5 things agents need to know about Oasis Hotels and Resorts in Cancun

On a recent PAX exclusive, we got the chance to explore numerous Oasis properties in sunny Cancun, along with more than a dozen Canadian agents.

Oasis has spent $30 million in the last two years to update and improve the properties, including the gastronomic experience. But there’s a lot more to Oasis than food and beautiful beaches. Here’s some of what we learned about what Oasis has to offer:

Quiet during the off season

Oasis has gone out of its way to promote its fiesta-friendly atmosphere, and has successfully become synonymous with spring break parties targeted at younger crowds, to the point where many agents only see that side of the franchise, and dismiss it for more laid back clientele. What agents need to keep in mind is that it’s the Grand Oasis and Grand Oasis Pyramid that have this focus, and only during February, March, and early April. Outside of these months, it’s quite tame. Other locations have a different vibe entirely. The Oasis Palm is geared towards families year-round, Oasis Smart targets business travelers, and The Oasis Tulum is “The Calm Resort.”

Great Value for the Money

Business Development Manager Pam Bassett tells us that the Oasis properties are consistently rated 4.5-5 stars, but she doesn’t hype this, nor does she push it as a luxury brand. Even though it’s higher end, with nice touches like its Coffee and Me cafes at all its locations, and its Tulum, Oh!/Smart, and Sens locations have an elegance to them, it’s not quite the Four Seasons. But as she points out, “it’s good value for the money.” Clients get a lot, for less.

Smart Car Rentals

One of the amazing offerings Oasis has is their Smart Car rentals, for very reasonable rates. At some locations, with certain packages, it can be as little as 10USD for a day. A more standard rate is 50USD per day. At Tulum, this means you can take yourself (and one other person) to the Mayan ruins about 15 minutes away or pop over to Playa del Carmen, all on your own. In the more centrally located resorts, it’s great for a day of shopping or other excursions. Another option is just to take a local bus, which is only 1USD per trip, and was surprisingly efficient.

Centrally Located

With the exception of Tulum, the properties were all in easy driving distance to the local market, their version of 5th Avenue, and the bar/party area. Even if your clients aren’t hardcore party animals, some might still be interested in seeing the wilder side of Cancun. We went to a nightclub called Coco Bongo, and while it’s a bit pricey at 80USD, it was drinks included, and there were live dance and acrobatic shows every 15 minutes. We left having had a taste of a truly Cancun cultural experience.

Incentives

To make the most of incentives, check out the Oasis Agent Reward Program. Travel Agents must first register on www.oasisconnect.ca. Once logged in, click on the Agent Rewards Tab for the commission booster form. Complete the form with the tour operator (Transat, Sunwing Vacations, Air Canada Vacations) locator number prior to clients' travel. Your cheque is sent to the address that you register upon completion of clients' travel. This is also where you can get information on FAM trips and special agent rates.