Our loyal customers always prefer to come back: Soares

HERALD: Goa as a tourist state, how are we doing in hospitality sector?

VICTOR SOARES: While the numbers speak well and current occupancies are in line with market potentials, we at Radisson Blu Goa, anticipate the market to improve further in the coming months. So far, it has been a very encouraging 2018-19, which brings in greater expectations. Our hotel has established its identity well over the years. Domestic trends are setting strong signals of an ever growing market and that is here to stay at least till 2020.

HERALD: What are new things from your side which we will see in Goa in near future?

VS: Goa will definitely see a digital boom in the coming years and it will be of great help in the hospitality sector. The main aim is to make the hotel industry a more tech-friendly space through new-age technology for our guests. With better roadways connecting North and South Goa commuting will become easy which is currently a hindrance for guests. 

HERALD: How is your hotel unique and what do you offer to Goa?

VS: Radisson Blu Resort Goa at Cavelossim Beach is the ultimate leisure getaway specially designed for natural living and to create a perfect balance between people and their environment. Overlooking scenic waters of the Arabian Sea, and with sprawling lawns, our hotel makes for an ideal setting for a serene and quite holiday, weddings, photo shoots and various other celebrations.

Radisson has always been recognised for its food and beverage outlets and has a very loyal following in the area and is a favourite among local Goan families. The hotel is home to four different outlets with distinct cuisine selection; GREEK being one of the popular ones. Our Sunday thematic brunch is already a talk of the town. We have a strong food and beverage team which is our back bone and they provide the best of food and services. Some new dining concepts are being developed which would be rolled out in 2019.

HERALD: What are the new projects which you are working on?

VS: We are looking at expanding our room inventory in the coming year and also planning to offer big banqueting space. Even we are working towards improving the existing product and refurbishing rooms and key F&B outlet. We are also coming up with a new dining concept for the first time in Goa; Innovation is the need of the hour as it is this that provides a key to success. It is our aim to provide our guests with the best of hospitality experience. One needs to constantly come up with creative ideas to keep up with the rising trends of the industry.

HERALD: Where all are you providing your services and how would you rate the Goa market as compared to others?

VS: According to guest satisfaction survey, we are currently among the first four in our competition set. With an increasing number of guests visiting the property and getting familiar with the brand and our services, we have managed to achieve a great share in the market. Goa tourism should consider making transport facilities at reasonable rates. This will encourage to and from movement of guests from North and South. 

Tourists have realised that the rates of taxis are more as compared to other tourist spots across the country and they resort to self-driven vehicles. There are more travellers coming to Goa and looking for a place to unwind and spend quality time in, something which fits their hotel’s bill. Since our hotel is situated slightly away from the main Margao city, the main challenges include commuting, multiple hotels in this coastal belt and competition in the restaurant space. 

HERALD: How is the footfall in your property?

VS: Our loyal customers always prefer to come back and experience our warm hospitality and food. We also do outdoor catering at villas, farm houses and private parties. 

We are constantly working to create a WOW and give memorable experiences to our guests with personalized offerings and establish a benchmark through impeccable service standards thereby living up to the tag line of “Feel the difference” at pocket friendly rates.