Hoteliers Circle Editorial

Hotel business is a dynamic, high-pressure environment where hoteliers are constantly managing guest expectations, staff dynamics, and operational challenges. This fast-paced world can take a toll on mental health. Here are some mental health tips for those who constantly overwork to make life of others easier. 1. Embrace Breaks During Busy Shifts During peak check-in times or events, it can feel impossible to step away. However, taking short breaks—just five minutes to breathe deeply or stretch—can recharge your mental state. Use quiet moments in the lobby or staff areas to regroup. Even a brief pause can help you handle stress more effectively. 2. Create a Personal Sanctuary Whether it’s a designated quiet room or simply a corner of the staff break area, having a space where you can retreat for a few moments can work wonders. Personalizing this space with calming items—like plants, photos, or soothing scents—can help you destress during hectic days. It’s crucial to have a go-to spot to collect your thoughts. 3. Implement Team Huddles Regular team huddles, even just for 10-15 minutes, can boost morale and communication. Use this time to discuss challenges, share successes, and offer support. Creating an atmosphere where team members can openly share their thoughts can help reduce feelings of isolation and improve mental health. 4. Utilize Technology Wisely With the demands of managing bookings and guest requests, technology can be both a blessing and a curse. Limit after-hours work emails and notifications. Set boundaries on your devices to avoid burnout. Consider using task management tools to streamline operations and reduce the chaos during busy periods. 5. Promote a Culture of Recognition In an industry where hard work often goes unnoticed, establishing a culture of recognition can uplift spirits. A simple “thank you” or shout-out during staff meetings can go a long way. Celebrate small victories, whether it’s a successful event or a particularly busy weekend, to foster a sense of accomplishment and community. 6. Seek Mentorship and Peer Support Connecting with fellow hoteliers can provide invaluable insights and support. Establishing a mentorship program within your hotel can help less experienced staff navigate challenges. Likewise, sharing experiences with peers at industry events or online forums can help alleviate the sense of being overwhelmed. For managers to remember Mental health in the hotel industry is not just a personal responsibility; it’s a shared one. By incorporating specific practices like embracing breaks, creating supportive environments, and promoting recognition, hoteliers can cultivate a workplace that prioritizes well-being. Fostering mental health not only benefits the individuals but also enhances guest experiences and overall hotel success. Remember, a mentally healthy team translates to happier guests!

In the evolving landscape of the hospitality business, hotel restaurants are now as much a part of the travel experience as the rooms themselves. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer unique and memorable culinary experiences, with hotel chefs playing a pivotal role in creating these gastronomic delights. From dining in the treetops to savouring meals inspired by historical recipes, here are five hotels that offer exceptional and unusual culinary offerings. Each of these destinations redefines what it means to dine away from home, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest. Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood 1. Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood - Thailand At Soneva Kiri, guests are invited to dine in one of the most unusual settings in the world—high up in the treetops. The Treepod Dining experience allows you to enjoy a meal while suspended in a bamboo pod, overlooking the lush rainforest below. Your meal is delivered by a flying waiter via a zip line, adding an element of adventure to your dining experience. The menu is a celebration of local Thai flavours, using organic ingredients sourced from the hotel's own gardens. The hotel's commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish, making it not just a meal but a connection to the environment. This unique experience at Soneva Kiri exemplifies how hotel restaurants can offer something truly extraordinary, far beyond the conventional dining experience. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai 2. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai - UAE Located in the heart of the Arabian Desert, Al Maha offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in the local culture. The Dune Dining experience allows guests to enjoy a private dinner under the stars, surrounded by the rolling sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This remote and romantic setting is enhanced by a menu that blends traditional Arabic cuisine with modern gastronomy. Guests can savour dishes such as slow-cooked lamb ouzi and mezze platters while enjoying the serenity of the desert. The hotel chef job at Al Maha involves creating a menu that honours the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East while also catering to an international palate. Dune Dining at Al Maha is more than just a meal—it's a journey into the heart of Arabian hospitality. ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi 3. ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi - Sweden The ICEHOTEL in Sweden is renowned for its unique concept—it's built entirely from ice and snow each winter. But beyond its architectural marvel, the hotel also offers a culinary experience that's as extraordinary as its surroundings. The Chef's Table on Ice is a one-of-a-kind dining experience where guests enjoy a multi-course meal prepared on a frozen lake. The menu is a celebration of local ingredients, including Arctic char, reindeer, and cloudberries, all prepared using traditional Swedish techniques. The setting—an ice table surrounded by the pristine Arctic wilderness—adds a layer of magic to the meal. The hotel chef job at ICEHOTEL involves not just culinary creativity but also adapting to the challenges of cooking in extreme conditions. Dining at the ICEHOTEL is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Twin Farms, Vermont 4. Twin Farms, Vermont - USA Twin Farms, a luxury resort in Vermont, offers an intimate and personalised culinary experience that is deeply connected to its surroundings. The hotel's Farm-to-Table philosophy means that every dish is crafted from ingredients grown on the property or sourced from local farmers. What makes Twin Farms stand out is the lack of a set menu; instead, the chef tailors each meal to the preferences of the guests, creating a bespoke dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a picnic by the lake or a candlelit dinner in the main dining room, the focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with care and creativity. The hotel chef job at Twin Farms is about more than just cooking—it's about curating a dining experience that reflects the natural beauty and bounty of Vermont. The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews 5. The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews - Scotland The Old Course Hotel, located in the historic town of St Andrews, offers a culinary experience that combines tradition with innovation. The hotel's Road Hole Restaurant is famous for its views over the iconic Old Course golf course, but it's the menu that truly stands out. The restaurant specialises in Scottish cuisine with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients such as Angus beef, St Andrews Bay lobster, and wild Scottish mushrooms. What makes the Road Hole Restaurant exceptional is its whisky pairing menu, where each dish is paired with a different single malt whisky. This experience is a celebration of Scotland's rich culinary heritage, offering guests a true taste of the country. The hotel chef job at The Old Course Hotel involves not just creating delicious meals but also crafting an experience that honours the traditions of Scottish gastronomy.

For the modern business traveller, comfort and convenience are paramount. Hotels worldwide are stepping up their game, offering not just comfortable beds and high-speed internet but innovative in-room amenities and specialized services that cater specifically to the needs of busy professionals. Whether it’s customizable workspaces, cutting-edge technology, or concierge services that go the extra mile, these hotels have perfected the art of mixing business with pleasure. Here are ten standout hotels from around the world that offer exceptional facilities and services tailored for the business traveller. The Upper House, Hong Kong 1. The Upper House, Hong Kong The Upper House in Hong Kong is a sanctuary for business travellers, blending minimalist design with maximum functionality. Each room is designed with the professional in mind, featuring large, customisable workspaces and ultra-fast Wi-Fi. What sets The Upper House apart is its in-room technology, including an iPad with integrated hotel services and entertainment, as well as a handy smartphone with unlimited data and international calls. The Sky Lounge is a dedicated space for business travellers, offering complimentary refreshments and a quiet environment for meetings or relaxation. Additionally, the hotel’s in-room dining menu, crafted by the renowned Café Gray Deluxe, allows for gourmet dining without leaving the comfort of your room, making it easy to work and eat simultaneously. The Savoy, London 2. The Savoy, London - United Kingdom The Savoy in London is a historic hotel that has been thoughtfully modernised to meet the needs of today’s business traveller. Each room is equipped with a Nespresso machine and a personal bar stocked with a selection of wines, spirits, and snacks, making it easy to unwind after a long day. The rooms also feature state-of-the-art media hubs that allow you to connect your devices to the TV, turning your room into a private office or presentation space. For those in need of a more traditional workspace, The Savoy offers 24-hour butler service to help set up impromptu meetings or assist with any business-related tasks, from printing documents to organising transportation. The hotel’s Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill provides an elegant setting for business meals, with private dining options available for more discreet discussions. