SPECIAL EDITORIAL LETTER Quarterly publication Year 7 Vol. 25 Riviera Maya internalcommunication@karismamexico.com
Index
3 New faces 5 Awards and Recognitions 11 Lone Star Food Art Music Festival 12 Karisma Eyes Growth Through Creative Partnerships And Brand Expansion
14 Flying, Walking and Dancing with Giants 16 Counting our riches 18 What’s new at… EDR, EDRC, GRM y EDM 19 What’s new at… Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts
y Sensatori Punta Cana 20 What’s new at… Allure Chocolat 21 Karisma, innovating with Technology 22 Get to know the new Náay Spa at El Dorado Maroma 24 CEDEHU: A Firm Commitment for the wholesome development of our employees. 27 Karisma Foundation 28 Human Capital 30 Passion for Sustainability 32 Get to know the team: Brand Management and Quality Control 34 Karisma Expansion 36 Exotic & Prestige Travelers 40 Employee Meetings 41 Konsintiéndonos (Pampering Us) 42 Kpacitarte (Training you) 43 Karismatic Drink 44 The Best of the Best
Dear Colleagues, From humble beginnings, Karisma has always dreamt big. Our Leaders formed the company committed on positioning it internationally. Now, after 17 years, we are still taking major steps, namely a large expansion project that has caught the attention of quite a few influential people in business and in the media. This successful journeying that we undertake is only possible thanks to the efforts and dedication of our employees. It is amazing to see how each leader, department and each staff member contributes with their valuable work to each achievement. In the past few months we have cemented plans for expansions at Allure Chocolat in Colombia and at Azul Beach Sensatori Jamaica… once again, thanks to each one of you! Communication media has been following our every step: The Travel Market Report dedicated a full write-up on the trajectory we are taking, the steps we are treading, to reach our objective of 35 hotels around the world by 2020. Reader’s Digest Canada claimed Nickelodeon™ Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana was the number one Aquatic Park Resort in the world, highlighting the chic, first class service we offer there. Just as we are showing tremendous growth on the outside, we cultivate growth in our most important treasures, our employees. We were so excited and proud to attend the Gala in which the Best Companies to Work For were awarded recognitions of honor by the “Great Place to Work”, where we achieved 17th place in the category of Companies with more than 5000 employees. To top that off, Karisma achieved the ESR (Sustainably Responsible Company) for the first time. We keep growing in every direction, and in every way, we focus on what we can do to continue surpassing our clients’ expectations, to respond to the trust put in us by our strategic alliances, and to foster further growth in our employee network.
General Director: Sasa Milojevic
Art Director: Carlos Ramírez Loría
Editor: Estela Paz y Blanca Velarde
Editorial Design and Illustration:
Consejo Editorial: Nayeri Ramos (Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya), Coynta Arzola (Azul Beach Resorts The Fives), Rubí Méndez (Azul Beach Resort Sensatori México), Armando Sánchez (El Dorado Maroma), Alberto Roldán (El Dorado Royale - El Dorado Casitas - Generations Riviera Maya), Sarina Pech (Exotic Travelers & Prestige Travelers), Analie Vargas (Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts), Tameka Elliott (Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Jamaica), Editorial Board:: Daniel Castellón (Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya), Karen Puerto (Azul Beach Resort Sensatori México), Alberto Pool (El Dorado Maroma), Gretel Morales (El Dorado Seaside Suites),Estela Nava (Azul Beach Resort The Fives), Mariana Aguilar (El Dorado Royale - El Dorado Casitas Royale) Francisco Argüelles (Generations Riviera Maya), Kadeem Gray (Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Jamaica), Karen Herrera (Allure Chocolat y Bonbon), Aleksandra Nenadic (WMS), Lyn Santos (Karisma), Lina Montoya (Allure Café Mocawa y Aroma Mocawa), Kenia Abreu (Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts), Grecia López (Vassa y Náay Spa), Lorena Sánchez (Nuevos Proyectos y Desarrollo de Proyectos), Andrew Barajas (Karisma), Pablo Correa (Karisma)
Guillermo Sánchez
Printing:
Pixel Press, S.A. de C.V. Carretera Cancún-Aeropuerto Km 15 lote 7, SM 301, Edificio USA Today P.B. Cancún, Quintana Roo C.P. 77560 Tel. 01( 998) 8862232 atnclientes@pixelpress.com.mx
Kontacto Magazine
Free quarterly issue, property of Karisma Hotels & Resorts
Address:
Carretera Federal-Tulum Km. 55.3, Centro Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, México C.P. 77710. Teléfono: +52 (984) 206 3470
Circulation:
1,000 copies.The content of the articles is the responsibility of their author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editorial Board, nor does it represent the official posture of the Hotels sponsoring this magazine. Advertising information is the sole responsibility of the advertisers.
Sr. Sasa Milojevic
VP Operations Karisma Hotels & Resorts
New Faces
WELCOME TO THE KARISMA FAMILY!
Here are Karisma’s new talents, each one bringing along with them their vast experience to help the company grow. There are also internal promotions we want to announce: ÓSCAR LORA General Manager, Sensatori and Nickelodeon
On February 23rd, Mr. Óscar Lora joined our organization as General Manager for the Sensatori and Nickelodeon brands, in Punta Cana. He reports to Mr. Enrico Lindenhahn, Director of Caribbean Operations. Óscar has considerable experience in the hospitality industry as General Manager of many renowned hotels in The Dominican Republic, Panama and Cuba, such as Radisson, Blue Bay and Sandals resorts; he has also held other positions as Director of Operations and Consultant. His academic history includes a Certificate in Hotel Management from Cornell University, in New York and a Hotel and Restaurant Administration Diploma from LaSalle College in Montréal, Canada. He is native to The Dominican Republic and speaks Spanish, English and French. His wide range of qualities include Strategic Planning and Team Building and he is also experienced in Sustainability.
ARTURO VIZARRETA General Manager, Allure Aroma Mocawa
On April 6th Mr. Arturo Vizarreta joined our team as General Manager for our Allure Aroma Mocawa hotel. Arturo has a broad spectrum of academic instruction in the Hotel industry; he specialized in Marketing and Supervision, Management and Quality studies. He has 28 years of experience in domestic and international Luxury Hotels as Food and Beverage Manager, Operations Manager and General Manager for companies such as Hilton International, Decameron and Accor.
ANA HRGOVIC Assistant to the Director of Operations
On the 10th of April, Miss Ana Hrgovic returned to Karisma Adriatic as Assistant to our Director of Operations there, Mr. Dejan Peric. After a brief hiatus, Ana has returned to our family where she used to be Bar Manager at Sensimar Kalamota Island Resort and participated in several successful hotel openings. She was at the opening of Sensimar Makarska and Sensimar Adriatic Beach, as Food and Beverage Manager. Ana spent a decade in many management positions within the Hospitality and Customer Service Industry with remarkable results. Originally from Osijek, Croatia, she graduated with a Hospitality Management Degree from the American College of Management and Technology in Dubrovnik, a division of the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, USA. Besides her native Croatian, she speaks English and German.
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New Faces
ING. JUAN MANUEL LAZCANO Senior Manager of Information Technology, Azul Beach Resorts
Juan Manuel Lazcano started a new facet in his career on April 26th, here at Karisma as Senior Manager of IT for Azul Beach Resort brands. He reports to Paula Negrete, Director of Operations for Karisma Mexico, and indirectly also reports to Mr. Predrag Krstajic, VP Information Technology. Born in Salamanca, in the State of Guanajuato, Mexico, Manuel has 20 years of IT experience in Mexico, USA and Canada. He has worked at Vidanta Group, Cirque du Soleil, Dell Computer and Red Owl Security, among others. Manuel is a Computer Systems Engineer and specialized in Programming. He has many diplomas and certificates on Project Administration, Personnel Management and Managerial Skills. He has distinguished himself for his ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and stimulating virtual spaces where creativity, innovation and commitment reign, allowing team members to achieve their goals within established parameters.
JUAN CARLOS TOLENTINO NAVARRO Senior Manager of Information Technology, El Dorado Spa Resorts
It’s a pleasure to announce that Juan Carlos Tolentino Navarro has taken the next step in his professional career, this time as Senior IT Manager – Dorado hotels. He will be reporting to Paula Negrete, Director of Operations, and indirectly to Predrag Krstajic, VP Information Technology. Juan Carlos has been with us for nearly 12 years managing the IT Department at El Dorado Seaside. In his new position as Senior IT Manager – Dorados hotels, he will be responsible for ensuring that our main digital processes run smoothly according to Karisma’s IT Manual’s specifications and controls. This move will strengthen Karisma’s strategic position in Mexico.
KAREN HERRERA Head of Human Capital and Quality, Allure Bonbon and Allure Chocolat
We are happy to announce Karen Herrera’s promotion to Head of Human Capital and Quality for the hotels in Colombia. The Quality function will be in addition to her position in Human Capital for Allure Bonbon and Allure Chocolat. She will report to Mr. Andreas Schmidt, Brand and Quality Control Director, as well as Mrs. Estela Paz on Human Capital issues. Karen is a lawyer and holds a degree from the University of Cartagena. She majored in Labor and Family Law, fields in which she practiced before becoming part of our organization in September 2014. In the Quality field, she has managed the complete System since its inception, applying Karisma’s Standards and Practices. She was also deeply involved in many Environmental Protection and legal compliance community activities, regulated by laws such as the Tourism Registry that governs hotel operations, which afforded her the ability to acquire and maintain International Certificates. We are convinced that her technical abilities, organization, perseverance, creativity and her solid academic background will enable her to perform at full strength, supporting all our Colombian properties to maintain only the highest levels of competitiveness in Quality Management and at the same time handle her usual excellent work in the Human Capital area.
ALFONSO LÓPEZ General Manager, Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico
On May 16th Mr. Alfonso López assumed responsibility for the General Management of Hotel Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico, and will continue to report to Mrs. Paula Negrete Alfonso began with Karisma in 2013 as General Manager of El Dorado Seaside Suites. His excellent performance is the main reason for being given such an important responsibility now. He obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Tourist Administration at the Universidad del Mar. He carries 20 years of experience in the industry, having been a part of Allegro Resorts and Iberostar.
Awards and Acknowledgements
OUR HOTELS IN MEXICO ARE A ‘GREAT PLACE
TO WORK”!
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n an electric environment of celebration, the “Great Place to Work” (GPTW) Awards were given to all hotels in Mexico. The host for this event was our own El Dorado Royale, where representative groups from each hotel arrived and enjoyed a cocktail before the program began. Alma Lagunas, the Regional Director for “Great Place to Work”, explained the methodology behind the process that were undertaken at the properties and offices in Mexico. Alma highlighted the excellent results obtained in our Work Climate Survey and the audits of the processes, and congratulated the whole organization for their continual efforts involved in building a Great Place to Work. “Few are the companies that achieve certification on their first try, but the companies operated by Karisma did just that!” added Alma Lagunas. Raciel Sosa, Vice President of Development of GPTW helped us to reflect on the Conference “Leadership with Human Feeling”. Cheerful and amusingly, he invited all present to consider the achievements that a dynamic leadership can bring to businesses. After a delicious meal, the awards were given to each of the business units in our Mexico offices, hotels and Travel Clubs. This certification is a great achievement and we were happy to be able to share our joy with our Colombian and Dominican Republic hotels and offices, who also received the awards.
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Awards and Acknowledgements
KARISMA AND STARMARK
RESPECTED BY THE ADVERTISING INDUSTRY!
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tarmark Marketing Agency has struck a deal with Karisma for advertising campaigns in some of our hotels. We are proud to let you know that Karisma and Starmark’s combined efforts have been recognized by the advertising industry. The American Advertising Awards (formerly known as the ADDYs) are the most coveted and most representative of the industry, with over 40,000 participations in the local AAF Clubs. The mission of the American Advertising Awards is to recognize and reward excellence in creative spirit and in the art of advertising.
Of the categories in which Starmark participated, SIX were awarded - GOLD for the BRGRS.PH food truck design - GOLD for the pictures taken during the Nick Photo Shoot - SILVER for Nickelodeon’s “Green Friday” - SILVER for the Vino Vino logo design - SILVER for the Verdello logo design - SILVER for the Spacewalker logo design
NICKELODEON™ HOTELS & RESORTS PUNTA CANA,
#1 IN THE WORLD N
ickelodeon™ Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, Dominican Republic has been ranked as the #1 Aquatic Resort Park in the world, by Readers Digest Canada above resorts in Maui, Las Vegas, Bahamas and Turks & Caicos. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, was launched in the summer of 2016. Reader’s Digest states: “[This] is the newest—and arguably the chicest—resort to offer an over-the-top waterpark experience. With waterslides, splash pads, spray grounds and a lazy river, Aqua Nick is the perfect way to keep cool under the Caribbean sun. Hit the mark with a water cannon, join a Mass Sliming, or meet poolside for a Slime Time photo opportunity. The stunning waterpark resort reimagines the art of hospitality by offering upscale rooms and a Gourmet Inclusive Experience—perfect for Nickelodeon fans and luxe resort lovers alike!” Congratulations to all º our colleagues, from those who planned the resort all the way to those providing guest services that have made this Award possible!
Awards and Acknowledgements
CHEAPCARIBBEAN’S NOBLE BEACH PRIZE ACKNOWLEDGES
NICKELODEON RESORT, PUNTA CANA AND AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI, MEXICO Nickelodeon™ Resort Punta Cana and Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico were awarded the distinguished “Noble Beach Prize” from CheapCaribbean in the following categories: Best Kidtivities – Nick Place in Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Since our play areas cause such an uproar of fun and laughter, because we have delicious snacks, incredible characters and on top of all that, a full water park, that is fantastunbelievable!
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana by Karisma continues to be recognized for its novel concept, its service and its extraordinary experiences. Most Divine Dining – Le Chique – Azul Beach Sensatori Mexico Because it is not just a restaurant, but rather a cornucopia of nutrition with an extraordinarily surprising selection of options, Le Chique is an unequalled inspirational adventure. Congratulations to Nickelodeon º Resort Punta Cana and Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico!
KARISMA IS RECOGNIZED AS BEING
A SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE COMPANY (“ESR”)
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he CEMEFI (Mexican Centre for Philanthropy) and AliaRSE (Alliance for Socially Responsible Business), an international institution, recognized the commitment and Socially Responsible management practices of Karisma Hotels & Resorts, awarding us our first ESR®2017 Distinction. Between October 2016 and January 2017, we went through our first audit, that examined all the organization’s actions.
Business ethics, environment care, and the ties that bind us to the communities in which we operate and quality of life we offer employees were audited. At Karisma, Sustainability and Social Responsibility are commitments that are part of our make-up, our culture, our operations and daily activities. Qualities which establish us as an innovative, successful company that looks after the wellbeing of the communities in which we operate. Many thanks to the team that participated in the auditing process and to the Human Capital department of the company for undertaking the process for such an important distinction.
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MEXICO,
BEST SENSATORY RESORT LONG-HAUL AND BEST DESTINATION EXPERIENCE
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t’s a pleasure to announce that during the TUI “Long-Haul” Conference that took place in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Azul Beach Resort Sensatori garnered 2 Awards:
• Best Long-Haul Sensatori Resort • Best Experience for guests at the Destination We thank our Azul Beach Sensatori Mexico colleagues for making our guests smile, always exceeding their expectations. Congratulations!
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Awards and Acknowledgements
WE ARE #17 IN THE BEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR IN MEXICO RANKING!
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n April, a ceremony was held to award the Ranking members of the Best Companies to work for in Mexico 2017, awarded by the Great Place to Work Mexico Institute. This honor recognizes organizations that stand out for their Human Capital practices. Karisma Hotels & Resorts received this honor, and came in 17th in the ranking of properties with more than 5000 employees.
