INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Six Senses Galapagos is ready for guests to experience a one-of-a-kind natural environment, Accor’s Sofitel Calablanca is set to bring a new level of luxury to Isla Barú in Colombia, and there’s more. Here’s a look:
Six Senses Galapagos
As the Galápagos Islands are home to some of the world’s most amazing wildlife encounters, guests at the upcoming Six Senses Galapagos will experience a one-of-a-kind natural environment.
Six Senses Galapagos is located in Cerro Verde on the northeastern coast of San Cristobal Island. While final accommodations are being finalized, the master architectural direction by Hitesh Mehta Design focuses on a necessarily idiosyncratic planning philosophy, which balances economic, environmental, social and spiritual aspects of the project.
“Sustainability is at the core of our brand, influencing everything from ongoing community engagement and conservation efforts to the local, repurposed materials used in the development,” said Neil Jacobs, CEO, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas. “We are excited and delighted to work with Orgal Group on this extraordinary project in such a special and environmentally sensitive place, staying true to our joint purpose of ecosystem restoration, scientific research of marine species and low-impact tourism.”
In particular, the focus is on restoring the original endemic Miconia ecosystem, eradicating invasive species and maintaining a native plant nursery on site.
Plans are already underway for an Earth Lab and Experience Center. The first will showcase the project’s sustainability efforts and the second will host research and educational activities by academics and NGOs already engaged in the Galápagos. The almost zero light pollution ensures night skies are some of the most spectacular on earth, and an Observation Post will serve up a heady cocktail of stargazing and fine dining. All three facilities have been designed by bamboo architect Simon Velez.
Sofitel Calablanca Set to Open in 2021
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, a leading luxury brand operated by the Accor Group, will bring its third property in Colombia—Sofitel Calablanca, a new luxury resort in Barú, set to open by 2021.
Taking advantage of the natural environment of Barú, Accor began the construction of the property in alliance with Patrimonios Estrategias Inmobiliarias, Cementos Argos and Arquitectura y Concreto.
Only 20 minutes by boat from Cartagena de Indias and 40 minutes by land, the new Sofitel Calablanca will accommodate 400 guests. The architectural design will achieve a balance between the natural ecosystems and the exclusive surrounding community, creating the refined and understated sense of modern luxury, for which Sofitel is known.
Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga Opens in Colombia
The newly-built, 91-room Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga hotel has opened in Cartagena, Colombia. This hotel marks IHG’s 15th property in Colombia.
Owned by Grupo Contempo and managed by Oxo Hotel, the Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Manga is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.
Located in the bayside Manga neighborhood with views of La Popa Hill, travelers can enjoy the hotel’s proximity to Cartagena’s main seaport, as well as numerous leisure attractions including shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. The hotel is also in close proximity to the Old City, a favorite destination for visitors, and Gestamani, which is a burgeoning neighborhood for musicians and artists.
