General Manager Toni Toshev aims to elevate guest experience at Hotel

Five-star hotel Le Méridien Batumi in the Black Sea resort city of Batumi has been offering guests upscale facilities and services that reflect the European brand’s chic and discovery-oriented approach. General Manager Toni Toshev told Golden Brand that the “entire team” is dedicated to improving overall guest experience.

“From renovations aimed at modernizing facilities and improving aesthetics of innovative amenities and services, the focus remains on exceeding guests’ expectations. As it continues to grow and adapt, the hotel is poised to set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality for the region,” he said.

The hotel is also embracing technological advancements to streamline guest services and communication. This includes offering mobile check-in and keyless entry, as well as personalized digital concierge services. The goal is to improve convenience and efficiency while maintaining a personal touch in guest interactions.

Q. Le Méridien Batumi has won the Golden Brand Award as the favorite seaside hotel in Batumi. What do you believe the main factors in this recognition were?

A. The Golden Brand Award received by Le Méridien Batumi can be attributed to several key factors. Le Méridien Batumi is recognized for offering exceptional services and top-notch facilities intended to exceed guests’ expectations, including luxurious accommodations, dining experiences, enhanced spa services, and other amenities. The hotel uses unique and innovative services and experiences that distinguish it from other establishments in the market, involving creative event hosting, exclusive packages, and unique cultural experiences aligned with the brand’s identity. Being part of Marriott International and the winning loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, with over 200 million members, Le Méridien benefits from global recognition and brand identity with a commitment to high standards of provided services. Effective marketing strategies and public relations campaigns that enhance the hotel’s visibility and reputation in the market contribute to its positioning.

Q. Overall, what specific initiatives or strategies have been instrumental in the success and recognition of Le Méridien Batumi?

A. Le Méridien Batumi gains its recognition through accommodation excellency, enhanced culinary and dining experiences, and designated Health and Recreation facilities. A strategic approach to be the best place for accommodation combined with a knowledgeable and customers’ oriented team amongst a variety of other service initiatives collectively contributed to the hotel’s strong market position with the highest guest satisfaction index and positioning in the regional hospitality industry.

This is what led Le Meridien Batumi to being Georgia’s Leading Hotel for 2023 and 2024 at the World Travel Awards.

Q. What do you see as the defining characteristics that set Le Méridien Batumi apart from other hotels in the region?

A. Le Méridien Batumi stands out from other hotels in the region due to several defined advantages. Situated in a prime area of Batumi, the hotel offers stunning views of the Black Sea and easy access to local attractions, including Batumi Boulevard, the city’s beaches, and various cultural and entertainment venues. The hotel combines modern design with elegant touches of the domestic architecture style, creating a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. The interior features elegant decor, high-quality furnishings, and a mix of local and international art, creating a visually appealing and comfortable environment for guests. Le Méridien is known for its emphasis on culture and arts. The hotel often hosts local art exhibitions, cultural events, and provides the guests with vivid information about local culture and heritage, enriching their stay with a unique experience.

Q. In what ways do you ensure that the hotel maintains high standards of service and stays competitive in the industry?

A. Ensuring that a hotel maintains high standards of service and remains competitive in the industry involves several key strategies. A comprehensive training system is in place to develop the local talents of the hotel team and enable them to reach their full capabilities in providing the required high service. Emphasizing quality control over the entire hotel operation maintains the established standards and ensures consistency of services and facilities. Strong internal control and regularly conducted audits are essential for assessing the established procedures in an effort to evaluate and maintain the service quality, which is the fundamental element in guest satisfaction.

Q. What role has the hotel played in the development of the tourism industry in Adjara?

A. Le Meridien Batumi has been contributing significantly to the development of the tourism industry in Adjara by enhancing the region’s attractiveness as a premium travel destination. The hotel offers luxury accommodations that draw affluent travelers, including international tourists, thereby elevating the overall standard of hospitality in the area.

As part of Marriott International, the biggest world hotel chain, Le Meridien Batumi brings international recognition to Adjara, effectively marketing the region on a global scale and attracting tourists who might not have considered visiting otherwise. The hotel also hosts international events and conferences, promoting cultural exchange and exposing visitors to the rich heritage of Adjara, which enriches the experience for travelers and enhances the cultural fabric of the region.

Q. Le Méridien in Batumi is the only hotel of this type in the wider region. How important is it for Georgia’s hospitality industry to have this class of hotel?

A. I think it enriches the variety of the hotel brands in Georgia and provides more international recognition of already established standards of hospitality in the country. This gives a signal to global travelers that Georgia is reaching world-class hospitality benchmarks by enhancing the country’s reputation as a top travel destination.

Le Méridien’s presence in Batumi significantly enhances Georgia’s hospitality industry by boosting its international profile, attracting affluent tourists, and contributing to economic and infrastructural development. This not only benefits the local economy, but also positions Georgia as a premier destination for luxury and business travelers.

Q. How does the hotel engage with the local community, and what efforts are made to be socially responsible and environmentally friendly?

A. Our hotel engages with the local community through various initiatives aimed at fostering positive relationships and contributing to the well-being of the area. These efforts include partnering with local businesses and organizations, participating in community events, and supporting local causes throughout donations and volunteer work. Additionally, the hotel implements environmentally friendly practices such as energy and water conservation, waste reduction and recycling programs, and sourcing local and sustainable products. Social responsibility and environmental sustainability are increasingly important considerations for the hotel, as it strives to minimize the impact on the environment and make a positive contribution to the Batumi and Adjara community.