Melia Hotels International and tennis star Rafael Nadal have announced the opening of their first Zel Lifestyle Hotel in Punta Cana on December 12, 2024. The hotel, the brand’s third following successful launches in Mallorca and Costa Brava, marks Zel’s expansion into the Americas.

Zel Punta Cana is less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and nearby Bavaro Beach. The hotel aims to blend the Mediterranean lifestyle with the Caribbean charm, offering a unique hospitality experience for its guests.

The all-inclusive resort boasts 190 guestrooms, ranging from 796 to 2152 sq. ft. The rooms include Suites, Master Suites, and Swim-Up Suites, all featuring private gardens leading directly to the pool. The hotel also offers two swimming pools, five tennis courts, meeting spaces, a full-service spa, six dining options, a beach club, and a concept store featuring various local and international brands.

The hotel’s interior reflects Zel’s commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. Its design is inspired by the natural world and Mediterranean style. It aims to provide a relaxing and rejuvenating space for guests.

Rafael Nadal, co-creator of the Zel brand, highlighted Punta Cana’s unique nature and the Caribbean’s compatibility with the Mediterranean lifestyle as reasons for choosing the location. The hotel aims to offer a perfect blend of relaxation, sports, and celebrations.

The Zel Punta Cana offers a variety of culinary experiences influenced by cultures from around the world. The dining options include Parda, a Mediterranean-style buffet, Volcan, a grill restaurant, Tacorini, a fusion of Mexican and Greek cuisine, Nokyo, a Japanese restaurant, Silvestre, a winery, and Voltaje, a lobby bar.

The Zel Club, part of the hotel, is a community-oriented space that promotes a healthy and social lifestyle. It will host weekend retreats featuring sports, beach relaxation, and social activities.

Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Melia Hotels International, expressed excitement about introducing the Zel lifestyle experience to Punta Cana. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art gym and the AUA Spa, a dedicated wellness area for self-care, offering a range of treatments and group activities such as yoga and meditation.