W What does it mean for Punta Cana to participate in an international trade fair like FITUR?
FITUR is extremely important not only to us as a hotel and brand, but also to the country. For the Dominican Republic, FITUR will be the largest showcase of everything the destination has to offer.
In our particular case, the opening of W Punta Cana is an important opportunity to announce that we are the world’s first all-inclusive W Resort. Platforms like FITUR allow us to spread this message around the world.
What makes W Punta Cana unique compared to other luxury resorts in the Caribbean and Dominican Republic?
The W brand is already very original and unique, with a distinctly different personality from other brands. But what makes us even more unique is the fact that we’re the only W all-inclusive resort in the world.
Like many of our hotels, we’re a luxury hotel, but W is a vibrant, experiential brand. We call guests “connectors.” Guests have the freedom to connect as much as they like. The hotel offers spaces where you can socialize in a fluid, fun and creative environment or enjoy a more intimate, reflective and relaxing experience.
Here you can experience a luxury vacation in a paradise-like setting, but always in the way each Connector chooses.
Speaking of the experience, can you tell us more about the hotel’s service and food?
absolutely. The hotel has 340 guest rooms and more than a dozen dining options, allowing each guest to choose from multiple options depending on their preferences.
Unlike traditional all-inclusive resorts, there is no buffet. All restaurants are à la carte and offer world-class cuisine, with chefs from around the world creating unique dishes that blend Caribbean and Dominican flavors with international influences.
Cocktails are also our specialty, with expert mixologists and highly creative spaces such as the intimate 33 y un tercio, offering a different experience with signature dishes and cocktails.
We also offer surprise “pop-up” experiences that appear at various times of the day, from gourmet taco carts to impromptu margarita bars.
Other experiences include craft workshops, tastings, yoga, guided meditation rituals, and a spa with comprehensive wellness programs. We also offer recreational activities such as meringue classes. That means Connector always has options to choose from depending on your travel style.
What role do travel agents and tour operators play in promoting W Punta Cana?
For us, travel agents are an important pillar of communicating our message.
Marriott is a very strong brand, but our success also depends on a strong base of travel agents and tour operators who believe in the brand and its all-inclusive offerings.
Travel agents who traditionally recommended Marriott to their corporate clients now trust the Marriott brand in the leisure travel sector as well. That’s why we strongly believe in the value of travel agents and offer incentive programs, benefits and special promotions.
