‘Halkidiki is Perfect for the Zoëtry Brand’ – Interview with Javier Coll, Group President at Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt Hotels Corporation is getting ready to debut its Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts brand of the Inclusive Collection in Greece in 2024.
The new boutique, all-inclusive resort, will open in Halkidiki, northern Greece, and mark the second Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts property in the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt European portfolio.
“The destination of Halkidiki is perfect for the Zoëtry brand, with its lush mountains, exotic beaches, rich culture and proximity to the historic monastic community of Mount Athos,” Javier Coll, group president, global business development & innovation, Inclusive Collection, Hyatt, tells GTP Headlines.
The Zoëtry Halkidiki will feature 105 rooms and suites, including swim-out options, and be a member of the Inclusive Collection, a global portfolio of distinct, luxury all-inclusive resort brands that is part of World of Hyatt.
“Through the Zoëtry brand, Hyatt strives to connect the distinctive culture, heritage, natural beauty and location of each resort, balancing unrivaled luxury with personalized well-being,” Javier says and adds that each Zoëtry resort features exclusive experiences for guests.
The planned 2024 opening of Zoëtry Halkidiki is expected to bolster Hyatt’s brand presence in Greece, which includes Grand Hyatt Athens, Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki, AluaSoul Zakynthos, Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa and Magma Resort Santorini, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.
In this interview with Javier, GTP Headlines has the chance to get a “sneak preview” of the Zoëtry Halkidiki luxury resort and also learn of the faith that Hyatt, one of the world’s leading hospitality groups, has in the Greek market.
“Greece represents a key market for Hyatt’s growth in Europe,” Coll highlights.
Moreover, Javier touches on the hospitality industry in Greece in the post-pandemic era and also informs on the benefits for hoteliers that partner with the Inclusive Collection.
“Our priority, both in Greece and regionally, is to grow with intent by selecting not only the best destinations where we know our guests and members want to travel but also with the right owner,” he says.
- GTP: Javier, we were all excited in May when Hyatt announced plans for the Inclusive Collection’s Zoëtry brand to debut in Greece with the Zoëtry Halkidiki. How do you define a hotel of the Zoëtry brand? What should we expect from the Zoëtry Halkidiki when it opens next year?
Javier Coll: Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts is a distinctive brand within the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt. The Zoëtry resort portfolio is comprised of a curated collection of luxury, boutique resorts, each offering romantic and holistic experiences in an all-inclusive setting. Through the Zoëtry brand, Hyatt strives to connect the distinctive culture, heritage, natural beauty and location of each resort, balancing unrivaled luxury with personalized well-being. Each resort features exclusive experiences, authentic gourmet cuisine, restorative spa treatments, unique fitness options and more. Guests can expect ultra-luxury with the highest level of service and transformative wellness from Zoëtry resorts, all while enjoying the brand’s signature vacation concept, Endless Privileges, which includes exceptional amenities, finely appointed accommodations, no check-in or check-out times, unlimited top-shelf spirits and dining, 24-hour concierge, cultural enrichment activities and more.
Located in Halkidiki, Greece in the vicinity of Sani, the resort will be perched cliffside offering sweeping views of Mount Olympus and the surrounding Aegean Sea. Designed for a relaxing and meaningful experience, the luxury resort will feature 105 rooms and suites, including swim-out options.
- GTP: How does the destination of Halkidiki adapt to the brand? Also, can you give us a “sneak preview” of the facilities? There’s been talk about a panoramic lift that provides the hotel’s guests access to the beach. I know this is something we’d like to hear more about!
Javier Coll: The destination of Halkidiki is perfect for the Zoëtry brand, with its lush mountains, exotic beaches, rich culture and proximity to the historic monastic community of Mount Athos. Zoëtry Halkidiki will pay homage to the stunning flora and fauna found in the region, offering guests the perfect beachfront hideaway and an authentic taste of the peninsula’s natural beauty.
As for the “sneak preview” of the facilities, we are thrilled to share some exciting features of Zoëtry Halkidiki. The resort will boast a unique and awe-inspiring panoramic lift with glass walls and doors, granting guests not only breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea but also exclusive beach access. This exceptional addition allows guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the destination from a truly extraordinary perspective.
Additionally, the resort will offer a range of luxurious inclusions such as a world-class Zoëtry spa, a gym, a beachfront pool, Endless Privileges benefits and more. In addition, the property will offer two gourmet a la carte restaurants, one buffet and three bars and lounges, ensuring a delightful and diverse culinary journey.
- GTP: The Zoëtry Halkidiki will be the third hotel in Greece under the Inclusive Collection following Dreams on Corfu & AluaSoul Zakynthos. What other destinations in Greece do you consider ideal for the Inclusive Collection concept?
Javier Coll: Greece’s captivating landscapes, stunning beaches and distinct culture present numerous potential locations that are ideal destinations for the Inclusive Collection’s luxury all-inclusive brands. We are open to exploring opportunities that are the right fit for our portfolio as we remain committed to intentional growth throughout Greece and Europe.
Regarding Zoëtry Halkidiki, this will be the third hotel in Greece under the Inclusive Collection, following Dreams Corfu and AluaSoul Zakynthos. The positive response and success of our existing properties in Greece only heighten our enthusiasm for further expansion in the destination.
- GTP: What does a destination need to have for Hyatt to consider opening a hotel of the Inclusive Collection there?
