Palmaïa, The House of AïA, a holistic wellness retreat in Rivera Maya, Mexico known for its transformative progressive wellness concept, is delighted to share the appointment of Markus Laahanen as Managing Director. A decades-long hospitality industry veteran with experience in managing hotels, resorts and restaurants in Europe, North America and South Asia, Laahanen oversees the operation of all departments within the Cutting-edge enclave located along the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean, including accommodations, dining, transformational wellness, engineering, finance, administration, human resources, and more.

As a successful international hotelier with a background in luxury wellness and sustainability, Laahanen arrived in Palmaia from the Atlantic coast of Portugal, where he recently led the development of Umay Resort, a destination resort in Melides which combines real estate, nature, charming hospitality and community life. Previously, Laahanen held management positions at properties located in hot spots around the world, including Managing Director and Head of Development for the Be and Nomade brands, where he led expansions through acquisitions and developments in Portugal. , Morocco, Spain, Chile, and Mexico.

As Director of Resort Operations at PGA Catalunya in Caldes de Malavella, Spain, Laahanen oversaw the development, repositioning and resort operations for two hotels, two golf courses, residences and residence services while guiding golf course management towards water conservation and the use of natural products, and nature wellness and programming, including the launch of an organic farm and vineyard. He also led the reopening and repositioning of the Camiralat PGA Catalunya hotel into Leading Hotels of the World. Earlier in his hospitality career, Laahanen held a leadership role as General Manager of Zemi Beach House in Shoal Bay, Anguilla, as well as positions at GHM Hotels, The Setai Miami, The Chedi Milan and SixSenses. in the Maldives and Spain.