “With this alliance, Caravel consolidates its experience in the sector and does so with the help of an international specialist in hotel management such as Barceló Hotel Group. Barceló has just been chosen as the Best Hotel Management Company in the World at the World Travel Awards 2019, and the group will further optimise the results of hotels. We need to build stronger and larger local management companies to better compete with other destinations in the Mediterranean and we expect more local Hotel owners to join Barceló Caravel“.

According to Jaime Buxó, Chief Business Development Officer for Barceló Hotel Group, said: “We firmly believe in the tourism development potential that Tunisia has. This is most appropriate with the creation of this joint venture with local partners; a formula that, having analysed other possibilities, seems to us to be the most suitable. We are sure that this formula will allow us to become the largest management company in Tunisia. We are very satisfied with the quality and location of the hotels and we are confident that with our commercial and operational platforms we will be able to maximise the profitability of these establishments and make Tunisia a leading destination again“.

The signing of the agreement between the two companies also envisages a plan of improvements to modernise the services and facilities of the hotels of Barceló Caravel. It will also promote the growth of the company with the incorporation of new hotels under management regime in Tunisia, or in other destinations in the area where both partners consider it appropriate to expand.

About UFI Group:

UFI Group is one of the largest business groups in Tunisia. Founded in 1977 by Abdelaziz Essasi, it has businesses in the financial, industrial, real state and tourism sectors, where, to date, it had five hotels managed under the Concorde brand.

About Barceló Hotel Group:

Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barceló Group, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 29th largest in the world. It currently managesmore than 250 4- and 5-star business and leisure hotels, and more than 55,670 rooms, distributed in 22 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. It is also part of the Crestline Hotels & Resorts group, an independent hotel company with 120 establishments.

Barceló Hotel Group chosen as the Best Hotel Management Company in the World 2019

29 November 2019: After seeing11 of its hotels recognised at this year’s World Travel Awards,it was the turn of Barceló Hotel Group itself to be awarded a prestigious accolade, as it was named Best Hotel Management Company 2019.

The ceremony for the World Travel Awards, which recognise excellence in the tourism sector, was held at the Royal Opera Housein Muscat, the capital of Oman.

Jaime Buxó,Chief Business Development Officer at Barceló Hotel Group, said: “Winning this award is an international milestone, which recognises the enormous work that we are doing to standardise our processes and offer an excellent management service worldwide”.

“The hard work has already paid off; 56% of our hotels are incorporated under the management regime and this formula has allowed us to sign agreements this year to enter seven new destinations. Hungary, Tunisia and Dubai landed in 2019; and hotels will open in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Poland and Slovenia between 2021 and 2022.“

Jaime Buxó continued: “This success has largely been due to the recognised ability of Barceló Hotel Group to sign agreements based on the needs of our local partners. It is something that differentiates us and positions us as a European hotel company with greater flexibility and ability to adapt to the particular needs of each hotel project.“

11 individual Barceló Hotel Group properties won awards at the 2019 World Travel Awards. These were:

– Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Mallorca): Spain’s Leading Beach Hotel

– Royal Hideaway Corales Resort (Tenerife): Spain’s Leading Luxury Hotel Villa and Spain’s Leading Resort

– La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Granada):Spain’s Leading Boutique Hotel

– Barceló Isla Canela (Huelva):Spain’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort

– Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento (Seville): Spain’s Leading MICE Hotel

– Barceló Palmeraie (Marrakech, Morocco): Morocco’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort

– Barceló México Reforma (Mexico):Mexico’s Leading Conference Hotel

– Royal Hideaway Playacar (Mexico):Mexico’s Leading Resort 2019 and Mexico’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort

– Occidental at Xcaret Destination (Mexico):Mexico & Central America’s Leading Conference Hotel

– Barceló San Salvador (El Salvador): El Salvador’s Leading Hotel

– Barceló Tambor (Costa Rica):Costa Rica’s Leading Resort

About the World Travel Awards:

The World Travel Awards were created in 1993with the aim of recognising excellence in more than a hundred categories of the global tourism sector; mainly destinations, hotels, airlinesandtravel agencies, among others. An international jury of more than 200,000 professionals is responsible for selecting finalists and winners.

About Barceló Hotel Group:

Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barceló Group, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 29th largest in the world. It currently has 251 4- and 5-star city and holiday hotels, and more than 55,670 rooms, distributed in 22 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. It is also part of the Crestline Hotels & Resorts group, an independent hotel company with 120 establishments.