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We can be proud to say that in our first year of participation, we were able to make the top 20 in Mexico! During the same event, the photography contest Apuesta por México (“Bet on Mexico”) winners were announced, promoting traditions and customs in Mexico, and we achieved a remarkable third place. The best places to work are determined by the strength of the relationships between employees and their supervisors, with Trust and Pride in common. At Karisma Hotels & Resorts we believe that our people are our heart, that inspires our passion, motivates us and keeps us betting on fine talent. Great Place To Work® Institute is a Global investigation, support and training company that helps organizations identify, create and maintain excellent places to work through a High Trust culture.
Awards and Acknowledgements
AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA AND EL DORADO MAROMA,
U
CHOSEN AMONG THE BEST HOTELS IN MEXICO BY US NEWS!
BEST
.S. News & World Report publishes annual lists of the best hotels and resorts in various countries. It pleases us to announce that Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya qualified in 43rd place, and El Dorado Maroma in 44th place.
HOTELS
The ranking of the hotels considers travel experts’ opinions and the general satisfaction level expressed by guests on TripAdvisor. The highest-ranked hotels are those that experts as well as guests recognize for their exceptional quality. In Mexico only 389 hotels qualified to even make the list.
MEXICO
2017
Congratulations to our Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya and El Dorado Maroma for this great achievement! It is due to your daily dedication and passion for excellence that we are recognized by our guests and industry experts. Thank you!
ALLURE AROMA MOCAWA EIS THE SILVER RANKED
ECO-LEADER OF TRIPADVISOR!
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e are happy to announce that our hotel, Allure Aroma Mocawa has been chosen as an Eco-Leader by TripAdvisor. The Eco-Leader Program by TripAdvisor details a variety of eco-properties, from economy to luxury Eco hotels and B&Bs, all committed to eco-practices such as recycling, local organic food use, and charge stations for electric vehicles. As a TripAdvisor Eco-Leader, Allure Aroma’s page will port the distinctive Eco-Leader logo, and travelers can easily be aware of our eco-friendly practices. This recognition shows our commitment and dedication to the planet and brings us closer to travelers who prefer to stay at eco-friendly lodgings. Congratulations!
¡GRACIAS!
WORLDWIDE MARKETING SERVICES OBTAINED ISO CERTIFICATION UNDER IEC27001:2013
A
fter a 9-month process, our Worldwide Marketing Services (Belgrade, Serbia) received confirmation for their final audit under ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and we are happy to announce that they achieved the Certification! The qualification for this certification is the following: ENG: Consultancy and Support services related to sales, technical support, web support, business development, presentation and marketing in the Hotel Industry. This Certificate is given by the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) branch in the USA. Congratulations to our colleagues in Belgrade for this important certification!
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Awards and Acknowledgements
EARTHCHECK SILVER
FOR THE SECOND STRAIGHT YEAR, AND MORE!
K
arisma Hotels & Resorts received, for the second straight year, EarthCheck’s Silver Certification. This being our second Silver, we can be certified Gold after our fifth. This acknowledgment shows that our sustainability practices contribute in bettering the world. Stuart Moore, founder and CEO of EarthCheck was present, and acknowledged the employees’ gargantuan effort and dedication. He also emphasized the importance of continuing these types of projects, as they pose a real, quantifiable benefit for the environment and the communities. Finally, Mr. Moore commended us for being the only hotel chain that achieved certification at all their hotels in Mexico. We applaud our Sustainability Team for their constancy and determination, and we laud the whole employee base that, with their commitment and participation made this certification possible.
Lone Star Food Art & Music Festival
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l Dorado Royale, by Karisma will be the host for the Lone Star Food, Art & Music Festival, an event that brings in world class chefs and musicians from Texas, along with local artists from Mexico. The festival is the result of an association between 2 Getaway Travel and El Dorado Royale, a Spa Resort by Karisma. Throughout the several multi-day events, guests will participate in activities designed to take them on a culinary voyage in which they can rub shoulders with world famous chefs and enjoy live solo and band performances. The festival highlights 11 distinguished chefs, owners of restaurants, enologists and sommeliers, as well as artists from Texas and Mexico. The Festival will be held monthly beginning in July and will have its final performance in October 2017. Here is the events schedule: July 23rd to 29th: Daniele Puelo, owner of Cibo Divino Marketplace, and John Stevens of Stock & Barrel, with musical attractions Steve Helms, Jamie Richards and Bo Phillips. August 27th to September 2nd: Chef Robert Lyford from Patina Green Home & Market, and Matt McCallister from Dallas FT33, with musical performances by the Steve Helms Trio. September 17th to 23rd: John Brand, Culinary Director of Hotel Emma and chef Abraham Salum from Salum Restaurant, with Texas Flood providing the musical backdrop. September 24th to 30th: Austin Simmons, Culinary Director of Hubbel & Hudson Bistro and Hudson Kitchen, Jason Dady of the Jason Dady Restaurant Group, and yet to be determined musical guests, at time of writing. October 15th to 21st: Hugo Ortega, executive chef of four of the best restaurants in Houston, and Steven McHugh, of Cured, in Pearl Restaurant, accompanied by musical guests Night Bird and JB Barnett.
As part of the promotional activities during the festival, various media in Dallas and Houston, Texas have published information about the events “Escape to Riviera Maya”, “The Lone Star Food, Art & Music Festival” and about “El Dorado Royale, by Karisma” as being the host hotel. Coverage includes “Culture Map” editions in Dallas and Houston, and the online version of the Dallas Observer, Dallas Weekly and the Houston Press. It is hoped that with such press coverage and promotional activity we may reach about four million people, engraving the names of our hotels and the Gourmet Inclusive Experience on their minds for their future visits.
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Article
KARISMA EYES
GROWTH THROUGH CREATIVE STRATEGIC ALLIANCES AND BRAND EXPANSION
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arisma’s history of success and rapid growth have been noticed by businessmen and media in the sector. A solid stake based on quality, innovation and excellent service provided by a committed staff make it possible for Karisma’s Gourmet Exclusive Experience® to render dividends in market placement. Let us share with you a special report from a site specialized in news and trends in this market, Travel Market Report: Karisma Hotels & Resorts plans to operate 35 resorts worldwide by 2020, building on recent growth in the Caribbean and Mexico. The growing hotel company currently has 26 properties in Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe, under several brands, including El Dorado, Azul, Generations, Sensatori and Nickelodeon. New properties are already planned for the Dominican Republic’s Cap Cana, Mexico’s Huatulco, Antigua and Plat, Croatia, spokesperson Mandy Chomat told TMR. It also has a $1 billion investment and plans for 10 hotels encompassing 5,000 rooms over the next decade in Jamaica’s Sugar Cane, he said. Karisma has utilized innovation and top partnerships to create a diverse portfolio. Earlier this month, it announced a landmark agreement with Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville.
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The new brand—Margaritaville, an All-Inclusive Experience by Karisma—is planned for various locations throughout the Caribbean, opening as early as next year. The partnership will combine Margaritaville’s laid-back vibe with Karisma’s all-inclusive services. “It allows us to introduce a collection of new casual luxury resorts in beachfront destinations,” Chomat said of the partnership. The resorts will feature Margaritaville’s signature food and beverage concepts, such as Margaritaville Restaurant and LandShark Bar & Grill, as well as Jimmy Buffett memorabilia. Karisma is also investing in its Azul Beach Resorts brand, formerly Azul Hotels. It was recently rebranded, with the new identity meant to “emphasize the stunning beach locations which are hallmarks of each property,” said Chomat. The brand’s four properties in Jamaica and Mexico adopted the new name. It will add a fifth, with the Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Jamaica by Karisma opening in May. Located on Negril’s world-famous Seven Mile Beach, each of the resort’s 285 suites will offer an ocean view, while many include private swim-ups. Other amenities include 10 restaurants, 8 bars and lounges, a spa and programs for kids and teens.
