Before the doors have even opened on Iberostar's newest all-inclusive resort and its first in Mexico's newly branded Vallarta Nayarit destination (formerly Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit), reservations are filling up fast for the holiday season.
The 452-room Iberostar Playa Mita, which debuts on Dec. 1 as Iberostar's 10th property in Mexico, is located along the beaches of the Pacific in the town of Litibu on the north end of Banderas Bay. It is 45 minutes from the airport in Puerto Vallarta.
"Vallarta Nayarit is an up-and-coming group destination, and this development highlights our commitment to promoting and supporting tourism offerings throughout Mexico," said John Long, vice president of sales and marketing.
The Mexican government's recent rebranding of the region as Vallarta Nayarit creates increased awareness for the destination-within-a-destination, according to Long.
"That rebranding, along with an intense marketing and promotion campaign planned for the area, will serve us well," he said. "The timing of our opening could not be better."
Iberostar incorporated several new design and service concepts into its newest resort.
Most of the rooms have ocean views, all have balconies or terraces, and concierge services are available in all room categories. WiFi will be complimentary in guestrooms and throughout the resort.
Eighteen adults-only spa rooms, a new category of accommodations, are located near the spa and feature exclusive access to a private sanctuary with a relaxation garden, reading room and Jacuzzis.
Other facilities include the Litibu Golf Club with an 18-hole course; four specialty restaurants, including a steakhouse and a Japanese eatery; a buffet restaurant; eight bars; 24-hour room service; and three pools, including an infinity pool with a swim-up bar and a kids' pool.
A family focus
"This will be a family-oriented resort," Long said. "I expect that, on an annual basis, 70% of our guests will be families, which is why we have a kids' club, kids' menus, a splash park and a teen club."
Jesus Bosque, a 10-year Iberostar general manager, is already at the helm, overseeing the hiring and training of 650 employees.
Agents will visit the resort on fam trips in January, and several dedicated visits for tour operators also are planned, according to Long.
In-season rates start at $333 per person, per night.
Agent promotions include a $100 gift card to the first five agents who participate in a Playa Mita webinar and book a stay of four or more nights by Oct. 31 for travel from Dec. 1 through April 15.
Upcoming webinar dates are Sept. 9, 16 and 23 and can be accessed at www.iberostaragentincentive.com.
Reservations already on the books include several affinity and incentive groups, guests loyal to the Iberostar brand and even a couple of wedding bookings.
"The big challenge is airlift, but I see the winter season mix as 60% U.S. and 40% Canadian," Long said.
Follow Gay Nagle Myers on Twitter @gnmtravelweekly.
This article has been updated to correct the nightly rates and name of the resort. Incorrect information appeared in a previous version.