Aria Hotels, a recognized Greek luxury hotel chain with more than 70 properties, is expanding into Colombia. This marks Aria Hotels’ first expansion outside of Greece, reflecting a significant milestone as it seeks out opportunities for international growth.
Aria Hotels expands in Cartagena, Colombia
Aria Hotels will transform two historic sites in Cartagena, Colombia, into luxury hotels & villas, blending Greek tradition with the modern amenities that Aria is known for. The renovations will enhance the site’s charm while celebrating both Greek and Colombian cultures. The first hotel will welcome guests starting in mid-2026.
The announcement was made on September 23, 2024, during the Concordia Annual Summit, attended by George Logothetis, Executive Chairman of Libra Group, and former President of Colombia, Ivan Duque. The decision to enter Colombia was celebrated in the symbolic meeting recognizing the deep cultural and economic connections between Greece and Colombia.
One of the first hotels will be named “Aria Maria,” honoring the personal connection shared between Mr. Logothetis and former President Duque. During a visit to Spetses, Greece, they discovered a mutual appreciation for a Greek folk song from their childhoods: Maria Me Ta Kitrina (Maria Dressed in Yellow). This shared memory inspires the name of the property, signifying a bond that blends the cultural legacies of both nations.
Teresa Londoño, Secretary of Tourism of Cartagena, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Aria Hotels to Colombia. Their upcoming project will not only restore historic sites, creating iconic tourist destinations but also foster cultural ties between our two nations, positioning Colombia as a key destination for global travelers, particularly within eco-tourism.”
Makis Pantazatos, CEO of Aria Hotels, expressed his enthusiasm for the venture: “We are proud to bring the authentic Greek hospitality experience to Latin America. Our goal is to create distinctive properties that honor local culture while reflecting our Greek roots. As we develop a presence in Cartagena, we look forward to creating properties that reflect Colombia’s rich history infused with Greek warmth and hospitality.”
Aria Hotels is committed to expanding its eco-tourism initiatives and has recently announced investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure in Greece, including the introduction of electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) and the development of vertiports across the country.
Aria Hotels has been advised by Onirius Hospitality Advisors throughout this expansion process in Colombia.
Aria Hotels, Libra Group’s luxury hotel chain
Aria Hotels is Libra Group’s Greek-born hospitality subsidiary with a curated collection of approximately 70 boutique hotels and villas, dedicated to offering authentic Greek hospitality. With a portfolio spanning Greece and now expanding internationally, Aria Hotels provides high-quality service while preserving local heritage and delivering unique experiences.
Libra Group is a privately owned, global business group encompassing 20 businesses focused on aerospace, diversified investments, hospitality, maritime, real estate, and renewable energy. With assets and operations in nearly 60 countries, the Group leverages its global network to drive growth at scale.
Related: Aria Hotels to Construct eVTOL Vertiports in Greece