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But, of all Karisma’s ventures, its Palafitos, or overwater bungalows, are arguably the most popular. “[It was] a major travel trend we capitalized on: providing accessibility to luxury overwater bungalows so travelers don’t to spend a day of traveling in order to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience,” Chomat said. “The guest and industry response to the fall 2016 opening of the palafitos at El Dorado Maroma— Mexico’s first overwater bungalows—has been tremendous.” Karisma will next bring the luxury experience to Generations Riviera Maya.
Article
Para los agentes, Chomat sugiere que conozcan a cada For agents, Chomat suggested getting to know each brand and resort intimately, so you know the best fit got clients, whether they are singles, couples or families. “It’s crucial to understand personally the customized offerings [of each brand],” he said. Karisma’s “business model of consumer to agent and agent to wholesaler is intended to support agents,” he noted, and its Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultant program is offered to an elite group of travel agents in return for benefits from marketing tools to added incentives to offer consumers. In addition, Karisma pays a 21% commission on all bookings. (source: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/ Karisma-Brings-Over-The-Water-Luxury-To-Mexico)
About Travel Market Report: Travel Market Report is an online business publication that serves as an independent forum and voice for retail travel sellers around the globe. We provide in-depth coverage and analysis of news and trends affecting leisure and corporate travel agents, along with practical business advice and insights into key growth markets. The editors are guided by an independent Editorial Advisory Board whose members represent a cross-section of the retail travel industry in North America. Launched in 2009 by American Marketing Group, Travel Market Report delivers news updates by email to nearly 40,000 subscribers [and 135,550 unique visitors to the site monthly] (source: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/ tmrwhoweare#dvTMRMission)
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Karisma Hotels Adriatic
Flying, Walking and Dancing
with Giants
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t was a long flight really, but what is an ocean if not a challenge to cross, and what is a pebble, if not a shiny stone to glance the sunrays reflections with. It was days before the reopening of our seasonal resorts on the blue Adriatic, and in the Karisma style, new additions, new smiles, and new colors were crowning all our known and new beauties. And who else to give the wind beneath the wings on this side of the ocean, but Mr. Neil Evans and Mr. Sasa Milojevic.
Karisma Hotels Adriatic
T
he visit was quick, but fruitful. From southern Montenegro to northern Croatia, to Zagreb office, the Giants met our Forces and they walked together from one resort to another restaurant, from one office to another development, for one goal to another menu, from one beach to another new colleague. And within days, all was clear – they left us to prepare for our first fam trips, our first guests, our last change of an ingredient, and last syncing of the new steps.
Rose scents, ‘tamburica’ guitar notes and rosemary winds took charge in the first days of May. First fam trips and first guests arrived and they were welcomed by the lavender and rosemary scents intertwined with fresh strawberries. Such as the welcome in Wind Rose Resort which served Wind Rose Royale, a signature cocktail inspired by the freshness of strawberries, while our guests on the amazing Island of Kolocep got the citrus morning refreshment while listening to the sound of waves mixing with the sounds of local traditional music notes.
Makarska Riviera had their own signature welcomes, as is the custom. But dancing shoes of our GM’s were worn, and our chefs did their best to create an unforgettable culinary welcome to truly showcase the scrumptious Dalmatian dishes.
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Karisma Hotels Adriatic
COUNTING OUR RICHES
THE HISTORIC DIARY
OF ALLURE CARAMEL HOTEL BY KARISMA
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n the picturesque Venizelosova Street in Dorcol, the oldest part of Belgrade, there is a beautiful Villa whose first rock was laid down in 1927, and which marks a very important part of the Belgrade history. The owner of this exceptional villa was Vlada Ilic who was born in the late 18th century, the most prominent Yugoslav industrialist at the time and was as well the President of the Belgrade Chamber of Industry and Commerce and the Central Industrial Corporation of Yugoslavia. During his tenure as Mayor of Belgrade he achieved milestones remembered to this day for the industrial capital of the region. He made major reforms in the urban municipality, reduced the price of electricity and thus influenced the development of craft workshops, or rather set base for support of small enterprises – which to this day remains a strategy for cities across the globe.
On the other hand, he enabled large scale public works within the municipality and brought major corporations of the time that created employment and economically developed the city and its inhabitants. Finally, he is remembered as a humanitarian as well who focused much of his time to solving social problems, constructing workers’ housing, health care institutions and children’s shelters, schools, and urbanization of the city by building beautiful parks and removing swamps – half of modern Belgrade was a swamp – and this project remains to this day a stepping stone for engineers across Europe in development of urban land with natural surrounding obstacles to infrastructure. He was one of the wealthiest citizens at a time and did a lot for Belgrade, created a business empire, which had in its possession seventeen factories mostly from the textile industry which affected on raising hiring rate.
Karisma Hotels Adriatic At the beginning of his mandate he officially opened a new bridge over the Sava River, which bore the name in honor of his best man “The bridge of King Alexander I”, one of the most beautiful bridges built in Yugoslavia in the 20th century. Also the bridge over Danube was opened which was merged Belgrade and Pancevo, railway bridge which bore the name “King Peter II”. During his tenure began the construction of Church St. Sava now the biggest Orthodox Churches in the world and ranks amongst the ten largest church buildings in the world. He also established a Belgrade Zoo in 1936 on his estate and out of his funds – today a landmark as it is located in the city center of a metropolis. The ceremonial entrance porch, adorned with classic columns, ionic capitals, balustrades in wrought iron and tile ornamentation windows and sculptural ensembles – by sculptor Živojin Lukic, are the lavish decor of this harmonious and representative villa. All these features have determined this villa as one of the outstanding achievements of Belgrade interwar architecture. In addition to the exterior of the building, which is reminiscent of a medieval castle, the club features a central hall, which was built in the style of greenhouse gases. While walking through its premises we travel back in time and imagine extravagant galas and feasts held here which were considered one of the main gathering places for the crème of the Belgrade social circles at that time.
If the walls of the villa could talk, they would also tell us that they were the location of the making and initial headquarters of one of the first regional corporations – Genex, as well as home and lodging to various dignitaries and celebrities across the globe. At the dawn of the new century, the villa was totally renovated in 2006, and finally in the late summer of 2014 when Admiral Club Hotel became Allure Caramel Hotel by Karisma.
The air of prestige set, Allure Caramel will maintain, and thus continue to be a part of history in making.
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What’s New At... El Dorado Royale, El Dorado Casitas Royale, El Dorado Maroma y Generations Riviera Maya
WE PROUDLY SERVE STARBUCKS, CLOSER TO OUR GUESTS
F
or our guest’s convenience, we have established one more “We Proudly Serve Starbucks” located out on the pier, beside Cabaña Pizzeria. Thanks to this new concession stand, our guests can have their favorite coffee and drinks while they relax at their favorite hotel. As a reminder, “We Proudly Serve Starbucks” locations are not included in the Gourmet Inclusive Experience®.
NEW STORES:
LA LOLITA GIFT SHOP
I
n order to make our products and souvenirs near our guests, we have relocated one, and have installed two new La Lolita Gift Shops: - A new one In El Dorado Royale, located on the pier beside the “We Proudly Serve Starbucks” café. - A new one In El Dorado Casitas Royale, in front of the Gaviotas Bar. - In Generations Riviera Maya, the existing La Lolita Gift Shop was moved closer to the beach.
WE OPENED OUR NEW CAFÉ, WE PROUDLY SERVE STARBUCKS,
T
he new Café “We Proudly Serve Starbucks” at this hotel is located left of Lima Limón, between El Dorado Maroma, By Karisma and the Marina Maroma Adventures, to offer this service to both locations. This way our guests can enhance their already-pleasant experience while sipping delicious coffee in Paradise, with the convenience and quality that we are known for.
What’s New At ... Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts y Sensatori Punta Cana
TRANSMITTING OUR PASSION: SENSATORI GET TOGETHER AND NICKELODEON WOW FAMILY FIESTA
B
etting on continuous innovation has been Karisma’s best formula, offering unique experiences to our guests. As part of these efforts at Nickelodeon Hotels and Sensatori Resort Punta Cana, a twist was done to our key activities so that not only Management, but also kitchen, bellboys, bars and public area collaborators participate in the sharing invaluable moments and transmitting our characteristic PASSION to our guests.
