At Barceló Hotel Group we are pleased to announce that Santiago Rodriguez-Bustelo has been appointed as the General Manager for Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives, our grand debut in the most exotic destination in the Indian Ocean. As General Manager, he will oversee all operations of the resort as well as strategic commercial plans to strengthen its market position.

A Spanish national Santiago Rodriguez-Bustelo is fondly known as “Santi” among his peers and colleagues and is not new to The Maldives. He has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, many of which have been spent in the Asia Pacific region. “I am very excited to lead this grand debut of Barceló Hotel Group in The Maldives. I have worked in various positions ever since I first came to the Maldives 12 years ago. The market is changing aggressively right now. I have an excellent team on board and with our immersive destination experience we will offer the best Maldivian hospitality but with a Spanish touch. Following this, we are also looking forward to opening the Barceló Nasandhura hotel in Male in 2024 and Barceló Hotel Group has also undergone a joint venture with Browns Investments to develop and manage a complex of three resorts with more than 470 keys in the same lagoon, Bodufaru complex in the North Male’ Atoll” say Santi Rodriguez-Bustelo about his appointment.

About Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives:
Experience tranquillity, comfort, and beach chic vibes at the Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives, a unique 5-star resort nestled in the South Ari Atoll. This romantic escape boasts coral gardens, white sand, and turquoise waters, making it ideal for couples, families, and adventurers. Enjoy a wide variety of water sports, including whale shark and manta ray watching, while staying in one of the 100 well-equipped rooms. The resort features three restaurants, a snack bar, and three bars, offering authentic culinary experiences. Take in stunning sunsets from one of the two large infinity pools or relax with self-care treatments at the Mandara spa.

Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barceló Group, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and one of top 30 in the world. It currently operates more than 280 4- and 5-star city and holiday hotels, and more than 62,000 rooms, distributed in 25 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. It is also part of the Crestline Hotels & Resorts group, an independent hotel company with 130 establishments.