NEWS
Sonesta and AKEN Hotels & Resorts Forge Strategic Alliance to Accelerate Growth in Latin America
Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has entered into a strategic alliance with AKEN Hotels & Resorts, a move that marks a key step in its international expansion strategy. The partnership begins with six AKEN properties joining the Sonesta portfolio this fall and aims to broaden the group’s footprint across Latin America and the Caribbean. The collaboration also enhances loyalty benefits for Sonesta Travel Pass members by adding culturally immersive destinations to their travel options.
In a move poised to reshape its global growth trajectory, Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has executed a definitive agreement with AKEN Hotels & Resorts LLC, a luxury hotel group with operations in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Mexico. The strategic alliance, announced this July, focuses on capturing the growing demand for authentic, eco-conscious travel experiences in the Latin American (LATAM) region—a high-potential market for tourism and hospitality investment.
Initially, six AKEN hotels will transition into Sonesta’s ecosystem beginning in fall 2025, with more properties expected to follow. These hotels will be integrated into Sonesta’s global distribution network and its loyalty program, Sonesta Travel Pass, which will now allow members to earn and redeem points at AKEN destinations. Members will also benefit from exclusive rates and accelerated status, aligning with Sonesta’s goal to offer broader travel options while strengthening customer loyalty.
AKEN Hotels & Resorts, known for its “conscious luxury” philosophy, designs guest experiences centered on lifestyle, wellness, and sustainability. Headquartered in Miami, the brand is recognized for its focus on local authenticity and individualized service, offering an alternative to rigid, traditional hotel models. This resonates with Sonesta’s broader vision of providing travelers with immersive, high-touch experiences rooted in regional culture.
Keith Pierce, EVP and President of Franchise & Development at Sonesta, emphasized that AKEN’s operational excellence and understanding of local markets make it an ideal partner. Brian Quinn, Chief Development Officer, further highlighted that this partnership is aligned with Sonesta’s strategic pillars of being "Fast, Friendly and Flexible," enabling swift regional scaling while maintaining service quality.
The alliance is not just about expanding rooms and revenue—it is about deepening guest engagement and delivering mindful hospitality at a global scale. According to Lisandro León Liguori and Luis Gallotti, co-founders and co-CEOs of AKEN, the partnership will amplify AKEN’s visibility, enhance its global sales reach, and allow the brand to stay true to its commitment to sustainability and local culture.
This alliance marks a major step forward in Sonesta’s growth in international markets and adds meaningful value to both brands’ portfolios by offering unique travel experiences in a region brimming with opportunity.
Source: Sonesta International Hotels Corporation
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