Markus Laahanen Appointed General Manager of Andaz Peninsula Papagayo
A veteran luxury resort operator with global experience across wellness, mixed-use development, and flagship openings takes the helm in Costa Rica.
Photo: Courtesy of Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort has appointed Markus Laahanen as its general manager, effective last month. The property is part of the larger Peninsula Papagayo destination on the country’s northwestern Pacific coast, set 30 minutes from Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.
Laahanen steps into the role with more than 20 years of experience across resort operations, wellness-focused hospitality, and mixed-use development. Most recently, he worked as an independent hospitality advisor on projects in Portugal, Spain, and Costa Rica, focusing on luxury, lifestyle, and wellness-led developments. His advisory work included both greenfield projects and operational turnarounds.
The Andaz Peninsula Papagayo property currently comprises 150 guest rooms and suites, 25 branded residences, and an additional 35 residences under development. Ownership is shared by Mohari Hospitality and Gencom, and the resort operates within the master-planned Peninsula Papagayo community, which also includes residential enclaves, marinas, golf, and multiple hospitality brands. Laahanen will oversee all aspects of resort operations, including accommodations, food and beverage, guest experience, and coordination with the broader destination infrastructure.
Prior to his advisory work, Laahanen served as general manager of Cancun’s NIZUC Resort & Spa, where he led the resort to Forbes Five-Star recognition. Earlier roles include general manager of Zemi Beach House in Anguilla, where he guided the opening of the 65-key resort and spa, and managing director and head of development for Nomade and Be Hotels, overseeing expansion and feasibility work across Latin America, Europe, and Africa.
At Andaz Peninsula Papagayo, Laahanen is expected to guide the resort’s next phase of operations within a destination that continues to evolve through new residential development and infrastructure investment. His appointment comes as Peninsula Papagayo maintains its position as one of Costa Rica’s most established luxury hubs, with ongoing attention on sustainability, wellness programming, and long-stay residential demand.
Laahanen is now in post, overseeing operations on site in Costa Rica.
