The Hospitality Blog

At VERTU Hospitality,
we love to share various experiences, topics, news with our readers.

Hospitality Sustainability Gerald Lampaert Hospitality Sustainability Gerald Lampaert

Embracing Sustainability, a Prerequisite at VERTU Hotels and Resorts

At VERTU Hotels and Resorts, we believe in curating experiences that not only transcend expectations but also contribute to a sustainable and responsible future. Our commitment to authenticity extends beyond impeccable service and luxurious accommodations; it encompasses a dedication to the local communities we serve and the planet we call home. This translates in a few impactful topics …

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The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert

Crafting Exquisite Experiences at the Grand Hotel Campione.

This week while we were working on a special project at the property, it was truly an extraordinary experience to meet with Mauro Griguoli, the General Manager at the Grand Hotel Campione, a distinguished member of Vertu Hotels and Resorts. Mauro's passion for his job, his property, and the connections he fosters with his clients is nothing short of inspiring.

From the moment our conversation began, it was evident that Mauro's enthusiasm for his role went beyond the responsibilities of a General Manager. His eyes lit up as he spoke about the intricacies of the Grand Hotel Campione, each detail of the property seemed to be a testament to his dedication. It wasn't merely a place of business for him; it was a canvas on which he painted his passion for hospitality.

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The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert

The Power of a Diverse Advisory Board in Hospitality

In the dynamic world of hospitality, having a solid and diversified advisory board is not just an option; it's a strategic imperative for success. At VERTU Hotels and Resorts, we understand the immense value that a diverse advisory board brings to our organisation, and we would like to share some key insights into why this is so crucial.

An advisory board comprised of individuals from various backgrounds and industries brings a diverse range of expertise to the table. This wealth of knowledge allows us to make informed decisions, gain fresh perspectives, and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality sector with confidence.

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Gerald Lampaert Gerald Lampaert

Leveraging External Hospitality Experts for Operational Excellence.

VERTU Hospitality is on the cusp of completing a substantial multi-property mountain resort audit and project management endeavor. This significant undertaking underscores our commitment to delivering results and maximizing the potential of hospitality ventures in diverse settings.

Our imminent success in managing this extensive project further exemplifies the depth of our expertise and the practical application of our vision. We believe that this hands-on experience positions us uniquely to share our knowledge with other hotels and resorts seeking transformation and growth. By sharing our vision and expertise described below, we aim to facilitate a ripple effect of positive change within the hospitality industry.

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Gerald Lampaert Gerald Lampaert

Staff party - a true social benefit ?

Recently, I was kindly invited to one of the hotel’s staff party. I have to admit that it was so delightful to see the whole staff of the hotel getting together and having lots of fun dancing and singing . I believe that such events are so efficient and helpful, and unifying team members is always a good idea.

Organising staff parties in the hospitality industry brings a multitude of social and human benefits to the organisation , fostering a vibrant and positive workplace culture….

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Gerald Lampaert Gerald Lampaert

Back at work…

Dear Esteemed Guest and Business Partners,

We hope this letter finds you in great health and spirits. As summer draws to a close and we about to welcome the vibrant colors of autumn, we want to extend our warmest greetings and a heartfelt "Welcome Back" from the entire VERTU Hospitality, Hotels, and Resorts team!

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

The Exquisite Advantage of a Michelin-Star Rated Executive Chef in a Hotel Restaurant

When it comes to culinary excellence, few accolades hold as much prestige and recognition as the Michelin star. For discerning food enthusiasts, the mere mention of a Michelin-starred restaurant conjures visions of gastronomic delights and unparalleled dining experiences. Now imagine having a Michelin-star rated executive chef at the helm of a restaurant in a hotel. This combination offers a unique and compelling advantage, elevating the entire hotel experience to extraordinary heights. Let's delve into the benefits of having such a renowned chef gracing the kitchen of a hotel restaurant.

