Bahia Principe All‑Inclusive Resorts Join World Of Hyatt: What Travelers Should Know

A quiet ripple just rolled through the travel world—and if you’re a fan of sun‑splashed beaches, sprawling all‑inclusive resorts, or maximizing your loyalty points, this one’s worth paying attention to. Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, known for its Caribbean‑forward portfolio and generous all‑inclusive offerings, is officially joining World of Hyatt.

For many travelers, this partnership feels like two complementary worlds finally meeting: Hyatt’s global loyalty ecosystem and Bahia Principe’s beloved beachfront escapes. Let’s break down why this matters and what it means for your next getaway.

A Big Win for All‑Inclusive Fans

Bahia Principe has long been a favorite for travelers seeking value-packed vacations across Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Spain. Their properties range from family‑friendly mega‑resorts to adults‑only hideaways, all built around the idea that vacation should feel effortless.

By joining World of Hyatt, these resorts are stepping into a loyalty program known for its flexibility, elite benefits, and global reach. For Hyatt loyalists, this means something simple but exciting: more places to earn and redeem points—many of them on some of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.

What World of Hyatt Members Can Expect

While full integration details will roll out in phases, here’s what travelers can look forward to:

More All‑Inclusive Choice

Hyatt has been steadily expanding its all‑inclusive footprint, and Bahia Principe adds dozens of new options across the Caribbean and Europe. Think beachfront suites, sprawling pools, and endless dining—all bookable with points.

Earning & Redeeming Points

Once integration is complete, members will be able to earn World of Hyatt points on stays and redeem them for free nights at participating Bahia Principe properties. For anyone who loves stretching points for maximum value, all‑inclusive resorts are often a sweet spot.

Hyatt’s elite members may see perks like room upgrades, premium check‑in, or other on‑property benefits. The specifics will depend on how each resort aligns with Hyatt’s all‑inclusive brand structure, but the potential is promising.

Why This Partnership Makes Sense

Travelers today want flexibility—more destinations, more styles of travel, and more ways to use their loyalty rewards. Hyatt has been leaning into this trend, especially with its growing Inclusive Collection. Bahia Principe brings:

• Strong presence in the Caribbean, especially the Dominican Republic and Riviera Maya

• A loyal guest base that values affordability without sacrificing experience

• A diverse portfolio, from family‑centric resorts to adults‑only escapes

For Bahia Principe, joining World of Hyatt opens the door to millions of new travelers who may not have considered the brand before.

This partnership is a win for travelers who love sun, sand, and simplicity. Whether you’re a Hyatt loyalist looking to expand your horizons or a Bahia Principe regular curious about loyalty perks, the future looks bright

From Frank Sinatra To Arnold Palmer To Oscar De La Renta, A Legendary Dominican Republic Resort Celebrates 50 Years Of History

It began five decades ago as an island retreat for the leadership of the Gulf + Western Industries, which owned Paramount Pictures.

It has since become not just the premier resort in the Dominican Republic, but one of the most legendary places in the Caribbean: Casa de Campo, the 7,000-acre retreat in La Romana.

From Frank Sinatra’s opening performance at its Altos de Chavon amphitheater in 1982 to Arnold Palmer’s 1974 trip to the creative contributions of Oscar de la Renta to the world-famous golf course designs by Pete Dye (three of them, to be exact) to the myriad motion pictures that have filmed there, it’s a hotel that’s been making history for a half century.

The La Romana sugar mill in the early 1970s.

Now, Casa de Campo is celebrating its 50th birthday with a series of events and packages.

It all begins with a 50th Anniversary Weekend from Oct. 24-27, including a “Generation Concert of the Century” with Grammy-award winners on hand; there’s also a concert party right on the beach at Minitas Beach; and a special golf celebration that includes a $50,000 hole-in-one competition.

Arnold Palmer hits a shot at Casa de Campo in 1974.

Casa de Campo has “consistently established itself as the epitome of luxury hospitality in the Dominican Republic and has continued to evolve into the world-renowned resort community that it is today,” Jason Kycek, senior VP of sales and marketing at the resort, told Caribbean Journal. “We are immensely honored to commemorate this 50-year milestone, and are excited to share the historical past, present, and future of Casa de Campo with the world. “Casa de Campo is a special place, and we are grateful to the ownership for their ongoing commitment to continue to make it even more special in the years to come.”