Barceló Hotel Group announces its first hotel in Slovenia

Leading Spanish hospitality company Barceló Hotel Group has announced its entry into Slovenia with the opening of a new hotel in Ljubljana. Set tolaunch near the capital’s old quarter in May 2021, Barceló Hotel Groupis the first Spanish hotel brand to establish a presence in Slovenia.
The 4-star design hotel will be centrally located near the old quarter and only 200m from Cankarjev Dom, one of Slovenia’s largest convention centres.With 22 rooms and 4,000 square metres of exhibition space, the venue has hosted numerous national and international conferences as well as an exciting roster of cultural events.

Jaime Buxó, Chief Business Development Officer at Barceló Hotel Group, said: “Entering the Slovenian market is a great achievement for The Barcelo Hotel Group, particularly as we are the first Spanish hotelbrand to do so. Slovenia is one of the fastest-growing European capitals and we are honoured to participate in country’s tourism revolution. Ljubliana’s convenient location and fantastic air connections with many European cities has positioned it as an excellent destination for hosting all types of business events and for tourism.

“This launch joins a number of other new openings in Europe and we are pleased to keep growing based on the needs of our local partners. We don’t take a standardised approach to our hotels, instead choosing to differentiate ourselves by adapting to the specific needs of each project, positioning Barceló Hotel Groupas one of Europe’s most flexiblehotel chains.”

Christian Walter, Managing Director at PKF hotelexperts, Vienna, adds: “The Adriatic Sea region has been our home turf for many years, and Ljubljana is a maturing hotel market attracting a lot of attention.We are happy that we were able to contribute to the success of this project by preparing the feasibility study for the owner and by conducting the operator search. With Barceló Hotel Group, we have found a reliable partner that shares the owner’s vision for the project.”

The hotel will have 151 rooms and will feature a restaurant, lobby bar, car park and two meeting rooms spanning 30 and 40 square metres, respectively. It will share the same block as other buildings offering residential accommodation and shops.
For more information, visit www.barcelo.com.

Barceló Hotel Group announces its first hotel in Poland

Leading Spanish hospitality company Barceló Hotel Group has announced its entry into Poland with the opening of a new hotel in Warsaw; set to launch in the capital city’s Powiśle neighbourhood in 2021.

It will be built within the Elektrownia Powiśle development, a former power plant which houses a vibrant collection of bars, restaurants, shops, office spaces and private residences, all within a 15-minute walk from the city centre.

The 4-star hotel will offer direct access to Elektrownia Powiśle’s retail, entertainment and F&B, which is a two-minute walk from the nearest Metro station.

Jaime Buxó, Chief Business Development Officer at Barceló Hotel Group, said: “We are delighted to be opening our first hotel in Poland as part of this landmark development project, which will see the transformation of one of Warsaw’s most iconic buildings.
“The prime location of the property, in the most culturally vibrant district in the city, chimes perfectly with Barceló Hotel Group’s ambitions to open new hotels in the most exciting destinations and it is an important marker of our growth strategy as we expand our footprint worldwide.”

The Powiśle neighbourhood is home to the Copernicus Science Centre, Warsaw University Library and Warsaw’s Museum of Modern Art, attracting locals and tourists alike.

The hotel will be builton a plot at the intersection of Zajęcza and Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie streets. In an area of 7,350 sq.m. guests will find 150 bedrooms, conference space and Iberian-style rooftop bar with wonderful views over the Vistula River.

For more information, visit www.barcelo.com.

Barceló Hotel Group enters into Sri Lanka and The Maldives

8 November 2019: Barceló Hotel Group has undergone a joint venture with Browns Investments – a subsidiary of LOLC Group, one of Sri Lanka’s largest business conglomerates – to develop the Bodufaru Beach Resort in the Maldives’ North Male Atoll. Due to open in 2022, the resort will include three five-star hotels with a total of 470 rooms, equating to an investment of $150 million (£116.4 million).

The agreement, which will allow Barceló Hotel Groupto position itself in Asia, also includes the transfer of management of four more hotels to Barceló Hotel Group, which are owned by Browns Hotels & Resorts. This includes two hotels under construction in The Maldives (Bodufinolhu Beach Resort and Nasandhura City Hotel) and two already operating in Sri Lanka (TheEden Resort and Spa and Paradise Resort and Spa). This will raise Barceló Hotel Group’s footprint in the region to a total of seven hotels and 900 rooms.

Raúl González, CEO of Barceló Hotel Group, and Ishara Nanayakkara, vice president of LOLC Group, during the signature of the agreement

Raúl González, CEO of Barceló Hotel Group for EMEA, said: “Entering the destinations of Sri Lanka and Maldives has always been in our long-term expansion plan. However, venturing into new countries often involves risks that we do not know about, so we needed to find a suitable local partner. We have achieved this with LOLCGroup and its hotel division Browns Hotels & Resorts. We were impressed by the quality of their products and the visibility provided bytheir extensive portfolio; but also, their proactive attitude when designing the best possible agreement for both sides, with a view to continuing our joint growth in the region.”

