Latest news with #beachresorts
Arab News
20-07-2025
- Arab News
Jeddah's private beach resorts growing in popularity
JEDDAH: For a city with a historic connection to the Red Sea, Jeddah's relationship with its coastline is entering a new chapter shaped by luxury, intentional design and a demand for privacy. The city's once-limited options have evolved into a range of private beach resorts offering everything from bohemian barefoot luxury to women-only wellness retreats. Along Jeddah's Obhur coast, a number of beach resorts have appeared in recent years, tailored for specific audiences and moods. 'Honestly, the development is very clear,' says Majda Abdulgader, a Jeddawi longtime beach lover who works as an education and social adviser. 'In the past, options were extremely limited, mostly confined to certain resorts or private chalets. But now there's a wide variety of both public and private beaches, all focused on the overall experience; not just the location, but also the atmosphere, events, and safety.' Each destination appeals to different sensibilities. Mangrove Beach Resort, for instance, offers women-only days and upscale, serene decor. La Mer Beach Resort offers a more accessible mid-range option with a relaxed ambience, great for water sports, sunbathing or a quiet read by the shore. Oia Beach Resort is another option with a Greek island feel, complete with whitewashed walls and deep blue pools. The rise of women-only beaches — safe, respectful environments for women to relax and socialize — are allowing greater numbers of people to enjoy the sea on their terms. Resorts like Le Ponte de l'Amitie and La Maison d'Obhur offer spa access, yoga sessions, and peaceful sunbathing in female-only spaces. 'My experience at Oia during a women-only day with my daughter was wonderful,' Abdulgader shared. 'They genuinely care about the comfort of female visitors. What stood out to me was the high level of organization, respect, and privacy.' According to resident Najla Bukhari, the expectations are clear: 'People are mainly looking for a clean beach; the sand itself should be clean, with well-arranged and comfortable seating. 'A restaurant and music are important. If towels are provided, that's even better. Showers and clean bathrooms with basics like tissues and shampoo are essential. And kids should have a separate area from the adults.' For Noura Samargandi, a marketing professional who prefers to get tanned naturally after a good dip, privacy is key. 'I love tanning, and honestly, I just want to enjoy the beach without worrying about how I dress or who's watching. That's why I prefer places like La Maison or Boa Beach on their women-only days. It's about freedom and feeling at ease.' Meanwhile, Khalid Al-Abdulwasi, a 32-year-old software engineer and avid kite surfer, prefers open, uninterrupted access to the water. 'I go to La Mer a lot. It's relaxed, not overly crowded, and great for watersports. I can bring my gear, get straight into the water and focus on the waves.' Many of these private beaches carry global aesthetics such as minimalist decor, Mediterranean touches, and curated playlists. But some beachgoers hope to see more rooted, local influences. 'There are attempts to blend local culture with global trends,' Abdulgader observed. 'But most tend to lean toward international styles.' 'I hope in the future we'll see beaches that reflect more of the local identity — not just in design, but also in events and content.' During events like the Jeddah Season, private beach resorts play a vital role in attracting both locals and tourists. 'They present a modern and appealing image of the city,' said Abdulgader. 'They offer unique destinations for tourists. And demand increases significantly during big events since beaches are part of the fun and diverse event lineup.' She added, 'As the Bride of the Red Sea, Jeddah has huge potential. Many expats love the beach, and well-managed beaches provide them with an experience like what they're used to back home. This makes Jeddah even more attractive as a place to live or visit.' Despite the progress, there is growing awareness that beach access remains limited for some. 'We need reasonably priced beaches, sea trips, and options for families, youth, the elderly, and children, all while being mindful of different needs and privacy preferences,' Abdulgader urged. Private beach resorts in the city come with price tags for entry that range from SR150 ($40) all the way up to SR345. Meanwhile, Jeddah's public beaches are more accessible options for families and tourists looking to enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea without breaking the bank. Public beaches like Alexandria and Al-Mahazem are popular among residents and citizens alike. Amira El-Sayed, an Egyptian expat living in Jeddah who works as a private math tutor, told Arab News that Alexandria Beach is one of her favorites. 'I've gotten used to spending my weekends at this lovely free beach. It's fun for adults and has a special play area for children. I prefer to come early in the morning, before noon, to enjoy the clean sand and clear water before the beach gets crowded with families.' Public beaches are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering umbrellas, chairs, lifeguards and designated swimming zones to ensure visitor safety.
