Grupo Habita is a Mexican hotel chain offering trendsetting properties that constantly break new ground. In the preview of the Tianguis Turístico de México, we interviewed Rafael Micha, president of the company. We share his responses below.
How would you describe Grupo Habita and how is the company positioned?
We have been building hotels in Mexico and Chicago for 25 years. Likewise, we are the only 100% Mexican capital group that successfully manages 15 hotels in Mexico and one hotel in the United States. We are dedicated to bringing historic buildings back to life. In Chicago, for example, we found a very nice building, which we remodeled and have been there ever since. In Mexico City, we have Condesa DF and Habita in Polanco, which is the company's first hotel. In addition, we have two more properties in the historic center, one called Down Town Mexico which was an old palace from the 17th century and a more recent one called Círculo Mexicano behind the Cathedral.
Is there a common denominator on which you are based in the development of new hotels?
That's right, our common denominator is outdoor terraces. We have recovered being outdoors. Thus, for example, in Puerto Escondido, in Oaxaca, where we have a hotel, the terrace is around the flamboyants, which are beautiful orange trees. We always look for this type of experience.
Do you have in mind developing new hotels?
We are going to open a hotel in the city of Oaxaca, which will be our second property in the area, which will be called Otro Oaxaca. In addition to this, we will open a second hotel in Puebla and a third hotel on the Oaxacan coast.
Do you always work with the same architects?
They are always different, each one of the hotels is unique and unrepeatable, they all have a different name, architect, designers and identity.
Are your visitors usually foreigners or nationals?
In Mexico City, for example, we have 80% foreign visitors, although it has to do with the destination and what travelers are looking for. Today the capital has become a great destination for travel and relaxation. On the other hand, in Puerto Escondido almost all of them are foreigners. National visitors usually choose destinations such as Pueblo, Veracruz and Monterrey.
Is gastronomy significant to you?
It is very important, each hotel has its own proposal and chef. For example, on the terrace of Condesa DF, exclusively Japanese cuisine is served, while in Círculo Mexicano, 100% traditional Mexican food is served.