Thursday, March 6, 2025
Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group with a footprint spanning 58 countries and a portfolio of over 560 properties, is set to introduce its Tivoli Hotels & Resorts brand to Mexico. The debut project, Tivoli Mérida Residences, will be located in the capital of Yucatán, Mérida—known for its colonial grandeur and vibrant cultural scene. Set to open in early 2027, this exclusive luxury development will mark Tivoli’s first property in Mexico and its third in Latin America, following the success of its existing hotels in Brazil.
Mérida: A Thriving Cultural and Tourism Hub
Nestled in the esteemed Paseo Montejo district, Tivoli Mérida Residences will be in the heart of one of Mexico’s most celebrated cities. Recognized as the “Best Destination in Mexico” by the Food & Travel Reader Awards, Mérida captivates visitors with its blend of historic charm, culinary excellence, and deep-rooted traditions.
As the financial center of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mérida has emerged as a premier destination for global travelers, offering access to ancient Mayan ruins, picturesque cenotes, and world-class gastronomy. Its timeless architecture, lively festivals, and warm hospitality have cemented its reputation as a top cultural and lifestyle destination in Mexico.
Tivoli Mérida Residences: Redefining Luxury Living
Located just 20 minutes from Mérida International Airport, the Tivoli Mérida Residences will feature 69 private branded residences, designed to offer an exceptional standard of comfort and exclusivity. Residents and guests will have access to state-of-the-art amenities, including:
- A signature restaurant showcasing the best of Yucatán’s cuisine
- A boutique retail store featuring luxury brands
- An outdoor pool with a stylish bar
- A well-equipped fitness center and a tranquil spa
- Lush landscaped gardens and a private event patio
A standout feature of the development is Casona 333, a historic residence from 1903 that has been meticulously restored to serve as the centerpiece of the project. The mansion will house the main reception, an upscale boulangerie, a sophisticated piano lounge, and elegant communal spaces, blending heritage with modern sophistication.
A Visionary Project by Designia
Tivoli Mérida Residences is being developed in partnership with Designia, a leading real estate company known for its expertise in the Mexican southeast. With a portfolio spanning residential, commercial, industrial, and tourism sectors, Designia’s experience in high-end developments ensures that this project will seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with Mérida’s historical elegance.
Expanding Tivoli’s Global Presence
Minor Hotels has been a pioneer in the branded residences market, offering luxury living experiences in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations. The addition of Tivoli Mérida Residences reinforces the company’s expansion in this segment, joining prestigious projects like Anantara Ubud Bali Resort and NH Collection Ras Al Khaimah Al Marjan Island Hotel & Apartments.
With this launch, Minor Hotels is setting a new standard for luxury living in Mexico, bringing Tivoli’s legacy of elegance and excellence to one of the country’s most culturally significant cities. Set to open in 2027, Tivoli Mérida Residences is poised to become an iconic address in the Yucatán Peninsula, offering a refined blend of history, modernity, and world-class hospitality.
Gonzalo Aguilar, CEO of Minor Hotels Europe & Americas, comments: “We are delighted to announce the arrival of our Tivoli brand in Mexico, thus entering a new market, beyond the brand’s traditional areas of operation. In addition, we do so with the security of working with Designia, which has a deep knowledge of the market and understands this type of residential projects.”
Víctor Abraham, a partner in the project and an entrepreneur with an outstanding track record in real estate and hotel development in Yucatan, has been key in the evolution of the region’s tourism offering. Regarding the arrival of Tivoli Mérida Residences, he says: “Bringing an iconic brand like Tivoli to Mérida represents a transcendental step in the evolution of the luxury hotel offering in Yucatan. Tivoli not only enriches the tourism scene with its 90-year legacy and exceptional service, but also reinforces the city’s positioning as a world-class destination, where history and modernity converge to offer unique experiences to travelers.”
José Chapur Zahoul, also a partner and renowned entrepreneur with a solid track record in the tourism industry and in the development of strategic projects in Yucatan, has been a driving force behind hotel growth in the region, as well as the main partner in the opening of Avani Cancun in Mexico. On the arrival of Tivoli Mérida Residences, he says: “The arrival of Tivoli Mérida Residences marks a milestone in the consolidation of Mexico as a privileged destination for major hotel brands. The cultural and architectural treasures of Yucatán find in Tivoli an ideal partner that, with its track record and excellence in hospitality, will enhance the appeal of Mérida internationally. We are excited to be part of this project that will raise the standards of tourism in the region.”
Minor Hotels Expands Footprint in Mexico and Cuba with Diverse Hospitality Offerings
Currently, Minor Hotels operates 18 properties across Mexico and Cuba, spanning three of its well-established brands—Avani, NH Collection, and NH Hotels. Among its notable properties is the NH Collection Mérida Paseo Montejo, which stands along the same iconic avenue where the upcoming Tivoli Mérida Residences will take shape. Meanwhile, the Avani Cancún, the group’s most recent opening in the country, marked the debut of the Avani brand in Mexico, further strengthening Minor Hotels’ presence in the region’s dynamic hospitality market.
Tivoli Hotels & Resorts: A Legacy of Portuguese Excellence with a Global Outlook
With origins dating back to 1933 in Lisbon, Portugal, Tivoli Hotels & Resorts has built a reputation for blending timeless elegance with deep cultural connections to each destination. Originally rooted in Portugal, the brand has successfully expanded its footprint across Brazil, Qatar, and China, and has recently made its mark in Europe with openings in Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Celebrating 90 Years of Heritage and Future Expansion
In 2023, Tivoli Hotels & Resorts proudly celebrated its 90th anniversary, commemorating nine decades of exceptional hospitality, luxury, and rich storytelling. This milestone reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to global expansion and innovation, bringing its signature elegance and immersive guest experiences to new destinations.
Looking ahead, Tivoli is set to expand further into Europe, with new developments planned in Portugal, Spain, and Italy, alongside strategic growth in the Middle East and South America. As the brand continues its journey, it remains dedicated to offering sophisticated, culturally rich experiences that define modern luxury with a touch of heritage.