The Florida-based Sol Meliá Vacation Club (SMVC) group, part of the Spanish Sol Meliá Hotels & Resorts – is to open a number of new properties with spas over the next year.

First to open, in late 2008, will be SMVC’s Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real in the Dominican Republic. It will feature 190 suites and a signature Yhi Spa.

In addition, the second phase of the SMVC at Gran Melia Puerto Rico at Coco Beach will also open later this year, following the first phase launch in 2007. Details: smvc.com