By Alexander Britell

Apple Leisure Group subsidiary AMResorts is planning to open a major new hotel in the Caribbean.

The Dreams Puerto Rico Resort & Spa will be located in the southwestern coastal town of Guanica as a 250-room, new-build property that will be a major new addition to Puerto Rico hotels.

It will become Puerto Rico’s only true all-inclusive resort, and a boon for Puerto Rico’s tourism product.

“Puerto Rico’s strong airlift, no passport requirements and rich natural beauty have consistently made the island a popular choice for U.S. travelers,” said Alex Zozaya, CEO of Apple Leisure Group. “We’re excited to enter a destination that has yet to discover the substantial benefits of the all-inclusive model.”

The deal is the company’s first signed resort brand management deal for 2016, following the signing of 17 resort deals around the region last year.

The property, which his slated to open in October 2018, will be the 15th Dreams-branded resort, featuring amenities from “limitless a la carte dining” to 24-hour room and concierge service.

“AMResorts’ entry into Puerto Rico is a testament to the demand for the all-inclusive model,” said Javier Coll, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Apple Leisure Group. “Our experience in entering, establishing and growing our brands in new destinations strengthens our position as the go-to partner for hotel owners wanting to diversify their investments within the hospitality sector.”

The resort will be located about 20 minutes away from the Guanica Dry Forest, the largest dry coastal forest region in the world, and a UNESCO world biosphere reserve.

“Guánica is a hidden gem in Puerto Rico and one of the best places to experience the island’s diverse beauty, making it the perfect destination to expand our Caribbean presence,” said Gonzalo del Peon, President of AMResorts.