Kontacto Magazine #43 English

From the

perspective of: Digital Transformation | Karisma Hotels & Resorts partners with Salesforce and Telmex.

Don Eastvold | Corporate Director Prestige Travelers

Good news to share:

Award | Recommend Readers’ Choice 2023!

AAA Certification | Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya.

Next country| Roatan Fundación Karisma | 11th Anniversary.

Expansion | Karisma Hotels & Resorts today in Serbia in Zlatibor

Acknowledges:

Spectacular year end!

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From the

perspective of: Digital Transformation Karisma Hotels & Resorts partners with Salesforce and Telmex to deliver hospitality technology innovation

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Karisma Hotels & Resorts, leaders in hospitality development, operation and management, proudly announces a groundbreaking agreement with Salesforce, the world’s largest customer relationship management (CRM) and artificial intelligence (AI) company, and TELMEX, Mexico’s leading telecommunications and information technology solutions company.

Contract signing ceremony marks the beginning of the strategic investment in Vanguard Technological Advancement.

This groundbreaking alliance, marked by a symbolic contract signing ceremony on December 5, 2023, represents a significant step forward in technological advancement for the hospitality industry.

“Partnering with Salesforce and TELMEX is a momentous event for Karisma Hotels & Resorts,” says Esteban Velasquez, CEO of Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

“We embark on a journey to revolutionize the hospitality sector with our shared commitment to excellence and innovation.

Esteban Velásquez | CEO Karisma Hotels & Resorts.

This investment by Karisma will undoubtedly result in a seamless and personalized experience for our valued customers, setting new standards in the industry.”

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Rogelio Sandoval Bautista, Vicente Fuentes Achach, Miguel Ortíz, Esteban Velásquez, Belinda Vergara, Mauricio Alcocer Sola, Jesús Morones Huebe.

Salesforce, recognized as the leader in CRM, artificial intelligence and cloud data, brings its Middleware expertise to the effort, while TELMEX, known for implementing technology solutions through Triara and Uninet, brings its expertise as the leading technology provider in Mexico.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts, a leading force in the hospitality sector, complements the alliance with its extensive experience in hotel operations.

The strategic agreement encompasses several cutting-edge technology projects that promise to redefine the hospitality services landscape by streamlining customer relationship management and improving the overall communication infrastructure.

Esteban Velásquez, Frank Maduro, Blanca Guevara, Jorge Feliz, Arlene Salazar, David Coffey, Daniel Lozano

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Key initiatives include the implementation of hotel middleware, which serves as a technology communication channel for applications using MuleSoft, Salesforce’s core solution for API and application connectivity.

The partnership also involves the implementation of Salesforce CRM for marketing, sales and operations, as well as the integration of Salesforce Einstein solutions, the world’s first CRM artificial intelligence that delivers AI-created content across every sales, service, marketing, commerce and technology interaction at hyper-scale.

Esteban Velásquez, Miguel Ortíz

This initiative introduces a unified central rate model, positioning Karisma Hotels & Resorts at the forefront of hotel management and offerings.

The real-time data provided by this integration will enable Karisma Hotels & Resorts to improve customer engagement and dynamically adapt content within its Salesforce CRM, using natural language prompts and advanced AI capabilities to seamlessly meet changing customer information and needs.

This partnership marks the beginning of a long-term relationship aimed at continuous improvement and innovation.

The transformative projects will span multiple businesses within the Karisma Hotels & Resorts portfolio, including all managed and operated properties.

The partnership promises a holistic approach, providing guests, members and tourists with unique and personalized experiences from vacation planning to arrival.

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“TELMEX is proud to stand alongside Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Salesforce in this transformative partnership,” says Mauricio Alcocer Sola, Commercial Director and IT Solutions.

“Together, we bring TELMEX’s extensive technology capabilities to the forefront, contributing to the implementation of cutting-edge solutions in the hospitality sector.

This initiative reflects our collective commitment to technological advancement and we are excited about its positive impact on the future of guest services and hotel management.”