Daily Mail
11-07-2025
- Daily Mail
The beautiful Greek island where five-star luxury hotels cost less than £250 per night - and it's loved by Lady Gaga
Full of surprises for first time visitors, Crete has a fascinating history that begins with the Minoans, Classical Greeks and Romans - plus a traditional rural life that plods on much as it has done for centuries. Head into the hills, awash with wildflowers in spring, to discover monasteries run by bee-keeping monks and small communities producing their own olive oil (there are around 40 million olive trees on the island). Shepherding remains a common occupation, and you'll hear the tinkle of goat and sheep bells long before you see them. Beach resorts vary greatly from swanky Elounda (where the likes of Lady Gaga go) to cheap-as-chips party central Malia (as featured in The Inbetweeners movie). The island's major archaeological site, the Palace of Knossos, was excavated between 1900 and 1930 by British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. FOR... £540 A NIGHT On a hillside between Hersonissos and Malia sits the Nana Princess, one of the island's most luxurious hotels: imagine 107 jet black stone, sea-view suites and villas topped with verdant living roofs. Spend days lounging by the pool or at the spa (widely accepted as one of the island's best), or go by private transfer for tastings at nearby wineries. Rooms are generous and brightened by eye-catching original artworks. Techies will love all the clever gadgets (the mirror concealed TVs are inspired). There are two classy restaurants, one focusing on meat and the other on seafood, where you can dine on catch of the day with a side of 'wild greens' such as fennel and asparagus (proving that even the poshest places are keeping the island's tradition for foraging alive). OR... £221 A NIGHT Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the sprawling, family-owned, five-star resort of Creta Maris (with 600-plus rooms), sits on the outskirts of Hersonissos and resembles a traditional Cretan village of whitewashed buildings dripping with bougainvillea. New for this season is an adult-only outside area that offers a beach bar, vast sea-view pool and three hot pools set in pretty gardens with sun loungers, beach cabanas, and a spa pavilion. All public areas, including the spa, which offers olive oil massages, have been recently upgraded. For sundowners and a bird's eye view of the bay, nab a swing-chair at Adama cocktail bar. New for this season is an adult-only outside area that offers a beach bar, vast sea-view pool and three hot pools set in pretty gardens with sun loungers, beach cabanas, and a spa pavilion Dining is exceptional with seven speciality restaurants alongside a standard buffet. Pithos serves farm-to-table fare from local producers, while fish restaurant Alatsi has candle-lit tables by the sea. At the breakfast buffet, try a Greek pie (the aubergine with feta is delicious), and yoghurt topped with honey made from wildflower-sipping bees. Rooms at the front of the hotel enjoy Med views; at the back, it's mountains that star.
Skift
03-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
Posadas, Mexico's Largest Hotel Firm, Shifts Focus From Cities to Beaches
Posadas is reshaping its portfolio for a post-pandemic traveler and challenging global players with a tailored, region-first strategy. Mexico's largest homegrown hotel operator, Posadas, is betting big on beach resorts as it diversifies from its traditional base of urban business hotels. Posadas, which built its reputation on city properties serving corporate travelers, now has 61% of its development pipeline focused on coastal all-inclusive resorts. "We would like to have a balanced portfolio where we have 50% business and 50% in leisure," said Enrique Calderón, vice-president upscale & luxury, and chief operating officer. The company plans to open more than 1,300 new resort rooms by the end of 2025 across Mexico and the Caribbean. That pipeline represents a dramatic change for a company where urban hotels still account for 86% of the rooms across its 197 hotels. Posadas' highest-profile opening is the 498-room Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana, expected later this year. The company also opened the 229-room Fiesta Americana Nuevo Vallarta in June and is preparing for the 2027 opening of Live Aqua Los Cabos, a 90-room luxury resort with branded residences.
