Else Beekman
Former Spanish Minister of Transport, Mobility, and Urban Agenda, Raquel Sánchez, is the new president of the Paradores de Turismo hotel chain. She replaces Pedro Saura, who led the chain for two and a half years. Saura will now become the president of the National Company for Post and Telegraph (Grupo Correos).
Saura leaves Paradores after a successful period. Herein, the hotel chain saw the reactivation of the chain post-pandemic and its return to pre-crisis figures. The state-owned company, under the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, experienced its best six months in history in the first half of 2023. Additionally, the chain closed 2022 with a profit of 11 million euros, a 27% increase from the previous year.
Raquel Sánchez
Raquel Sánchez joins Paradores after two years leading the Ministry of Transport, Mobility, and Urban Agenda, from July 2021 to November 2023. Prior to that, she was the mayor of Gavà for seven years, from 2014 to 2021. As the new president, she will oversee the impressive expansion of the chain, which is expected to reach 100 hotels across Spain by the end of 2023.
Paradores
The Paradores hotel chain in Spain is a unique collection of accommodations. These are often located in historical buildings such as castles, monasteries, or mansions. Established in 1910 by the Spanish government, the chain aims to promote tourism and preserve national heritage. Known for their characteristic locations in beautiful landscapes or historic cities, Paradores offer a blend of traditional Spanish architecture, modern amenities, and local gastronomy, making them popular with both domestic and international travelers. By the end of 2023, the chain will have 100 Paradores spread across Spain.