Wadim Alvarez Marchiano brings more than 25 years of distinguished hospitality experience, having advanced within luxury hospitality companies in different operational roles. Most recently, he served as Hotel Manager at Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, where he championed operational excellence, supported revenue growth, and cultivated a culture of innovation, collaboration, and purpose.  He began his career in hospitality in South America, before landing in the United Arab Emirates, where he opened a landmark hotel in Dubai at the time, the Palace Downtown, managed by Address Hotels & Resorts.  

Prior to his existing tenure in Los Cabos with Zadun, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, he was part of two other successful openings in the luxury segment, Oetker Collection Palacio Tangará in 2017 and more recently the flagship Rosewood Sao Paulo in 2021  He has worked in six different countries, Argentina, Brazil, United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Kuwait and Mexico, and took part of a full F&B Management training in the United Kingdom while holding a Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Business from Universitas La Plata and Restaurant Administration certification from Senac Sao Paulo.

On the personal side, Wadim had a successful stint as a rugby player, representing Universitario de La Plata Rugby squad in the first division of the Argentine league. His sports background instilled a strong sense of teamwork, professional ethics, and leadership abilities. Wadim reenergizes by walking daily with his three Staffordshire Bull Terrier pups and spending quality time outdoors with his wife Anna and his daughter Olivia.

“To be recognized by The European in both categories is an extraordinary honor,” shares Fukunaga. “This is not only a reflection of our team’s dedicated pursuit of excellence, but also a personal milestone that fuels my commitment to elevate the luxury real estate experience for clients worldwide.”

The European recently interviewed Fukunaga in an exclusive story. Read full article here: EUROPE IS TURNING ITS ATTENTION TO LOS CABOS, MEXICO.

Spotlight on Los Cabos
Los Cabos commands international attention as one of the most attractive destinations for luxury living and investment. With its natural beauty, thriving economy and global appeal, the region remains a premier choice for European and international buyers alike. Offering an exceptional quality of life, year-round sunshine, and a seamless blend of modern infrastructure and cultural heritage, Los Cabos continues to attract discerning investors, retirees, and second-home seekers from around the world.

At the 2025 TravelAge West Wave Awards, Los Cabos was named Favorite Destination for Three-Night Stays and received the honor of Highest Client Satisfaction in Mexico, reflecting its reputation among travel professionals and the exceptional experiences it delivers. The destination also made headlines at the Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards 2025, with 30 local luxury hotels and resorts receiving prestigious honors—13 of which earned the top distinction of five stars—solidifying the region’s standing as a leader in high-end hospitality.

Further fueling international demand, Los Cabos recently announced the return of its direct flight from Frankfurt, Germany, now entering its second season. This connection marks a continued investment in global accessibility, opening even more pathways for European travelers and investors.

Los Cabos’ expanding connectivity, growing portfolio of branded residences, and dynamic luxury property market have positioned it as a standout on the global map.

A Proud Moment
These distinguished honors from The European are a celebration of an extraordinary team that continues to raise the bar in global luxury real estate. They add to an already impressive list of accolades for both the brokerage and Fukunaga, including 2024 Best Luxury Brokerage (Luxuri Awards), 2024 Masters of Luxury (Robb Report), 2024 Female Executive of the Year (Titan, Woman In Business Awards), and Most Inspiring Women Leaders To Follow In 2024 (Success Knocks Magazine).

With 2025 already off to a powerful start, this momentum is only growing. Congratulations to the entire Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate team and to Vanessa Fukunaga for this exceptional dual recognition from The European on the world stage.

This article was published as part of #FiproturLosCabos. FIPROTUR Los Cabos is the Destination Marketing Organization created by the private sector of Los Cabos. FIPROTUR was formed to help promote the destination’s accommodations, local attractions, restaurants, tourism services, transportation, associated retail stores, events and more tourism related services. 

Join FIPROTUR Los Cabos or for more information: https://fiproturloscabos.com

Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos, the newest luxury all-inclusive, adult-only resort in the Velas Resorts family, introduces an intimate new spa experience designed exclusively for couples. The Romantic Spa Takeover seamlessly blends holistic wellness, deep relaxation, and sensory indulgence, turning the spa into a private sanctuary for four hours of reconnection and rejuvenation. Highlights of the journey include a deeply relaxing aromatic massage, immersive sound healing and yoga, restorative sleep therapy, indulgent culinary moments, and a romantic aphrodisiac dinner under the stars.