IsharaNanayakkara, vice president of LOLC Group, said: “We are hotel owners and investors, but we firmly believe that the best way to monetise our long-term assets is to entrust your management to a strong and independent international operator. And we are very pleased that a renowned chain like Barceló Hotel Group has chosen us as its partner in the region. We believe that this joint venture will generate broad benefits and synergies for the two partners.”

About Browns Hotels & Resorts:

Browns Hotels & Resorts, LOLC Group’s hotel division, owns and manages hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, including The Eden Resort and Spa in Beruwela; The Paradise Resort and Spa in Dambulla; Dikwella Resort & Spa and The Calm in Pasikuda. The next addition to its portfolio will be Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort, which will open in early 2020. The Maldives hotels, including Bodufinolhu Beach Resort and Nasandhura City Hotel, will complete their construction and begin operating before the end of 2020. Bodufaru Beach Resort’s 470-room resort in the Maldives is scheduled to open in 2022.

About Barceló Hotel Group:

Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barceló Group, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 29th largest in the world. It currently has 251 4 and 5 star city and holiday hotels, and more than 55,670 rooms, distributed in 22 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. It is also part of the Crestline Hotels & Resorts group, an independent hotel company with 120 establishments. For more information: https://www.barcelo.com/es/

Barceló Hotel Group sets December opening date for Barceló Maya Riviera

Barceló Hotel Group is excited to announce the Dec. 15, 2019 opening date of the all-inclusive Barceló Maya Riviera, a new adults-only, all-suite resort in Mexico’s spectacular Riviera Maya. The latest addition to the renowned Barceló Maya Grand Resort complex, the new resort joins Barceló Maya Palace, Barceló Maya Beach, Barceló Maya Caribe, Barceló Maya Colonial and Barceló Maya Tropical. The resort complex will also unveil Barceló Maya Arena, the largest convention center and meetings inventory in the region. A combined investment of $250 million-dollars has been allocated to this expansion project.

“We’re thrilled to be opening our new adults-only property in Riviera Maya this winter,” said Stefania Ballotta, Director of Sales & Marketing at Barceló Maya Grand Resort.“Fun, luxury and relaxation will all be easily within reach here – and we can’t wait to welcome our first guests.”

Barceló Maya Riviera is home to 850 exclusive and sophisticated rooms, all of which are Junior Suites or Suites – and more than half of them boast stunning ocean views. With more than a hundred swim-up suites, the new property will also feature hot tubs in all guestroom balconies, minibars with free daily refills of snacks and drinks, and double or super king-sized beds.

The resort’s specialty restaurants will offer a diverse array of cuisine, including Mexican (with a “Tacoyaki” bar), French fine dining, Italian, and Japanese (including 10 Teppanyaki tables and one Robatayaki table for fireside cooking), not to mention a buffet restaurant with international cuisine available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests will also enjoy cocktails, wine, beer and appetizers at one of five bars, including a refreshing poolside bar and an exceptional lobby bar.

Additionally, guests who stay at the Barceló Maya Riviera can enjoy everything on offer at the other five resorts within Barceló Maya Grand Resort. That’s 22 restaurants, 10 pools, three theatres, three water parks, a bowling alley – and the new Ventura Fly & Ride Park, featuring thrilling rides and experiences.

Finally, the new Barceló Maya Arenaconvention center is poised to become Riviera Maya’s best meetings and events venue.With a capacity to host up to 8,000 attendees, it will offermore than 190,000 square feet of customizable multi-purpose space for expos, conventions and events. For gala receptions with stunning views and fresh air, events planners will love the 3,400 square foot terrace. In the lower level dining venue, attendees will enjoy exceptional food and ambiance. For wedding planners, beach receptions at Playa Azul will be of special note due to the stunning ocean views, offering the chance for a truly spectacular beachfront ceremony.

Six hotels from Barceló Hotel Group are announced as winners at the World Travel Awards 2019

Barceló Hotel Group is delighted to announce that six hotels from the group received an accolade at the 26th edition of the World Travel Awards (WTA). Five of which were chosen amongst the best hotels in Spain and earlier this month,Barceló Palmeraie was chosen as the best all-inclusive resort in Morocco.

On 11 July the WTA gala for Latin American hotels will take place, in which Barceló Hotel Group has 10 hotels nominated.