The Sensatori Get Together and the Nickelodeon Wow Family begin with a warm welcome, cocktails, and the representatives of each department are introduced, and the events concludes with a prize raffle. This type of event gives us the opportunity to listen and get to know how our houseguests feel, detect possible opportunities and correct any situation that may disrupt our guests’ stay. At the end of the day, we feel an undeniable fresh energy as we leave the events, but most important, guests leave feeling happy to know they have met our whole team in person, and can see with their own eyes the passion that drives us to provide them with unforgettable moments for the rest of their lives.
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What’s New At... Allure Chocolat
WE KEEP GROWING!
A
llure Chocolat Hotel has successfully concluded an expansion project, in which a home dated from the 1500s was remodeled. It is located next to the Red Knife Restaurant. The house has held secrets and stories from the famous Getsemaní borough; its walls are over two feet thick! The new installations include: • 38 new rooms: 4 luxury Suites, 3 Deluxe and 1 Junior Suite • Gymnasium with a terrace and natural lighting • 1 employee cafeteria • 1 Conference room with a 40-person capacity • 1 Breakfast terrace with a view to the church cupulas in the old city and a breath-taking view of San Felipe Castle. Our Hotel Allure Chocolat will preserve the classic façade that guises a sophisticated architecture and offers a modern and luxurious stay, right in the heart of the ancient historical center of Cartagena. For the inauguration of this new phase, a cocktail party was arranged, and Mr. Edilbrando Pérez, Mr. Sasa Milojevic, Mr. Rubén Becerra, the Char Family, as well as the local Colombian Businessmen and members of local and national communication media were all present.
At the Cocktail, details of the expansion project were presented and Red Knife restaurant offered some Gourmet Bites and a Coffee tasting by Inspiration – One of the top coffees in Colombia.
IT
KARISMA,
INNOVATING WITH TECHNOLOGY: IT
T
he first IT Symposium which focuses on the tech trends in the Hotel Industry took place without a hitch. Representatives from different departments in our organization were present along with our IT group, including Sales and Marketing, Food and Beverages, Finance, Human Capital and Travel Club. For the event to be as far-reaching as possible, invitees could attend in person at the host location, Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico or on line, through Skype for Business. The first day of the conference was dedicated to internal issues, and Karisma’s CEO/Director of Operations welcomed one and all, kicking off the sessions in which our teams were introduced to the current events in, and main goals set for each area.
On the second day, Information Technology Specialists gave seven different presentations based on each one’s area of expertise.
SIHOT Suite
by Jorg Berger, CEO of Gubse and David Warren, their Commercial Director.
Security Risks that have arisen over the last while
was a theme broached by Vladimir Jeremic from IBM Learning Services
How will the Digital Era change the future of resorts? by Imran Sayeed.
Microsoft Office 365
by Bojan Nenadic, CTO and Managing Director of ITACET
Data Security isn’t always about Systems
was the subject presented by Daniel Johnson, CEO and Partner in the Venza Group.
Digitization of the Hospitality Industry by Ramón Viñals developed from Cisco Mexico’s Engineering Director
People Soft
by Jorge David Paéz de ORACLE. Predag Krstajic, IT Vice President and the Event Coordinator thanked all who were involved in the logistics, presentation and attendance of the sessions; he reminded all to be prepared for our next event like this one.
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SPA
GET TO KNOW THE NEW NÁAY SPA
AT EN EL DORADO MAROMA
W
e are happy to showcase our new Náay Spa, over 400 square meters (4200 s.f.) inspired by Mayan traditions, philosophies and techniques, melded with modern methods. Our guests can enjoy any of the 14 luxurious suites including two Bridal Suites, Beauty Salon, Hydrotherapy Area, Fitness, CrossFit area, and a Sensory Relaxation Studio. Here is the new Spa’s layout: GROUND FLOOR -Reception area with personalized attention -Lobby Spa -Spa Boutique (offering international brands, such as Natura Bissé, Redken, ESSIE and other regional house products.)
SPA .2ND FLOOR -Beauty Spa Salon with: 4 Luxury Pedicure stools 4 Luxury Manicure table stations 2 Hair & Shampoo backwash units 4 Make-up and Fashion modules -Hydrotherapy Area Guests will be delighted by a most revitalizing sensation in a guided hydrotherapy session, with Ladies and Gents’ Dry Sauna and Steam Rooms, Hydro Massage Showers, Chill Lagoon, Sensations Pool and Relaxation Area -Fitness Center and CrossFit Area
3RD FLOOR -Sensory Relaxation Room, and a VIP Sensory Relaxation Room. Self-Serve Herbal and Fruit Tea Infusions, fruit and Wellness books. -14 Luxurious Spa Suites 2 Private Wedding Suites (Pure Glamour and Coastal Bliss, from our Memorable Moments collection) 1 Chromotherapy Spa Suite 9 Luxurious Couple Spa Suites 2 Multi Use Spa Suites This new area stands out as an emblem of our magnificent property and the Sensory Experience our services provide. Be sure to recommend our awesome Spas to guests, friends and acquaintances!
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Human Capital
CEDEHU: A FIRM COMMITMENT FOR THE WHOLESOME DEVELOPMENT OF OUR EMPLOYEES.
H
eading up an impressive project, Mr. José Luis Martínez, owner of El Dorado Royale, a Spa Resort, By Karisma, completed the construction of an imposing new four-story complex named “Centro de Desarrollo Humano (CEDEHU)” or Centre for Human Development. The new installations are part of a comprehensive project to offer first quality support to the hotel’s 1600 staff members regarding administration, personal and professional development and training with the goal of better satisfying the needs of our employees.
Human Capital
GROUND FLOOR Standard services are available, such as a waiting room for employee transport vehicles, restrooms, showers, dressing rooms, a chapel, attendance control area, access ramp, cafeteria, laundry room, beauty salon, automatic shoe shiner, goods and services sales stands (external providers), and an Opportunities Message Board, where employees can offer services for their days off, such as auto repairs, housecleaning, etc. FIRST FLOOR Houses the Human Capital offices, along with an information module and the Talent Acquisition Centre, with an airconditioned waiting room for the comfort of up to 30 candidates, and 8 stations where candidates can be interviewed simultaneously. SECOND AND THIRD FLOOR Were designed for professional and human development and training. There are 6 rooms available for classes, workshops, or work sessions. We have capacity for 250 employees for training activities, with adequate furniture, and a coffee, tea and water station. BREASTFEEDING ROOM We have included an equipped and cozy Mother’s Room for any of our employees who are recent mommies. VIRTUAL CLASSROOM Has 20 computers available for various on-line courses as well as initiation to an “On-Line Bachelor’s Degree Course,” access to the platform and a tutor for support. In this classroom, other projects can be set up such as the Cambridge English Course and On-Line University. LANGUAGES CENTRE Has a 40-person capacity, and in the afternoon, English and French courses are provided. During the mornings, our English teacher visits each area of the property offering suggestions to help tailor specific foreign wording for each department. GYM In May, the Gymnasium was opened for our staff, where equipment can be used for exercise, and Zumba classes can be taken. Remarkably, all these services are free for our employees.
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Human Capital
DOCTOR’S OFFICE Putting the wellbeing of our employees first, we also have a Doctor’s Office, where preventative medicine can be performed, workers can be evaluated for glucose levels and blood pressure, have their height and weight measured, determine their metabolic age, electrocardiograms are available, receive artery obstruction evaluations, eye exams, pap smears, HIV and Transmitted Disease tests - all offered free of charge to our employees on Health Day. HOUSEKEEPING AND F&B WORKSHOP LABS The Housekeeping lab is for the development of the Housekeepers and Room Service staff, with a fully furnished hotel guest room for workshops to ensure our service standards. The F&B Lab is still in its completion stage, but will be outfitted with a full restaurant to better train our staff in Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive standards.
The CEDEHU will be the Campus Dorado site location, with the mission of offering Universitylevel training to all members of our staff. A Sports Center will soon be added which will avail employees with Football (Soccer), Volleyball, Basketball and Athletics courts.
