 BY RAYNAH COUTINHO
Tell us about the most important guest you have ever hosted.
Mrs Pratibha Patil — while I was at Goa Marriott Resort. We had arranged a dinner for the government officials at Raj Bhawan.
What was the most nail-biting moment you experienced that day, hosting the most important guest of your career.
The moment Pratibha Patil shook my hand!! Fortunately (because my anxiousness might have been caught on camera) or unfortunately (what a moment to have not documented!), the photographer wasn’t there.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned, vis-Ã -vis a supplier?
Order your supplies on time and ensure that you always have your stocks in place.
What’s the best way for a hotelier to unwind?
Personally, I would have to say that the best way to unwind is going home to my family on time.
Which market or city do you find most exciting as an hotelier?
Bhopal. There is a strong dining out culture and our hotel is one of the avenues for people to head towards in the city. At the moment, demand exceeds supply in the industry as a whole — it is great and exciting to be a part of this growth story.
Your pet peeve, as far as hotels are concerned?
I’d give anything for a guest to be addressed by name. Guest recognition and a keen understanding of their needs is extremely important in the hospitality industry. It’s all about intuitive service and a tremendous eye for detail. This added attention makes all the difference and in my experience, is the key element that goes in the making of a loyalist, whether an in-house guest or one from the local market.
When was the last time you booked yourself for a spa treatment, while on a holiday?
I don’t remember the last time I went on a holiday…but in Goa, I used to visit the spa almost once a week.