Altos de Chavon, the hilltop village that’s a replica of a 16th century Mediterranean town.

In the last few years, when the resort has surged even more in popularity (becoming one of the hottest destinations in the wider region in the post-pandemic period), it’s been making some significant additions.

That includes a brand-new, 18,000-square-foot wellness destination; and the opening of the Premier Club, a luxe, 58-suite resort-within-a-resort concept in the heart of the property. The birthday festivities will also include a tribute to Sinatra, who helped turn the resort’s amphitheater (set in a replica 16th-century Mediterranean village) into a premier destination for music stars.

The new spa at Casa de Campo.

You can learn more or book now at https://www.casadecampo.com.do/

By: Alexander Britell

Velas Resorts Named Among Best Of The Best Resorts In The World In TripAdvisor’s 2023 Travelers’ Choice Awards

Continuing to surpass travelers’ expectations, Velas Resorts in Mexico were once again recognized among the top hotels in the world in TripAdvisor’s 2023 Travelers’ Choice Awards. The Grand Velas resorts in Riviera Maya, Riviera Nayarit, and Los Cabos were honored among the Best Luxury Hotels and All-inclusive Resorts in Mexico. In the former category, Grand Velas Los Cabos was #1 and also included among the Top Luxury Hotels and Top All Inclusive Resorts in the World. Casa Velas, the collection’s adults only property, was also noted among the Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico. Achieving TripAdvisor’s highest honor among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, Grand Velas and Casa Velas were certified 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best.

The ongoing success of Velas Resorts can be attributed to its quality driven approach. The resorts are dedicated to offering unparalleled experiences and exclusive access to innovative amenities, services, and facilities.

“Our goal is always to exceed guests’ expectations,” said Eduardo Vela, president of Velas Resorts. “By delivering high-quality, memorable experiences, we aim to always keep our guests first. It is an honor to receive these awards knowing our guests value our service and quality.”

Below is the full list of award categories and acclamations:

Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Mexico

Grand Velas Los Cabos – #1 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #6 Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #19

Top 25 Hotels in Mexico

Grand Velas Los Cabos – #3 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #11 Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #23

Top 25 All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Grand Velas Los Cabos – #4 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #8 Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #13 Casa Velas - #17

Top 25 All-Inclusive Resorts in the World

Grand Velas Los Cabos – #11

Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the World

Grand Velas Los Cabos – #15

For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com or visit https://www.velasresorts.com

Grand Velas Los Cabos Named #1 Luxury Hotel In Mexico, #8 In The World

Among Other Velas Resorts’ Distinctions for Luxury, Service and Romance

In TripAdvisor’s 2020 Travelers’ Choice Awards

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico  – Setting\ the standard for resorts that surpass travelers’ expectation, Velas Resorts were once again recognized in TripAdvisor’s 2020 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Grand Velas Los Cabos was honored as the #1 luxury resort in Mexico and the #8 worldwide. All three sister Grand Velas properties are noted in among the Top 25 Hotels — Mexico with the Riviera Nayarit and Riviera Maya resorts noted as #7 and #12, respectively. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, the resort collection also received distinctions this year among the top hotels for luxury, service, all-inclusive offerings and romance.

Highlighted below is the full list of award categories and acclamations:

World's Top Hotels:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #8

Top Luxury Hotels in the World:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #9

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the World:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #3
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #8
• Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #13

Top Hotels in Mexico:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #1
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #7
• Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #12

Top Luxury Hotels in Mexico:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #1
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #6
• Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #10

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #1
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #4
• Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #6

Top Hotels with Exceptional Service in Mexico:

• Grand Velas Los Cabos – #1
• Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – #8
• Grand Velas Riviera Maya – #20

Additionally, the resort collection’s adults-only boutique hotel Casa Velas ranked #12 on the 25 Most Popular Romantic Hotels in Mexico list.

As a family-owned company, Velas Resorts has quickly adapted to ever-changing guest needs and tastes by consistently rolling out new amenities, services, and facilities. Innovative offerings include everything from baby concierges and designer handbags on loan, to teens’ lounges, packages for divorcees and single parents, and unique spa treatments inspired by Mayan culture.