RELAXATION ZONE Not to be forgotten is a ‘relaxation zone’ structure, especially important for employees who cover events, it will be a place to chill, rest and take a break. It will have fresh fruit water, table games, sofas, and televisions with cable access. HISTORY GALLERY Finally, one can take a stroll through our History Gallery that is being completed, and, as its name indicates, it will give a step by step overview of the construction through photographs, videos, scripts, and will display trophies and prizes from our past 17 years and ongoing.
Welcome to the CEDEHU!
Karisma Foundation
KARISMA
WELLNESS CULTURE
O
ne of the main goals of Karisma Foundation is to foster a culture of health and wellbeing, so we have allied ourselves with institutions such as the Help Center for Chronic-Degenerative Diseases (Centro de Ayuda a Personas con Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas A.C.), the Cancun branch of the Mexican Diabetes Association (Asociación Mexicana de Diabetes de Cancún) and the “Red PositHIVA de Quintana Roo” (“HIV Positive” of the State of Quintana Roo, Mexico) to work together on programs to detect and to create a preventative culture with regards to Chronic-Degenerative Diseases. These diseases are the main cause of death in many countries. The first one is Diabetes Mellitus, followed by cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease and liver diseases. For this reason, Karisma Hotel & Resorts is committed to the health of our employees and their challenges. This is why we started ‘Health Days’; we bring specialized medical services to all our hotels, travel clubs, offices and related businesses in the Riviera Maya. Because of this, 4,087 medical studies were performed, and since its inception three months ago, the progress of nine chronic-degenerative diseases was defused, from diabetes to possible heart attacks.
We link the ‘Health Days’ with the Nutrition Campaign, and continually make healthy adjustments to the employee’s food and encourage healthy habits to contribute to their wellbeing. To this end, Karisma’s Personnel Strategy and Human Capital Director has brought experts together to create a comprehensive nutrition, health and wellbeing program called “Karisma Wellness Culture.” This program will gradually roll out at all our properties, offices and in the communities where Karisma has a presence around the world.
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Human Capital
Welcome Program: AN INNOVATIVE PROGRAM FOR WELCOMING NEW COLLABORATORS
A
t Human Capital, we are working on updating certain processes and innovating on others to be up to speed with the industry’s latest tendencies and position ourselves as a strategic partner of the company and a vital part of its success. Recently, as a part of this continuous improvement we have recently released the new Training Manual that includes the formation and growth blocks that the collaborators will have access to during each step in their path through the company. A crucial part of this manual is the “Welcome program”, whose dynamic and interactive structure replaces the regular induction course and focuses on Karisma’s key elements: its history, brands, competitive advantages and expansion plan so the collaborator is proud to belong to the company from day one. The program includes a Welcome Kit that is given on the first day. It includes an ecological bag with branded items and which serve to facilitate the process of immersion into the company. It also includes items that will be useful for the new collaborator, such as the property map, transportation schedules, dining room schedules, etc. Starting on the 2nd hour of the program, each business unit is presented, followed by (from day s 2-28) a job induction process which includes a series of workshops for collaborators to get to know the products and services, such as: Getting to know the SPA, A wedding… a Dream! Culinary Journey, Sales, is all of us! and y Trivia with Travel (Travel Club). With this project, we are betting on standardizing and unifying processes to line up our organizational culture, setting solid foundations for the expansion of the Company and the growth of its collaborators. The program has been designed in Spanish and English.
Human Capital 29
HONING THE DETAILS IN PREPARATION FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF AZUL
BEACH RESORT SENSATORI JAMAICA
I
n the months preceding the opening of the addition to Azul Beach Sensatori Jamaica, Human Capital and Strategic Support united in ensuring that the recruitment and welcoming of our new team members would be successful. Massive recruitment efforts were undertaken, and a Welcome Program was designed to facilitate the entry of new members into their respective teams, implementing a complete Job Orientation for each position in the whole hotel. Team Building sessions were performed with executive and operational committees to foster trust and companionship and to ensure that each member was on board with focus on the opening event and achieving team targets.
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Passion For Sustainability
2017
S
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM FOR DEVELOPMENT By Lyn Santos
ustainable Tourism is fully accountable for current and future repercussions on the economy, society and environment when satisfying the needs of visitors, industry, and the surrounding and host communities. (World Tourism Organization) This entails having a positive impact on the lives of our coworkers, current and future, the communities where we do business, our guests who stay with us for a few days, our business partners, our business, our industry, and on the environment in which our hotels are located and on whose resources we depend. The United Nations declared 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, which implies that new strategies will be generated to sensitize people responsible
for development decisions and the public in general about how sustainable tourism contributes to development through five action patterns: 1. Inclusive and sustainable economic growth 2. Social inclusion, job creation and reduction of poverty 3. Efficient use of natural resources, environmental protection and climate change 4. Cultural values, diversity and heritage 5. Mutual comprehension, peace and security At Karisma Hotels & Resorts, through a Business Management System, we are applying specific measures to be able to contribute to these action patterns. Each hotel in the company develops their own specific working plans to generate this positive impact at each destination through their policies, actions, alliances in the community, to have a respect for the zone’s culture, work climate etc. There is still so much to do, as a company, as a destination and as an industry, but if we all contribute in own homes, villages, cities and workplace, we can achieve this positive impact in our destiny.
THE SUSTAINABILITY PRINCIPLES AT
KARISMA HOTELS & RESORTS
01
Actively participate in sustainable destination development, with Social, Economic and Environmental issues clear in mind.
Strictly adhere to required standards emanating from all levels of administration, ensuring compliance.
02
Proudly participate and promote customs and traditions that emphasize the richness of each location.
Accept and respect differences in worship, religion, politics and preferences, championing an inclusive environment among coworkers, guests, suppliers and associates.
03
Support local economies by encouraging the hiring of local employees and the purchasing of local products that meet our standards.
04
Close each supplier transaction ethically, encouraging fair trade and supporting local economies.
Take actionable and quantifiable measures to conserve surface and ecosystem function, protect wild and endangered species and responsibly use natural resources.
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Foster the reduction of environmental impact, sourcing products and services that encourage sustainability values in their processes.
Be the generator of local growth, by using a fair, equitable, competitive and quality labor supply while actively respecting vulnerable groups that may be involved in the operation at hand.
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Continually reassess ecological targets in improving our Carbon Footprint by identifying further energy and water conservation opportunities and pinpoint areas where waste and emissions can be further reduced.
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Passion For Sustainability
WE SHARE OUR PASSION FOR SUSTAINABILITY IN THE
FIRST SUSTAINABLE & SOCIAL TOURISM SUMMIT
K
arisma Hotels & Resorts is committed to sustainable development through an alliance with Sustentur, the Secretary of Tourism (SECTUR), the Counsel on Tourism Promotion, SEDETUR, UT Riviera Maya, and EarthCheck among many others, to be a part of the organization of the first Sustainable & Social Tourism Summit, an event of international proportions in which 350 professionals from 15 countries and five continents gather to share experiences, analyze and discuss the future of sustainable tourism in Mexico and Latin America. This action is a sample of the initiatives in which we demonstrate our commitment and passion as an Organization, by managing and promoting management that is sustainable in the destinations where we happen to be, and by supporting the properties in their efforts as well.
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Get to know the team
BRAND MANAGEMENT AND QUALITY CONTROL B
rand Management and Quality Control is a team that was put together from different areas: Customer Service, Hygienic Food Management, Standards, Integral Security, Processes and Manuals. All have the same objective, to lend support to the operation and demonstrate how to comply with Karisma Philosophy at all times. Throught the audits that each of the aforementioned areas undertakes, we aim to keep the right action path for all departments i nthe hotel division, up to date. Also, the guests’ complaints are taken care of diligently and timely feeback is given as well. And how do we verify objectives are being achieved? Through a modern indicator system.