Inspired by ancient healing traditions and modern therapies, the takeover experience begins with a purifying welcome ritual that fosters mindfulness and presence. The journey continues with tension-relieving moments in anti-stress massage chairs, enhanced by eye therapy masks and hydrating hand treatments. Couples then partake in a yoga and sound healing session, where synchronized poses and Tibetan bowl resonance deepen emotional and physical harmony. A guided sleep therapy session follows, incorporating reflexology and a specialized reset program. A 60-minute aromatic couples massage is then offered, with essential oils selected to restore vitality. Thoughtfully curated gourmet elements accompany the experience, from revitalizing wellness shots to bites inspired by natural aphrodisiacs like ginger, citrus, hibiscus, and exotic herbs. 

As the evening unfolds, couples will then partake in a heartfelt farewell ritual, selecting a song that holds special meaning to their relationship and receiving a rose quartz keepsake, symbolizing love and renewal. The journey culminates with an intimate aphrodisiac dinner under the stars on the spa’s terrace, paired with organic wine. To complete the evening, couples will retreat to their suite where a luxurious bath awaits, infused with indigenous Damiana and essential oils, known for their soothing and amorous properties. loscabosboutique.grandvelas.com.

About Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos:
Opened January 2024, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos is a new resort and concept in the all-inclusive space. The AAA Five Diamond boutique hotel is Velas Resorts’ third property in Los Cabos. Adults only, the hotel is a stylish sanctuary, its own world of relaxation, pampering, with the personal service for which Velas Resorts is known. Highlights of the Grand Velas’ signature facilities and services available at the new beachfront property include 79 luxurious suites, a two-star MICHELIN consulting chef with creative dining experiences, wine selection inspired by the proximity to Mexico’s fine wine region, and innovative spa treatments inspired by Mexican culture, among others. SE Spa places a strong emphasis on sound therapy, incorporating relaxing sounds of ocean waves and desert nights into treatments to achieve a deeper level of relaxation. A Technogym fitness center with the latest line of equipment, indoor or outdoor ocean view event spaces, infinity pool, and private beach area complete the offerings. A special perk, guests of Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos have full access to sister property Grand Velas Los Cabos’ amenities and five gourmet dinner restaurants led by top chefs with no additional charge. Grand Velas Boutique was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder of Velas Resorts, with brother Juan Vela Ruiz, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. Explore tips, recipes, lifestyle and travel trends, and the latest news about Velas Resorts on the digital mag: www.velasmagazine.com.

This article was published as part of #FiproturLosCabos.

Among  her many accolades, Vanessa was named one of the Most Inspiring Women Leaders to Follow in 2024 by Success Knocks Magazine.

Here is our interview with her:

What was your career trajectory prior to Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate?

Before acquiring Snell Real Estate, I spent 16 years as a senior executive with Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the leading corporate business travel company in the United States.

Could you briefly share the inception story of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate?

Snell Real Estate was established in 1997. Following its acquisition in 2012, I introduced Engel & Völkers to Mexico for the first time, creating a landmark moment for the global brand and giving rise to Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate. And now today, with nearly $3.6 billion in sales volume, a pioneering 27-year legacy, and an impressive roster of internationally recognized accolades, we proudly hold the title of Mexico’s #1 luxury real estate brokerage year after year.

What motivated you to head Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate — Mexico´s #1 luxury real estate brokerage?

In 2012, I acquired the brokerage after being captivated by the beauty, culture, and potential of Los Cabos during a vacation. The destination’s allure as a premier luxury hotspot, combined with its growing reputation, presented a compelling opportunity. Recognizing the potential for significant business success in this high-end market, I was inspired to bring my vision and expertise to elevate the brokerage, ultimately transforming it into Mexico’s leading name in luxury real estate.

Describe a typical day for you. How do you juggle leading two successful and prominent companies?

As the owner, president, and CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate and the CEO and publisher of Ocean Blue World, I balance a dynamic range of responsibilities. I also personally assist high-net-worth clients from around the globe in buying and selling ultra-luxury properties. Additionally, I have my podcast— “Mod Pod with Fukunaga,” I actively contribute to various community organizations as well as foster partnerships with multiple luxury real estate groups around the globe.

A typical day is fast-paced and multi-faceted, with my time divided between meetings, presentations, hosting or attending special events, property tours, networking, cocktail gatherings, traveling, community-driven initiatives, and so much more.

What unique qualities and values do you believe your clients admire in you as a business leader and individual?

