Portrait: Marie Morales, accommodation Manager
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Marie, I am 29 years old and I am the Accommodation Manager at the West End Hotel. My main role is to ensure that our guests have a smooth stay, supervising both the reception and room service. My goal is to ensure perfect coordination between the various accommodation services in order to offer a smooth, pleasant and memorable experience to each of our visitors.
What do you love most about your job?
I have always been passionate about the hotel industry. I started my career at the West End Hotel 12 years ago, when I was only 16 years old. It was a memorable first experience that confirmed my vocation. I then obtained a BTS (Higher Technical Certificate) in hotel management, which allowed me to join some very fine establishments and continue to develop my skills.
There are two things I particularly love about my job: first, the guests, because we strive to give them a unique experience that goes far beyond the ordinary; and second, the relationship we have with our colleagues. Working with different people, building joint projects, developing a team… all of this is extremely rewarding and motivating.
What advice would you give to a new employee?
I would tell them that if they have the desire, nothing is impossible. Hospitality is a passionate profession that requires commitment but offers many opportunities in return. With motivation and discipline, you can go very far.
What is your favourite place at the West End Hotel?
My favourite place is the hotel forecourt. For two reasons: it’s the first place a guest sees when they arrive and the last place they see when they leave. It symbolises both the beginning and the end of a stay. When you walk through these doors, you enter a place steeped in history, founded in 1842, with an atmosphere that you don’t want to leave… and that makes you want to come back.
What are your fondest memories of the hotel?
I particularly like the summer season, because everything speeds up. We welcome a demanding clientele, accustomed to luxury, with specific expectations, particularly in terms of concierge services. This requires real responsiveness, good coordination and a lot of support for the teams. In winter, the atmosphere is different, more local. We see our regulars, guests who know us well and come back because they appreciate our services. Each season has its own challenges, rhythms and atmospheres… and that’s what allows me to experience a variety of memories, always rich and unique.
What advice would you give guests to help them enjoy their stay?
I would advise them to start the day with breakfast at La Palmeraie, in a magnificent setting, with a wide choice of products. Then, set off to explore Old Nice, discover the Cours Saleya market, taste a socca, and enjoy the beaches. I also recommend visiting the surrounding area, such as Villefranche-sur-Mer. And to end the day on a high note, have an aperitif at the hotel and, ideally, dine at Le Siècle restaurant to prolong the experience in an elegant and welcoming setting.