The Adventure Begins At Panama Jack Resorts

It all started with sunscreen. Since launching in 1974, Panama Jack’s product line has evolved to include sunglasses, clothing, hats, bags, accessories and more, reports assistant editor, Ann Ruppenstein in this week’s digital edition of Travel Courier.

But today, thanks to a partnership with Playa Hotels & Resorts, the brand has taken part in an even bigger evolution by stepping into the all-inclusive resorts market in Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

“Last year Panama Jack and Playa made a fusion and since then we created the new brand of Panama Jack Resorts,” explains Matias Klein, general manager of Panama Jack Resorts Cancun.

With 458 rooms including new swim-out suites with an infinity pool, Panama Jack Resorts Cancun is the very first Panama Jack branded hotel in the world.

“The concept is basically to enjoy your vacations, it’s basically to have a carefree vacation,” he says. “It’s casual without strict rules. Just enjoy yourself, be a traveller, and that’s what we try to give our guests. It’s more casual, it’s more genuine, it’s more heart, that’s what we are.”

Although the property, formerly the Gran Caribe Cancun had its soft opening in December after undergoing multi-million dollar renovations, additional upgrades are still underway this year.

“What has changed? Basically, all of the decorations have changed,” he says. “We renovated all rooms, they’re all similar, all rooms have the same furniture, the same decorations, the same colours. And we renovated the whole lobby.”

In addition to new bars and a renovated restaurant, one of the latest additions is Panama Jack Coffee Co., which serves up coffee and baked goods to grab and go.

Although the look has changed, he says it’s the people who set the resort apart.

“The staff is our biggest asset in this property,” he says. “We can have the best decorations in the world, but without the staff, and without the service from our heart, it’s not the same.”

For the full story, check out this week’s digital edition of Travel Courier.