Lagniappe
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For much of its 50-year history , HOTELS has published interviews with hoteliers to share their professional experiences , passions and even their pet peeves . While a lot of answers have been thought-provoking and intelligent , we have also gotten to know the fun side of many industry leaders . As part of HOTELS ’ golden anniversary celebration , we asked several general managers a variety of questions for this anniversary Lagniappe .
Meenakasi sundaraM
The Residence Maldives ,
Falhumaafushi , Maldives
What ’ s your biggest pet peeve at a hotel ?
Bland and soulless lobbies don ’ t create that “ wow ” first impression . Travel is about uncovering new experiences and immersing oneself into the destination . Hotels are usually the first thing guests experience on arrival at their destination , and they need to feel special . roger Marcz
Regent Chongqing ,
Chongqing , China
What ’ s your favorite hotel memory ?
When I first arrived in Hong Kong as a young man , I was blown away by the high standards of its luxury hotels . Coming from a little village in Switzerland , it was incredible to see and learn from the very best . I believe that the most impactful memory is always one that is created when you experience something for the first time . nicole sinclair
Faena Miami Beach ,
Miami Beach
Who taught you your biggest lesson , and what was it ?
I was in my early 20s and my GM at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto , Minaz Abji , encouraged me to apply for front office manager to lead a team of 50 in a 1,000-room hotel – a job I didn ’ t think I was ready for . He said if I didn ’ t put myself out there and be bold , I wouldn ’ t get the reward . When I have big decisions to make , I still think of his message .
Paul Heery
The Gleneagles Hotel ,
Perthshire , Scotland
What part of your job requires the most creative thinking ?
Looking after our little guests forces me to think outside the box . It ’ s natural to have empathy for adults because you see things from that point of view every day , but with children you have to shift your perspective . It ’ s easy to forget that , for them , an exceptional hotel experience is not all about fine dining and luxury interior design .
70 hotelsmag . com September 2016