A huge blaze which 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, theater and lobby area.
"At Iberostar, the safety of our guests and employees is a top priority. To ensure our guests’ well-being and comfort, and to follow security protocol, we have relocated all guests from Iberostar Tucan and Iberostar Quetzal to the Iberostar Paraiso Complex as well as neighboring hotels," a company statement said.
"Regarding all future stays, Iberostar will provide an update shortly."
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.
