Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta) has announced the execution of a strategic alliance with AKEN Hotels & Resorts LLC, a hotel group with a growing presence across South America and the Caribbean. This definitive agreement marks a pivotal moment in Sonesta’s ongoing international growth strategy, with a concentrated focus on the high-potential Latin American (LATAM) region.
Furthering this commitment to growth and enhanced guest experience, initially six AKEN hotels are slated to ally with Sonesta, effective this fall, followed by more AKEN properties following soon after. This transition will integrate these properties into Sonesta’s global distribution and loyalty ecosystem, offering a seamless way for members to explore culturally rich destinations.
A key benefit of this alliance for travelers will be the significant expansion of opportunities for Sonesta Travel Pass loyalty program members to earn and redeem points across an array of new destinations. Sonesta Travel Pass members will be able to leverage their loyalty at AKEN locations and benefit from the best rates, earn points towards free nights, as well as accelerated membership status.
“Latin America offers both cultural richness and untapped growth opportunities and AKEN Hotels is an ideal collaborator with local insight and operational excellence,” said Keith Pierce, Sonesta’s EVP and president of franchise & development. “As travelers continue to look for authentic experiences, this agreement represents a distinctive opportunity for Sonesta to create a strategic alignment with AKEN, a brand recognized for its experience in ecotourism and conscious luxury.”
“Our approach to growth has three pillars—to be Fast, Friendly and Flexible—and we see this as the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial relationship,” said Brian Quinn, Sonesta’s chief development officer. “Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and South America represent tremendous potential for travel demand, guest loyalty and engagement. Collaborating with AKEN allows us to scale quickly in a high-growth region while aligning with a brand that shares our commitment to exceptional service and guest experience.”
Miami-headquartered AKEN Hotels & Resorts is celebrated for its distinctive approach to hospitality, emphasizing conscious luxury where lifestyle and wellness are integrated into the guest experience. AKEN currently operates hotels in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico. This strategic alliance is poised to drive mutual value and significantly elevate the guest experience across diverse markets.
For more information, visit www.sonesta.com and www.akenhotels.com.
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