A Michelin-star rated executive chef is a maestro in the culinary world, having proven their exceptional skills, innovation, and creativity. Their dishes are often an exquisite blend of flavors, textures, and presentation, leaving diners with an unforgettable taste sensation. With such a chef leading the kitchen, the hotel restaurant can offer a menu that tantalizes taste buds, pushes culinary boundaries, and keeps guests coming back for more.

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

The evolution of hospitality: from hotel rooms to immersive experiences.

Last week, we were on a romantic trip to Dubai to celebrate our soon to come 15th anniversary. I had booked a very nice mid-day swimming experience at Aura SkyPool & Lounge at the top (50th floor) of the Saint Regis Dubai the Palm. It was a unique moment of celebration with bubbles and fresh fruits with a stunning view on the city and The Palm Jumeirah, and it made me brainstorm about the evolution of hotels and destinations nowadays.

In the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry, a paradigm shift has occurred, transforming it from a simple transactional model of selling hotel rooms to a captivating realm of destinations where customer experience takes center stage. Much like the entertainment industry, hospitality has undergone a metamorphosis, now revolving around the concept of immersive experiences that surprise, relax, and create good vibes for guests. In today's world, couples and families seek uniqueness and memorable encounters they can enjoy and share with friends, leading to an explosion of creativity and crazy concepts that aim to surpass guest expectations.

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

Turning Mistakes into Opportunities

Last week, we were on a romantic trip to Dubai to celebrate our soon to come 15th anniversary in a few months. I had booked a very nice mid-day swimming experience at Aura SkyPool & Lounge at the top (50th floor) of the Saint Regis Dubai the Palm. It was a unique moment of celebration with bubbles and fresh fruits with a stunning view on the city and The Palm Jumeirah, and it made me brainstorm about the evolution of hotels and destinations nowadays.

In the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry, a paradigm shift has occurred, transforming it from a simple transactional model of selling hotel rooms to a captivating realm of destinations where customer experience takes center stage. Much like the entertainment industry, hospitality has undergone a metamorphosis, now revolving around the concept of immersive experiences that surprise, relax, and create good vibes for guests. In today's world, couples and families seek uniqueness and memorable encounters they can enjoy and share with friends, leading to an explosion of creativity and crazy concepts that aim to surpass guest expectations.

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Gerald Lampaert Gerald Lampaert

Enhancing Hospitality with AI-Generated Interior Design Renderings

In today's fast-paced world, technology has made its way into various industries, revolutionizing the way we work and create. One such innovation that has significantly impacted the world of interior design is Artificial Intelligence (AI). For developers of hotels and resorts, AI-generated interior design renderings offer a game-changing solution to visualize spaces and optimize design decisions.

AI has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and process complex design parameters, resulting in stunningly realistic and accurate interior design renderings. This technology can translate developers' visions into virtual reality with incredible detail, bringing to life every aspect of the proposed space. By harnessing AI-generated renderings, developers can make informed decisions about the layout, colors, textures, and overall ambiance, all before a single piece of furniture is purchased or a wall is painted.

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Hôtel Lighting and Effects Gerald Lampaert Hôtel Lighting and Effects Gerald Lampaert

The importance of Customized Lighting in Hotels and Resorts

When it comes to providing a memorable customer experience, every detail matters.

Hotels and resorts, being in the hospitality industry, understand the significance of ensuring their guests have an exceptional stay. One major component that plays a pivotal role in shaping this experience is the design and installation of appropriate internal and external lighting. Customized lighting systems, combined with ultra-professional lighting and special effects companies, can create a unique wow factor that becomes a key differentiator for the guests…

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

Disrupted caffeine ritual at a train station’s hotel.

It is no more secret I like to be relax in a hotel lobby, and a Cappuccino, one of my favorite hot drink at anytime of the day. Despite the circumstances, one would think that getting one in a hotel should not be so complicated, especially since early mornings can often be a race against time, when traveling. As a seasoned traveler, I have learned the value of being ahead of schedule, allowing me to savor the moments before embarking on a new adventure. However, a recent experience at a train station hotel in Paris last Tuesday morning left me disappointed and questioning the notion of basic service.