Hospitality Net
13-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Posadas Expands All-Inclusive Resort Footprint Across Mexico and the Caribbean
This growth is fueled by a strong strategic vision and solid financial performance, paving the way for new developments in sought-after beach destinations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. Upcoming openings include marquee locations such as Nuevo Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Punta Cana, and Los Cabos. Mexico City – Posadas, Mexico's leading hotel operator, is strengthening its commitment to all-inclusive beach resorts with a growing portfolio that will add more than 1,300 new rooms by the end of the year. This momentum is backed by the strong operational performance of its existing properties in top tourist destinations, which continue to post high occupancy rates, competitive pricing, and increasing demand from both domestic and international travelers. Over the past year, Posadas-operated beach resorts averaged 76% occupancy and outperformed the market with rates 31% higher than the competitive set. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the company reported a 16% year-over-year increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR) at its resorts—underscoring both operational efficiency and the rising appeal of the all-inclusive model among today's more discerning travelers. Our experience in the all-inclusive resort space allows us to continue growing with confidence. We're introducing properties with unique concepts in key destinations like Nuevo Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, Punta Cana, and Los Cabos—offering the market one of the strongest and most profitable platforms, backed by decades of hospitality expertise. Mauricio Elizondo, Vice President of Development at Posadas Key 2025 and Future Openings: Fiesta Americana Nuevo Vallarta (June 2025, 229 rooms): A family-friendly, all-inclusive resort located in the North Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The property celebrates warm Mexican hospitality in a relaxed, welcoming setting ideal for families. (June 2025, 229 rooms): A family-friendly, all-inclusive resort located in the North Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The property celebrates warm Mexican hospitality in a relaxed, welcoming setting ideal for families. Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana (498 rooms):A next-generation all-inclusive resort designed to welcome guests of all ages. Located in the exclusive Uvero Alto beach area of Punta Cana, this property will open in Fall 2025 as part of Grupo Posadas' international expansion. The resort blends hospitality, wellness, and entertainment in a high-value tourism setting, with modern infrastructure and tailored experiences for families, groups, and business travelers alike—positioning it as a standout in the Caribbean. (498 rooms):A next-generation all-inclusive resort designed to welcome guests of all ages. Located in the exclusive Uvero Alto beach area of Punta Cana, this property will open in Fall 2025 as part of Grupo Posadas' international expansion. The resort blends hospitality, wellness, and entertainment in a high-value tourism setting, with modern infrastructure and tailored experiences for families, groups, and business travelers alike—positioning it as a standout in the Caribbean. Live Aqua Los Cabos (Spring 2027, 90 rooms): An exclusive development featuring luxury residences and an adults-only Live Aqua hotel in San José del Cabo. The property will offer premium finishes, terraces with Sea of Cortez views, private amenities, and experiences rooted in wellness and signature gastronomy. It marks a strategic investment in the region's luxury hospitality and residential market. Currently, 61% of new rooms under development across the Posadas portfolio are located in beach destinations—reinforcing the company's focus on coastal expansion. The debut of Fiesta Americana Funeeq Punta Cana also signals Posadas' continued success in operating outside of the Mexican market. Posadas continues to leverage its deep hospitality expertise and proven success in the all-inclusive space with the addition of these exceptional resorts, several of which are set to debut in 2025 , added Elizondo. With a diversified portfolio, growing EBITDA (+13% in Q1 2025), and a solid liquidity position, Posadas is cementing its presence in high-growth markets across Mexico and the Caribbean while remaining open to new opportunities that drive long-term value for investors and stakeholders. About Grupo Posadas Posadas is the largest hotel operator in Mexico, with more than 180 hotels and resorts, and more than 27,500 rooms in beach and city destinations located throughout the country and in the Caribbean. Thanks to the positioning of its Live Aqua, Grand Fiesta Americana, Fiesta Americana, The Explorean, Fiesta Inn, Gamma and one Hotel brands, Posadas