Mauricio Alcocer Sola - Commercial and IT Solutions Director Telmex

On December 5, the partners hosted a celebratory ceremony to mark the beginning of this agreement.

The evening featured a welcome cocktail reception and keynote speakers, culminating in the symbolic signing of the partnership agreement by TELMEX, Salesforce and Karisma.

Rogelio Sandoval, Jesús Morones, Miguel Ortíz, Mauricio Alcocer, Vicente Fuentes, Diego Peralta, Juan Carlos Carillo

Eduardo Vergara - Enterprise Architect & Director of Hospitality | Salesforce

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David Coffey, Frank Maduro, Predrag Krstajic.

Julian Hines, Andrea Zorrila, Alfredo Ledesma, Belinda Vergara.

Arlene Salazar, Esteban Velásquez, Francia Haces, Daniel Lozano, Cesar Vallenilla, Gabriel Read, Yohanna Abuchar Miguel Ortíz, Mauricio Zárate.

The guest list included key executives from the hotel management, tourism and technology industries, ensuring a comprehensive representation of stakeholders.

Notable attendees included Ing. Mauricio Alcocer Sola, Commercial Director and IT Solutions for TELMEX; Lic. Eduardo Vergara, Salesforce Chief Enterprise Architect and Hospitality Advisor for Karisma and Lynx 9 executive, Belinda Vergara.

Eduardo Vergara, Francia Haces, Yohanna Abuchar, Blanca Guevara, Frank Maduro.

Alfredo Lorenzo, Grecia López, Daniel Lozano, Juan Carlos Carillo.

Esteban Velásquez , Frank Maduro, Daniel Lozano, David Coffey.

From the

perspective of: Don Eastvold Corporate Director Prestige Travelers

by Karisma

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Don Eastvold

Corporate Director Prestige Travlers

Don Eastvold Junior, also known as Junior, serves as Corporate Director of Prestige Club by Karisma.

With a career spanning since 1976 in the vacation club industry, his passion for Mexico led him to open the first timeshare sales program in Acapulco in 1978 and having lived primarily in Mexico for over four decades, including ten years in Acapulco and Cancun, Don has a deep connection to the country.

In 2003, he founded what is now Prestige Travelers by Karisma, later becoming Corporate Director of Marketing and Product Development for other wellknown brands worldwide.

Returning to Prestige Club, Don is excited about the ongoing challenge of improving marketing, sales and member satisfaction.

Adding social media to the equation, he envisions a future where every day brings the excitement of happy guests enjoying exceptional service at the hotel.

“I’m happy to be back at Karisma Hotels & Resorts! Without a doubt, we are going to be very successful.”

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“Personally, I opened the first timeshare sales program in Acapulco in 1978.

From that day on, I fell in love with Mexico and decided to stay.

I married 43 years ago to a wonderful woman originally from Acapulco, since then, we have lived mostly in Mexico: 10 years in Acapulco, 10 years in Cancun, returned to the United States and came back in 2003, when we founded what is today Prestige Travelers by Karisma. “ Don Eastvold

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Don’s vision is to elevate Prestige Club to new heights, doubling sales volume and becoming the number one club worldwide.

He emphasizes the importance of harmonizing with hotels, maintaining ethical standards in sales and marketing, and exceeding member expectations through exceptional service.

Reflecting on his journey, Don credits his father as his inspiration, instilling in him values that prioritize caring for sales and marketing specialists.

His commitment is evidenced by ensuring that everyone on the team is fairly compensated.

In addressing challenges in the industry, Don recognizes the impact of social media on club reputation.

Its goal is to transform the narrative, creating a positive and proactive social media campaign that showcases Prestige Club as a model of excellence.

Francisco Mercedes

Estarling Vargas

Yamel Elizabeth Peralta

Since 2022, the experience of being a Steward at Margaritaville has been incredible for him. Being recognized as “Team Member of the Year” fills his heart with happiness and gratitude.

