When Jeremy Samuels was little, his parents would often travel for business, and sometimes, he was just lucky enough to tag along on the adventure. Starry-eyed and curious, he has always been fascinated by the romance of hotels from a young age.
"I have fond memories of staying in some of the grand old five-star hotels of the 80s and '90s in Australia – specifically the smells from freshly baked pastries from the restaurants at breakfast and the small touches in the rooms when we arrived."
Now, with a degree in Hotel Management under his belt and as the General Manager at Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, it is Samuels' mission to recreate those nostalgic feelings and memorable moments for every guest that sets foot in his beloved hotel.
"There is something magical when you combine the location in Queenstown, the French luxury aspect of the hotel and its boutique size that creates a beautiful opportunity to engage with guests from all over the world. The pace and style of service are far more relaxed than in the city hotels I have worked in and managed, and I take genuine delight in creating those special moments that only Queenstown can deliver."
Sofitel Queenstown Lobby
Located in the heart of Queenstown, the five-star Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa is a luxuriously appointed accommodation showcasing a blend of French Art de Vivre and locally inspired design. Guests staying at the hotel are guaranteed a magnifique experience with its combination of the brand story, décor, location, community and distinct "Cousu Main" (tailor-made) service.
Over the past two years in a pandemic-fuelled society, a lot of emotional decision-making had to be let go to keep up with the pace of the changing hospitality landscape and evolving needs of today's travellers. However, the passion and culture of delivering Cousu Main service and celebrating Joie de Vivre prevailed. "Our focus has always been to keep our service experience in line with our brand values no matter the cost," he said.
COVID-19 brought about many challenges for the hotel, ranging from issues with supply chains, manning and talent to border and government restrictions. Samuels is incredibly proud of how the team united to overcome all the hurdles with a smile on their face and a spring in their step. According to him, this was only possible because of their passion and dedication to their art.
Before the pandemic, the guest profile's primary demographic was travellers from the United States, followed by Australia and New Zealand in a distant third place. However, with the onset of the pandemic, the focus has shifted to the domestic market.
"Despite the borders now open again, and a strong return of those traditional markets, we have made many friends and raving fans from the domestic market over the past few years, so expect a small percentage of return business as a result."
In 2025, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa will turn 20, and the team is currently working with the hotel's key stakeholders on the next chapter of its story. Whilst still in the early days, discussions have been heavily focused on technological enhancements, food and beverage with the addition of a signature bar or restaurant, and a refresh of the guestroom.