MAYANIN OROZCO MHA AUDITOR
Our Passion is Quality! Here is the Team:
LETICIA HUITR
CORPORATE QUALITY M
FABIOLA TOLEDO
NAYIELY GUZMÁN
CRISTINA CATALÁ
ORALIA CASTILLO
STANDARDS AUDITOR
STANDARDS AUDITOR
MHA AUDITOR
CLUB AUDITOR
ALTAGRACIA MAL
QUALITY MAN PUNTA CA
Get to know the team
BETTINA ZIMMERER CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SUPORT
MARÍA RUIZ
CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SOCIAL MEDIA SUPORT
ANA PEGLER
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
ZDEINEB DÍAZ
PROCESS AND MANUALS MANAGER
RÓN
MANAGER
LDONADO
NAGER, ANA
ANDREAS SCHMIDT BRAND & QUALITY CONTROL DIRECTOR
FROYLAN ANDRÉS
INTEGRAL SECURITY AND MAINTENANCE MANAGER Enrique Camacho A.
Gerente de Proyecto, Riviera Maya ecamacho@karismamexico.com
KAREN HERRERA CHIEF OF QUALITY, COLOMBIA
LILIANA CAMPOS PROCESS AND MANUALS ASSITANT
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34 Karisma Expansion
EXPANSION AT
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI JAMAICA
W
e are excited to announce the expansion that took place at Azul Beach Resort Sensatori, Jamaica, by Karisma. The new section of the resort includes 149 new rooms, a private lobby and new spaces to receive 300 further guests so they can enjoy the famous Seven Mile Beach, in Negril. This project includes new Premium Ocean View suites in ten room categories. These include connected suites, Premium privileges for guests that include private check-in, luxury swimming pools and seven new Gourmet Inclusive restaurants and bars that include: -Mahogany Restaurant and Kitchen – Open cuisine -Hua Hin – Thai food specialty -West End Gourmet Corner & Terrace – specializing in Grilled foods -Indigo Denim Bar -Amber Oceanfront Bar -West End Swim Up Bar & Lounge -Tamarind The project also includes -24-hour Room Service -Fitness Center -Wellbeing platform -Seven new pools -Tennis court, multi-use court and archery -Vassa Spa -AZULITOS Playhouse and Splash Park During May, 51 new rooms were inaugurated and guest response was very positive. At Karisma Hotels & Resorts we continue working to expand our horizons, demonstrating excellence in all our projects.
Karisma Expansion
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Exotic & Prestige Travelers
RINALDO FERNÁNDEZ RECEIVES “BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD”
W
e are proud to announce that our Senior Vice President of Karisma’s Travel Club, Mr. Rinaldo Fernández was awarded the prestigious “Businessman of the Year” at the GNEX 2017 supported by the Perspective Magazine, an important representative in the Vacation Travel Clubs with offices in the USA, England and Asia. Mr. Fernández competed at international level with leaders in the industry around the globe. His 21+ year trek in Sales, Marketing and Business are testimony to his talent and ability to analyze outcomes, which were aptitudes that gave him the edge over the competition. Even though this is a personal award to Mr. Fernández, his leadership, enthusiasm and knowledge are representative of the strengths of “Exotic and Prestige Travellers” that continue to support the growth and excellence of Karisma’s products and services.
PALAFITOS OVERWATER BUNGALOWS: THE EXCELLENCE CONTINUES
A
RDA (American Resort Development Association) puts on an exclusive annual convention to update owners and hotelier personnel on what’s new in the industry. This year, the event took place at the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. As with every year, prizes are awarded and the most prestigious one is the ACE Circle of Excellence Award, given to those who achieved the highest of excellence in the Hotelier Industry.
In the coveted ACE category, our Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma, a Beachfront Resort, by Karisma, won the ACE International Project of Excellence Award: Small Resort Developer. Our Senior Vice President Rinaldo Fernández received the award on behalf of the company last March in New Orleans. The prize is a reminder of the excellent service and innovation that put Karisma Hotels & Resorts and the Exotic & Prestige Travellers program ahead of the game in terms of innovation and excellence in service in all-inclusives.
Congratulations!
Exotic & Prestige Travelers
MILLIONAIRES CLUB &
L
EXCELLENCE PRIZES
e Chique at Azul Beach Resort Sensatori Mexico was the site of the annual Excellence Awards for the Exotic & Prestige highest producers of 2016. The most coveted awards were given to the salespeople that were able to join the Million Dollar Club. The night focused on Phil Woodward, whose impressive track record with the company has helped position it as one of the most important Travel Clubs in the industry. Congratulations to all and thanks for your tireless efforts!
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Exotic & Prestige Travelers
K ONSINTIÉNDONOS PAMPERING OURSELVES
C
onsistent with our philosophy of Happy Worker, Happy Company, we continue to pamper and celebrate all those who are part of our Exotic & Prestige Travellers Club. We celebrate birthdays, provide tamales on “Candelaria” Day, share friendship wishes on Valentine’s Day and honor our female employees on Woman’s Day, plus, we celebrate whenever one of them brings one more life into the world.
Exotic & Prestige Travelers
K PACITARTE W
TRAIN YOU
e know how important it is to keep training our staff and giving them the tools they need to continue to grow in their personal and professional lives. So we offer several training programs. In the last few months 5SS courses were given, Social Networks, new utensils for learning or bettering their English language skills, Six Sigma and Executive Image. There are several webinars available, as well as the “Welcome Program� for newcomers.
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Employee Meetings
EMPLOYEE MEETINGS A
t our Employee Meetings that take place in every business unit of our company, we share business indicators, updates and essential information for the success of our operation. We recognize and celebrate the best among us and have some fun, strengthening, at each event, our integration and pride in being part of the Karisma Family.
Konsintiéndonos
KONSINTIÉNDONOS PAMPERING OURSELVES
P
assion and fun are normal for us in our day to day activities, but we pamper our coworkers with various further activities to thank them for their efforts and dedication. It gives us the opportunity to let each one of them know that they are an important part of the Company, and that, as a Family it is easier to reach the goals we set. Here are some of the ‘best of’ photos from these occasions.
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Kpacit-arte
Training You
A
t Karisma we are constantly preparing ourselves for growth and to face new challenges and goals that are set before us, which enables us to continue our professional and personal growth. In these last few months, we have had courses, workshops, practice sessions and training to remain in this preparedness state, performing our duties with excellence. Let’s keep growing with Passion!
Karismática Drink Bebidas Karismáticas
O
ur friend Israel Rodríguez Castillo tells us about a drink that is very popular with the kids that visit our Nickelodeon Hotel & Resort Punta Cana.
The drink is called “Two Camps” and the ingredients are: -Non-alcoholic Strawberry Daiquiri -Pina Colada Cream -Non-alcoholic Blue Curaçao -Cherry and Lime decorations The wee ones that visit us love it because of the yummy blend of flavors and the striking colors of the drink. Israel has been working at the company for seven years in the Bars area. His passion is to make all his clients happy so that their experience at Karisma will be an awesome one. His outstanding performance and excellent service have earned him the Top Spot recognition award on TripAdvisor for two consecutive months.