“In this company, working is not just about performing a job role, but being part of a family that values humility and recognizes effort.”

For 4 years always willing to collaborate with the team and provide guest care, her diligence and positive attitude stand out in her performance.

Her commitment to these core values not only strengthens her own performance, but also contributes significantly to the positive environment and service excellence.

With seven years with the company, her gratitude goes to the leaders who have guided her.

Yamel points out that the company’s success lies not only in the individual, but in the collective effort of the team.

Motivation comes from seeing her colleagues focused and inspired, reinforcing her belief that business success is a joint achievement.

Daniel Revilla Rosas Executive Chef

Safarie Needam Bartender

Silvia Camaal Comptroller’s Assistant

Daniel has worked tirelessly to stabilize the kitchen, thanks to his leadership he has improved customer satisfaction and today has a committed and solid team.

His exceptional work ethic and dedication to excellence lead him to be recognized for his continuous efforts, teamwork and ability to exceed expectations in all aspects of his role, he continues to raise the standard in performance and professionalism.

With two years of experience in the company, she stands out as Controller’s Assistant.

Steward

Team Nick Supervisor

Collections Supervisor

Her dedication, responsibility and the respect she generates among her colleagues have positioned her as a fundamental pillar in the team.

Ilse Gisel García Reservation Agent Gisel is a dedicated agent, always leading by example to her colleagues, being the first to arrive and the last to leave, doing her job to the best of her ability, giving the best of herself every day.

It has been a joy for reservations to have this talent for 2 and a half years.

Jacinto Hernández Carpenter

Alina Alday Sales Executive

Since 2021, he has stood out as a highly responsible and committed team member, both individually and as a team player.

Her commitment is evident as she gives her best every day, convinced that this effort is clearly reflected in her work performance.

His helpful attitude and willingness to support in various activities are remarkable, and his sense of urgency has allowed him to excel in his department.

She values the opportunity to leave a positive impression on those she has the privilege of meeting, whether they are guests or team colleagues.

Ana Cyntia Luciano Line Hostess

Ericka Muñoz Trejo Butler

Tameka Leslie Operations Assistant

She is distinguished by her ability to be part of a work team in an effective manner, contributing positively to the group dynamics.

Her outstanding Karisma adds a distinctive touch, generating a positive and cohesive environment.

Your dedication and hard work, exceeding expectations. She regularly meets or exceeds her goals, shows exceptional team collaboration skills, demonstrates a positive attitude.

Her friendly attitude and dedication to her responsibilities make her a valuable asset to any project or work environment.

Her commitment to teamwork and innate charm make this professional a valuable asset in any work environment.

Her commitment and willingness to go the extra mile make her an asset.

Acknowledgment | Special

Dedoviq Aishe Chief Steward

Florentina Zeka Reception

Djoka Dedic Bar Supervisor

He plays a significant role in promoting team cohesion, providing meticulous adherence to equipment handling protocols, improving the cleanliness and hygiene of our work environment, and making the rest of the team feel that following our strict rules is easy to comply with.

She has immense dedication to her work, possesses incredible experience, unwavering reliability and is always ready to offer help and support to all of us in any situation that requires equipment backup or troubleshooting.

Djoka makes a substantial contribution to the advancement of service through its active participation in the development of additional content, such as innovative cocktail lists and comprehensive employee training programs, resulting in a high level of customer satisfaction.

New Opening | Part of the opening team

Tijana Mihajlovic, Jelena Rakita, Ivana Krstajic

Jelena Rakita, Nikola Vajagic, Milan Todorovic, Luka Podolski Nenad Imamovic, Dragan Simovic Ivana Krstajic,Tijana Mihajlovic.

Good news to share:

Award | Recommend Readers’ Choice 2023!

AAA Certification | Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya Next Country | Roatan Karisma Foundation | 11th Anniversary Expansion | Karisma Hotels &

Resorts today in Serbia in Zlatibor

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Celebrando Nuestro Éxito:

¡Karisma Hotels & Resorts Gana el Premio Recommend Readers’ Choice 2023!

