GHL’s 60 Years of Hospitality Growth: Expanding into Mexico & Latin America’s Hotel Market Trends

GHL’s 60 Years of Hospitality Growth: Expanding into Mexico & Latin America’s Hotel Market Trends Andres Fajardo CEO from GHL Hotels, discusses the company’s extensive 60-year history and its strategic plans for growth in Latin America, particularly focusing on Mexico in 2026. GHL currently operates 63 hotels across 10 countries, predominantly in Colombia, where it controls about half of its portfolio. The company’s success hinges on delivering excellent guest experiences and maintaining highly motivated employees, which in turn drives profitability for hotel owners. Andres highlights the importance of conferences like this for connecting with hotel owners, brands, and development partners, underlining GHL’s ambition to shape the hospitality industry in the region rather than remain passive observers. The company’s growth strategy for 2026 targets expansion beyond Colombia, with Mexico as a key focus due to its untapped potential in both urban and resort markets. GHL aims to enter Mexico through inorganic growth by finding local partners and leveraging its expertise in hotel management. He distinguishes the Mexican market from Colombia by emphasizing the need to adapt to local culture and conditions, noting that while GHL has a proven operational model that works across countries, about 30% of the approach must be tailored to local nuances. Mr. Lewis also reflects on broader hospitality trends, predicting continued growth in the luxury segment alongside a rebound in leisure travel post-geopolitical disruptions. He asserts that tourism demand is rising globally, fueled by expanding middle classes in Latin America and Asia, but also cautions about the challenges of managing demand sustainably. Finally, speaking to prospective investors, Andres advises a long-term perspective for investing in Latin American hospitality. He acknowledges the region’s volatility but stresses that partnering with experienced management companies like GHL can mitigate risks and provide solid returns. He notes that many investors are repeat clients who reinvest due to consistent performance and risk management. Looking ahead, he sees tremendous opportunities for leisure travel growth driven by new source markets beyond the traditional ones, positioning Latin America for a promising future in the global hospitality landscape. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more travel insights and destination guides! 🎥 Other Recommended Videos / Playlists https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8lnsQMrJiEetixtqMjk3x_KBL1rECx-M&si=ApOHJW90uvEXdTiF https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8lnsQMrJiEclBq3cl9WKaRq4AmMVArVz&si=hV5dEHG4v4mrfuf3 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8lnsQMrJiEcGMfdtLwx8U8tNCBcyESy6&si=zQC5cM1qPO62ioXs Timestamps:- 00:00 - Introduction and GHL company overview 00:45 - Focus on guest satisfaction and employee happiness 01:12 - Role of conferences for owner and brand connections 02:08 - 2026 growth plans with focus on Mexico 04:01 - Differences between Mexico and Colombia strategies 05:45 - Luxury travel trends and 2026 outlook 08:05 - Advice for investors in Latin America market 09:56 - Long-term potential of Latin America leisure market Travel And Tour World is more than a magazine – it’s a global trade communication platform for the travel and hospitality ecosystem. We provide digital publications, industry-specific reports, exposure at travel trade shows, and advertising solutions tailored for businesses in tourism, hospitality, airlines, cruise lines, and MICE sectors. We connect industry professionals with curated content that fosters new opportunities, strategic partnerships, and growth in international markets . Whether for brand visibility, networking, or thought leadership, TTW empowers global stakeholders to shape the evolving travel industry with innovation and collaboration. With this approach, Travel And Tour World continues to foster meaningful connections with the industry leaders contributing to the growth and success of the industry. Subscribe for weekly travel industry insights and exclusive content! #GHLHotels #HotelManagement #LatinAmericaHotels #MexicoHotelMarket #HospitalityTrends2026 #HotelInvestment #LuxuryTravel2026 #HotelGrowth #UrbanHotels #TravelIndustry #HotelExpansion #LeisureTravel #HotelOwners #TourismGrowth #HVC2026 #Hospitalityasia Travel and Tour World: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/ Hospitality Aisa: https://www.hospitality-asia.com/ Hospitality Vietnam: https://hospitality-vietnam.com/ Connect With Us: 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ttwemagazine 💼 LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/travel-and-tour-world 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelandtourworld 🎬 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TravelAndTourWorld