islands, in the mountains, on the coast,” explains Pfister.“It’s a luxury product, but it’s not your typical Dubai luxury. The focus is more on experiences, on authenticity, on connecting with the place where you are and with the people.” This philosophy was crystallized in September 2023 when the Cayuga Collection launched “Luxury Rewilded”—a concept that reframes what luxury means in the hospitality industry. “It’s a return to a deeper, meaningful connection to the natural world, to each other, to ourselves,” Pfister says. “When we think about tourism and mass tourism, we sometimes think that we want to rethink what luxury means; does it really have to be about artificial environments and imported goods? We believe it’s time for a new model.” For the Cayuga Collection, luxury isn’t defined by imported Italian marble or French champagne.Instead, it’s measured by the authenticity of experiences, the regeneration of natural environments, and the positive impact on local communities.This approach resonates with a growing segment of travelers seeking more than just comfort and indulgence— they want purpose and connection in their journeys. “Our guests are part of a growing movement that reimagines luxury as something that leaves a positive footprint, something that contributes to the land and the people it touches,” Pfister notes. The timing couldn’t be better, as post-pandemic travel trends show increased demand for meaningful, sustainable tourism experiences that offer genuine cultural immersion rather than standardized luxury. THE COLLECTION AND ITS UNIQUE PROPERTIES The Cayuga Collection portfolio showcases the diversity of Central America’s natural splendor, with each property offering its own distinct character while adhering to the company’s sustainable ethos. “All our hotels are small, luxury products in remote locations with different owners,” Pfister says. “The owners trust us with their baby—often they’ve built it, conceived it, they’re very proud of it, and we take care of the management.” Among the collection’s standouts is Isla Palenque Resort in Panama, a 400-acre tropical island sanctuary featuring secluded beaches and archaeological sites. In Costa Rica, Kura Boutique Hotel perches in the Uvita rainforest with panoramic views of the famous Whale’s Tail sandbar, while Arenas del Mar offers the rare combination of luxury accommodations within 41 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 03 CAYUGA COLLECTION
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx