The comprehensive sustainability audit process conducted at IBEROSTAR Playa Mita has recognized the efforts of IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts to operate a responsible tourism development while minimizing impacts on the environment.

Normally, a half a million dollar renovation wouldn’t seem like much. When the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas was built for $3.5 Billion, the Tropicana was just completing a $180 million renovation and that seemed like peanuts for a property that had over 1,600 rooms. This boutique hotel and marina is located in the upper Florida Keys in Islamorada.

The Bahamas Ministry of Finance in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism repealed the 10 percent hotel tax and replaced it with a 7.5 percent value added tax. The VAT will be charged on hotels and home rentals as well as services purchased by guests.

The new 323-suite, adults-only Chic Punta Cana by Royalton marks the debut of the Chic brand for Royalton Resorts. Located on Uvero Alto Beach, the resort has a DJ booth in the pool, poolside cabanas, an oxygen bar, outdoor disco, five a la carte restaurants, a buffet restaurant, a café and 24-hour room service.

The opening of Meliá Jardines del Rey was an authentic Christmas surprise, as the Cayo Coco-based, five-star all-inclusive resort was scheduled to cut the ribbon in early January. The resort teed off operations on its right wing, which features 624 rooms overlooking the swimming pool, sea and gardens.