I believe my clients admire my unwavering values, strong ethics, and relentless drive for success. Also, my openness and genuine willingness to inspire and motivate others, my global experience and ability to share meaningful stories — always with the intention of using them to help others and contribute positively.

How do you foster a culture of empowerment within your organizations?

I champion a philosophy of “teamwork” and equip my team with the confidence and the resources they need to effectively market our listings and showcase our destination. Every initiative is rooted in a commitment to shaping the brokerage, and the industry, with far-reaching and lasting impact. This means driving innovation, thinking outside the box, and marketing our brand and services in truly unique ways—all guided by strategy and purpose.

The global real estate industry is ever-changing, inundated with constant news and noise. It’s our responsibility to not only understand and monitor our market but also to assess global trends. This insight forms the foundation for our strategic decisions and forecasting, enabling us to devise the best ways to support our team, network, and community while nurturing leadership potential at every step.

What makes working in the Los Cabos luxury real estate space special or unique?

Los Cabos attracts buyers from around the globe for many reasons: its easy accessibility, year-round comfortable climate, stunning beaches, diverse recreational activities, world-class amenities, vibrant arts and culture scene, philanthropic spirit, and exceptional value in the second and third home markets. The region’s allure draws travelers, leisure enthusiasts, media personalities, celebrities, savvy investors, and affluent individuals, creating an unparalleled buying opportunity—and we have the privilege of living and working here where others vacation!

Luxury ownership options range from exclusive beachfront retreats and majestic mountaintop haciendas to exquisite golf villas, luxury resort residences, prime development and land opportunities, and a diverse selection of commercial properties. Our portfolio spans the most sought-after locations in the Baja California Sur, including San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, the East Cape, Todos Santos, and La Paz. Los Cabos continues to thrive as a premier destination, offering something truly extraordinary for everyone.

What advice would you give to another woman aspiring to follow in your footsteps?

Strive to become the expert in your field. Embrace perseverance—success often comes from pushing through challenges. And lastly, continuously innovate, create, and always be on the lookout for the next big idea.

About Vanessa Fukunaga – Owner, President & CEO of Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate & Ocean Blue World

A powerhouse in luxury real estate, Vanessa Fukunaga has transformed high-end property investment in Los Cabos. Her leadership, strategic marketing, and deep expertise in the luxury sector position her as both a visionary and an authority in business and media. For over a decade, she has led her team to more than $3.6 billion USD in sales, securing Engel & Völkers Snell Real Estate’s standing as Mexico’s #1 luxury brokerage year after year. As she continues to make her mark on the global business landscape, Fukunaga feels that in many ways, she has only just begun.

This article was created in partnership with FIPROTUR Los Cabos under the private trust. See the website disclaimer here. For more information, visit https://fiproturloscabos.com.

#VanessaFukunaga
#loscabos
#fiproturloscabos

The official Guinness World Records certificate was presented by Alfredo Arista Rueda, who highlighted the significance of this achievement on a global scale:

“Awarding this recognition to Cactus Tours is a testament to their effort, innovation, and passion for delivering unique experiences. This bicycle zipline is not just an incredible new attraction—it aligns with Guinness World Records’ mission to inspire extraordinary achievements. This record not only places Los Cabos on the adventure tourism map but also motivates the industry to continue innovating and raising the bar in terms of quality and safety.”

Speaking on behalf of Maribel Collins, Secretary of Tourism and Economy (Setue), Deputy Secretary Fernando Ojeda emphasized the importance of this project for the region’s adventure tourism development: “Initiatives like this reinforce Baja California Sur’s position as a world-class adventure tourism destination. The combination of innovation, safety, and respect for nature allows us to offer unique experiences that attract visitors from around the world while positively impacting the local economy. This activity will become a new attraction that encourages more tourists to visit Los Cabos, either as part of their trip or specifically to experience this one-of-a-kind adventure.”

Francisco Orrantia, representing Cactus Tours, emphasized that this project is the result of a bold vision, exceptional teamwork, and the realization of an 11-year dream. It has not only pushed the boundaries of height but also elevated the standard for adventure tourism in the region. He reiterated that Cactus Tours’ mission is to provide unforgettable experiences that connect visitors with both nature and adrenaline. In addition to the bicycle zipline, the company offers a variety of activities, including ATV tours and camel rides, all designed to deliver excitement, safety, and an authentic connection to the beauty of Los Cabos.

The bicycle zipline represents a major innovation in the adventure tourism industry, blending cutting-edge design with high-altitude excitement. José Pizarro, the lead architect on the project, highlighted the technical challenges involved in its construction, ensuring the highest safety standards while delivering an unparalleled experience for thrill-seekers worldwide.