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok 3. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok - Thailand Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is a haven for business travellers, offering rooms with luxury desk setups and complimentary suit pressing to ensure you’re always ready for the next meeting. The rooms are equipped with dual-line telephones and high-speed internet, making it easy to manage calls and work simultaneously. The hotel’s Author’s Lounge is a unique venue for business meetings, offering a quiet, elegant setting with a touch of history. The hotel also provides a 24-hour business butler service, ready to assist with anything from printing documents to courier services. JW Marriott Essex House, New York 4. JW Marriott Essex House, New York - USA JW Marriott Essex House in New York offers business travellers a perfect combination of luxury and practicality. The rooms feature in-room printers, scanners, and fax machines, as well as large desks with ergonomic chairs to ensure comfort during long work sessions. The hotel’s Virtual Meeting Room service allows guests to conduct video conferences seamlessly, with on-demand tech support available to troubleshoot any issues. The hotel also provides a laundry valet service with same-day delivery, so you’re always ready for that next important meeting. The South Gate Restaurant within the hotel offers private dining areas for business lunches and dinners, making it easy to entertain clients in style. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris 5. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris - France Shangri-La Hotel Paris offers a luxurious experience for business travellers, with rooms that feature large marble desks, international power outlets, and complimentary stationery. The hotel also offers a 24-hour room service menu with options designed to keep you energised and focused. The hotel’s La Bauhinia restaurant offers a quiet, elegant setting for business meals, with menus that can be customised to meet dietary needs or preferences. Additionally, the hotel provides complimentary limousine service for short trips within Paris, making it easy to get to meetings or events around the city.

In today's globalized world, the hospitality industry is witnessing a significant shift towards sustainability. Eco-conscious travelers are increasingly seeking accommodations that not only provide comfort and luxury but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. Here, we explore how hotels across different countries are embracing sustainable practices to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly stays. Sustainable Initiatives in Global Hospitality The Scarlet, Singapore Nestled in the heart of Singapore, The Scarlet is renowned for its luxurious yet eco-friendly accommodations. The hotel has implemented a range of sustainable practices, including energy-efficient lighting and air conditioning systems, water-saving fixtures, and a comprehensive waste management program that includes recycling and composting. The Scarlet's commitment to sustainability is evident in their partnership with local suppliers to source organic and locally produced food items for their restaurant. Their website prominently features their sustainability efforts, inviting guests to explore their eco-friendly initiatives and participate in activities that promote environmental awareness. The Scarlet, Singapore Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru Located near the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a pioneer in sustainable tourism in the Andes. The hotel combines luxury with environmental conservation by preserving local biodiversity and promoting cultural heritage through eco-friendly practices. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel utilizes renewable energy sources such as solar panels and hydroelectric turbines to minimize its carbon footprint. They also actively engage in reforestation efforts and support local communities through education and sustainable livelihood programs. Guests can learn about these initiatives through the hotel's website, which highlights their commitment to sustainability and invites visitors to participate in guided eco tours and conservation activities. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru The Green House, United Kingdom Located in Bournemouth, UK, The Green House is an award-winning boutique hotel renowned for its sustainability initiatives. The hotel has been designed to have minimal environmental impact, featuring energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, rainwater harvesting for irrigation, and locally sourced organic food served in its restaurant. The Green House is committed to reducing waste and has implemented comprehensive recycling and composting programs throughout the hotel. Their website showcases their sustainable practices and offers guests insights into how they can contribute to environmental conservation during their stay, such as using eco-friendly toiletries and participating in local environmental initiatives. The Green House, United