An exclusive interview with Boris Bornman, Complex General Manager at Starwood Hotels and Resorts; in which he unveils the beauty of Egypt and talks about one of the most exceptional touristic spot in Egypt, Suma Bay, where beauty and mystery are united to create a harmonious symphony of nature. He also addresses the unique innovative techniques employed by Starwood hotel chain, which actually makes it one of the best hotel chains worldwide.
How did you start your career in hotel business?
Actually, I started my career as a policeman, which was a totally different field from tourism; however it has given me discipline to manage my career. I started my work in hotel business in South Africa where I have reached various managerial positions. I have actually joined Starwood chain five years ago.
You are currently working as Complex General Manager at Starwood Hotels and Resorts, in your opinion what makes Suma bay a unique touristic destination?
I really think Suma Bay is one of the most beautiful spots in the world; it is actually a very secure environment. It has got the best hotel brands in the world; The Breakers hotel, Kempinski, Sheraton and Westin Soma Bay Golf Resort and Spa, which is the first Westin hotel in Egypt. Every hotel actually has a unique concept that it is selling to its guests. The Westin Soma Bay is a hotel that is committed to enhancing guests’ well-being. At Westin, every aspect of the guest experience is designed to ensure that travellers leave feeling better
than when they arrived, from our innovative programmes and instinctive service to revitalising amenities and refreshing ambience. In the spirit of renewal, Westin design takes its inspiration from nature and reflects its vitality, energising and recharging guests. To provide a truly holistic experience of well-being, each signature Westin programme is developed to help guests Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, or Play Well. For a better you. It has also a Kite house and I believe Suma Bay is one of the best spots in the world for kite surfing. There is also a five meter long beautiful reef in front of the hotel. As for Sheraton Suma bay, it is the gathering place for friends and families in Suma bay. The Sheraton Soma bay is a five-star resort inspired by Luxor’s Karnak Temple situated directly on 800 meters of beautiful beachfront. Its spacious 326 guest rooms and suites are carefully designed for a refreshing, relaxing, yet elegant décor & amenities. The beach suites feature lush landscaping and a private pool.
What do you regard as the unique selling point (USP) of Starwood Chain?
I would say that innovation is the unique selling point of Starwood chain; we are constantly looking for new and innovative ways for accommodation, food, entertainment and other various important element. I believe Starwood Company is a very creative company that is backed up with a very powerful team; we are often looking forward to leave an impact on people’s lives to create magical moments that our guests will always remember Starwood sell to its guests an experience not just a service and this is actually where we excel. Others hotels might be selling services. Good experience, actually stick with people and help to create brand loyalty.
In your opinion, Does Suma Bay receives good marketing as a special tourist spot in Egypt? You think it deserves more tailored marketing?
Well there is no doubts that marketing is an ongoing process; I believe as Starwood Chain,we have created good marketing and positing for Sheraton and Westin within the Egyptian market and the global market. We can always do more marketing with the use of technology and social media the marketing process became an easier process. I believe good marketing must embrace tailored marketing, in which you identify your specific target audience and set your desired goals and upon that you take the needed actions.
#Stay Tuned to the second part of the interview of Boris Bornman
