DENPASAR – A leading Bali hotel general manager has said that marketing has never been so important as it is now for hotels to stay connected with their guests.
Sylvain Pasdeloup, area general manager Accor Bali and Lombok, and GM of Sofitel Bali said, “ We all believe that this recovery will not be a matter of re-opening our doors and just waiting for guests, but will most probably be our biggest battle ever, to reassure people that it is safe to travel and that they are free to explore the world once again.
“As hoteliers, we have never seen such a drastic and rapid change within our hotels in Bali, from initial confusion to full-on emergency mode. The day to day operations are not even comparable to anything we have ever experienced before.
“However, hoteliers are fighters and warriors. We have a passion for our industry and our guests that no one can defeat, and we will come back stronger than ever.”
Mr Pasdeloup said marketing and communications were essential to allow the hotel business to be maintained, “and to protect our employees to continue earning a minimum wage to support their families and loved ones”.
“We recognise that a guest should not have to think about this, but I believe that this is an extraordinary situation, and hope that people understand the need to support each other as much as possible in these unprecedented times.
“We are offering flexibility in regard to our terms and conditions, but we are asking our guests to consider rebooking rather than a cancellation and refund.
“We are also using our marketing and social media platforms to support, encourage and offer hope to those who need it most. We have partnered with some local associations who help small local hospitals and communities with donations of food parcels and supplies.”