European hotels of Barceló Hotel Group awarded in the WTAs 2019:

• La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Granada) – Best Boutique Hotel in Spain

• Formentor, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Mallorca) – Best Beach Hotel in Spain

• Royal Hideaway Corales Resort (Tenerife) – Best Hotel with villas in Spain and Best Resort in Spain

• Barceló Isla Canela (Huelva) – Best All-Inclusive Hotel in Spain

• Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento (Seville) – Best Hotel for Congresses and Events in Spain

• Barceló Palmeraie (Marrakech, Morocco) – Best All-Inclusive Resort in Morocco

La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (Granada) – Best Boutique Hotel in Spain

La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel is set in 1,000 acres of private and protected grounds amongst olive groves and oaks. It is the first sustainable luxury hotel in Spain and an icon of the Slow Travel conceptwith several impressive facilities including an outdoor pool, a wellness centre, gym and multiple sports courts and a varied local gastronomic offering in its four restaurants.
In addition, the hotel is a member of Leading Hotels of the World (LHW)and has been included by TripAdvisor amongst the twenty-five best hotels in the “Best hotels in Spain” and ” Best luxury hotels in Spain” categories in the TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards 2019.

Formentor, at Royal Hideaway Hotel (Mallorca) – Best Beach Hotel in Spain
Tucked away on the 3,000-acre protected nature reserve, it has direct access to Formentor beach, which this year was ranked amongst the top 25 of the best beaches in the world.2019 marks a milestone year for the hotel as it celebrates its 90th anniversary. Filled with old-school charm and a rich history, this iconic hotel has been a popular haunt over the years for personalities including Agatha Christie, Grace Kelly, Charlie Chaplin and Sir Winston Churchill.

Royal Hideaway Corales Resort (Tenerife) – Best Hotel with villas in Spain and Best Resort in Spain

Opened in February 2018, Royal Hideaway Corales Resort is a luxury five-star complex located in South Tenerife. The resort is split into two hotels – the adult specific ‘Corales Beach’ which is created exclusively of Junior Suites, complete with ocean view terraces, and the family-friendly ‘Corales Suites’ which have 114 deluxe ocean-view apartments with private terraces.

The hotel also appointed Michelin-starred Padrón Brothers, who are the only local Chefs awared with a star specialised in Canarian cuisine. The dynamic duo head up Maresía – the resort’s rooftop cocktail bar, restaurant and pool bar. There are nine restaurants and bars in total, with four exclusively for guests staying at the adults-only Corales Beach.

In addition to this award, the hotel received the award of Best New Hotel 2018 at the European Hospitality Awards last year for its facilities and its innovative proposal of experiences for guests.

Barceló Isla Canela (Huelva) – Best All-Inclusive Hotel in Spain

Barceló Isla Canela is the perfect place for an all-inclusive beach escape. Located on the Costa de la Luz and just moments from the Portuguese Algarve, this traditional Andalusian village style resort offers a relaxing beach break like no other. The hotel was also included by TripAdvisor amongst the 10 “Best all-inclusivehotels in Spain” in its Travelers Choice Awards 2019.

Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento (Sevilla) – Best Hotel for Congresses and Events in Spain

Situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir river, the high-speed AVE train station is located just 2.5 km from the hotel, and the San Pablo Airport just 10 km away, providing business travellers easy access to the hotel.
With over 36 meeting and function rooms at the Barceló Convention Centre, the hotel is a member of the ICCA (International Congress and Conventions Association) and has the best convention centre in Seville. With a capacity of up to 1,200 attendees, it is surrounded by 10,000 square metres of gardens, which provide the facilities with natural light and direct views over the river. The meeting rooms are fully equipped and are perfectly set up for meetings and conferences of all sizes and formats.

Barceló Palmeraie (Marrakech, Morocco) – Best All-Inclusive Resort in Morocco

Located in the heart of the mythical palm grove of Marrakech, Barceló Palmeraie is a majestic hotel inspired by traditional Moroccan architecture. The hotel has 252 rooms, two swimming pools and a beautiful garden setting. It has a 500sqmwellness centrewhich consists of a hammam, whirlpool and several treatment rooms.

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About the “World Travel Awards”:

Launched in 1993, the World Travel Awardscelebrate their 26th edition this year. With prizes for more than a hundred categories for the tourism industry including hotels, airlines, travel agencies and car rental companies, and an international jury made up of more than 200,000 professionals, these are some of the most prestigious travel awards.

About Barceló Hotel Group:

Barceló Hotel Group is the hotel division of the Barceló Group, which is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 29th in the world. It currently operates 251 leisure and city hotels with 4 and 5 stars, and over 55,000 rooms in 22 countries, all marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels& Resorts, Occidental Hotels& Resorts and Allegro Hotels.