Velas Resorts operates a collection of exclusive luxury resorts in some of the most gorgeous and popular locations throughout Mexico. The properties are known for their breathtaking views, attention to detail and high-level service that makes every guest feel like a VIP.
Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, shared some insight about what makes these resorts so special—and what guests can look forward to on the horizon from the brand.
For travelers who may not yet have experience with Velas Resorts, what are the most important things you think they should know about the company, and the experience you strive to provide for guests?
We offer the finest quality across the board along with service and value, whether it’s the cuisine and spa, the accommodations, activities or convention facilities. Let’s not forget the foodies and spa lovers since our restaurants and spas are among the best in the world.
Our food, creativity and presentation are comparable to that of top restaurants in world capitals. Name your favorite specialty cuisine—Mexican, French, Italian, Asian—it’s exquisitely prepared by award winning chefs including Michelin star recipients. We offer unique dining events and foodie experiences such as tastings (hot sauce, taco, tequila, mezcal, and even sake), showcase premium liquor brands and custom cocktails in innovative ways (e.g. a margarita trolley) and have been trend setters in vegetarian and vegan menus.
As a family-run company, we have the flexibility to innovate and quickly respond to new market needs, tastes and opportunities—which is so critical in the world we live in today. Innovation in amenities, services, facilities and package offerings includes everything from baby concierges and designer handbags on loan, to teens’ lounges, packages for divorcees and single parents, and unique spa treatments inspired by local culture.
For those who have stayed with Velas Resorts before, are there any new changes or expanded offerings they should know about?
The Wellness Suites: they feature a plethora of fitness and wellness amenities, which include an in-suite exercise kit comprised of a yoga mat, dumbbells, resistance bands, and even a Life Fitness Activate Series Recumbent Lifecycle® Exercise Bike.
Accommodations also feature a Nikken Kenko™ pillow, comforter and LED Lamp with a clock and timer that increases gradually, simulating the dawn and dusk, which helps guests fall asleep and wake up more naturally.
At the Grand Velas resorts, we’re also upping the ante with new insider micro-adventures for guests. These day trips offer guests luxury options to discover some of the country’s rich heritage.
A helicopter to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal and colonial city of Merida, a visit to one of Mexico’s oldest tequila houses in Tequila to learn traditional and modern tequila making processes, and a private jet to Ensenada to Baja California’s top wineries for special wine tastings and to make one’s own vintage are offered.
Additionally, we will be launching exciting new amenities services and facilities for adults only throughout the resorts, including new luxe amenities for Grand Class at Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
Velas Resorts prides itself on world-class hospitality. What does that mean to you, and what are the most important elements in providing that sort of experience for guests?
We have confidence in our commitment to the best—not only on the part of the owners and managers but also by the employees, who are passionately hard-working and feel like part of the Velas family so take pride in what they do.
What can guests expect from Velas Resorts that they might not get anywhere else?
While there are some other all-inclusive resorts that have one standout restaurant, they do charge additional for dining there in addition to other fees, so they’re not really all-inclusive. This contrasts with what we do. Other than very special selections of wines and spa treatments, we don’t charge extra.
Our physical investment per room is double compared to other properties (and we have all suites). But beyond that, our level of service is incomparable. We maintain a 3:1 staff to guest ratio at Velas Resorts in comparison to maybe 1 employee for every 3-4 guests at other hotels and resorts.
We also have kids’ and teens’ facilities and programs that are second to none, along with a major commitment to new amenities services and facilities for adults only, renowned spas, and state of the art meeting, wedding and group facilities.
Your resorts are known for those special little touches like poolside manicure service and “superfood cookies” on checkout. Are these the type of extras that set you apart in the luxury resort space?
Velas Resorts have blazed a trail of being innovators with what we call our WOWs. These signature services, amenities and experiences add value and build our brand—things like our poolside manicure and handbag bar at Casa Velas, check out concierge at Velas Vallarta, and VIP Baby Concierge and Billionaire Birthday Party for Teens at the Grand Velas Resorts to name a few.
The new Grand Velas Los Cabos offers the next generation of these WOWs. We’ve already launched astronomy lessons for families, led by one of the destination’s foremost authorities; $25K taco, the world’s most expensive; extreme adventure experience, with an insect basket eating challenge; and even a wine lovers over-the-top getaway that takes guests via private jet to the bodega in Ensenada where Velas Resorts buys its Mexican wines. Up next at the resort is a Juice Mixologist for our Wellness Suites.
The new cell phone concierge service is a great idea, and perfect for business travelers attending meetings. Do you think it’s important for hotels/resorts today to be able to accommodate the needs of guests who are working while traveling? Are there other examples of ways in which you support the high-tech needs of guests?
“Bleisure travel” has been steadily gaining popularity since the trend was first identified in 2011, so it is very important that we accommodate our guests who are working while traveling.
From high-speed WiFi and a tech concierge at each resort to help with any digital issues to our new Velas Resorts app that lets the guest text their personal concierge or check out activity schedules, restaurant menus and more, the resorts are equipped with state-of-the art technology to keep guests connected.
Earlier this year, we even launched a Next Big Idea Getaway for creative types, entrepreneurs, C-Suite executives, and those looking to get inspired and uncover their next big idea.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have guests that want to disconnect and reconnect with those with which they are traveling. For them, we have a Detox Concierge at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit tasked with the all-important duty of “cleansing” their suite by removing the flat screen television from the room and whisking away their personal electronic devices (phone, laptop, iPad, PSP, etc.) to the hotel safe.
At Grand Velas Riviera Maya, guests opting to participate in the digital detox program can trade-in their electronics for complimentary activities, including treatments at its spa, named one of the best spas by Virtuoso.
Article originally published by TravelPulse.