Since his childhood he has always had a passion for the luxury hospitality. Now, his dream has turned into a miraculous reality, and Hugues Miranda is now the Senior Head of Sales (for Europe, Russia & CIS) at the exclusive Oetker Collection. In this interview he tells about how he got into the luxury travel industry, shares his opinion why multigenerational trips are the biggest trend of 2019 and reveals one of his favourite hotels in the world!
Hugues, when and how did you get into the luxury travel industry?
I have always been passionate about the good restaurants and nice hotels. This was probably due to my grandmother’s addiction to the Red Michelin Guide. Growing up, even if as a family we were not always staying in top hotels, I always wanted to have at least a drink at the bar with my parents. I went to a preparatory school and studied Literature and then followed my dream and joined a Hotel Business School in Paris. I understood that my passion was definitely for the hotel industry!
What is the vision of the Oetker Collection brand?
"We are hosts of choice creating meaningful connections in endearing places."
How does the company decide on destinations where the next Oetker Collection property will be?
It is a good question and always linked to good opportunities naturally. The key being the location. In terms of development, we want to develop the city side of our current portfolio and we know that we will be one day in New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Moscow or Rome… The idea is to multiply by 2 the number of current hotels in the next 10 years, adding roughly one per year.
Have you noticed any new trends in luxury travel?
Yes, multigenerational trips have been a trend for sometime and again is definitely key in 2019. Families want to spend time together often in a private environment. This is one of the reasons we have started Masterpiece Estates which is a collection of beautiful homes where families can meet and enjoy each other’s company.
Who is the most inspiring person for you in the industry?
With no doubt, Jean-Pierre Soutric with who I had the privilege to work for few years.
Besides Oetker Collection properties, which is your favourite hotel or resort that you stayed at. and why?
Interesting question I must say… La Mamounia is for me one of my favourites in the world. But it is also linked to the destination as I am a huge fan of Marrakech. The smell, the food, people, the vibes. It is already a very exotic destination within 3 hours flight and the weather is always nice. The views from the rooms overlooking the legendary garden of La Mamounia and the Atlas mountains, the Maroccan restaurant and the perfume in the public areas are just exquisites.
Besides travel and hotels, what is your other passion?
I love antiques and every weekend I like to spend time in the many wonderful markets in Paris to add to my collection.
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