Sonesta International Hotels has signed an agreement with Aken Hotels & Resorts to expand its footprint in Latin America. The partnership supports Sonesta’s international growth strategy and will bring Aken’s hotels into Sonesta’s distribution and loyalty network starting this fall.
Six Aken properties will initially align with Sonesta, with additional hotels to follow. The transition will allow Sonesta Travel Pass members to earn and redeem points at Aken locations and gain access to loyalty benefits including best available rates and accelerated status.
“Latin America offers both cultural richness and untapped growth opportunities and AKEN Hotels is an ideal collaborator with local insight and operational excellence,” said Keith Pierce, executive vice president and president of franchise & development at Sonesta. “As travelers continue to look for authentic experiences, this agreement represents a distinctive opportunity for Sonesta to create a strategic alignment with AKEN, a brand recognized for its experience in ecotourism and conscious luxury.”
the Latin America region as a high-potential market. The alliance will allow it to scale its presence quickly in key countries including Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica and Mexico, where Aken currently operates hotels.
“Our approach to growth has three pillars – to be Fast, Friendly and Flexible – and we see this as the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial relationship,” said Brian Quinn, chief development officer at Sonesta. “Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and South America represent tremendous potential for travel demand, guest loyalty and engagement. Collaborating with AKEN allows us to scale quickly in a high-growth region while aligning with a brand that shares our commitment to exceptional service and guest experience.”
Aken Hotels & Resorts, based in Miami, is known for integrating lifestyle and wellness into its approach to hospitality. The brand defines itself as “conscious luxury,” with a focus on immersive guest experiences and mindful service.
“We’re thrilled to formally begin a relationship with Sonesta to bring the spirit of South American hospitality to a broader global audience,” said Lisandro León Liguori, co-founder and co-CEO of Aken Hotels & Resorts. “Partnering with Sonesta allows us to share our philosophy of mindful hospitality with an even wider global community, redefining what it means to travel well.”
“This exciting alliance allows AKEN to quickly amplify our reach, strengthen our global sales distribution and accelerate our growth while remaining true to our roots—offering guests immersive local experiences, thoughtful service, and beautifully designed stays,” added Luis Gallotti, co-founder and co-CEO of Aken Hotels & Resorts. “Together with Sonesta, we are creating new pathways for discovery, loyalty, and growth—both for our guests and our teams.”
The partnership is expected to enhance guest experiences and drive long-term value for both companies.
