My Interview with Vana Belle, A Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui General Manager

1. What do you do at the Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui？

I am the General Manager. My primary responsibility is to ensure that our guests have an unforgettable experience during their stay with us.

To achieve this, I focus on creating a seamless and luxurious atmosphere throughout the resort, from the moment they arrive to the moment they depart.

To do this, I rely on my team of dedicated professionals, who are the backbone of our resort. I believe that a happy and fulfilled team is essential to delivering exceptional service, so I prioritize their well-being and create a positive and supportive work environment.

This includes providing ongoing training and development opportunities, recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance, and encouraging open communication and collaboration.

I also work closely with them to identify areas for improvement and implement changes that enhance our amenities and services.

2. Tell us about your journey, how did it all start?

It began with a simple passion to please others and a desire to discover the world. Additionally, I truly enjoy human interactions.

At 18, I decided to make a significant change in my life and pursued studies and work in the hospitality industry.

I started from entry-level positions. I learned the fundamentals of hotel operations and guest services. These early experiences were invaluable in shaping my understanding of the industry.

Over the years, I gradually moved into various roles, learning and growing at each step.

I had the opportunities to work at some wonderful luxury hotels and resorts in the United States, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and North Africa, learning from many talented professionals and enriching myself with the diverse cultures I encountered.

3. Can you tell me about your first job in the hospitality industry?

Sure, I started working as a waiter in a holiday club resort. Long hours, speed of service, a pretty exhausting job I must say. 

But on another hand, being part of that large and diverse team which included chefs, receptionists, housekeepers, carpenters, artists, singers, sports coaches and gardeners was an incredible experience for me. There were so much to explore and so many different people with unique strengths.  It was truly a mind-blowing experience!

4. How would you define the purpose of a hotel?

The purpose of a hotel nowadays extends beyond providing basic accommodations. It is to offer an unparalleled level of comfort, service, and personalized experiences.

A luxury hotel should create a sanctuary for guests, where every detail is meticulously crafted to exceed their expectations.

This includes offering exceptional amenities, exquisite dining options, and unique experiences that reflect the local culture and environment.

5. What motivates you about working in hospitality?

I am by motivated by several factors:

Creating Exceptional Experiences: The drive to provide guests with memorable and extraordinary experiences, tailored to their individual preferences and needs.

Attention to Detail: The satisfaction of perfecting every detail to achieve the highest standards of luxury and excellence.

Personal Connections: Building meaningful relationships with guests and making them feel valued and special.

Innovation and Creativity: The opportunity to innovate and create unique and bespoke services or experiences that stand out in the luxury market.

6. Why do you want to be a manager for this hotel chain?

Marriott has a commitment to excellence and it has global reputation for providing exceptional guest experiences.

I have also been particularly impressed by Marriott’s strong principle of “looking after our associates” which underscores the importance of supporting and valuing employees.

Being part of Marriott enables me to drive excellence in service, create memorable experiences for guests, and contribute to a brand that sets the standard for luxury and hospitality around the world, all while championing the well-being of our associates.

7. What attractions would you recommend to hotel guests?

Ang Thong National Marine Park: Explore this stunning archipelago of 42 islands featuring pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and impressive limestone cliffs. Activities include snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking to panoramic viewpoints.

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai): Visit this iconic 12-meter-tall statue located on a small island connected by a causeway. The temple offers cultural insights and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Na Muang Waterfalls: Experience the natural beauty of Koh Samui with a visit to these picturesque waterfalls. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools or a scenic hike through the lush jungle.

Fisherman’s Village: Explore this charming area in Bophut known for its vibrant market, boutique shops, and excellent dining options. It’s a great place to experience local culture and cuisine.

Chaweng Beach: Relax on one of the island’s most popular beaches, known for its fine white sand and clear waters. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beachfront dining.

Samui Elephant Sanctuary: Visit this ethical elephant sanctuary to learn about and interact with rescued elephants in a humane and responsible environment.

Secret Buddha Garden: Discover this tranquil and hidden garden nestled in the hills of Koh Samui, featuring a collection of statues and sculptures set amidst lush greenery.

Koh Samui’s Night Markets: Experience local life and cuisine at various night markets around the island, where you can sample street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

8. What is the USP (Unique Selling Proposition) of the hotel? How has the resort positioned itself in this competitive market?

Our exceptional blend of luxury, privacy, and personalized service set against the backdrop of a stunning natural environment.

9. Could you tell us about some new initiatives that the hotel has recently unveiled?

Recently, our green committee made a troubling observation: the amount of plastic washing up on our beaches has not decreased. In response, we launched the Wan Nee Soo Vana project to collect plastic waste, clean it, sort it, shred it, and then melt it down to create useful objects. To date, we have collected and processed over 240 kg of plastic.

The Wan Nee Soo Vana project also has an educational component. We offer a half-day educational programme in which our guests can participate in plastic collection and recycle process. We also invite local schools to visit and engage in the activity, to foster awareness and encourage the next generation to care for our environment.