Esteban Velasquez CEO, Karisma Hotels & Resorts

We would also like to express our gratitude to our loyal customers, whose unwavering support and trust have been instrumental in our success.

As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, let us remember that this is only the beginning.

Dear Team: We are thrilled to announce that Karisma Hotels & Resorts has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Recommend Readers’ Choice Award in the category of Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts.

This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the exceptional experiences we offer our valued guests.

Winning this award is a significant achievement that reflects the hard work, dedication and passion of each and every one of you.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our entire team for their tireless efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence.

It is thanks to their collective contributions and attention to detail that we have been able to receive this prestigious award.

All members of the Karisma family should be proud of this achievement.

Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and we will continue to raise the bar, exceed expectations and deliver unparalleled service to our customers.

I am proud to lead such an extraordinary team, and I am confident that together, we will continue to build on our success and achieve even greater accomplishments in the future.

Best regards, Esteban Velasquez CEO Karisma Hotels & Resorts

Fins Up! November 01, 2023 We receive AAA certification Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya by Karisma is proud to announce that it has received the prestigious AAA Diamond Award certification.

This distinction, awarded by the American Automobile Association (AAA), is a recognition of excellence for hotels and restaurants in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

The AAA Diamond Award certification represents an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of luxury, quality and first-class service.

It is a testament to our continuous effort to provide our guests with an unparalleled and memorable experience.

We continue to move forward with solid steps!

The AAA/CAA brand, along with the AAA Approved® hotel and restaurant awards, as well as the coveted Four Diamond Award® and Five Diamond Award®, are widely respected brands in the global travel industry.

We are delighted to be part of this select group of establishments that strive to offer the very best in hospitality and service.

At Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya by Karisma, we will continue to exceed expectations and provide our guests with a unique and exceptional experience.

Thank you to all the areas involved for your extraordinary effort, trust and support!

Karisma Hotels & Resorts announce Development plans for Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan in Honduras

Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts are excited to announce plans to debut the newest all-inclusive resort under the Island Reserve® Inclusive Collection: Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras.

This destination will complement Karisma and Margaritaville’s footprint in Mexico, Belize, and the Dominican Republic, joining Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Cap Cana, Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Riviera Cancun, Margaritaville Island Reserve® Resort Riviera Maya, and Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye, Belize. ”We are thrilled to join forces once again with our esteemed partners at Margaritaville,” said Mario Mathieu, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Design and Construction at Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Together, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable and authentically local Margaritaville experience in Honduras that truly captures the essence of Roatan.”

The Margaritaville Island Reserve® Inclusive Collection by Karisma debuted as Margaritaville’s first collection of all-inclusive luxury properties. These 5-star resorts combine Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ renowned service and incredible food and beverage with Margaritaville’s authentic sense of fun and escapism, signature food and beverage concepts, and iconic design elements.

“We are excited to bring the Margaritaville brand to the island of Roatan in Honduras. It’s an incredible destination with rich culture and history, offering guests the perfect island getaway,” said Shamim Lodin, Executive Director of Development at Margaritaville. “This location is an excellent fit for Margaritaville and will be an iconic property for guests, promising laid-back luxury and authentic Bay Islands charm.”

Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts will partner with development group Island Shipping, S. de R.L. to bring this allinclusive resort to life. The new build, slated for completion in 2025, will include 164 rooms, live outdoor music venues, a worldclass spa, and branded dining concepts, including LandShark Brewery, JWB Steakhouse, The Beach House, and 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar. “We are thrilled to bring such an enticing lifestyle brand to the island; our master planned coastal development could not be a more perfect setting for Margaritaville,” said Jerry Hynds, CEO of Island Shipping. “Roatan is experiencing significant growth, and we are proud and excited to be part of the journey to change the hospitality landscape on the island.”

