Travel advisors and media attendees had to draw their attention away from the Toronto sunset skyline as Melia Hotels International hosted a Wednesday night event atop the TD South Tower, at the acclaimed Stratus Restaurant. Despite the great view, there was plenty of reason for all to shift their focus to the presentation from Sara Ranghi, Marketing & Brand Development Americas, Director, Melia Hotels.
“Leisure at heart. Business at mind.” said Ranghi, relaying the Melia philosophy as she provided a comprehensive review of important dates in the chain’s history.
Launched in 1956 as Sol in Mallorca, the hotel group was acquired and renamed Melia in 1987. In 1995, the Paradisus brand was created. In 2011, Meliá Hotels International was launched, and in 2021, the Melia Collection was announced. 2023 saw the signing of a partnership with Mallorca-born tennis star Rafael Nadal, who shared the vision of a Mediterranean lifestyle.
“Born in the Med,” Nadal explained his involvement at the launch in 2023. “For me, opening ZEL in Mallorca is a dream come true. As someone who has spent much of my life travelling the world, I wanted to create something refreshing and vibrant that holds true to the traditions of the Balearic Islands.”
“This is not a tennis brand,” said Ranghi. “This is a lifestyle brand. There is always a story to tell, and we do our own storytelling.”
Part of that storytelling is continuously offering guests something new. A 2024 calendar was created to share Melia’s experiential offerings: The Epicure (an eight-course curated meal), Suda Experiences (holistic and wellness focused) and Special Events (fashion shows, bridal shows).
Ranghi also emphasized the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. “We are not greenwashing. We do what we say we are going to do.” Melia was awarded the Most Sustainable European Hotel Company by S&P Global, ESG 2024.
Ranghi was also pleased to share Melia’s Global Pet Friendly program, launched three months ago, and to take care to explain the difference between Service Animals (welcome at all resorts), and Emotional Support Animals, welcome at designated properties. At these properties, for an additional fee, guests can bring their pets, up to two dogs per room, with no weight limit. Dogs are allowed access to all outside areas except Blue Flag beaches, following their guidelines.
There are 11 hotels planned to be opened by Melia Hotels International between 2024 and 2027. 2024 openings include ZEL Punta Cana, ME Sayulita (Mexico) and Melia Casa Maya (Cancun).
Melia hotels has over 400 properties across 43 countries, with 28% in the Americas, 38% in Spain, 22% in Europe and 12% in Asia. The brands are divided into three categories: Essential, Premium and Luxury. A full listing of their properties can be found here.