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The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
THE BEST OF THE BEST
BEST EMPLOYEE
JANUARY JANUARY
ANDREA FERNÁNDEZ HAIR STYLIST BEST EMPLOYEE THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
JANUARY
JOSÉ CAUICH
BUTCHERY CHEF BEST EMPLOYEE MHA
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MÉXICO
JANUARY
JANUARY
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
INGRID LÓPEZ
ANA LUISA RUBIO
ANGEL AMEZCUA
BETTYNA GARCÍA
BEST EMPLOYEE GSI THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST EMPLOYEE AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
BEST EMPLOYEE MHA AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
BEST EMPLOYEE SSH
ENTERTAINER
JANUARY
RECEPCIONIST
JANUARY
B COOK
JANUARY
MARÍA ROBLES
GRACIELA GARCÍA
GENOVEVA MUÑOZ
BEST EMPLOYEE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
HOUSEKEEPER
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MÉXICO
REVENUE AUDITOR
LAUNDERER
BAR WAITRESS
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MÉXICO
JANUARY
ADDA LÓPEZ
CLEANING HELPER BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
JANUARY JANUARY
JANUARY
RODOLFO DE LA CRUZ
JUAN BAUTISTA
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO MAROMA
HEAD OF KITCHEN
ROOM SERVICE
JANUARY
JOSUE NAVA
RECEPCIONIST
BEST EMPLOYEEEL DORADO SEASIDE SUITES
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
SERGIO TUN
GONZALO LÓPEZ
BEST EMPLOYEE GENERATIONS RIVIERA MAYA
BEST EMPLOYEE GENERATION RIVIERA MAYA
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
COST CONTROLLER
The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
JANUARY
JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH
JANUARY
JANUARY
45
JANUARY
RITA GARCÍA
ALFONSO TORRES
LICETH CORCHO
MARIA CORDONES
JOEL MEDINA
BEST EMPLOYEE SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
BEST EMPLOYEE GSI ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
BEST EMPLOYEE ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
BEST EMPLOYEE FOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
HEAD OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
NOLBERTO LÓPEZ
SERGIO NAVA
BEST EMPLOYEE THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST EMPLOYEE GSI THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
HVAC TECHNICIAN
FEBRUARY
BARMAN
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
JOSÉ TOME
SECURITY AGENT BEST EMPLOYEE AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
FEBRUARY
CONCIERGE
FEBRUARY
KITCHEN
FEBRUARY
MANUEL RODRÍGUEZ B COOK
BEST EMPLOYEE MHA AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
FEBRUARY
MARIA YAM B COOK
BEST EMPLOYEE
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MÉXICO
FEBRUARY
MARIO CEBALLOS
FABIOLA MARTINEZ
DANIEL GÓMEZ
JOSÉ GÓMEZ
HENRY DOMÍNGUEZ
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO SEASIDE SUITES
GREENHOUSE COUNTER
FEBRUARY
LUIS CANDELERO
SARGASSUM BEACHCOMBER BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO MAROMA
RECEPCIONIST
FEBRUARY
LAURA HERNÁNDEZ CXC ASSISTANT
BEST EMPLOYEE GENERATIONS RIVIERA MAYA
CAPTAIN
FEBRUARY
WAITER
FEBRUARY
BELLBOY
FEBRUARY
ISRAEL CARMONA
NUBIA TORRES
CARLOS BARRIOS
BEST EMPLOYEE SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
MOST MENTIONED GSI ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
HUMAN CAPITAL ASSISTANT
The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
46
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
MARCH
MARCH
ALEX SANDOVAL
DAYANA SOLANO
GLORIA ZURITA
JUSTINA ESTRADA
ANABEL CHAVEZ
BEST EMPLOYEE FOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
BEST EMPLOYEE FOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
BEST EMPLOYEE THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST EMPLOYEE GSI THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST EMPLOYEE AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
MAINTENANCE
MARCH
HOUSEKEEPING
MARCH
MARZO
LORENZO HOIL A COOK
BEST EMPLOYEE MHA AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
MARCH
RIGO REYNOSO RESTAURANT WAITER BEST EMPLOYEE
AZUL BEACH RESORT SENSATORI MÉXICO
MARCH
JOEL PÉREZ GARDNER
BEST EMPLOYEE GENERATIONS RIVIERA MAYA
KITCHEN HELPER
JESUS ALVARADO SECURITY AGENT
BEST EMPLOYEE SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
WAITER A&B
MARCH
MARCH
ISABEL JOAQUÍN
GILBERTO ROSAS
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO ROYALE
BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
COSTING ASSISTANT
MARCH
HOUSEKEEPER
CONCIERGE
MARCH
CLAUDIO DZIB
PUBLIC AREAS ASSISTANT BEST EMPLOYEE EL DORADO SEASIDE SUITES
MARCH
ROSA SAAVEDRA
FERMÍN MANJARREZ
DANILO MERCEDES
BEST EMPLOYEE SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
KITCHEN HELPER
MARCH
JANUARY
JANUARY
BEST MARIA DE LA LUZ BEST EMPLOYEE FOH NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
SUPERVISOR
FRANKLIN CEDEÑO
MATIAS GENAO
RESTAURANT
LAUNDRY
BEST SUPERVISOR FOH
BEST SUPERVISOR BOH
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
PEDRO SALDAÑA
RECEPTION SUPERVISOR BEST SUPERVISOR EL DORADO ROYALE
MARCH
MARCH
LUIS ANEUDY
JOSEFINA CORNIELLES
MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR
HOUSEKEEPING
CONCIERGE SUPERVISOR
BEST SUPERVISOR FOH
BEST SUPERVISOR FOH
BEST SUPERVISOR EL DORADO ROYALE
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
MARCH
MARCH
FEBRUARY
PAOLA BARRERA
ELEAZAR ARENA
RECEPTION SUPERVISOR
MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR
BEST SUPERVISOR EL DORADO SEASIDE SUITES
BEST SUPERVISOR
GENERATIONS RIVIERA MAYA
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
MARCH
PAOLA PINEDO
MARCH
AMAYA CASTRO
BEST SUPERVISOR
BEST SUPERVISOR BOH
HUMAN CAPITAL
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
MOST MENTIONED ON
TRIPADVISOR ENTERTAINER
JANUARY FEBRUARY
ISRAEL RODRÍGUEZ BUTLER
MOST MENTIONED ON TRIPADVISOR
NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
JANUARY
ALEJANDRO ORTEGA ENTERTAINMENT MOST MENTIONED ON TRIPADVISOR
EL DORADO MAROMA
FEBRUARY
MARCH
GABRIEL BAHENA
JESUS AGUILAR
MOST MENTIONED ON TRIPADVISOR
MOST MENTIONED ON TRIPADVISOR
ENTERTAINER
EL DORADO MAROMA
ROSARIO DOMÍNGUEZ HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR
BEST SUPERVISOR EL DORADO CASITAS ROYALE
MARCH
RODRIGO VALERIN NICKELODEON Y SENSATORI
47
ENTERTAINER
EL DORADO MAROMA
ALEJANDRO CARRILLO CONCIERGE SUPERVISOR BEST SUPERVISOR
SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
48
V
JANUARY
JANUARY
BEST
DEPARTMENT FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY MARCH
POOLS BEST DEPARTMENT BOH
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
FEBRUARY
BELL BOYS BEST DEPARTMENT FOH
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
FEBRUARY
SPA
MAINTENANCE
PUBLIC AREAS
SPA
HOUSEKEEPING
BEST DEPARTMENT BOH
BEST DEPARTMENT BOH
BEST DEPARTMENT BOH
BEST DEPARTMENT FOH
BEST DEPARTMENT BOH
EL DORADO MAROMA
MARZO
LA CANTINA 1910 BEST DEPARTMENT FOH
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
QUARTERLY
SERGIO GÓMEZ ENTERTAINER
BEST EMPLOYEE SENSIMAR SEASIDE SUITES
EL DORADO MAROMA
MARCH
KITCHEN
BEST DEPARTMENT BOH ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
QUARTERLY
GUILLERMO PATIÑO WAITER
BEST EMPLOYEE ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST QUARTERLY EMPLOYEE QUARTERLY
QUARTERLY
NORBEY MORENO
ANDRÉS RUIZ
BEST EMPLOYEE BOH ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
BEST EMPLOYEE ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
WAREHOUSEMAN
BELLBOY
ALLURE CHOCOLAT Y ALLURE BONBON
The Best of the Best [JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH]
BEST QUARTERLY SUPERVISOR QUARTERLY
VIRIDIANA VARGAS BEST EMPLOYEE
THE FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT
BEST
QUARTERLY
QUARTERLY
JULIO MORALES
EDIEL MORENO
STEWARD SUPERVISOR
STEWARD SUPERVISOR
AZUL BEACH RESORT RIVIERA MAYA
EL DORADO MAROMA
SUSTAINABLE DEPARTMENT QUARTERLY
PUBLIC AREAS BEST SUSTAINABLE DEPARTMENT EL DORADO MAROMA
49