Aspiring to bring the beauty and hospitality of Vietnam to the world

Content, presentation: Ho Ha | Photo: NVCC

Before coming to Vietnam in 2020, Mr. Kristian Petersen - an expert and prestigious leader of the world-famous Marriott International Hotel Group was attracted by stories about the landscape, culture and rich history of the S-shaped country. But he could not imagine those wonders until he came here and explored and experienced them with his five senses.

Mr. Kristian shared that Vietnam holds a special place with a deep connection in his life journey. The attraction of this country is not only limited to career opportunities, but also becomes his second home, where every corner of the street resonates with warmth. The great charm of this country, the vibrancy of the cities, and the sincere hospitality of the people have touched his heart. And now, he wants to stay here for a long time to contribute to nurturing and bringing the beauty and hospitality of Vietnam to the world.

Sir , what brought you to Vietnam in 2020 ?

The vibrancy of the hospitality industry in Vietnam is what attracted me the most. Working here is not just a career path for me, but the attraction of the diverse identities of this country has really captivated me.

The long-standing culture, diverse traditions and the potential for tourism development have made me decide to choose Vietnam as the next stop in my career journey. This opportunity opens up an exciting new beginning for me to explore the delicate combination of traditional customs and contemporary beauty, along with the promising development and innovation of Vietnam in the hospitality industry.

Before coming to work in Vietnam, did you know anything about the "S-shaped country"?

Before coming to Vietnam, I was attracted by the stories of its rich culture and history and its diverse landscapes. The iconic S-shaped geography was especially appealing, from the beautiful Ha Long Bay covered in different shades of blue, to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and the coastline stretching over 3,200 km along the country.

Along with that, stories about many delicious dishes such as Pho and Vietnamese coffee drinking style made me feel excited. And there are also special festivals and colorful cultural traditions. All have painted a vivid picture of a resilient country and preserving its cultural identity.

I could not imagine those wonders until I came here and discovered and experienced them with my five senses.

What was your first impression when you came to Vietnam, and what has kept you in the "S-shaped country" for so many years?

Having the opportunity to explore and experience a vibrant country, I cannot help but be amazed by the wonderful blend of traditional and modern beauty of Vietnam. This perfect symphony has created an environment that exceeds my expectations for work, life and the innovations that are coming to me.

It is a blessing to explore the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam. From the vast peaceful spaces, to the bustling streets and unique cultural heritage, all leave an indelible mark on this journey.

Every experience during my time here is priceless and marked in my life. The harmony of tradition and the fresh breath of modernity of the hotel industry here is always the most attractive thing. That highlights the beauty of Vietnam like a painting, a destination with the intersection between the past and the future, between tradition and modernity.

As an expert in the tourism and hospitality industry, and passionate about discovery and experience, you must have had interesting discoveries about Vietnam?

During my 4 years working in the hospitality industry in Vietnam, I had the opportunity to explore the wonderful beauty of Vietnam’s nature and immerse myself in the vibrant life of its cities. It was an amazing adventure. It was like opening a gift, the peaceful and unique beauty of the S-shaped country slowly revealed itself.

Imagine yourself wandering through the enchanting landscapes of majestic nature, then immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of city life, where every street and alleyway tells its own unique story. What could be more exciting, right? (smiles)

Through these years, I have had for myself precious stories about the journey to discover the hidden beauty of Vietnam. Here, it is not only a job but also an adventure to discover the rich culture of Vietnam, where every moment becomes interesting and meaningful.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is the place you have been attached to the longest in Vietnam. Surely you have many memorable memories with this top resort in Vietnam that has won many prestigious awards?

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is more than a workplace. It is a chapter in my life story filled with special moments. Imagine, every day is made up of memorable moments, achievements of effort and helping guests have unforgettable experiences when coming to the resort. This is not just a job but a journey to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

And for the achievements and awards, it’s not just about the flashy exterior. Each recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion that my colleagues and I put into each guest’s journey – a clear testament to the outstanding moments we have built together. This is the result of the great efforts of the excellent team here, who work from the heart to create unique experiences in their own way.

Can you share about the difference between JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay and Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island , where you are operating ?

Coming to JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is like entering a magical world. The resort is a sophisticated work of art, giving the feeling of walking in a fairytale-like landscape, where every corner is symbolic and full of creativity. The magic here is not only in the exquisite design and architecture, but also in the unique atmosphere, and the wonderful experiences in every step of the guests at this resort.