Javier Coll: We’re experiencing great interest from global owners and are focused on thoughtful expansion, both within existing and emerging destinations. Some of the key factors guiding our decision-making process include the availability of land for new construction, conversion opportunities, access from major cities across the globe, historic and natural attractions, pristine beaches and a climate that allows travelers to visit close to year-round. Ultimately, our goal is growing with intent in markets that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members, customers, owners and investors.
- GTP: I’d like to shift the conversation to Greece as a destination for hospitality investments. What are your strategies for 2024 concerning Greece? Is it in Hyatt’s plans to expand its presence even more in the Greek hospitality market?
Javier Coll: Greece represents a key market for Hyatt’s growth in Europe. Today, Hyatt has a portfolio of 26 properties across various brands in Greece. In addition to growing our presence, we are also committed to driving brand awareness in the market and remaining top of mind for guests, customers, owners and colleagues.
Our priority, both in Greece and regionally, is to grow with intent by selecting not only the best destinations where we know our guests and members want to travel but also with the right owner. We will continue to engage with owners committed to developing properties that meet evolving traveler demands and new market realities to remain competitive in Greece’s top destinations and beyond.
- GTP: 2022 was labeled as a good for Greek tourism considering that it neared 2019 levels in terms of revenue. How was the year for the hotels of the Inclusive Collection in Greece? How are bookings proceeding for the 2023 season?
Javier Coll: Leisure travel indeed experienced a remarkable surge in 2022, reflecting robust consumer demand. Our confidence in the enduring strength of leisure travel remains unwavering, as we anticipate steady demand throughout the remainder of this year and beyond.
For the Inclusive Collection properties in Greece, 2022 was notably favorable. Bookings for the 2023 season reflect the sustained interest and confidence of travelers in the Inclusive Collection’s offerings.
- GTP: What is your outlook on the hospitality industry in Greece in the post-pandemic era?
Javier Coll: Following the pandemic, travelers have been seeking a new way to maximize their destination experience and international travel. No longer satisfied with just a pool or beach vacation, they now crave unique and more in-depth, meaningful experiences that were not as accessible before. This shift in traveler preferences plays to Greece’s advantage, as the country offers culturally rich and diverse destinations with endless exploration possibilities.
In response to this evolving demand, luxury all-inclusive resorts have become a prime choice for travelers, especially those seeking well-being, connection and luxe offerings. The Inclusive Collection offers carefully curated and comprehensive vacation experiences, catering to the desires of modern travelers. With a diverse range of on-property and off-property options, including nearby excursions, these resorts ensure visitors can truly maximize their time in the destination.
Today’s guests are searching for more than just a vacation – they are prioritizing luxury travel offerings that deliver the entire package. In response, leisure demand is fueling Hyatt’s thoughtful expansion and as luxury travel continues to be redefined, especially in the all-inclusive space, Hyatt is listening and adapting to meet the needs and preferences of guests.
Greece has emerged as one of the most coveted destinations, with travelers eager to explore the country in its entirety. Greece’s appeal as a popular destination bodes well for its hospitality industry. With a focus on crafting unique, immersive and meaningful experiences, coupled with the availability of luxury all-inclusive options, Greece is poised to attract and satisfy the demands of modern travelers looking to make the most after the pandemic.
- GTP: What’s next for Hyatt and the Inclusive Collection strategy-wise? Can you walk us through your future plans?
Javier Coll: To attract diverse groups of travelers, Hyatt is focused on expanding its luxury all-inclusive offerings in new markets globally. By the end of 2023, the Inclusive Collection is expected to have more than 120 resorts across 10 best-in-class, all-inclusive brands, maintaining the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world.
In terms of new markets, there are opportunities throughout Greece and Europe that we are exploring. Looking even further ahead, in the next ten to 15 years, destinations like the Middle East and Asia Pacific, could be viable locations for our brands.
- GTP: A great percentage of our readers are Greek hoteliers and I believe they will be interested to learn of the benefits for a hotel/member of the Inclusive Collection. Can you please inform us?
Javier Coll: The Inclusive Collection is the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world. Our 10 distinct luxury brands were concepted and developed around the all-inclusive model and built to deliver a premium experience for guests while being operationally sound for owners. Our team has a nearly 30-year track record in the all-inclusive space and understands the model in a way that gives owners more opportunity for success.
For owners seeking a collaborative approach, consistent returns on investment and ownership of world-class luxury properties that attract discerning guests, Hyatt is the best partner in the all-inclusive resort industry. For years, Hyatt has pioneered unforgettable vacation experiences for our guests and our dedicated collection of premium all-inclusive brands have delivered the ultimate in luxury for decades, while our competitors are only just entering the space.
There are many benefits in partnering with the Inclusive Collection on projects, including our years of expertise in the industry, efficiency and innovation, and our global team’s proven track record of building luxury all-inclusive brands and resorts that drive high RevPAR. Our team works closely with owners and investment groups, ensuring that we share our long-term vision for thoughtful growth in the all-inclusive segment. A testament to our approach is that 80 percent of our owners choose to renew their contracts with us and have more than one property with us.
- How can hotels become a member of the Inclusive Collection? How is the selection process carried out?
Javier Coll: We have a dedicated development team that is available to meet with owners and investors to determine which of our brands is the right fit for their project. We have nearly 30 years of experience in the space, and we know what it takes for a resort to be successful. As we evaluate opportunities, the most important piece for us is aligning with owners that share our long-term vision for thoughtful growth, want to innovate the all-inclusive segment alongside us, and want to work hand-in-hand with the Inclusive Collection.