LUX July 2017

LUX - July 2017 61 A Multitude of Mediterranean Experiences always a favourable one. She also reveals the crucial role of the firm’s staff. “Our staff work closely with the guests to ensure all elements of their stay achieve nothing less than the highest standards. We call it perfectly imperfect, friendly, accommodating and informal. Every guest is welcomed through our reception with care and attention, before being shown to their room as well as being given insights about the latest happenings at the resort. “Also, our staff are both national and international. Indeed, the team is carefully selected through several interviews and evaluations. We provide in-house training, so that all the team members stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends.” Of course, there are several factors that make Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa unique. Jorge tells us what sets the firm apart in terms of what they offer. “There are many factors which make us unique from our competitors and neighbours. We believe we are the most Andalusian-style deluxe resort in the heart of Andalucía, indeed we are proud to be a member of the prestigious hotel collection ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’. 
 “We boast a superb beach front location in the middle of Marbella’s famous ‘Golden Mile’ and the most luxurious selection of suites in Costa del Sol, ranging from 55 sqm. to 250 sqm., with magnificent views over the Mediterranean Sea. We offer the largest standard guestroom in Costa del Sol, with one private terrace per bedroom, but we are also one of the few superior resorts which caters to the family market thanks to our newly launched luxury villas. “Our Plaza Village is the ultimate food destination by the sea, offering exquisite gastronomic variety in each of our 10 restaurants, including a 2- Star Michelin restaurant and the very first Nobu Restaurant Marbella. “Also, our world-class sporting facilities separate us from our competitors. We offer the largest on-site hotel tennis centre in Southern Spain, which regularly hosts the ‘Andalucia Tennis Experience’, part of the WTA Tour, the official ATP Tournaments and widely known Davies Cup. We also own two exclusive golf courses, the ‘Marbella Club Golf Resort’ and ‘El Higueral’, including a horse riding centre in the same area.” 
 Within the wider industry sector, Jorge says they are spotting several trends that they keep in mind. Following on from this, she reveals how guests’ expectations have changed over the years and how the firm has adapted to these. “Every year we see new trends emerge. The focus of 2017 is firmly on authenticity, unique experiences and, as always, incredible gastro experiences. We recognise these trends and ensure that each year that our F&B outlets, wellness offering and sporting facilities provide the best possible service, while showcasing and embracing our authentic Andalusian roots. “As a business, we are aware of the trends and fashions in the travel sector, but we make them work for both our clientele and services. It is important to offer an authentic and true experience, which is exactly what we do! “The guests’ needs and expectations are constantly changing, but as a business we strive to always meet and exceed these. The creation of the new villas to cater for family and multigenerational travel is an excellent example of this, as are the newly refurbished suites and the opening of the very first Nobu Marbella Restaurant and Hotel.” Jorge then turns our attention to the hospitality sector today and how the business has adapted around these. She also explains how the firm employs technology to ensure that clients enjoy the best possible experience. “The hospitality sector is constantly evolving and we continue to both develop and improve both our staff and facilities, to cater to the luxury traveller’s needs. We offer an array of bespoke services - to ensure our guests enjoy their stay - from start to finish. “In terms of technology, we do offer Wi-Fi access all over the resort. Having a tablet in every room keeps our clients informed of all the latest news and events on the property. In addition, we have created an app, which enables our clients to order room service, make reservations for restaurants and stay up-to-date with events.” In closing, Jorge is keen to reveal what the future has in store for the business, as well as the wider trends in the hospitality sector. “We continue to develop and perfect our offering, indeed we look forward to welcoming the very first Nobu Hotel Marbella in 2018. Aside from that, we are always reinventing ourselves and improving the resort. “The trends within the hospitality sector today are more focused on health and well-being. In this vein, we have already started to offer our clients integrated wellness packages and we are creating healthy menus for restaurants as well as collaborating with health-fitness camp organisers.”