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Hotel Information Technology Gerald Lampaert Hotel Information Technology Gerald Lampaert

The importance of a strong IT and email Policy in hospitality is safeguarding against malicious attempts and protecting guest information.

VERTU Hotels and Resorts like every other hotel management group is very cautious about internal and clients security. This includes front-end and back-end information. In fact, in the digital age, the hospitality industry relies heavily on technology to provide efficient services, streamline operations, and enhance guest experiences. However, with the increasing level of malicious attempts, identity theft, and credit card breaches, it is crucial for hotels to prioritize the development and implementation of a robust IT and email policy. Such a policy serves as a critical defense mechanism against cyber threats, ensuring the security of guest information and safeguarding the reputation of the establishment.

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

The presentation of food and beverage products in hospitality is when quality must meets visual appeal.

The presentation of my favorite drink, a Cappuccino, had reached another level and it made me thinking of the importance the presentation because in the world of hospitality, the art of presentation holds a significant place when it comes to delighting hotel guests. While the quality and taste of food and beverages are undeniably important, the visual appeal and presentation of these products play a crucial role in creating a memorable dining experience. Just as we savor a meal with our taste buds, we also consume it with our eyes. As such, hotels and restaurants must pay meticulous attention to the presentation of their culinary offerings, recognizing that it is as important as the quality itself.

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The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert The People in Hospitality Gerald Lampaert

The Human Factor in Service Excellence

In an era of technological advancement and automation, the hospitality industry has seen the emergence of self-service check-in kiosks at hotel receptions. While the allure of efficiency and cost-saving measures may be tempting, it is crucial to recognize the irreplaceable importance of experienced staff in maintaining service excellence. The human factor, characterized by personalized attention, empathy, and problem-solving capabilities, remains a cornerstone of the hospitality industry. Let’s see why hotels should prioritize retaining their experienced staff over implementing self-service check-in kiosks (although they can be a good backup plan to decongest lobby’s during peak arrival time).

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Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert Customer Experience Gerald Lampaert

The Common Denominator between Luxury Hospitality and High Jewellery

This morning I was listening to a podcast where Estelle Lagarde, the famous jewellery designer and gouache painter, was speaking about her career path. Part of the content of her talk made me think about hospitality and what we are trying to achieve every day at VERTU Hotels and Resorts. In fact, in the realm of refined indulgence and exquisite craftsmanship, the two distinct worlds converge in a shared pursuit of creating extraordinary experiences.

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Meetings and Events Gerald Lampaert Meetings and Events Gerald Lampaert

The benefit of using external speakers to open a corporate event.

As I was reading this morning a LinkedIn post about holding the attention of the audience during a conference, it made me think about the importance of having an external speaker. We use Guest Speakers and Motivator’s for our events from time to time and they are instrumental in the success of every conference or corporate meeting. My Friends Gary Guller or Jones Loflin are both the perfect demonstration of how to turn a traditional conference into a special vibe.

Here are ten reasons why Hotels and Conference Centers should always have a list of guest and motivational speakers available for clients holding a conference in their venues.

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Hotel Operations Gerald Lampaert Hotel Operations Gerald Lampaert

The Crucial Role of a Maintenance & Engineering Department in a Hotel.

A well-maintained hotel is a haven for guests seeking comfort, convenience, and exceptional experiences. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of professionals in the maintenance and engineering department plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation and seamless functioning of the hotel's infrastructure. Let’s explore the importance of the maintenance and engineering department in a hotel, highlighting the most common requests they receive from both management and clients.

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VERTU Residences Gerald Lampaert VERTU Residences Gerald Lampaert

Hotel Brands Enter Residential Market to Elevate Hospitality to New Heights

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the real estate market, with luxury hotel brands such as VERTU Hotels and Resorts venturing into the residential sector. These brands are now offering hotel residences, providing owners and investors with a unique opportunity to experience the epitome of luxury living and be part of a new type of community, combined with world-class hospitality services. Here is a trend and highlights of the benefits for those considering purchasing hotel residences…

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