Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Margaritaville have signalled their intent to launch the newbuild Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana scheme in the Dominican Republic this October.

The planned 2021 debut of this luxury property will represent only the second opening for the Island Reserve brand, created through a collaboration between Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Margaritaville.

Entering the Dominican Republic in style

Margaritaville’s entry to the Dominican Republic will combine the amenities of a luxury all-inclusive resort with the easygoing lifestyle embodied by the brand. The newbuild development is located on Playa Juanillo, which is known for its white-sand shores, turquoise waters and sunsets, all just 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.

“After launching the Island Reserve concept in Riviera Maya, we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Margaritaville to bring this lifestyle to the Dominican Republic in a way that really captures Cap Cana as a destination,” said Mario Mathieu, senior vice president of business development, design and construction at Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Cap Cana is the ideal setting for the newest addition to the portfolio, truly encompassing the carefree escapism that is central to the brand.”

John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville, explained: “We are excited to introduce Margaritaville Island Reserve to Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic, one of the most stunning beaches in the world. Our expanding partnership with Karisma is all about delivering the ultimate island experience – relaxation, fun, exceptional dining, over-the-top service and quality entertainment – all to be enjoyed in the Margaritaville state of mind.”

“It has been a privilege to work in partnership with Karisma Hotels & Resorts to bring the famed Margaritaville Island Reserve brand to life in Cap Cana,” added Jesus Barderas, president of Cobbo Bay Developers. “We look forward to witnessing the positive economic impact this resort will have on the local hospitality industry and the Dominican Republic as a whole.”

An ultra-luxury all-inclusive offering

On opening, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana will house 228 suites and 40 villas, with design inspired by the surrounding environment. The resort’s local Island Ambassadors, meanwhile, will cater to guests’ every needs with services including 24-hour in-room dining.

Visitors will be able to choose between 13 room types, such as swim-up and honeymoon suites, signature villas and the Jimmy Buffett Suite offering sea views from the top floor of the main building and indoor-outdoor space encompassing a 300 sq ft terrace.

The resort’s 40 ultra-luxe Island Reserve villas will provide exclusive access to a lagoon pool and the SOS Swim Up Bar with hanging beds. Each of these villas is to comprise a king-size bed, kitchenette, breakfast bar and living room, plus outdoor terrace.

This accommodation will be complemented by the resort’s Gourmet Village, pairing immersive entertainment with unpretentious-yet-refined culinary and mixology offerings. The Margaritaville Main Stage will then offer daily entertainment, as well as several dining options including Frank & Lola’s Italian Trattoria, JWB Steakhouse and pan-Asian dining spot Mon So Wi.

Elsewhere, the infinity pool will be located close to the Rum Runners bar, referencing the Dominican Republic and West Indies’ history of rum production, and the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Swim Up Bar is to offer poolside cocktails with views of Juanillo Beach.

During their stay, guests can sign up for activities like tennis at Sports Hub, unwind at the 1,000 sq ft St Somewhere Spa and work out at the 2,200 sq ft Fins Up! Fitness Center, while making the most of Parakeet Kid’s Club. Finally, event spaces will include a private rooftop that’s ideal for hosting weddings.

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