Asmita Mukherjee - Hyderabad Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel is a boutique hotel surrounded by lush rainforests and the majestic backdrop of Ao Nang Cliff. It has recently opened its doors for the guests and is focusing on leisure and weddings guests from India. In a conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, Lee Richards, Senior Vice President – Operations and Development, Central Asia, Swiss-Belhotel International elaborated on his target segments and plans to attract Indian travellers.
Lee Richards, Senior Vice President – Operations and Development, Central Asia, Swiss-Belhotel InternationalHow is The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel geared to tap the Indian market?
The staying experience goes beyond a destination resort or villa; we offer a cultural stay where guests can explore the history of local fishermen and unique traditions of the Krabi way of life. Our service-minded staff have been trained to treat guests not as visitors but as a family coming to their hometown hence, they will be willing to go the extra mile providing the best caring assistance for the guests to enjoy their stay. Whether giving the best beach spots, finding car rent, or chatting in the restaurant, we understand what makes a great journey beyond ‘where’ and ‘what’ you see and visit, but also who crosses your path to make memories with you. This is how we deliver our Swiss-Belhotel International Passion and Professionalism service.
What is your strategy to capture the interests of the Indian travel trade?
The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel and Swiss-Belhotel International are working closely with our partners in India to enable all guests who stay at the hotel to have a seamless experience. Employees have been trained, so they are able to serve customers, especially those from India.
Which segments in India are your key focus areas?
We are working particularly on leisure breaks, weddings and also celebrations, with the hotel just 5 minutes from Ao Nang beach and the many island-hopping excursions, the Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss Belhotel is the perfect location.
Who are your target customers?
We look forward to offering guests an unrivalled hospitality experience in this haven of serenity located in one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations. It is a place where travellers can connect with nature while enjoying excellent facilities making it the perfect choice for all types of guests
Aside from its convenient location, 5 minutes from the beach and night market and 15 minutes from Krabi Airport, The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel stands in awe culturally and architecturally. It is a gorgeous boutique hotel surrounded by lush rainforests and the majestic backdrop of Ao Nang Cliff. The hotel’s distinctive architecture combines folk art with stylish touches. The combination of the decorative heritage embellishments and the canopy that shelters every villa makes the property unique and culturally gorgeous. Imagine swimming in the pool overlooking to the stunning cliff.
Which Indian regions and cities are you targeting?
We are particularly working to attract all guests who travel to Thailand and wish to stay in a sanctuary hidden gem. The market is very strong inbound from India at present, especially as the World has been more or less closed for the past two years. The Indian travellers are explorers and they enjoy being able to relax and enjoy comforts from home. The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel certainly offers all of their expectations, from location, sanctuary and also being able to explore the beautiful country of Thailand.
Are there any B2B tie ups on the cards for The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel in the Indian market?
Most definitely, we are currently talking to a number of companies through our partners, and so far, it is extremely encouraging to find their reaction. They seem to be extremely excited with The Scene Cliff View Villas by Swiss-Belhotel.
Do you have any plans to tie-up with OTAs and travel agents in the future?
As an International company, Swiss-Belhotel International has group contracts with many OTA’s, who are very excited with the latest edition to the Group. We are working with all of our partners, so to maximum full exposure of the Hotel. We offer preferred rates where the customers can enjoy the benefits.
Kindly explain your expansion and investment plans
With several properties under negotiation in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia our development plans in the area look exciting. We are making great progress in the region and expect to have up to 20 properties under management within the next 18 months.
asmita.mukherjee@saffronsynergies.in