Kingdom Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand Situated on the picturesque island of Yao Noi in Thailand, Six Senses Yao Noi exemplifies luxury and sustainability in tropical paradise. The resort integrates eco-friendly practices into its operations, including energy conservation through solar power, water management strategies, and organic farming practices to supply its restaurants with fresh, locally grown produce. Six Senses Yao Noi is committed to preserving marine and terrestrial ecosystems, offering guests opportunities to participate in coral reef restoration projects and nature conservation programs. Their website provides comprehensive information about their sustainability initiatives, inviting guests to explore their commitment to environmental responsibility and experience a luxurious stay in harmony with nature. Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand Global Trends Shaping Sustainable Hospitality Across different continents, hotels are adopting similar trends to promote sustainable hospitality: Certification and Standards: Many hotels seek certifications such as LEED and Green Globe to validate their sustainability practices. Local Sourcing and Community Engagement: Emphasizing local food sourcing and supporting community development are becoming standard practices. Renewable Energy: Integration of renewable energy sources like solar and hydroelectric power to reduce carbon footprints. Guest Education: Informing guests about eco-friendly practices and encouraging their participation in conservation efforts. Meeting Guest Expectations In a competitive market, hotels that prioritize sustainability not only attract eco-conscious travelers but also enhance their brand reputation and contribute positively to local communities. Guests today expect transparency and authenticity in sustainability efforts, which hotels can communicate effectively through their websites and guest interactions. Conclusion The rise of eco-friendly stays in the hospitality industry represents a transformative shift towards responsible tourism. Hotels like The Scarlet in Singapore, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Peru, The Green House in the UK, and Six Senses Yao Noi in Thailand are leading by example, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. As travelers become increasingly aware of their environmental impact, the demand for eco-friendly accommodations will continue to grow. By implementing innovative sustainable practices and engaging guests in conservation efforts, hotels can not only meet these expectations but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for global tourism.

In the realm of luxury hospitality, the bar for guest satisfaction is continuously being raised. As travellers continue to seek out more individualised and immersive experiences, the trend of offering unique in-room amenities is set to become an integral part of the luxury hotel industry’s future. While plush beds and opulent bathrooms have long been staples of high-end hotels, the modern traveller seeks more personalised and unique experiences that start right in their rooms. This article explores exceptional in-room amenities from around the world, which redefine what it means to holiday in style. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort - Finland Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Lapland, the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers a truly unique experience with its famous glass igloos. This extraordinary hotel allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Arctic while enjoying luxurious in-room amenities. Unique In-Room Amenities Glass Igloos: The highlight of staying at Kakslauttanen is the glass igloo accommodation. These igloos are designed with a thermal glass roof that stays clear of frost, offering unobstructed views of the northern lights and the starry Arctic sky right from the comfort of your bed. Private Sauna: Many of the igloos and log cabins come equipped with private saunas, allowing guests to relax and warm up after a day of exploring the snowy landscape. Fireplace: Some accommodations feature a cosy fireplace, adding to the romantic and secluded atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the warmth and ambience of a crackling fire while watching the northern lights. The Peninsula Tokyo The Peninsula Tokyo - Japan The Peninsula Tokyo is renowned for its blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and cutting-edge technology. This hotel offers an array of in-room amenities that cater to the modern traveller’s needs while providing a taste of Japanese culture. Unique In-Room Amenities Nail Dryer and Manicure Set: Each room is equipped with a nail dryer and a comprehensive manicure set, allowing guests to pamper themselves without leaving their room. Tablet Technology: The Peninsula Tokyo integrates advanced tablet technology in all rooms, controlling everything from lighting and temperature to room service and curtain settings, ensuring a seamless and personalised experience. Traditional Japanese Yukata: Guests can enjoy wearing a traditional yukata (a casual summer kimono) provided in each room. This adds an authentic cultural touch to their stay and