Resorts that were planned back in stronger economic times are now opening in Mexico, but many of them are doing so as scaled-down versions as construction has stalled.
A case in point is the new Welk Resorts Cabo Sirena del Mar, built and operated by Welk Resorts. The property was planned for a total of 220 units, but it is opening this month with only 36 units.
Welk has not set a time frame for construction of its other units, although it hopes to start on its next phase later this year and have the entire property open in several phases over the next four years, said Alejandro Neri, the property's general manager.
The resort, which had its soft opening Dec. 21, plans to celebrate an official grand opening March 24.
Neri said he believed the combination of location, service and amenities give the new resort an edge during this difficult time in Mexico tourism.
"All hotels in Mexico right now are working hard to attract customers," said Neri. "People are looking for better rates and service."
The new Welk resort is a timeshare property consisting of one- and two-bedroom units with kitchens. It is the first international location for Welk Resorts, which was founded by the late bandleader and entertainer Lawrence Welk.
The company operates timeshare properties in Escondido and Palm Springs, Calif., and in Branson, Mo.
Although it is a timeshare, the Cabo resort is operated as a hotel, as nonowners can book the units, which range from a 490-square-foot one-bedroom with kitchen to a 1,376-square-foot, two-bedroom penthouse. Rates start at $205 per night.
Sirena del Mar is set on a 65-foot bluff about a five-minute cab ride from downtown Cabo San Lucas, the resort city on the tip of Baja California.
The property was built in tiers to offer views of the Sea of Cortes and El Arco, the area's landmark arch formation that lies at the point where the Sea of Cortes meets the Pacific Ocean.
All units include whirlpool tubs, stainless appliances, multiple flat-screen TVs, WiFi and pillow-top, king-size beds. A swimming pool, fitness center and game room as well as a store selling beverages, food and sundries has opened for the first phase.