Unconventional Wellness: Discussing the impact of innovation and technology trends on the spa and wellness sector

With the wrap-up of the October's Hospitality Shining Stars Awards, we are glad to speak to the distinguished Top-rated Property Leaders selected by voting recognised for their exceptional contributions and innovative approaches to property management. These top leaders embody the spirit of excellence, resilience, and creativity that drives the industry forward.  Ahmed Elnawawy | General Manager - Rixos Bab Al Bahr, United Arab Emirates What his colleagues say: “Since taking over as General Manager of Rixos Bab Al Bahr in January 2023, Mr. Ahmed Elnawawy has proven to be an extraordinary leader, transforming the resort across multiple dimensions. His leadership has driven improvements in employee engagement, guest satisfaction, revenue generation, and sustainability, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the hospitality industry. Mr. Ahmed's leadership style is rooted in empathy, transparency, and empowerment, creating a culture of mutual respect and open communication. This approach has fostered a collaborative and positive work environment, which has directly contributed to the resort’s success. Numerous return guests have praised the heightened quality of service, facilities, and entertainment. Financially, the resort has excelled under Mr. Ahmed’s leadership, surpassing revenue expectations. Mr. Ahmed has skilfully managed the budget, balancing improvements to facilities, rooms, and the entertainment program while maintaining strong profitability. Sustainability is a key focus for Mr. Ahmed, who has implemented 51 sustainability initiatives in 2023 alone. Among these are the elimination of single-use plastics and the introduction of a water bottling facility, which has reduced the resort’s environmental impact. Mr. Ahmed’s leadership at Rixos Bab Al Bahr has been instrumental in elevating the resort’s standards across all areas of operation. His focus on employee engagement, guest satisfaction, revenue growth, and sustainability has transformed the resort into a benchmark for excellence in the hospitality industry. Through his visionary approach, strategic management, and deep commitment to both people and the environment, Mr. Ahmed has ensured the continued success and growth of Rixos Bab Al Bahr. His accomplishments over the past year demonstrate his remarkable leadership and dedication to creating a thriving and sustainable resort.” Andrew Jansson | Cluster General Manager - Centara Lagoon Mirage Maldives and Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives What his colleagues say: “With nearly 30 years of experience in hospitality, Andrew has held leadership roles across 14 countries with prestigious hotel brands like Hyatt, Shangri-La, One&Only, and Minor. His current position at Centara marks his fourth management role in the Maldives, where he will oversee the pre-opening and strategic development of both island resort properties. Andrew's extensive background equips him to drive excellence and innovation in these exciting new projects.” What do you love the most about hospitality? AJ: “For me, it’s about being part of those special moments, knowing that what we do, has somehow played a role in creating experiences and memories that our guests will share for a lifetime.” What makes one a true hotelier? AJ: “You have the be a people person, and you have to have a passion for what you do, no matter how unappreciative it may seem at times. The job satisfaction comes from the smile on people’s faces; whether it’s making a couple’s dream vacation come true, or being a part of a young colleague’s career development and growth. Those little moments is what it’s all about.“ Fernando Horta | General Manager - Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, France What his colleagues say: “Fernando has over 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having held leadership positions at prestigious hotels across Europe. Known for his dedication to excellence, he focuses on delivering innovative guest experiences and cultivating a strong service culture. His strategic vision and passion for crafting unforgettable stays have firmly established Hotel de Bourgtheroulde as a top destination in the industry.” What do you love the most about hospitality? FH: “What I love the most is the endless possibility of crafting new experiences for our guests. See the joy in their eyes when they are delighted with something. Sometimes it can be something simple, but if provided from the heart, it will make a difference.” What makes one a true hotelier? FH: “The passion put forward in order to fulfill a promise. The ability to adapt to other cultures, speaking several languages, caring for the associates, spending time helping them grow, looking after the assets as if they are your own.” Nizam Hassan | Executive Assistant Manager - The Nautilus Maldives What his colleagues say: “Nizam began his hospitality career over two decades ago as an apprentice at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and has since worked with renowned brands like One & Only, TAJ, and Anantara. With extensive expertise in service and culinary arts, he believes his attention to detail is key to driving his team’s motivation and achieving exceptional results. His commitment to excellence continues to be a valuable asset in delivering top-tier hospitality experiences.” What do you love the most about hospitality? NH: “What I love most about the hospitality industry is the ability to create memorable experiences for people. It's a field where empathy, creativity, and service come together to make others feel valued and cared for. From personal interactions with guests to the atmosphere you help build, hospitality is all about making someone’s day brighter. The diversity of people you meet and the chance to learn from different cultures is also incredibly rewarding, making each day unique and exciting.” What makes one a true hotelier? NH: “A true hotelier exemplifies exceptional guest focus, attention to detail, and a deep passion for hospitality. They demonstrate strong leadership, adaptability, and consistently strive to exceed guest expectations, ensuring seamless operations and memorable experiences. Their commitment to service excellence is the hallmark of their professionalism.”  

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!

Stephan Anseline, the General Manager of LUX* Grand Gaube in Mauritius, made the headlines this month for winning the Hospitality Shining Stars Awards. We asked him to share some inspiring wisdom with our readers and aspiring property leaders. What colleagues say about Stephan: “Stephan’s remarkable ability to stay ahead ensures that he not only maintains but redefines the highest standards of excellence. His leadership blends deep understanding with firm determination, fostering a growth-oriented environment where every team member feels inspired and valued. Unlike others who may cause discomfort, Stephan is an action-taker who leads with conviction and unwavering integrity, earning profound respect from his team through both his words and actions.” LUX* Grand Gaube HC: What was your first job in the industry? SA: “After completing my hotel school, my first job in the industry was as a waiter. I learned a lot about customer service, teamwork, and multitasking. It was already a fast-paced environment, and I loved interacting with guests and making sure they had a great experience. Plus, it taught me valuable skills like communication and time management that I still use today.” HC: What do you love the most about hospitality? SA: “What I love the most about hospitality is the opportunity to create memorable experiences for people through innovation and creativity. There’s something special about making someone’s day better through great service, whether it’s a warm welcome, a delicious meal, a friendly conversation or simply, a smile. I also appreciate the sense of community within the industry; it’s all about teamwork and supporting each other to provide the best experience possible. Additionally, every day brings new challenges and interactions, which keeps things exciting!” HC: What was the biggest challenge you had to overcome on your way to success? SA: “The biggest challenge I faced on my way to success was learning to manage stress and stay organized in a fast-paced environment. In my early days as a waiter, and still now, the pressure during busy shifts could be overwhelming. I had to develop strong multitasking skills and find effective ways to prioritize tasks while maintaining a positive attitude. With time and experience, I learned how to stay calm under pressure and communicate effectively with both my team, peers and guests, which made a huge difference in my performance and confidence.” HC: What would be your advice to beginners in the industry? SA: “My advice to beginners in the hospitality industry would be to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Stay Positive: Attitude matters! A positive outlook can transform both your experience and that of people around you. Communicate Clearly: Good communication is crucial. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about something—clarity is key- in every situation. Be Adaptable: The hospitality environment can change rapidly, so being flexible and open to new challenges will help you thrive. Build Relationships: Connect with your team and guests. Strong relationships can create a supportive work environment and enhance the guest experience. Learn from Feedback: Take constructive criticism to heart and use it to improve your skills. Everyone has room to grow! And lastly and most importantly - Enjoy the Journey: Have fun! The industry can be demanding, but it’s also rewarding and full of memorable moments.”