New Resorts Promise Elevated Luxury in the Caribbean

It goes without saying that paradise can be found at numerous destinations throughout the Caribbean. The region remains one of the most popular destinations for incentive travel. The introduction of Fort George Hotel & Spa in Belize City, Belize, and Salterra in Turks & Caicos opens the door to the opportunity to create memorable experiences around productive events.

Elevated Hospitality Comes to Belize

Fort George Hotel & Spa officially opened in early February, announced as the city’s only luxury hotel. The 98-room hotel blends the city’s colonial aesthetic with 34 recently renovated Courtyard Deluxe Rooms.

The original colonial property first opened its doors to guests and travelers in 1953. Later this year the property will announce further renovations and additions.

“[Belize] is transforming where visitors are finding that Belize City has much more to offer with great dining, culture, and access to nearby activities,” said Edison Trapp, general manager of Fort George Hotel & Spa. “Fort George Hotel & Spa is poised to be at the center of this revitalization and we want to showcase Belize City as a destination, not only as a stopover, but for those who want to stay and develop a deeper connection to the country and the Fort George area.”

The waterfront property’s located makes it easy for attendees to visit immerise themselves in the local culture. The nearby artisan market, and ancient Mayan ruins such as Altun Ha are guest favorites. Diving in the Belize Barrier Reef – which happens to be the largest in the Western Hemisphere. 

The property suits smaller, luxurious events, offering both indoor and outdoor event space. Its private dining room can accommodate up to 12 guests. The adjacent main dining room can host up to 20 guests. 

The property’s lounge with its impressive skyline views sets the scene for either casual cocktails or networking. The Lounge Backyard Garden sits beneath The Kin Terrace. Both areas allow attendees to enjoy a refreshing change of scenery during sessions and can accommodate up to 40 each.

Marriott Expands in South Caicos

Marriott Bonvoy recently announced the expansion of its Luxury Collection in the Caribbean with the introduction of Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Turks & Caicos. This is Marriott’s first property in the territory, slated to open in 2025.

“Embarking on this extraordinary journey on the island of South Caicos, where luxury blends with the soul of paradise, our new resort isn’t just a destination; it’s a carefully crafted collection of experiences, a harmonious blend of comfort, and a reflection of our dedicated commitment to redefining luxury hospitality,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection.

The property will feature 100 guest rooms and suites and adventurous activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, guided bonefishing, kayaking and seasonal whale watching.

Turks and Caicos Islands has received the Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination award from World Travel Awards every year from 2015 to 2023. 

Luxury Experiences and Conservation in the Caribbean

Belize widely embraces conservation and sustainability as a destination. The Belize Tourism Board, for example, works closely with the CORAL Reef Alliance to promote sustainable tourism. Part of the partnership includes educating local tourism operators to teach travelers about conservation. 

Sustainable tourism and conservation – many times in the form of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is high on the list of priorities for many travelers. Providing the opportunity to participate in activities that promote the wellbeing of the environment and local communities can serve as an additional incentive for attendees. 

Fort George boats tailored luxury experiences from bespoke helicopter adventures to peer down at the 400-foot ocean sinkhole known as the “Blue Hole,” wildlife expeditions and others. However, Guests can go beyond the tours and activities with local experiences that focus on sustainability and community development. 

Similar to Belize, the local conservation efforts of the Turks and Caicos Islands also largely focus on the protection of endangered coral reefs. Activities that will aid in the revitalization of South Caicos reefs will be available to guests directly from Salterra. Activities will include collaborating with scientists in coral cultivation and planting initiatives.