With this achievement, Los Cabos solidifies its place on the global adventure tourism map, drawing travelers in search of exciting challenges and unforgettable experiences, all while maintaining the high standards of quality and service that define the region.

“This record not only celebrates our ability to innovate in adventure tourism—it reflects a collective commitment to making Los Cabos an unrivaled destination that inspires all those seeking memorable experiences,” concluded Rodrigo Esponda.

ABOUT LOS CABOS
Los Cabos, located at the tip of the 1,000-mile-long Baja California Peninsula, is one of the world’s most diverse tourism destinations. Boasting a dramatic desert backdrop nestled between the Sierra de la Laguna Mountain range and coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is home to award-winning resorts, dynamic wellness experiences and exquisite culinary offerings often regarded by many as some of the finest tourism offerings available anywhere. A growing list of championship golf courses, rejuvenating spas and world-renowned sport fishing tournaments add to the destination’s unmatched appeal. For more information, images and videos from Los Cabos, please visit visitloscabos.travel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, or YouTube.

About Cactus
Cactus Tours is a leader in adventure tourism in Los Cabos, offering unique experiences that combine nature, excitement, and safety. With a history of constant innovation, the company continues to redefine the boundaries of extreme tourism.

Digital Channels:
Web Site: https://cactustours.com.mx/sky-bike/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CactusToursMx
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactustoursmx/

About Guinness World Records
Guinness World Records is the global authority on record verification, celebrating extraordinary achievements and human feats across various categories. Founded in 1955, its mission is to document and recognize unique milestones that inspire individuals and organizations to push their limits.

#cactustours
#loscabos
#fiproturloscabos
#GuinnessWorldRecords

GR Solaris Lighthouse, Los Cabos

GR Solaris Lighthouse offers an unforgettable vacation experience with 350 elegant rooms and suites, designed to provide maximum comfort. The hotel features a variety of facilities and services, including:

• 2 buffet restaurants
• 1 snack restaurant
• 1 Italian specialty restaurant
• 1 Mexican restaurant
• 1 Sushi bar in the lighthouse with 360-degree views
• 3 bars
• Kids club
• 3 pools
• Spa
• Fitness center
• Activities for all ages
• Spacious conference rooms for hosting all types of events, from business meetings to weddings and special celebrations

“Our goal is to provide our guests with an exceptional vacation experience,” said Diego Giribaldi, Managing Director of Hoteles Solaris. “GR Solaris Lighthouse is the perfect destination for those seeking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty in a comfortable setting, as well as being the ideal place to hold events and business meetings.”

To celebrate its opening, GR Solaris Lighthouse will soon be offering special packages and exclusive promotions. Visit our website www.hotelessolaris.com for more information.

About Hoteles Solaris:
Hoteles Solaris is a prestigious hotel chain with a long history of providing high quality vacation services. With hotels located in Mexico’s most attractive destinations, Hoteles Solaris is dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences for its guests, combining luxury, comfort and exceptional customer service.

For more information, visit www.hotelessolaris.com.

For more information on Los Cabos, visit: https://visitloscabos.travel.

SANTA CLARA, Calif. and LOS CABOS, Mexico, May 15, 2024 – Today, the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Cabos Tourism Board, as part of a multi-year collaboration, announced the “Day with the 49ers” clinic, taking place in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico on May 31, 2024. The initiative looks to continue strengthening Los Cabos’mission to bring growth and opportunities to the local community through tourism efforts. The “Day with the 49ers” will take place at the Bicentenario Stadium with 100 kids and young athletes from the Los Cabos community. This is the first effort of its type in Los Cabos, and participants will have the chance to train like the 49ers and meet featured guests.

The event will feature Patrick Willis, a legendary Hall of Fame player; Diana Flores, World Flag Football Champion and Los Cabos Brand Ambassador; and Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. Their combined expertise and leadership will provide unique insights and inspiration to the local community, creating an ideal environment for education and motivation.

“Through strategic partnerships with organizations that align with Los Cabos’ wellness vision, we are not only enhancing our status as a destination that promotes wellbeing but showing that strategic partnerships can bring strong benefits to our local community,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. “Los Cabos is a place where athletes can come to recharge, heal, and find whatever their idea of wellness is. We are passionate about ensuring our efforts as a tourism board benefit the local community, which relies heavily on visitors. This clinic is a perfect example of how our efforts can bring truly unique and beneficial opportunities to the people who reside in this beautiful destination.”