is an internationally recognized Mexican company. Posadas has been listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) since 1992. For further information, please visit: About La Colección Resorts La Colección Resorts is comprised of 15 distinctive resorts located in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, encompassing the brands Live Aqua Resorts, Grand Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts, Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts and The Explorean. Showcasing the best of the destination including warm culture and hospitality, guests are privy to unrivalled accommodations, amenities and entertainment that ensure a superior, world-class vacation experience. The resorts within La Colección include: Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun All Inclusive Adults Only, Live Aqua Urban Resort San Miguel de Allende, Live Aqua Private Residences Los Cabos, Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana, Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive Adults Only, Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun, Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa, Fiesta Americana Cozumel All Inclusive, Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All Inclusive, Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive & Spa, Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas, Fiesta Americana Acapulco Villas, The Explorean Cozumel and The Explorean Kohunlich. Upcoming openings 2020 & 2021 in Punta Cana, Uvero Alto and Los Corales in Dominican Republic, Tulkal Riviera Maya, Playa Mujeres and Valle de Guadalupe BC in Mexico. For further information, please visit:
Forbes
30-05-2025
- General
- Forbes
Best Hotels In Turks & Caicos 2025
With its stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches, the islands of Turks & Caicos are about as postcard-perfect as beach destinations come—and the best resorts in Turks & Caicos offer thoughtful amenities and exceptional service to help you enjoy it all. I've personally visited the islands over a dozen times and appreciate the destination's many opportunities to unwind, as well as its excellent accommodations. If you're planning a trip, I've narrowed down the best resorts in Turks & Caicos based on multiple visits and stays. For a great cocktail scene, less crowds and an overall intimate feel, I recommend Rock House, while couples are sure to enjoy a romantic getaway at The Shore Club Turks & Caicos. For a private beach with oversized oceanfront villas, Amanyara is worth the splurge, and The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos is a luxe gem on Grace Bay Beach that's not to be missed. Below, the best resorts in Turks & Caicos in 2025. Guest room at Rock House. Rock House is a modern, boutique twist on the many traditional properties that currently dot the famed Grace Bay Beach. The fact that it's off the main drag from most of the hotel chains gives this unique property its feeling of privacy, making it a great choice for travelers who want more relaxation and less crowds. 46 luxurious accommodations (ranging from pool side studios to spacious two bedroom suites) offer sweeping views of the ocean, plus suites come equipped with their own private plunge pools, but no matter where you are on the property you'll feel like you have it all to yourself. If you should ever want to venture outside the walls of your hotel room haven, a gorgeous pool perched above the ocean awaits, offering a low key space to take a dip and finally read that novel that's been collecting dust on your nightstand. Fare here doesn't disappoint either—upscale eatery Vita offers traditional Italian dishes sprinkled with Caribbean influence, such as lemon spaghetti with lobster, an indulgent yet fresh and aromatic delight. Poolside service is divine—don't miss the Highway To Hell cocktail, a Caribbean twist on the traditional margarita. A private dining experience at Amanyara, Turks & Caicos. If privacy and serenity is the end goal, look no further than a few days living in the lap of luxury at Amanyara. This ultra exclusive, high-end Asian-inspired property has exclusivity down pat, from a private white sand beach on the shores of a giant nature reserve, to ocean villas each equipped with their own infinity pool and floor-t0-ceiling windows. The minimalist freestanding rooms and overall calming aesthetic makes you feel as though you have the entire sanctuary to yourself. Wellness is a centralized theme here as well, from the in-room soaking tubs to the restorative spa offerings. A view of the ocean from one of the private pools at The Strand Turks & Caicos. As one of only four hotels on the island of Providenciales' south coast, The Strand Turks & Caicos offers all of the upscale amenities of some of the most coveted hotels on Grace Bay, with a little more privacy and seclusion than the bustling main touristy area of the island. New to the island in