Casa Cupula, Puerto Vallarta's iconic luxury LGBTQ+ resort, has been recognized by HIP Hotels as a 'HIP Hotel property,' joining an internationally respected collection of the world's most distinctive and inspiring places to stay. HIP Hotels—an acronym for Highly Individual Places—is a globally recognized authority dedicated to showcasing hotels that are truly one of a kind. This designation celebrates Casa Cupula not for conformity, but for uniqueness, soul, and a deep sense of place, underscoring its role as a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ travelers since 2002.
The recognition matters because it highlights the growing importance of inclusive, authentic hospitality in the travel industry. For LGBTQ+ travelers, who often face discrimination or seek spaces where they can be themselves, Casa Cupula's achievement validates the demand for safe, welcoming environments that go beyond basic accommodation. The resort has built a reputation for refined hospitality, deeply personal service, and architectural individuality, offering an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and genuinely welcoming. This impacts the broader hospitality sector by setting a benchmark for how properties can cultivate uniqueness while fostering inclusion, potentially encouraging other hotels to prioritize diversity and personalization.
Don Pickens, owner of Casa Cupula, shared that the recognition affirms the resort's original vision of creating a place where LGBTQ+ people can truly feel they belong and are at home. He emphasized that Casa Cupula's team is known for welcoming every guest as a friend, with a passion for creating a warm environment where guests can relax and escape worldly stresses. The designation also stands as a testament to the people who bring Casa Cupula to life each day, from guest services and events teams to the Gym & Spa, concierge, and operations, upholding a standard of excellence rooted in care, pride, and authenticity.
For readers, this news signals that travel destinations are increasingly valuing individuality and community-focused experiences, which can lead to more meaningful and secure trips. Casa Cupula offers activities ranging from elegant five-course dinners with internationally recognized performers to pool parties and a new Bistro Gallery featuring Latin American art, catering to diverse interests. The resort's owner helped found the Vallarta Gay+ Community Center, which supports over 800 community members through initiatives like PrEP distribution, STD testing and treatment, and community programs, further demonstrating its commitment to local impact. As part of the HIP Hotels collection, celebrated for inspiring meaningful travel experiences off the beaten path, Casa Cupula's recognition reinforces the importance of hotels that prioritize soul and connection, influencing industry trends toward more personalized and inclusive hospitality worldwide.
