Alaia offers a luxurious way to unwind in Belize
It’s an exciting time for the hospitality industry in Belize as tourism is rebounding, flights are picking up and new luxury branded properties are coming online to attract visitors.
One of the newest hotels is Alaia Belize, part of the Autograph Collection, representing Marriott International’s first resort in the idyllic destination.
Ed Donaldson, Alaia’s Director of Sales and Marketing, talks to Travel Courier about the new resort and what awaits travellers on Ambergris Caye.
Tell us a bit about Alaia Belize, when it opened and what sets it apart?
Alaia Belize opened on May 6, 2021. It is the first luxury property to open in Belize in some time and also the first Marriott affiliated hotel to open in the country. What sets Alaia Belize apart from the rest is the ethos of incorporating the indoor/outdoor living element that is so very much apart of the Belizean life. Also, the variety of Food & Beverage outlets give guests a variety of options during their visits whilst being able to also experience the local establishments in San Pedro.
What are some of the authentic experiences guests can have on property?
Enjoying the second largest barrier reef system in the world. Whether gazing at it from their accommodations or adventuring out for an underwater experience, the Belize Barrier Reef is a vital lifeline to the ecosystem of the destination.
Many of our readers are travel agents — being part of the Autograph Collection — can you share some details about how you work with the trade?
Alaia Belize has the great benefit of being part of Marriott’s Luminous programme. It is a sister offering to the travel trade of their Stars programme. Both offer a variety of special amenities and perks for their clients. Additionally, we are also part of Marriott’s Central Travel Agent Commission (CTAC) programme that pays agents directly in their local currency for fast and accurate commissions. A very crucial part of our partnership.
Do you have anything to share for the Canadian market in particular?
The Canadian market has always been an important part of the Belize hospitality market. As flights begin to resume to Belize, we are very much looking forward to welcoming our Canadian travellers back to the destination and introducing them to Alaia Belize.
Can you comment about the significance or impact of more luxury branded companies opening in Belize?
As stated above, Belize has not seen a resort like Alaia Belize open in some time. The significance of our opening on the local economy has been significant, both from the fact that we have experienced very high occupancies during the summer months which generated a lot of new tourists experiencing the destination for the first time and spending money in San Pedro, but also within the population of Belize, whose number one industry is tourism. The shut down of the economy had severe effects on the San Pedro community and having Alaia Belize open offered the community a chance to recover from that devastation.
Canadians love their sun destinations. Can you talk about the appeal of Belize and why you think they should consider the destination?
Canadians love Belize as it affords them an easy get away, a little bit off the beaten path, in a safe and affordable environment where the mode of transportation is either walking, biking or riding in a golf cart. It is very liberating whilst being fun at the same time!
What are some of your personal favourite things to see, do and eat in Belize?
Our pizza oven at The Deck and Beach Bar could easily compete with any pizzas in NYC. That is a great experience, having real pizza sitting on the shore of the Caribbean. Our Piano Bar with live entertainment and world class mixology is another highlight that you don’t normally get from a hotel bar and makes our experience special. Doing nothing is not something everyone does well. Alaia Belize helps you want to do nothing but relax and enjoy. From the Rooftop Pool and Lounge to the Dive Shop and K’in Spa, we have a variety of things to do, or not. The options are there!
Do you have anything to add?
You should come and experience it yourself soon. It’s Un-Belize-Able!