Nestled in the crystalline waters of the Caribbean, Roatan, a gem among Honduras’ Bay Islands, is rapidly gaining recognition as an enchanting and relatively undiscovered destination. Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, Roatan’s underwater wonders attract divers and snorkelers seeking a pristine marine paradise.

The island’s lush landscapes and untapped beaches further enhance its appeal, providing a serene backdrop for those seeking relaxation. With a tropical climate and a growing reputation for diverse flora and fauna, Roatan invites travelers to embark on an off-the-beaten-path adventure, promising a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility in this emerging Caribbean paradise.

While maintaining its authentic charm, Roatan has experienced measured growth in tourism infrastructure and garnered recognition as a “Best of the Best” destination by the 2023 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.

We celebrate

11 years

The strategic vision of a company to give back to society celebrated its 11th anniversary this month.

The project was initially called Fundación GI, A.C. and was designed under a vision of academic and professional development thanks to the efforts of great leaders.

Over the years and based on Mexico’s fiscal framework, a model was designed to promote high-impact programs to support the most vulnerable population in the area of health, and in December 2015, operations formally began under the current Fundación Karisma, A.C. model.

The foundation is consolidated with three lines of action: Health, Disability, Mobile Medical Unit, under the HEALTH approach, we seek to promote the physical well-being of the beneficiaries, improving their quality of life through prevention, detection and timely care.

Lines of action: Extramural surgery campaigns Wellness and nutrition program Medical assistance In-kind medical donations

Since 2015 to date we have achieved impact

13,581

beneficiaries.

In terms of DISABILITY, we promote the life autonomy of people with disabilities and create favorable conditions that allow their inclusion.

We have provided functional aids and in-kind donations, as well as funding for therapies and rehabilitation.

Specialized medical care in musculoskeletal care.

From 2015 to date, the lives of 1,600 people have been impacted.

In view of the increase in people with obesity, diabetes and hypertension The foundation managed to consolidate

11

years

of challenges and great opportunities, we are on the right path to generate an impact on public health in Quintana Roo.

a MOBILE MEDICAL UNIT

specialized in the care of patients with chronic degenerative diseases which was launched in 2017.

Benefiting

11,846

patients Registered in the database. It is important to mention that many of them are seen on a monthly basis for medical orientation and control of their risk factors to prevent health complications.

Corporativo en Cancún

Karisma Foundation, our passion is to help.

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BOR Hotel by Karisma in Serbia welcomed its first guests Zlatibor, SERBIA December 29th: Karisma Hotels & Resorts, opened its first mountain five-star hotel in Serbia, BOR Hotel by Karisma.

The hotel, located in Zlatibor, one of the most beautiful mountains in SE Europe, offers 93 luxurious suites, spectacular restaurants and bars with a refined selection of food and drinks, a top-notch SPA center, and exclusive facilities carefully designed for those seeking for a dream hideaway.

The expansion of Karisma Hotels & Resorts today in Serbia in Zlatibor.

We have brought more than 20 years of worldwide experience in luxury hospitality to Serbia and we are proud to open the first mountain hotel within our portfolio.

Just like with all other hotels we are operating, BOR Hotel by Karisma offers premium service at the highest level, which begins at the very moment of reservation.

The authentic experience of each guest, whose needs and requests we approach completely individually and with great care, is our absolute priority.

Karisma Hotels & Resorts, we continue to build the future with firm steps.

Luxurious suites Fine restaurants and bars Wellness for the mind and the body Concierge Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Serbia, Zlatibor emerges as a captivating destination of timeless beauty and cultural richness.

Renowned for its rolling hills, lush meadows, and crisp mountain air, Zlatibor offers a retreat into nature’s embrace.

This enchanting region seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, boasting a vibrant local culture, delectable cuisine, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Happy Holidays!

May this season be filled with joy and special moments.

We are confident that 2024, will bring us even more successes and achievements in our mission to lead as experts in enhancing experiences and digital transformation in hospitality.

We are excited to anticipate all that the coming year has in store for us.

Let’s enjoy this year end, ready to usher in a prosperous 2024!