late 2024, The Strand is quickly becoming a popular option for those looking to escape, unwind and relax, sans the crowds. Featuring accommodations from one-bedroom suites with balconies to six-bedroom residences, this property is great for couples and families alike. Added bonus: private beach access, an abundance of water excursions on the hotel's private boat, and 1,400 feet of exclusive canal and marina frontage. The DelMar, The Strand's oceanfront restaurant, offers specialties such as snapper tacos and chicken anticuchos, fusing flavors from Asia, Latin America and the Mediterranean. A view of the pool at the Ritz Carlton, Turks & Caicos. The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos has one of the best hotel locations you can get in Providenciales, smack dab on the gorgeous Grace Bay Beach and close to many of the islands outstanding restaurants and activities. But whether you'll want to step foot outside the property while you're there at all will be the biggest dilemma. After all, the Ritz has everything you'll need and more right at your fingertips, from perfectly appointed hotel rooms and suites with oceanfront views and luxury linens (the beds here offer lavish slumber), to multiple restaurants and even a luxury casino just steps from the lobby. Grab breakfast at oceanfront restaurant Coralli, a burger at the poolside bar, an elevated steak dinner at BLT and more. Then spend your days working off all those calories with a walk down Grace Bay Beach. Kids will love the Ritz Kids Club which offers a multitude of daily activities from sports to art and crafts. Adults will appreciate the Ritz-Carlton spa and amenities, which include saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and cold plunge tubs. An aerial view of the resort at Pine Cay, Turks & Caicos At only 800 acres, Pine Cay is the perfect getaway for those travelers looking for ultimate serenity. Situated between North Caicos and the main island of Provo sits this 2 mile-long private island that houses just one small exclusive resort with 13 hotel rooms and one restaurant, plus a cluster of private homes. Rooms inside the Meridian Club (a Relais & Châteaux property) are pristine, offering the luxury accommodations of a 5-star resort but with the rare privacy of an island uninhabited by other hotels. It's just under a 30-minute boat ride from Provo, but you'll feel like you're on the other side of the world. No cars inhabit the island, adding to the adventure, so prepare to take golf carts everywhere. A sociable clubhouse, freshwater swimming pool and tiki beach bar will help you unwind and imbibe. For groups or families, rent one of the island's private villas. The Boat House, fresh off of a gorgeous renovation that took place in 2022, accommodates 6 guests and features three en-suite bedrooms (each with an outdoor shower) a full kitchen, dining room and expansive outdoor deck. The Boat House also comes with everything you need for getting around the island, including two golf carts, 2 bicycles, kayaks and access to all the amenities the hotel has to offer. A view of the pool at nighttime at the Shore Club Turks & Caicos. Dotted along the sandy and less inhabited beaches of Long Bay, Shore Club is only a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Grace Bay Beach, but offers guests a serene respite in an area of the island where few other properties reside. From its multiple pools to its well-appointed guest rooms and suites, this property has an elite reputation for a reason. For couples, The Shore Club offers a luxurious way to relax and unwind, with romantic dining experiences, a luxurious spa inspired by nature, and plenty of hidden spots throughout the property to escape and enjoy a private cocktail. Wellness abounds at this hotel, as evident by the spa's oceanfront treatment bungalows where you can enjoy a couple's massage in view of the beautiful beautiful Long Bay Beach, to the tennis courts, to the state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with everything you need to stay on track with your workouts. Even after years of visits to Turks & Caicos, Shore Club is always high on my list of hotels to return to. The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring destinations across the globe. We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research. My name is Kim Peiffer, and I am the features and special projects director at Forbes Vetted. I have been covering travel for nearly two decades, from extensively writing and editing luxury hotel guides to reviewing off-the-beaten path destinations all over the world. Turks & Caicos is one of my favorites islands in the world that I can't wait to return to time and time again. I've personally visited every hotel on this list, most of them multiple times. I've also written for Vogue, Robb Report, Travel + Leisure, InStyle, GQ, DuJour, Oprah and many others. Follow my adventures on Instagram: @peifferk1
