Ivan Artolli took the helm as managing director of one of the world’s most iconic properties, Hôtel de Paris, Monaco in 2016 and oversaw the detailed reimagination of this hospitality legend.
A true hotelier, Ivan has spent his career within the industry, having previously held executive positions at Rocco Forte Hotels and amassing numerous awards for his contributions. Here, Ivan talks about what it takes for a hotel to stay an icon.
Hôtel de Paris is one of the world’s most legendary hotels, what do you think makes an iconic hotel, and what is the continued allure for travelers?
The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo has been an icon since it opened in 1864. It was one of the very first hotels to offer a private bathroom for every room, and the hotel has continued to pioneer new levels of personalized and unparalleled service. The experiences and events over the centuries have kept Hôtel de Paris as one of the most sought-after places to stay in Europe, and our guests choose us for this legacy.
[See also: Inside the New-Look Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo]
The world of luxury is changing and becoming less formal. Do you think heritage hotels will need to evolve to meet demands or do you think their attraction is timeless?
A historical and iconic hotel attraction needs to be kept timeless, just like a precious jewel must be kept brilliant and shining. At the same time, almost everyone is becoming less formal, more casual and more youthful in their outlook, so we need to adapt to this trend whilst remaining classic. We are constantly looking for the right balance to strike.
Ivan Artolli became MD of the hotel in 2016
Have you seen the guest profile for Hôtel De Paris change over the years?
The changes we have observed are relative to our guests’ country of origin rather than our guest profile. We have always welcomed many families for their vacations or weekend breaks. At times, we host three generations of the same family and they remain regular clients for decades. We are a celebration hotel within a celebration destination, and we are confident that this will get back to a new normal.
Have the past six months changed your approach to hospitality in any way?
Our Hôtel de Paris vision and mission have not changed, but we have quickly adapted. First and foremost, we are the guardians of our client and team safety. The level of care and personalized attention by all hotel team members must remain the same.
[See also: Aman COO Roland Fasel on How Covid-19 Has Changed Travel]
Do you see the role of luxury changing in the future?
Luxury does not have the exact same meaning for all guests; however, it is mostly about anticipation, personalized service, memory creation and empathy. Our clients love to see that we are passionate about their enjoyment and well-being. We need to be the nurses of their souls and ensure we exceed their expectations.
Hôtel de Paris shimmers at dusk / ©montecarlosbm
What are you most looking forward to?
The future is tomorrow, and it is ten years from now. During this time, we will concentrate on taking the right and necessary steps, with the aim of nurturing the legend of the Hôtel de Paris and the spirit of the Principality.
Patricia Kahn-Saunders is a communications director specializing in luxury, travel and purpose-driven brands.
[See also: Top suites in the world: Prince Rainier Suite, Hôtel de Paris]
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