All company resorts have all received the global safety stamp of approval from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) due to state-of-the-art safety and cleanliness protocols detailed in a 15-page Stay Safe with Velas program.

For reservations or more information, call 1-888-407-4869, email reservations@velasresorts.com or visit https://www.velasresorts.com.

About Velas Resorts:

Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, and Los Cabos have earned 56 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for services and facilities include Virtuoso’s Best Family Program, Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award for spa, and TripAdvisor’s Top Hotels in the World, among others. Offering unparalleled all-inclusive experiences, properties include Grand Velas in Los Cabos, with dramatic ocean views and unique spaces infusing every area of the resort; Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, which enjoys a long stretch of pristine beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains; and Grand Velas Riviera Maya, offering a sophisticated resort experience in the Caribbean with jungle and beach settings. In Puerto Vallarta, Casa Velas is a boutique adults-only hotel and beach club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and Velas Vallarta, a family-friendly all suites resort and spa located on Banderas Bay. Mar del Cabo, a boutique hotel on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, opened in December 2018 as its only European Plan offering. Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and president of Velas Resorts, operates Velas Resorts with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: : www.velasmagazine.com. 

Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts to Revamp & Rename Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar Blue In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic #GoDomRep

One of the brand’s seven properties in Punta Cana, the hotel is being entirely refurbished, will receive swim-up suites and a new adjacent sports bar and fitness center

 – Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, the leading all-inclusive resort chain with properties in the Caribbean, Mexico and Spain, will renovate Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar Blue, one of the brand’s most distinct properties in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The 528-suite oceanfront hotel has closed and will reopen as Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar upon completion November 2018.

Situated on the beautiful azure waters of Playa Bavaro and one of the brands seven hotels in the location, Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar will be the ideal adults-only retreat to make memories in paradise. Guests will be able to dip into one of the hotel’s sparkling pools right from their rooms with the addition of swim-up suites, complimenting the architectural features of the hotel. With a refreshing oasis right outside each suite balcony, guests will be steps away from a relaxing private plunge while being surrounded by the property’s tranquil gardens. The extensive renovation will also enhance the hotel’s interiors to feature a more sophisticated and sleek, yet subdued color scheme with white and light brown tones, and a new coffee shop will serve freshly baked goods and refreshing drinks.

To enhance the property’s culinary scene, Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar is set to boast three refurbished restaurants: an Italian restaurant, one Gourmet restaurant and a garden grill.  The updated Gourmet restaurant will have a contemporary interior design with a pentagon-shaped gold bar set at the restaurant’s entrance delivering a cosmopolitan and trend-setting aesthetic. Featuring an extensive cocktail and drinks menu, the a la carte restaurant’s delectable cuisine will take ingredients and inspiration from popular international foods.

“Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar’s impressive redesign comes at an exciting time for our brand as we recently announced a portfolio rebranding and reclassified our properties into four categories and distinct experiences,” said Helen Montijano, vice president of sales and marketing, U.S. and Canada. “The renovated hotel will fall under our Luxury brand and our Escape experience signifying that it will provide high-end amenities, five-star service, and the entertainment and gastronomy offering will cater specifically to adults.”

Bahia Principe’s Bavaro complex will also be receiving some upgrades of its own, for use by guests of all Luxury properties, including a sports bar and fitness center for guests 18 years and older. For sports enthusiasts, the new sports bar will have ample indoor and outdoor seating, multiple LED flat screens as well as an extended beverage menu. At the complex’s new fitness center, guests can expect a revitalized look with floor to ceiling windows and modern workout machines. Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts is committed to providing unique vacation experiences that will ultimately allow them to experience happiness.

Guests who reserve a stay at the new Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar will be privy to a multitude of benefits including on-request butler service and access to the other Bahia Principe properties at the destination, with the exception of Luxury Bahia Principe Fantasia. For adults seeking to unwind in style, the serene Bahia Spa, features treatments that are centered on finding balance between mind and body and for those looking to let loose, the brand’s signature shopping and nightlife center, Bahia Principe Village, combines local culture and opportunities for fun and excitement such as live music and karaoke.

About Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts

Grupo Piñero’s Bahia Principe hotel chain has a presence in the Dominican Republic, where it is the market leader in terms of the number of hotel beds, as well as the Riviera Maya (Mexico), Jamaica and Spain (in the Canaries and Balearic Islands). Year after year, the Bahia Principe hotels receive a large part of the most prestigious international awards for quality that are given in the vacation industry. Alongside its high-end hotel facilities, the Piñero family’s company also manages two large luxury home resorts: Playa Nueva Romana Residences & Golf (Dominican Republic) and Bahia Principe Rivera Maya Residences & Golf (Mexico). The company has also developed other lines of business in the tourism industry, the most notable of which include the tour operator business (Soltour and BP-USA Travel) and guest reception services (Coming2).

Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado Now Welcomes Guests Of All Ages #GoDomRep

The luxurious all-inclusive resort now offers families the opportunity to enjoy the idyllic island of Cayo Levantado located in Dominican Republic’s Samaná peninsula

 Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, the leading all-inclusive resort brand with properties located throughout the Caribbean, Mexico and Spain, is pleased to announce Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado, previously an adults-only property, will begin accepting children. Starting May 2018, families with younger travelers seeking to experience happiness will be welcome at the only hotel based on the island of Cayo Levantado, Samaná, on the northern coast of Dominican Republic.  

The only hotel located on the idyllic island of Cayo Levantado, a journey to this property begins with a ferry ride from a private Bahia Principe dock and unfolds on a magical island of otherworldly beauty. Its exclusivity, natural splendor and utter tranquility make this Bahia Principe’s flagship hotel and are only some of the reasons why it was named the No. 2 all-inclusive in the Caribbean by TripAdvisor, and the 17^th best all-inclusive in the world.

Guests of all ages will be able to enjoy elegantly-appointed, spacious accommodations, and the resort’s multiple swimming pools and whirlpools, six restaurants and four bars. This will be the brand’s only treasure experience hotel, as per its recent portfolio reclassification that highlights properties in the most unique locations, that welcomes younger guests. To cater to children, Bahia Principe’s fun-filled kids program, Bahia Scouts, will be offered on the island and includes daily activities, such as arts and crafts and sports games, that will allow for parents to venture out on their own.

“This paradisiacal one-hotel island offers a comprehensive experience that includes two private beaches, our signature Bahia Spa, as well as nightly entertainment perfect for families to stay on the island. Though the hotel will retain its tranquil spirit, we have decided to remove the adults-only restriction based on feedback from past guests who are eager to enjoy the resort with their families and from our travel partners who help coordinate and book stays,” said Helen Montijano, vice president of sales and marketing for the U.S. and Canada.

Four Samaná properties, endless possibilities

“In addition to Cayo Levantado, travelers can also enjoy the brand’s three additional properties on the Samaná mainland. While each comes complete with its own personality, all share our commitment to remarkable service, top-tier amenities and a superior quality experience,” added Montijano.

Luxury Bahia Principe Samaná is an adults-only haven with 149 rooms and the brand’s second luxury property in the area. Here, guests who seek a balanced vacation can enjoy the brand’s WE Wellness Experience that features specialty menus, fitness classes, spa services and more. Luxury Bahia Principe

Samaná was named the No. 3 best all-inclusive in the Caribbean by TripAdvisor and No. 18 best in the world and offers special amenities from butler service to wait service at the beach and pool.

Also located in the Samana region are two of Bahia Principe’s Grand properties that feature a value-driven offering. Thanks to its sweeping ocean views that overlook Samaná’s multiple hills and small scenic towns, Grand Bahia Principe Cayacoa was recently named one of the top 20 hotels in the world with the best views by Minube.com. With a variety of on-site experiences and activities surrounded by a gorgeous landscape, Grand Bahia Principe Cayacoa is the ideal place for guests seeking a comprehensive and dynamic setting to disconnect and recharge in style.

The brand’s most family-centric property in the region, Grand Bahia Principe El Portillo, is highlighted by Family Junior and Family Master suites that offer extra amenities for kids such as specialized bath kits and a minibar with juices, shakes, milk and soft drinks. Guests can discover pure Caribbean paradise and bathe in the crystalline waters of one of the island’s most spectacular beaches. Kids will enjoy spending their days splashing around at the resort’s waterpark and participating in the Bahia Scouts program. A short drive away is Las Terrenas, a small fishing village with a strong European influence that boasts numerous gift shops that sell paintings crafted by locals.

