MIAMI (September 19, 2011) – El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma, a premier collection of Gourmet Inclusive properties located throughout the Riviera Maya, Mexico, are pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Rodriguez as director of sales and marketing. Rodriguez, who brings more than two decades of relevant experience to his new position, will focus on sales and marketing strategies and will oversee several of the company’s key tour operator accounts, with the goal of increasing sales through innovative marketing initiatives and promotions.
 
“I am thrilled with the opportunity to join the ranks at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma – two brands that offer guests exceptional Gourmet Inclusive experiences – and look forward to leveraging the incredible, standout amenities and programs to ensure innovative and successful promotions for our tour operators and guests,” said Rodriguez.
 
Rodriguez brings 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry with 18 years in sales and marketing.  Rodriguez joins El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma following seven years as director of leisure sales and marketing at Occidental Hotels & Resorts.  During the span of his career, Rodriguez has held numerous positions including director of travel industry marketing for Doral Golf Resort & Spa, regional destination manager for Travelocity.com, and director of marketing for GOGO Worldwide Vacations.
 
“Richard joins our team with an extensive knowledge of the luxury, all-inclusive market in the region and a stellar track record of implementing successful sales and marketing programs,” said Mandy Chomat, vice president of sales and marketing for Premier Worldwide Marketing, the exclusive worldwide representatives for El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma.  “We look forward to Richard developing partnerships and promotions that will undoubtedly further our ability to provide our guests with unmatched vacation offerings through our key tour operators.”
 
With the Gourmet Inclusive experience, El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels offer indulgent pampering with unparalleled personal services such as champagne and smoothie check-ins, full-service concierge, 24-hour room service, world-class chefs, gourmet cuisine served a la carte and sommeliers who suggest perfect pairings from private label wine sections. 
 
Romance is incorporated into every aspect of the adults-only El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels where couples reconnect with in-room Jacuzzi tubs, private swim-up suites and Infinity pool terrace suites, beachfront candlelight dinners, chocolate fondue under the stars, Aguas del Amor -- private, exotic open-air showers -- and Beachfront Sky Massages, where guests receive their treatments in total privacy on a beautifully designed, raised palapa on the beach surrounded by nothing but ocean and air.
 
Ideal for families, Azul Hotels provide something for everyone including Fisher-Price® toys and programs, My Gym Children’s Fitness Center activities, splash parks, teen’s club, movie nights with popcorn, adults-only swimming and lounging areas, and nightly entertainment.  As a part of the Gourmet Inclusive luxury vacation experience, families will enjoy gourmet a la carte dining and Gourmet Gerber baby food, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, full-service concierge, king size beach beds and beach butlers who provide tanning supplies, reading materials, and Gourmet Bites.
 
About El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma:
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma is a premier hotel collection operating properties throughout the Riviera Maya, Mexico, where guests savor a Gourmet Inclusive experience that fosters togetherness. El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels by Karisma’s growing portfolio is comprised of El Dorado Royale, A Spa Resort by Karisma; El Dorado Casitas Royale by Karisma; El Dorado Seaside Suites by Karisma; El Dorado Maroma, A Beachfront Resort, by Karisma; Azul Beach Hotel by Karisma; Azul Sensatori Hotel by Karisma and Azul Villas Carola by Karisma. Properties have been honored with the industry’s top accolades including, Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top 100 Hotels in the World,” Conde Nast Traveler’s “Gold List,” Forbes’ “Top 10 Most Romantic Hotels,”  TUI Travel PLC’s “Hotel of the Year,” and AAA’s “Four Diamond Award.”  Karisma has received worldwide recognition for its creative approach to hospitality management and product innovations including resorts with swim-up suites, Infinity balcony pools, beach butlers and cash-free transactions. Premier Worldwide Marketing is the exclusive worldwide sales and marketing representative for Karisma Hotels & Resorts. For reservations, please call 1-866-527-4762 or visit http://www.karismahotels.com .