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originally appeared in the February issue of AGENTatHOME magazine. Subscribe
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As all-inclusive
resorts continue to evolve beyond their one-size-fits-all reputation, Palladium
Hotel Group is positioning itself at the forefront of that transformation.
From elevated resort upgrades in the Caribbean
to a bold move into New
York City, the company is doubling down on experience-driven travel heading
into 2026 — and on its relationships with travel advisors. David de los Santos,
commercial vice president for the Americas at Palladium Hotel Group, shares how
the company is navigating shifting traveler expectations, where the brand is
investing next and how advisors can better match clients with the right
Palladium property.
How would you
describe the current momentum behind the all-inclusive segment as we enter
2026? What factors do you believe are driving the sector’s growth?
The momentum
behind the all-inclusive segment entering 2026 is stronger than ever. Travelers
are prioritizing value, convenience and certainty, and the all-inclusive model
delivers all three. We’ve recently seen the shift toward experiences that offer
both elevated quality and simplified planning, which fits perfectly with
Palladium Hotel Group.
What’s really
driving growth now is how much the all-inclusive model has evolved. Guests
expect better dining, more thoughtful design and richer experiences. At the
same time, demand from families, couples and groups continues to rise, creating
a wider audience for the category across all price points.
In short,
travelers want to enjoy their time without over thinking the details, and the
modern all-inclusive offers exactly that.
David de los Santos, commercial vice president for the Americas at Palladium Hotel Group. (Photo Credit: Palladium Hotel Group)
You have
various new updates for the new year — what are some of the top highlights?
What are you especially excited about in terms of new openings and re-brands?
We have several
exciting developments for 2026. One highlight is our continued expansion beyond
the resort space with Only You New York, set to open in late 2026. It will
bring our lifestyle-driven, design-forward hotel concept to Manhattan for the
first time, offering 138 rooms in a prime Times Square/Broadway location. It’s
a major milestone for the brand and a strong statement about our commitment to
the North American market.
On the
all-inclusive side, we’re elevating our offerings with significant upgrades in
the Caribbean and Mexico. Grand Palladium Select Bavaro in Punta Cana in the
Dominican Republic has completed a major transformation and relaunched with
enhanced accommodations and the introduction of our Family Selection concept.
In Riviera Maya, Grand Palladium Select White Sand has reopened with upgraded
amenities and a more premium experience for guests.
The Only You New York hotel is set to open in late 2026 in a prime Times Square/ Broadway location. (Photo Credit: Palladium Hotel Group)
How has traveler
behavior changed in the last few years, and how are those shifts influencing the
strategy for future resorts?
Traveler behavior
has definitely changed in recent years. Guests are now seeking more
personalized and meaningful experiences, looking for luxury that feels elevated
but is still approachable. They want more than just amenities; they’re drawn to
cultural immersion, nature-focused adventures, and spaces that bring families
or groups together. Technology is also playing a bigger role, as travelers
expect it to make their stay seamless without replacing human connection.
These shifts are
shaping our strategy for future resorts. We’re designing flexible, thoughtful
spaces that balance privacy with opportunities for connection; expanding dining
and wellness options; and enhancing experiences that feel personal and effortless.
At Palladium Hotel Group, our goal is to create resorts that respond to these
evolving needs, offering stays that are not only memorable, but also meaningful
for every guest.
The Only You New York will boast a cosmopolitan and contemporary style throughout. (Photo Credit: Palladium Hotel Group)
How are you
working to support and strengthen your relationships with travel advisors?
We’re supporting
travel advisors by giving them the tools and transparency they’ve told us they
need to succeed. Palladium Pro was built directly from advisor feedback,
creating a single platform where they can access training, resources, rewards
and direct support. A key part of this is Palladium Academy, which helps
advisors learn about our brands and properties while earning points in our
loyalty program.
Ultimately,
Palladium Pro reflects our commitment to strengthening this channel. When
advisors feel informed, supported and connected to our brands, they’re better
equipped to deliver exceptional, personalized service to their clients.
Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness is part of Palladium Hotel Group’s wellness offerings. (Photo Credit: Palladium Hotel Group)
What booking
insights or selling tips would you share with agents to help them match clients
with the right Palladium property?
Palladium Hotel
Group is a house of brands, with nine brands designed for different segments
(luxury, premium and upscale), allowing us to tailor each experience to the
traveler’s profile. Each brand has its own unique value proposition, ranging
from sophisticated adults-only options and family-friendly stays to
entertainment-focused experiences. In the Caribbean, couples and adults seeking
a more sophisticated experience often find TRS Hotels to be the ideal option,
thanks to its exclusive atmosphere, personalized service and adults-only
spaces.
Meanwhile,
families and multigenerational groups particularly enjoy Grand Palladium Hotels
& Resorts for its wide variety of room categories, diverse culinary
offerings and activity programs that truly cater to all ages. For travelers who
prioritize well-being or relaxation, it’s important to highlight that all our
resorts under both brands feature Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, an
added value that can greatly enhance their stay.
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