By the Caribbean Journal staff

Marriott is adding Belize to its Caribbean portfolio.

Marriott’s Autograph Collection is partnering with developer Andrew Ashcroft on a new property in Belize: Alaia.

The boutique hotel, which will be set in the southern part of Ambergris Caye, is slated to make its debut in 2020.

“With the forthcoming opening on Alaia, I am thrilled to begin this real estate and hospitality lifestyle brand in the inspiring place I have called home for nearly 20 years,” said Andrew Ashcroft, Managing Director. “Joining Marriott will provide future owners and guests of Alaia a unique opportunity to intimately connect to their surroundings, while embodying the high-quality standards of the Autograph Collection brand: heartfelt design, mark of craft and sense of place.”

Alaia, which broke ground at the end of last year, will include 35 units, 56 two-bedroom condominiums and eight oceanfront villas, with a total of 155 keys.

The property will include everything from a beach club to a rooftop suspended pool to a full-service spa.

“Celebrating individuality by curating one-of-a-kind travel experiences, the Autograph Collection brand continues to experience strong growth globally and in Central America,” said Laurent De Kousemaeker, Chief Development Officer, Marriott International Caribbean and Latin America. “The unique Alaia boutique resort is defined by unique design in one of the most desirable locations in the world. We are excited to partner with Andrew Ashcroft on this Autograph Collection project, which marks an important milestone for the company in Belize.”

Alaia will be designed by IE Architecture and interior designer Debora Aguiar.

“Belize’s natural landscape is incomparable, and the real estate market is thriving. Alaia will bring a new opportunity with competitive prices for those to purchase or visit in a setting that speaks to the island’s modern twist on resort living, it’s lively laidback spirit, and individuality,” said David Hurst, Vice President of Sales for Alaia.

The property will also include a real estate component, with prices ranging from $349,000 to $1.3 million.

It’s a boon for Belize, which has been seeing a wave of hotel development with debuts from brands like Hilton and boutique launches like the Naia.