Discover Samaná’s natural wonders

Nestled between the verdant jungles of the Dominican Republic and azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, Samaná is a tropical destination like no other. Attractions like Los Haitises National Park – featuring rich biodiversity and caves marked with native Taino hieroglyphs – and cascading waterfall Salto del Limon, that travelers visit by horseback riding through the jungle, offer endless options for outdoor fun. An ideal year-round getaway, travelers making summer plans can escape the busy tourist hotspots for an off-the-beaten-path break, while in winter travelers can cross off a bucket list item and watch the humpback whales that gather in Samaná Bay.

Travelers can benefit from the multiple flights into Samaná El Catey International Airport and Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo.  A new highway connecting Santo Domingo to the Samaná peninsula allows guests to reach their destination in under an hour and a half. Airport transfers are included in the majority of Bahia Principe’s packaged bookings.

With an extensive portfolio of resorts varying in personalities, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts promises a comprehensive vacation experience where guests’ needs are considered above all else.  For more information, or to book a stay with Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, visit www.bahia-principe.com.

Highlights Of TripAdvisor's Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resorts For 2015

Photo courtesy of Paradisus Punta Cana

TripAdvisor revealed its 2015 Travelers' Choice Awards for all-inclusive resorts Tuesday, recognizing the 10 best in the Caribbean based on traveler reviews.

While each has impressed countless visitors en route to earning TripAdvisor's top honor, here we'll focus on what sets some of these award-winning resorts apart. 

1. Luxury Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado Don Pablo Collection 

Where: Samana Province, Dominican Republic

Adults-Only: Yes

As if this adults-only Dominican resort wasn't peaceful enough, it's located on a private island. There's no shortage of five-star reviews for this resort, with most travelers recommending it or guaranteeing they'll return. 

2. The Reserve at Paradisus Punta Cana 

Where: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Adults-Only: No

This resort is family friendly but also provides parents with some much-needed adult time thanks to the Kids Zone. The supervised area features plenty of activities to entertain children so that mom and dad can explore the rest the resort has to offer.

3. Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro 

Where: Bavaro, Dominican Republic

Adults-Only: Yes

Guests visiting the Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro can work on their tan and test their accuracy at the same time with beach archery. 

4. Iberostar Grand Rose Hall 

Where: Rose Hall, Jamaica

Adults-Only: No

Guests staying at the Iberostar Grand Rose Hall will enjoy access to food and beverages 24 hours a day. For adults, an on-site nightclub provides the perfect setting to wrap up a relaxing day. 

5. Galley Bay Resort 

Where: St. John's, Antigua

Adults-Only: Yes

The Galley Bay Resort's Gauguin Cottages are ideal for couples looking to escape. Boasting a concealed patio and private plunge pool, you'll need a very good reason to leave.

6. Royalton Cayo Santa Maria

Where: Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba

Adults-Only: Yes

Guests sleep like kings and queens in Cayo Santa Maria. While it's rare for travelers to get excited over beds, this resort's handcrafted DreamBeds effectively guarantee a restful night's sleep.

7. The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real

Where: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Adults-Only: No

The Reserve is the perfect Caribbean resort for getting hands-on. This all-inclusive resort offers a handful of unique workshops for adults, including candle-, sushi- and cigar-making. 

8. Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus

Where: Bayahibe, Dominican Republic

Adults-Only: No

Perhaps the most exciting offering available at the Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus is the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certified scuba center. Although you'll have to pay extra for this amenity, the gorgeous location makes it a must.

9. Sandals Royal Plantation 

Where: Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Adults-Only: No

Here, guests can sail the turquoise waters on one of the resort's Hobie Cat catamarans or pedal out to sea on an aquatrike. 

10. Melia Cayo Coco 

Where: Cayo Coco, Cuba

Adults-Only: Yes

Travelers will be hard-pressed to find a more unique bungalow experience than the ones offered at Cuba's Melia Cayo Coco. Constructed on stilts, select accommodations here sit above a natural seawater lagoon, making for some relaxing views. 

By PATRICK CLARKE, www.travelpulse.com