Interview: General Manager Ricardo Suárez of Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués

Ricardo Suárez is the general manager of Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués and has managed several luxury properties in Mexico.

Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués is the first true luxury resort in some time to open in Acapulco. What was it that attracted Banyan Tree to the city?

Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués is uniquely inspired by Acapulco’s long association with the Far East, being a major port of call for China in the 19th century. Hence, the resort boasts a distinctively Asian flavor, with steeply pitched roofs, wide eaves and villas built on stilts. Drawing also from exquisite Mexican artwork, the interior design is filled with sculptures and pieces from strong artisanal locations such as Oaxaca and Guadalajara.

And do you think then that Acapulco is poised for a comeback as a destination for the sophisticated traveler?

Acapulco has a lot to offer discerning travelers who are looking for exotic destinations and seek opportunities for experiential travel. Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués leverages the authenticity of the destination in both design and amenities while maintaining the luxury experience the sophisticated traveler expects.

Acapulco has been in the news lately more for its crime than its beaches. We felt safe there, but what is the situation really like? Do visitors need to be especially cautious?

The safety and security of our guests is of the utmost importance to Banyan Tree, and we strive to ensure that our guests can experience and enjoy the location.

When Americans think about visiting Mexico, most tend to think of the Cancún area, Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas. Why choose the Banyan Tree in Acapulco instead?

Banyan Tree strives to provide a "sanctuary for the senses," a tranquil environment with the perfect view, where guests can experience intimate luxury. By choosing Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués in Acapulco over other destinations, guests are able to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the area and the serene environment with the feeling as though they are uncovering an undiscovered gem. Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués offers authentic Mexican experiences with the class touch of Asian hospitality, creating a luxurious retreat for couples and families alike.

Besides seeing the famous cliff divers, what are your favorite things to see and do in Acapulco? Is there anything not in the guidebooks that travelers shouldn’t miss? Or do most guests simply stay on the resort property?

There are lots of highlights to see in Acapulco. You can rent a yacht and enjoy the view, visit the spectacular Pie de la Cuesta and enjoy all manner of water sports. There are fine handicrafts and silver in the flea markets and luxury brands in exclusive malls.

The Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués has much more of a Thai sensibility than Mexican. What was the reasoning behind that?

Known for its naturally elegant, Eastern-inspired resorts, Banyan Tree hotels maintain a sense of identity and uniqueness which create a strong sense of place wherever you are. This holds true for Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués, which evokes the signature Asian ambiance associated with Banyan Tree while still respecting and representing the culture and people of Acapulco. The symbolism of the name "Banyan Tree" is that banyan trees gird the entire earth from South America to India around the equator. Because it has large branches, everything under the banyan tree is always kept dry. So it’s known over the world as a tree where travelers on a journey can stop under it, find peace and take shelter.

What else is important to know about the Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués?

This intimate all-pool villa property offers cliffside views of Acapulco Bay and artfully blends the romance of travel. Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués boasts 45 villas, each with its own full-sized swimming pool. The property offers a number of exquisite dining options, from seafood served at tables nestled between rocks and the sea at Las Rocas Bar and Grill to delicious Latin Oriental fusion options at the oceanfront restaurant La Nao. For those looking to experience the awe-inspiring Acapulco sunset, Las Vistas is the perfect spot to enjoy both the view and its food. The hotel also has an extraordinary signature restaurant, Saffron, where guests can experience the sublime spices and flavors of Thai cuisine.