On Location: Seeing sells – agents unpack Hyatt resorts in Curaçao & Aruba ahead of Vivid event

Seeing is believing – especially in travel, where firsthand experience can transform how a destination or resort is sold.

For a select group of Canadian advisors attending The Travel Agent Next Door’s (TTAND’s) conference at sea last week aboard the Celebrity Silhouette, that philosophy came to life as they stepped ashore in the ABC Islands to explore properties within Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection.

Guided by Brian Joseph, senior sales manager for Canada at Hyatt Inclusive Collection, advisors experienced firsthand the diversity and sellability of Hyatt’s all-inclusive portfolio – a fitting preview as TTAND prepares to host its next conference at the all-new Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana in April 2027.

Curaçao: luxury, wellness & value

In Curaçao, two groups of 25 advisors each explored multiple properties, enjoying a warm welcome that included a delicious lunch, treats, and a presentation.

One group began at Dreams Curaçao, where the 197-room resort showcased its newest highlight: the Adult Only Preferred Club Il Mare section.

Set along crystal-clear waters and positioned for sunset views, this enclave offers elevated accommodations. Guests here also enjoy full access to Dreams, the adults-only Preferred Club pool, and the nearby Zoëtry Curaçao.

The inspection continued at Zoëtry Curaçao, a 72-suite boutique wellness resort just steps away.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the property impressed advisors with its peaceful ambiance and seamless access to neighbouring amenities.

Adults staying at Zoëtry can enjoy Dreams facilities—including Il Mare – as well as a stretch of beach shared with Il Mare guests.

The natural beauty stood out just as much as the resorts themselves. Advisors were captivated by the clarity of the water and the colourful fish visible right from shore.

The final stop was Sunscape Curaçao, a 341-room property that demonstrated strong appeal for budget-conscious travellers.

With its beachfront location just 15 minutes from town, on-site dive shop, and excellent snorkeling, it offers strong value.

Its proximity to Mambo Beach – one of the island’s liveliest spots – adds to its appeal.

Advisors left with a deeper understanding of how to position each property.

As Joseph emphasized: “Curaçao is a destination that should be explored. Don't just stay at the resort, go for a walk in the colourful artsy city of Willemstad. Rent a car and discover hidden beaches and other gems. Do an organized tour to see all that the destination has to offer. It's rich, unique history and its natural beauty,” he said.

Aruba: a standout at Baby Beach

While in Aruba, 60 TTAND advisors visited the new Secrets Baby Beach Resort and Spa, where modern luxury meets one of the island’s most iconic shorelines.

The site visit highlighted the resort’s sophisticated design, well-appointed rooms, and thoughtful layout. But it was the setting that truly stole the show.

“Comments could be heard around every corner we visited about how spectacular it is, but once the advisors saw the light blue calm and clear waters of Baby Beach, the cameras were out. They understood why this is a popular tourist stop for Aruba,” said Joseph.

The beachfront positioning extends even to the wellness spaces, with the gym and spa overlooking the ocean – adding another layer of appeal for guests seeking relaxation with a view.

The visit concluded with lunch, where advisors sampled the resort’s culinary offerings firsthand.

“Everyone left Secrets Baby Beach happy to have yet another Hyatt Inclusive Collection property that they can sell easily, with confidence and in an amazingly beautiful and unique destination,” said Joseph.

Gearing up for next year

The site inspections aligned with TTAND’s plans to host its next conference at Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, scheduled for April 9–16 next year.

Adults-only Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana (formally Jewel Palm Beach) will be the second resort in the brand, which caters to “the next generation of all-inclusive travellers,” reads a press release.

Set to open this August, the 500-room property is designed to meet the needs of adults seeking an all-inclusive vacation “that prioritizes flexibility over formality.”

The resort promises locally-inspired itineraries, experiential programming, and amenities tailored to a modern, diverse clientele drawn to aesthetically driven environments.

With an emphasis on well-being, guests can access a spa, indoor and outdoor gyms, as well as pickleball and tennis courts, all complemented by a juice and healthy snack bar.

Visitors can also choose from five specialty restaurants, casual dining options such as a sports bar and a barefoot beach grill & bar, along with trend-forward venues like a speakeasy jazz club.

The property has a convention centre with capacity for up to 1,000 attendees.

Additional highlights include four pools, swim-out rooms, and a quiet corner pool with its own dedicated bar.

“We've been trying for many years to find the best resort to facilitate everything that The Travel Agent Next Door needs for its conference, which is easily one of the best conferences out there,” Joseph told PAX on Saturday (April 10) as TTAND’s conference at sea concluded.

“It's very well organized and well planned. We want to do our due diligence to make sure that when we do host, we're going to fulfill everyone’s needs.”

Joseph compared the Hyatt Vivid brand – introduced in Cancun in 2024 – to Breathless, noting that while both emphasize social connection, Vivid leans more heavily into experiential offerings.

“Hyatt Vivid is about bringing people together,” Joseph explained. “Dance, yoga and meditation classes are included. Macramé classes are also included.”

“What's exciting” about hosting TTAND’s conference, he said, is that after attending the event for years, Joseph and his colleagues understand where they need to “step up and shine” so that they can deliver a high-quality event.

“We want to impress these advisors,” he said. “And we want to say thank you. We've been getting their support for years, which we appreciate.”

“There are a lot of facets to this, which is very exciting. And given that the resort isn't even open yet, the possibilities are endless.”

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