“The Canadian market is incredibly important to Palladium Hotel Group, playing a key role in the success of our resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. We also value our strong relationships with Canadian travel agents and tour operators, ensuring our resorts remain top of mind for travellers seeking exceptional stays.
–Pilar Arizmendi-Stewart, VP of Sales & Marketing of the Americas, Palladium Hotel Group
Fresh off of announcing a €500 million expansion in Jamaica that will see the addition of TRS Hotels and new overwater bungalows, Travel Courier caught up with Palladium Hotel Group’s Pilar Arizmendi-Stewart, VP of Sales & Marketing of the Americas, to find out more about the project, other exciting new developments and the importance of the Canadian market.
Palladium just announced a €500 million expansion project in Hanover, Jamaica. What can you tell us about that?
Palladium Hotel Group announced the expansion of Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in Jamaica, a project promoted by Grupo Empresas Matutes, owner of the property. This transformative development will add more than 948 new rooms and is expected to create around 1,500 direct jobs in the destination, along with 2,600 to 5,700 indirect job opportunities. The expansion will further strengthen the brand’s presence in Jamaica, introducing the TRS Hotels adults-only, luxury all-inclusive brand and the VIP family club, Family Selection at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts.
As part of its expansion in Jamaica, Palladium Hotel Group will introduce TRS Hotels, a luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive brand located in the most desirable destinations in Mexico (Riviera Maya and Cancun), Dominican Republic (Punta Cana) and Spain (Ibiza). This offers a sophisticated and modern experience tailored for couples, newlyweds, and group travelers. The expansion will also introduce Family Selection at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts, a VIP service providing families with exclusive amenities and personalized experiences. This service enhances stays with dedicated spaces and premium services, currently available in Mexico and soon to open in the Dominican Republic.
Palladium Cares, the CSR division of Palladium Hotel Group, focuses on three pillars: Our People, Our Community, and Our Planet. It has launched seven training and family centers in Jamaica, Brazil, and Mexico, providing accessible workforce training tailored to local needs. Through a partnership with Hanover City Council and the HEART/NSTA Trust, 90 students are currently enrolled in hospitality-related courses, and 12 students from the previous training centre are now interning at Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa.
Tell us a bit about the Grand Palladium Select Collection and some of the recently opened and soon-to-open properties?
With the Junior Suite as the base room category, Grand Palladium Select Collection combines top-tier services and facilities with an outstanding culinary experience and innovative, captivating entertainment, all set in prime locations that offer the best beaches alongside vibrant cultural and leisure attractions.
Guests of this collection, showcasing the finest examples of the Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts brand, will enjoy an extensive array of premium dining options, including à la carte and themed restaurants featuring a wide variety of international specialties; bars with an exceptional selection of cocktails and spirits; the Piacere Coffee Shop, offering a delectable assortment of sweet and savoury treats, specialty coffees, and a wide range of beverages; and the new Grand Gelateria, inspired by traditional Italian ice cream. Additionally, guests at these hotels will experience unique fitness entertainment during the day at the pools, benefit from pool concierge service, and have access to the leisure, wellness, and dining facilities of other Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts within the same resort.
The first hotel to join this collection was Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, rebranded as Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres in January 2025, followed by Grand Palladium Select Palace Ibiza in the Balearic Islands, and Grand Palladium Select Bávaro in Punta Cana in December 2025.
What else is new and exciting in the pipeline?
Palladium Hotel Group is advancing its global presence, with a strategic focus on the Middle East and Asia as it continues to grow its portfolio. As part of this expansion, the group is overseeing significant renovations across its managed properties to further elevate the guest experience. This approach reinforces Palladium Hotel Group’s commitment to innovation and excellence while strengthening its international footprint.
In 2024, the group marked key milestones with the opening of Only YOU Hotel Sevilla in April and the company’s return to Barcelona with the 45 Times Barcelona Hotel in November 2024, while in the Caribbean, The Signature Level at Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa was introduced in Jamaica.
Upcoming projects include the debut of The Unexpected Ibiza Hotel which will introduce 181 rooms, suites, and unique culinary and entertainment experiences, along with the launch of The Unexpected Hotels brand, inspired by Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel. This will mark the debut of the new brand The Unexpected Hotels, inspired by the iconic Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Hotel, through which the company aims to expand internationally.
Only YOU Hotel Venice Bonvecchiati is scheduled for the second half of 2026. Owned by Ece Real Estate and Soravia, the five-star hotel will feature 162 rooms and is located just 150 meters from the iconic Piazza San Marco. That same year, the transformation of the current 45 Times Barcelona Hotel will take place, integrating it into the BLESS Collection Hotels portfolio.
The group is targeting Southeast Asia, specifically Singapore, Vietnam, Bali (Indonesia), and Thailand, as well as the Middle East, as key areas for the coming years. Additionally, the group is exploring opportunities in the United States, Mexico, major Latin American capitals, Europe, and Mediterranean tourist hotspots, including Morocco, Greece, and Croatia, among others. In 2027, the group is planning the second opening of The Unexpected Hotels brand in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. This ambitious project, developed in partnership with Al Marjan and Almal Real Estate Development, will attract an investment of over $100 million and will feature 422 rooms. Also in 2027, the group plans to open Only YOU Hotels in Ibiza and New York after the renovation of the current 45 Times Square Hotel, further solidifying the international expansion of this brand within Palladium Hotel Group’s portfolio.
How important is the Canadian market?
The Canadian market is incredibly important to Palladium Hotel Group, playing a key role in the success of our resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Canadian travellers consistently choose Palladium Hotel Group for their all-inclusive vacations, drawn to our high standards of service, diverse dining options, and premium experiences. With direct flights from major Canadian cities to our destinations, seamless accessibility makes our resorts a preferred choice for both family-friendly getaways and luxury adults-only escapes.
We also value our strong relationships with Canadian travel agents and tour operators, ensuring our resorts remain top of mind for travellers seeking exceptional stays. From destination weddings to group travel and wellness-focused retreats, we continue to enhance our offerings to meet the evolving preferences of our Canadian guests. We look forward to welcoming them back year after year for unforgettable vacations.
Are you noticing any interesting trends or bookings insights based on Canadian demand and/or agent bookings?
We’re seeing a rise in bookings for multi-generational travel, destination weddings, and wellness-focused getaways. Travel agent partnerships remain key, with group travel and long-stay bookings becoming more prevalent, especially during the winter months. As we move forward, we’re committed to working closely with our Canadian partners to ensure we continue meeting the evolving needs of this important market.
The all inclusive segment has a lot of competition. What do you think sets Palladium apart?
Palladium Hotel Group sets itself apart in the competitive all-inclusive market by offering a diverse portfolio of brands tailored to different traveler needs while maintaining a commitment to premium service, exceptional dining, and immersive experiences. TRS Hotels provide an adults-only, luxury escape with butler service, gourmet dining, private areas and exclusive entertainment like CHIC Cabaret & Restaurant, while Family Selection at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts elevates family travel with VIP amenities, private areas, and personalized services designed for both kids and parents. Additionally, a strong entertainment offer is BRAVO Dinner & Dance or activities organized by the POP Entertainment team in the kids club. Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts cater to those seeking a well-rounded, budget-conscious all-inclusive experience with diverse dining, entertainment, and wellness options. For an extra layer of exclusivity, The Signature Level enhances stays with premium accommodations, priority reservations, and upgraded services, ensuring a more personalized and seamless vacation. This variety allows Palladium Hotel Group to offer something unique for every traveler, from romantic getaways to unforgettable family adventures. In addition, Grand Palladium Select Collection is a premium offering designed to elevate the travel experience. With the Junior Suite as the base room category, this exquisite hotel collection combines top-tier services and facilities with an outstanding culinary experience and innovative, captivating entertainment, all set in prime locations that offer the best beaches alongside vibrant cultural and leisure attractions.
What’s driving all the growth and investment for Palladium right now?
Palladium Hotel Group is experiencing strong growth and investment, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality all-inclusive experiences and strategic brand partnerships. A key factor in this expansion is our alliance with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which has significantly expanded our global reach by bringing Palladium Hotel Group into Wyndham’s Registry Collection. This partnership has enhanced visibility, increased access to Wyndham Rewards’ extensive member base, and reinforced our positioning in the luxury and upscale all-inclusive segments.
Additionally, we continue to see strong demand from key markets, including Canada, for elevated resort experiences, destination weddings, and multi-generational travel. This has fueled ongoing enhancements across our properties and investments in innovation, sustainability, and guest-centric services. With a focus on delivering exceptional stays, we remain committed to strategic growth that meets the evolving preferences of today’s travelers.
Moreover, Palladium Rewards, our own loyalty program, has been a key driver of repeat bookings and customer loyalty. By offering exclusive perks and benefits, Palladium Rewards helps strengthen relationships with our guests, encouraging long-term engagement and repeat visits. As we continue to enhance our properties, expand our offerings, and integrate new guest experiences, we are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for personalized all-inclusive vacations.