“We’re thrilled to introduce our 49ers EDU curriculum to the Los Cabos community, blending STEAM education with the excitement of football,” stated Brent Schoeb, Chief Marketing & Revenue Officer of the San Francisco 49ers. “Expanding football’s reach is important to us, so we’re excited to grow the game while highlighting community development and enriching opportunities for those who call Los Cabos home.”

The clinic underscores the Los Cabos Tourism Board’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, bringing together sports enthusiasts and families while offering enriching, health-positive experiences to all who visit its shores. Both the Los Cabos Tourism Board and San Francisco 49ers are excited for a day filled with learning and the spirit of competition, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Los Cabos.

This partnership between the 49ers and Los Cabos significantly contributes to Los Cabos’ strategic objectives to boost tourist inflow and solidify its market position across the U.S., particularly benefiting from the San Francisco market. With an average of 26 direct flights a week from San Francisco, Los Cabos is just a convenient 3-hour flight away, making it a favorite destination for Bay Area residents. From January to March of this year, Los Cabos welcomed 41,350 tourists from San Francisco, marking a 35.9% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Currently, California accounts for 23.6% of Los Cabos’ visitors. Los Cabos is honored to be a preferred destination for residents of such a distinguished state and city, thanks largely to our partnership with the 49ers.

About San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers, owned by the York family, currently play in the NFC West division and have won five Super Bowl trophies including Super Bowl XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV and XXIX. The franchise also has eight conference championships and 22 divisional championships and was the first major league professional sports team to be based in San Francisco over 75 years ago. Please visit 49ers.com and follow the 49ers on Facebook and Twitter @49ers.

About Los Cabos 
Los Cabos, located at the tip of the 1,000-mile-long Baja California Peninsula, is one of the world’s most diverse tourism destinations. Boasting a dramatic desert backdrop nestled between the Sierra de la Laguna Mountain range and coastlines of the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez, Los Cabos is home to award-winning resorts, dynamic wellness experiences and exquisite culinary offerings often regarded by many as some of the finest tourism offerings available anywhere. A growing list of championship golf courses, rejuvenating spas and world-renowned sport fishing tournaments add to the destination’s unmatched appeal. For more information, images and videos from Los Cabos, please visit visitloscabos.travel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn or YouTube.

#

View the original press release here.

 One of those is Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol which is now taking reservations for travel starting May 1.

“In the heart of all the action, our new beach resort offers the most prized location on Cabo’s Golden Corridor. This is an ultra-luxury modern hacienda with exciting activities celebrating the magic of Mexican music, food and culture, ” says Richard Raab, General Manager.

Scheduled to open in 2024

Soho House (30 rooms), Park Hyatt Los Cabos (168 rooms), St. Regis Los Cabos (120 beachfront rooms and 60 residences), Tapestry Collection by Hilton (70 rooms) and Aman (22 rooms) are expected to open in 2024.

Recently opened:

Grand Velas Boutique Hotel recently opened (Dec 2023) with 79 ocean view suites, luxury all-inclusive, adult only property.

Todos Santos Boutique Hotel, a new luxury boutique hotel recently opened its doors with 10 rooms in the quaint Magic Town of Todos Santos.

For more information on Los Cabos, visit https://www.visitloscabos.travel.

View Travel+Leisure’s list of 50 Best Places to Visit in 2024 here.

#fiproturloscabos #loscabos #50bestplaces2024 #travel

• 1. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
• 5. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• 6. One&Only Palmilla
• 8. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas
• 9. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel
• 12. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
• 15. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

In the category of Top 20 Resorts in Western Mexico: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023, 14 resorts in Los Cabos were selected, more than any other destination in western-Mexico. The Chileno Bay Resort & Residences was named as the top resort in western-Mexico.
(In respective list order below.)

• 1. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
• 5. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• 6. One&Only Palmilla
• 8. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas
• 9. The Cape, A Thompson Hotel 
• 10. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
• 11. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection
• 12. Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa Los Cabos
• 13. Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort
• 15. Viceroy Los Cabos
• 16. Grand Velas Los Cabos
• 17. Rancho Pescadero, the Unbound Collection by Hyatt (Todos Santos)
• 18. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort
• 19. Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort

We congratulate all of the hotels included on the 2023 Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards list. For more information on Los Cabos, visit https://visitloscabos.travel.

#loscabos #visitloscabos #fiproturloscabos