The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real

TORONTO — A new resort, a new brand, and the D.R.’s challenges in 2019 made for interesting times for The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real and its general manger, Jaime Piedras.

Celebrating the property’s 1-year anniversary with top travel agent partners at Toronto restaurant Sassafraz, Piedras said there’s good momentum now for the D.R. and its resorts. “Every day is better than the day before,” he said.

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Jaime Piedras, GM, The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, DR

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Jaime Piedras, GM, The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real and Nathalie Carpentier, Leisure Sales Manager, Eastern Canada, Melia Hotels International at Sassafraz on Dec. 10

Last night’s reception was a festive gathering complete with dancing lessons and a D.R. band. Piedras said the focus for the event was primarily the D.R. as a destination. But there was also plenty of good cheer for the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, which opened in December 2018.

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Reception and lobby at The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real

The Grand Reserve, the third Paradisus property to open in the D.R., is the first of its kind in the Paradisus portfolio with ultra-luxe amenities.

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One Bedroom Master Swim Up Suite

Suites at the resort feature either one or two bedrooms and amenities including living and dining spaces, independent soaking tubs and walk-in showers, as well as private secluded balconies with hydro-massage whirlpool tubs and outdoor living spaces.

The Grand Reserve’s Swim-Up Suites offer one or two-bedroom accommodations with direct access to an exclusive pool, complete with lush garden areas and a solarium.

With an immersive culinary program, The Grand Reserve also features 14 restaurants and bars including a gourmet market.

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Swim Up Suites

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The resort’s BLAST! Aquafun Park

Most hotels and resorts strive for maximum capacity, but to ensure the luxe experience and atmosphere, Piedras says he’s aiming for 60%, “or even 50% with the right room rate”. In an earlier interview with Travelweek, Piedras said: “That’s the goal. That’s why we need to look for guests who expect the best.”

The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real opened as part of a trio of resorts, along with neighbouring Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort for adults-only and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort for families.

Guests at The Grand Reserve can Stay at One & Play at Three, with complete access to the extensive property offerings at both The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real and Paradisus Palma Real resort.

While the Paradisus Palma Real location is the first for The Grand Reserve brand, Piedras says he likes the looks of Los Cabos and possibly Playa del Carmen for future builds. “In terms of service, in terms of quality, we can compete with the best,” he said.