A huge blaze that broke out at two Iberostar hotels on Mexico’s Riviera Maya will keep the resorts closed for several weeks.
The weekend blaze is thought to have been caused by an electrical fault, prompting the evacuation of more than 1,000 guests from the adjacent resorts of Iberostar Tucan and Iberostar Quetzal.
About 20 people were treated for the effects of smoke inhalation but all guests and staff were accounted for.
The fast spreading fire quickly engulfed a large common area of the resorts, destroying restaurants, the spa, theatre, lobby area and two condos.
"We have immediately begun recovery efforts and will be able to fully assess the damages within one week. Our goal is to have the hotels fully operational by mid-December, and once completed, guests will enjoy newly renovated areas," an Iberostar statement said.
However Rafael Castro Castro, secretary general of regional environmental and urban planning said a large portion of the resorts will likely be demolished.
"As for the entire burned concrete structure, a demolition has been recommended. The hotel must make an application for the demolition and calculate two months to restore operations," he explained.
Guests staying at the hotel during the blaze were moved to sister hotel Iberostar Playa Parasio, located north of the city.
"Regarding all other future stays, Iberostar will provide an update shortly," the company said.