enhances their comfort. The 13 - Macau The 13 - Macau, China The 13 in Macau is known for its extravagant luxury and opulence, offering an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication. Each villa in this hotel is designed to provide guests with a royal experience, complete with bespoke in-room amenities. Unique In-Room Amenities Private Elevator Entry: Each villa has its own private elevator, ensuring the utmost privacy and exclusivity for guests. This feature allows for discreet and direct access to the accommodation. Baroque-Style Decor: The rooms are adorned with Baroque-style furnishings, including marble bathrooms, velvet upholstery, and ornate gold accents, creating a lavish and regal ambience. Private Pool and Sauna: Select villas come with their own private pool and sauna, allowing guests to unwind and relax in their own secluded space. Aria Hotel Budapest Aria Hotel Budapest - Hungary Located in the heart of Budapest, the Aria Hotel is a musical-themed luxury hotel that harmonises contemporary design with musical heritage. Each room is dedicated to a different genre of music, offering a unique and melodious experience for guests. Unique In-Room Amenities iPads with Music Library: Every room comes with an iPad pre-loaded with a vast music library, allowing guests to enjoy their favourite tunes or discover new ones. The hotel’s music director curates playlists to enhance the musical experience. Sound Systems: The rooms are equipped with high-quality sound systems, providing an immersive audio experience. Guests can listen to music with exceptional clarity and depth, enhancing their stay. Personalised Musical Instruments: Some suites feature musical instruments, such as pianos or guitars, for guests to play. This amenity is perfect for music lovers who want to indulge their passion during their stay. From the mesmerizing glass igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort to the cutting-edge technology at The Peninsula Tokyo, the opulent private villas at The 13 in Macau, and the musical delights at Aria Hotel Budapest, these hotels offer experiences that go far beyond the ordinary. By integrating personalised and distinctive features into their rooms, these properties not only meet the high expectations of their guests but also create lasting memories that redefine what it means to stay in luxury. 

Hospitality and tourism stakeholders collaboration fosters a seamless and memorable travel experience, encouraging repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth. Moreover, pooling resources and expertise allows for more effective problem-solving and innovation, ensuring the destination remains competitive and attractive in a rapidly evolving market. Today, we asked Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau to share his insights on the importance of partnerships between the industries. HC: How can tourism boards and hotels collaborate together in order to successfully promote a destination and achieve results beneficial for both industries? CG: "Sri Lanka Tourism is the National Tourism Organization initially established under Ceylon Tourist Board Act No. 10 of 1966 with the objective of developing Tourism in a more planned and systematic manner in Sri Lanka. After identifying the need to set up an institutional framework, by the Act No 38 of 2005 there were four Organizations such as Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management ( SLITHM ) and Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB) were established in 2007. While SLTDA acts as the regulatory body of the Tourism Industry, SLTPB is the promotional arm responsible for destination marketing. The Accommodation sector in the country ranges from the star class hotels to Guest Houses, Rest Houses, Heritage Bunglows, Home stays, Eco Lodges, Boutiques & Villas etc. Currently There are around 53,230 such accommodation units registered and licensed under the SLTDA to cater to local and foreign guests. Each of these accommodation units are required to pay a Tourism Development Levy (TDL) of 1% of their net income annually to the SLTDA which will be utilized for tourism development and promotional work by the afore mentioned four tourism institutes which directly come under the purview of the Ministry of Tourism and Land. The majority of the income is generated from the Hotel sector."  "Sri Lanka Tourism is having a very close relation with the hotel industry in Sri Lanka. Being  registered with SLTDA, hotels have the privilege in getting any benefit offered by the government, related to the hotel industry. This will include tax concessions, moratoriums on  loan repayments, recommendations for resident visa for foreign staff etc. Further the hotel industry could take part at tourism travel shows , road shows and other events organized by SLTPB overseas.   This will create a platform for them to directly contact Travel partners in respective markets to promote their properties.   By collaborating with Sri Lanka Tourism, these hotels will get the maximum publicity by hosting Foreign Media/Journalists, Travel Bloggers/Vloggers, Celebrities etc. who will promote the destination as well as the unique industrial properties.  The Hotel industry plays  a major role in creating employment opportunities specially to the Youth sector contributing towards earning foreign exchange earnings for the economic development of the country.  Over the years, several Sri Lankan Hotels have won prestigious awards for their unique hospitality and efficient service. Similarly, Sri Lanka Tourism has received many accolades as a destination from various International publications. Therefore this joint collaboration with Hotel industry and Sri Lanka Tourism will bring more revenue and recognition to Sri Lanka as a Travel Destination, renowned for its warmth and Hospitality." Photo credits: Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau

A strong cooperation between tourism boards and hospitality can amplify the appeal of a destination, enhancing visitor experiences and driving economic growth. By working together, they can create cohesive marketing strategies, streamline information dissemination, and offer integrated services that cater to tourists' needs.  Today, we asked Ken Massie, Head of Industry Development of VisitScotland to share his approach to involving both sides of the travel industry to drive the business. Photo credits: Visit Falkirk   HC: How can tourism boards and hotels collaborate together in order to successfully promote a destination and achieve results beneficial for both industries? KM: VisitScotland has a clear core purpose - to drive the visitor economy, growing its value in Scotland. Partnership working is at the heart of all that we do, this includes collaborating with colleagues in the hotel sector to make Scotland a destination of choice for visitors from near and far.  We work with hospitality bodies, hotel associations and hotel groups. Partnership marketing is a crucial part of our wider marketing strategy to position Scotland as a year-round destination, encouraging seasonal and regional spread. A good example of this is our media partnership campaign with Hilton hotels, to promote winter breaks in Scotland's cities. With a focus on showcasing timely, authentic moments that could only be experienced by staying overnight in each city during the winter months, the campaign resonated with consumers and delivered strong results for both partners.  We also support businesses to internationalise, helping them to reach new visitor audiences in new markets. We have an established annual programme of travel trade events where we work closely with tour operators and Scottish trade-ready businesses, including our flagship travel trade event, VisitScotland Connect. Feedback from hotel groups shows that attending our trade events and working with our Intermediary team has a positive impact. And collaboration makes economic sense; it allows us to extend our reach and help bring our visitor offering to a wider range of audiences. Hero image credits: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Carry out research No matter what kind of issues you are experience, lack of bookings, slow walk-in pickup, rating decline, you should always start with discovering the problem to tackle. Menus, service, venue location, social or economic situations, technology upgrades, booking and marketing challenges, shifting trends, etc., could all be impacting factors.  It is recommended to give your business a frequent sober gaze, asking family and friends to stay at the property or dine at the restaurant and share their honest feedback to help determine what's doing well, what may be better, and what changes are needed, in addition to completing the market survey and monitoring it with opponents.   Fix the problems, then spread the news Inform others about the improvements made when identified problems have been reviewed, discovered, and corrected. Involve social networks and devote time and effort to various marketing methods to spread the word.   Consider redesigning your menus and refreshing interiors Travelers and diners today, especially the younger crowd, prefer places that appear to be bustling and lively. Layout modifications and adding attractive details to interiors can indicate that the company is heading through a time of change. It does not have to be a complete overhaul; a fresh coat of paint or some indoor plants can brighten up the space.   Keep your hand on the pulse Measures must be applied appropriately and timely, right after they've been detected, otherwise even your loyal guests might reconsider their choices and look out for new places. This entails regular trainings, revising procedures and regulations and making sure that everyone in the venue is aware of the new track.   Photo credits Andrea Piacquadio

Across the globe, humanity experienced emotional trauma these past two years. As we are closer to seeing the light at the end of this bumpy road, there are important ways you can help your clients and guests heal. 

As employers we expect our associates to be the best of the best so they can drive the business. HR professionals spend hours recruiting talent BUT unfortunately, not all of them succeed or last in the company. 

Marie Basset is here to help people understand what strengths, skills, values they have and how they can use them to improve their careers.