Diego Lowenstein calls Miami “very resilient” with strategic opportunities.

MIAMI—While the limited service hotel segment is on a strong growth track, luxury hotels are still en vogue. The question is, what are today's travelers looking for from a luxury all-inclusive standpoint?

GlobeSt.com caught up with Diego Lowenstein, CEO of Lionstone Development, to get some insights in part one of this exclusive interview. What you learn from this second generation hotel developer might surprise you.

“We're keeping a close eye on luxury all-inclusive properties in the Caribbean, as we predict that hotel sector will flourish,” Lowenstein tells GlobeSt.com. “The biggest driver of this potential growth is brands beginning to move away from the cookie-cutter type approach of the past and toward a more unique, personalized experience.”

Why are brands doing this? Lowenstein has some thoughtful observations.

“Because today's luxury all-inclusive travelers are looking for value, as always, but will no longer settle for a mid-level experience just to get it,” he shares. “Instead, they're looking for all-inclusive properties to mirror the food and beverage offerings, amenities, and experiences they receive at the luxury hotel properties they are used to staying at.”

This is not necessarily a new revelation in the market. But some brands are more effective at executing what the market wants than others.

“The brands that are doing it right, like Hyatt Ziva and Zilara and the AM Resorts brands, are rejecting the 'standardization; of F&B, which replicates the same offerings in multiple resorts, for a more tailored approach that incorporates local flavors and preparations to provide a singular experience,” Lowenstein says. “This approach doesn't stop at F&B, though.”

Lowenstein notes all-inclusive resorts are also incorporating more luxury touches into their amenity and spa offerings to ensure travelers get a more customized, personal experience. Today, he says, all-inclusive properties are bringing more exclusive spa treatments—like hydrotherapy—in-house, establishing their own luxury spa brands, and offering high-end amenities like personal butlers, private lunge pools and in-room check-in to make guests feel like they are able to experience a truly private getaway, despite spending the majority of their time on-site.

“It's the brands that deliver an excellent product, and balance this value proposition with the ever-changing expectations of today's travelers—true hospitality and service execution—that will succeed in really transforming the sector from the all-inclusive our grandparents think of to the all-inclusive of the future,” Lowenstein concludes. Find out why Lionstone is still bullish on Miami.

Why are brands doing this? Lowenstein has some thoughtful observations.

This is not necessarily a new revelation in the market. But some brands are more effective at executing what the market wants than others.

Instant Insights /

What Today's Travelers Really Want From Hotel Stays

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