Q&A With Grand Residences’ General Manager Carlo Bicaci

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An aerial shot of the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
An aerial shot of the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.

Tucked away in a private enclave between Riviera Maya and Cancun, the 103-all-suite Grand Residences Riviera Cancun provides, according to general manager Carlo Bicaci, something unique to the area’s hotel landscape. It’s about intimacy, luxury, excellence in service and idyllic beachfront living. But don’t listen to me…let Bicaci tell you himself, in detail, why you should book this Leading Hotels of the World property that’s part of the Royal Resorts collection.

Paloma Villaverde de Rico (PVR): How did Grand Residences Riviera Cancun change the hotel landscape in its immediate area when it opened in December 2013?

Carlo Bicaci (CB): Completely! Puerto Morelos had only tiny lodging options prior to 2013 and certainly no luxury five-star resort. A member of Leading Hotels of the World, Grand Residences introduced a new standard in luxury and beachfront living. The tranquil fishing village of Puerto Morelos provides a serene and peaceful location for this. At Grand Residences, privacy and exclusivity is a key luxury.

PVR: Who is the ideal client for Grand Residences Riviera Cancun?

CB: The ideal guests for Grand Residences are families with children, couples and anyone who wants to celebrate a special occasion such as a wedding, anniversary or honeymoon.

PVR: What are a couple of your favorite room recommendations for couples wanting to book a stay at Grand Residences?

CB: Grand Residences’ 4-bedroom Penthouse Suites and beachfront accommodations feature private pools that are ideal for couples. The resort also offers 2- to 3-bedroom suites that are ideal for families with children. Of course, there are 1-bedroom options for couples, too.

The infinity pool at the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
The infinity pool at the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.

PVR: What are three elements of the resort that guests should not miss?

CB: Some of the resort’s standout features are the infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the beach lounge area and the resort’s world-class spa. Guests are also invited to enjoy daily European-inspired afternoon tea on the terrace and a weekly champagne sunset cruise.

PVR: What will the opening of the Flor de Canela restaurant add to the resort?

CB: The newly opened Flor de Canela restaurant brings an upscale and authentic Mexican dining experience unlike any other. Executive chef Yann Cozic has created an exquisite blend of rich Mexican flavor with contemporary art and traditions served in a French manner.

PVR: Tell me something unique about the resort that won’t appear in the fact sheet or the press releases, but something that guests should look for when visiting.

CB: Grand Residences strives for unexpected excellence. We pay attention to detail in our services and amenities to ensure we’re offering unforgettable experiences to everyone seeking peace and wellness. From the hand-picked welcome gifts to nightly turn-down amenities, we pay attention and remember the little things to make your client’s stay extra special every time.

The Master Suite bedroom at the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
The Master Suite bedroom at the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.

PVR: There are many luxury brand hotels…how does Grand Residences differentiate itself and what are the key elements about Grand Residences and its offerings that travel agents should be aware of when speaking to their clients?

CB: Each of the resort’s 103 suites are oceanfront, spacious and feature private outdoor terraces. The resort’s Master Suites start at 1,800 sq. ft., while the Jr. Suites for two start at 700 sq. ft. From the daily freshly delivered fruit and flowers, to the Bulgari bathroom amenities and customized welcome gifts, every element exceeds the expectations for quality.

PVR: Where are many of Grand Residences’ guests hailing from in the U.S.?

CB: East Coast, Midwest and California.

PVR: What’s the repeat guest rate?

CB: The repeat rate is amazing since we’ve been open barely two years. We’re at about 50 percent.

The Grand Residences Riviera Cancun Suite View.
The Grand Residences Riviera Cancun Suite View.

PVR: What’s the average length of stay?

CB: 4.5 nights

PVR: What role do travel agents play in Grand Residences Riviera Cancun bookings?

CB: Travel agents are key in bookings. The majority of our reservations are booked through travel agencies and tour operators.

PVR: Does the hotel offer hotel stays to travel agents at an agent rate?

CB: Yes it does. We welcome agents to get to know us better! They can contact Lourdes Ojeda Borges at (855) 381-4340.

For more information on Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, visit grandresidencesrivieracancun.com.