An Evolution in Hospitality
Redefining luxury hospitality with a global vision, The Palace Company curates unforgettable experiences across their distinguished collection of hotels, resorts and vacation club. RLI had the opportunity to sit down with CEO Gibrán Chapur to talk about the origins of the business, what makes it stand out and where it is heading.
Established in 1984 and driven by passion ever since, The Palace Company is synonymous with all-inclusive luxury and ultra-luxury. They see themselves not just as hoteliers, but as curators of experiences, blending warmth, sophistication and innovation.
Their identity is built on delivering seamless, uncompromising hospitality that feels effortless, while offering a sense of place rooted in culture and gastronomy.
The business began more than four decades ago and continues to be a family-run entity based in Mérida, Mexico whose bold vision is to redefine the concept of all-inclusive hospitality. What started as a single property has grown into a global portfolio of iconic brands: Moon Palace, Palace Resorts, Le Blanc and Baglioni Hotels & Resorts, each with a distinct soul yet united by a promise of excellence. Along the way, they have expanded to new geographies, invested in design, gastronomy and sustainability and built a reputation for setting the benchmark in luxury hospitality.
The company’s hallmark is anticipatory service. They do not just respond to needs, they foresee them. Guests find themselves immersed in cultural environments where every detail has been considered, from state-of-the-art spas, Michelin-starred gastronomy and bespoke experiences and programs. It is not simply about luxury amenities, it is about creating memories that resonate long after checkout.
“We draw from our roots in Mexican hospitality, known for warmth and generosity, while embracing innovation in technology, design and personalisation,” highlights Gibrán Chapur, CEO of The Palace Company. “AI-driven services, immersive wellness programs and digital integration coexist harmoniously with craftsmanship, local storytelling and timeless rituals.”
Over the course of its history, their culinary offerings have become iconic and a signature of the brand. These include Sadler’s Michelin-starred Italian dining to regional Mexican, Middle Eastern, South Asian and Mediterranean specialties by celebrated chefs. In addition, their spas are consistently ranked among the world’s best and their Palace Life Concierge Service, which personalises each stay down to the smallest detail, has also become iconic.
As our discussion moves onto the way high-end hospitality and retail are increasingly overlapping, Chapur explains that The Palace Company view retail as an extension of the stay – a way for guests to take a piece of the experience home with them. He comments that their stores feature curated collections of fashion, jewellery, wellness and artisanal items aligned with the spirit of each property.
“We are also working towards hosting designer pop-ups in Punta Cana while offering limited-edition in-room amenities crafted in collaboration with luxury fragrance and skincare houses. We integrate lifestyle partnerships that resonate with our audiences and enhance our brand universe,” says Chapur.
They also prioritise sourcing local ingredients, working hand-in-hand with farmers, fishermen and products to bring authentic flavour to their kitchens. Their portfolio of hotels is enriched by the work of local artisans, whose crafts and traditions inspire the décor, art and ambiance of their spaces.
Even in their equipment and design choices, they seek regional partnerships that strengthen local economies. In doing so, they ensure that every stay not only celebrates the destination but also contributes directly to the prosperity of its people.
Over the coming years, growth for the business is focused on strategic global destinations that marry natural beauty with cultural vibrancy. They are investing in both ultra-luxury and large-scale all-inclusive formats, ensuring each new property carries the DNA of The Palace Company while embracing local identity.
The Caribbean remains a cornerstone for the business, with projects underway in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos.At the same time, the Baglioni brand is expanding both its European and Asian footprint in Italy and the Maldives whilst additional opportunities are being evaluated for the Mediterranean.
We move the interview on to the topic of sustainability, where the CEO comments that through their Earth Inclusive Program, they integrate environmental stewardship into every touchpoint – from mangrove conservation and renewable energy projects, to zero-waste kitchens and circular economy initiatives.
“Sustainability is not a trend for us – it is a long-term commitment and we believe true luxury is responsibility made tangible,” explains Chapur. “This means respecting the ecosystems where we operate, honouring local cultures through partnerships with artisans and communities and extending impact via Fundación Palace, which champions, health, education and social inclusion.”
Before our time with the CEO runs out, we ask if there is anything else he would like to add?
“Only that hospitality is ultimately about people – our guests, our staff and our communities. At The Palace Company, we see ourselves as storytellers, crafting moments that uplift lives. And that, to me, is the greatest privilege of all.”
