UNICO 20˚87˚Riviera Maya recently opened its doors to guests, and Recommend had the opportunity to settle in at this all-inclusive resort for a few nights to get a feel of what’s in store. We have to report that though you might want to mark it as one more all-inclusive in Mexico, you should note that it really does stand out from the pack. From its swim-up guestroom—76 of them to be exact—to the lavish decor, unique pop-up experiences, and culinary dishes sure to satisfy any palate, as well as its culturally immersive excursions, and rotating nightlife, we can attest that your clients will be salivating to book a return trip before boarding their flight back home.
In order to help you get better acquainted with this new property, we chatted with Frank Maduro, v.p. of marketing for AIC Hotel Group, to answer the questions we thought you might have. But, as Maduro notes, if you really want to meet UNICO 20˚87˚, there’s no better way than booking your own escape to this posh (yet relaxed) property; FAMs are available.
Michelle Marie Arean (MMA): In your opinion, how does UNICO 20˚87˚stand out from other all-inclusives?
Frank Maduro (FM): UNICO 20˚87˚ gives an entirely new meaning to the all-inclusive vacation; it breaks outside the box of traditional all-inclusives and offers a real, immersive experience that connects guests to the region.
MMA: Personally, what’s your favorite offering or aspect of UNICO 20˚87˚?
FM: It’s so hard to pick just one. The rotating-chef restaurant by celebrity chef Christian Bravo is definitely a standout—he’s developed such a unique concept for gourmet Mexican dining that draws inspiration from the region and uses local ingredients and flavors. The ability to connect guests to the real and unfiltered version of Mexico through every touchpoint is another for me. Lastly, I’m going to have to say the fact that a stay at UNICO 20˚87˚ even includes select spa treatments, excursions and unlimited golf—that’s a big differentiator in the all-inclusive market.
MMA: As for agents, what should they know about selling UNICO 20˚87˚ if they have not yet visited the property?
FM: This is not your typical all-inclusive property; it’s anything but cookie-cutter, so keep that in mind when positioning and selling the hotel to your clients.
MMA: Though it’s an all-inclusive…to me, it stood out from others in the market. So what would you tell agents about how they should position UNICO or sell UNICO to their clients?
FM: It’s simple—UNICO 20˚87˚ is an adults-only, all-inclusive hotel that embodies relaxed luxury and immerses the guest in the local culture through great food and mixology, the design including art and local artisan program, pop-up programming, the wellness experience and exclusively curated tours.
MMA: What’s the best way for agents to educate themselves on UNICO and what makes it different from other all-inclusives?
FM: Go and experience the hotel for yourself. It’s one thing to hear about a product, but actually seeing, touching and feeling it puts things into perspective. Contact your regional BDM for an extensive product training, and then take advantage of travel agents FAMs.
MMA: Who would you say is the target market?
FM: We’re targeting the aspirational traveler who wants to experience the unexpected and form a genuine connection to the region. This can be an older traveler, or a millennial who’d rather spend their disposable income on experiences. It can also be anyone from a couple to a mother and daughter, someone looking to plan a girls’ getaway or bachelor party, or even a corporate meeting or incentive group.
MMA: As for the pop-ups for artisans and events…will those be offered daily on property or only on the weekends?
FM: Our pop-up programming is offered on a daily basis—adopting a no-itinerary-necessary attitude; we’ll have something different each day.
MMA: As for the entertainment aspect, such as bands and music, will those change daily as well?
FM: Yes. Whether it’s an acoustic sunset jam one afternoon followed by a live DJ at the lobby bar, each day will offer a different experience. You’ll never know what to expect. For instance, last month we had Los 5 perform an energetic set live by the pool one Friday night, while a sultry voiced singer from Miami, who goes by the name of Yoli Mayor, serenaded guests at Palmera Lounge the following evening.
MMA: If there’s anything you’d like to include, feel free to share.
FM: Local Hosts—UNICO 20˚87˚ is pleased to offer a personal anfitrion—replacing the traditional butler service—to serve as guest’s local host. It’s a completely new standard for the all-inclusive vacation.
Adopting a “no-itinerary-necessary” attitude, on-property culturally inspired experiences and impromptu pop-up programming include mezcal tastings, cocktail hour by our executive mixologist infusing local flavors and ingredients to craft specialty beverages, custom beer gardens and live artistic demonstrations from musicians and painters, such as Art Attack competitions, acoustic sunset jams and more.
Anfitrion Service includes:
- Insider’s guide into the local scene—from hard-to-get reservations to the best-kept secret spots
- Assistance with check-in and check-out
- Late check-out requests
- Beach chair reservations
- Tour, golf and spa reservations
- Special events or occasions
- Packing and/or unpacking
- Shoe cleaning, ironing and steaming services
- Laundry service
- Cleaning requests
- Spa tub preparation
Also, the newly launched Customize Your Stay page is a tool that will offer a personal and customized experience for UNICO 20˚87˚ guests. Future guests will be able to visit this page to customize their in-room mixology preferences, minibar, culinary preferences, pillow menu, daily ice delivery preference, spa tub preparation and food allergies. Link: unicohotelrivieramaya.com/en/hotel/customize-your-stay/
For experiential weddings, the pristine beaches of Riviera Maya make a perfect matrimonial backdrop. A wedding at UNICO 20°87° is one-of-a-kind, filled with personalized details and artful touches inspired by the region. The planning process is made easier with the aid of our dedicated wedding specialist and experiential wedding packages designed by Marylen Exposito. Marylen Exposito Weddings prides itself in doing more than just event planning—after 15 years in the industry, they have perfected a uniquely personalized approach to designing truly elegant and exquisite weddings.
Now if you want to familiarize yourself a bit more with what to expect while staying on property, don’t miss the Onsite Review in the June issue of Recommend—Globetrotting: UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya.