Meanwhile, Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island, offers a completely different and equally attractive experience. The resort is surrounded by the gentle melodies of Nha Trang Bay - a perfect symphony of sea breeze and peaceful scenery. This is a paradise that brings a luxurious resort experience with a beautiful coastal view. The highlight of the resort is the fresh natural environment, creating a peaceful yet attractive atmosphere on the green island.

Each resort paints a unique picture. One is a mesmerizing architectural masterpiece, the other is a peaceful beauty by the blue sea inviting visitors to explore Vietnam in their own unique ways.

What are the natural landscapes and outstanding features of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island that tourists love, sir?

The attraction of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island is the perfect beauty of nature with the landscape covered in different shades of green. Moreover, the attraction lies in the amenities that the resort offers and the peaceful space with a view towards Nha Trang city. Here, visitors will have a wonderful vacation, far away from the daily hustle and bustle. Natural beauty becomes an important part of the visitor's experience, and we create a deep connection with nature.

Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island not only provides guests with a place to stay, but we also create trips with local experiences in the most authentic way. From introducing guests to unique local culture or traditional cuisine, to trips to explore Nha Trang, all are to enhance the customer experience throughout the holiday. This involves creating an exciting experience to honor the beauty of Nha Trang and leave a lasting impression on customers.

Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island not only provides guests with a place to stay, but we also create trips with local experiences in the most authentic way.

Sir , in the near future, how will Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island continue to innovate to continue to become a stopover for tourists when exploring Nha Trang?

We are researching potential expansion opportunities, analyzing market trends and considering strategic alliances to expand the resort's footprint in the region and specifically in Nha Trang.

We plan to renovate and enhance our facilities with Marriott’s signature GOJI dining, focus on sustainability, and implement cutting-edge technology to enhance the guest experience. Our commitment to sustainability involves environmentally friendly operations, reducing our environmental impact, and engaging with local communities for the common good.

For example, Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island will be the first international hotel in Nha Trang and especially on Hon Tre Island to be 100% plastic-free by the first quarter of 2024. We will not allow the use of plastic bottles on the premises and will replace them with 100% glass bottles. We use straw alternatives made from bamboo and cornstarch.

This will certainly be a proud achievement as part of Marriott International and Vinpearl investor, as well as our commitment to sustainable development.

Along with that, we constantly improve our services, absorb customer feedback and invest in new, customer-centric services, bringing them experiences beyond expectations.

We are also committed to community engagement, supporting local initiatives and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. Always engaging in innovation and new ways to be environmentally responsible, while meeting the growing expectations of our customers.

As someone with a wealth of experience and many achievements in the hotel industry, what is the secret to your success?

I have been fortunate to have nearly 31 years of hotel management experience, leading and learning from a diverse and amazing team in various luxury hotels and resorts in the region. The main denominator that has helped me stand the test of time throughout this journey is: “Never stop learning and never stop growing”.

On the leadership side, I believe in fostering collaboration and fostering a supportive work environment where teams feel empowered to create exceptional experiences for their customers. The key is to trust and empower your talent. Believe in them and again nurture and support their talent and capabilities. Don’t just talk the talk, walk the walk. Be the first to show up and the last to leave.

Regarding Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island, my vision is to position it as a place renowned for its timeless hospitality and commitment to providing the best and most exceptional hotel experience based on all the core values ​​of the MARRIOTT brand. To become the number 1 resort destination in Nha Trang and beyond. Again, I personally place great emphasis on the satisfaction of each guest, sustainable operations as well as the continuous development and happiness of our valued employees. Above all, they are our most important assets and that will never change.

Mr. Kristian Petersen has spent 32 years working for the world-renowned Marriott International Hotel Group, since 1993, and held many leadership roles in London, Copenhagen, Brussels before moving to the Asia-Pacific region in 2007, as Director of Food and Beverage, at the Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel (Shanghai, China).

He then spent 13 years in Shanghai, China in key roles such as Managing Director of East China, overseeing 32 properties, before being appointed as the first General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Changfeng Park Hotel in 2013, followed by Marriott Shanghai Changfeng Hotel in 2018.

In early 2020, Mr. Kristian took on the position of General Manager for the Bill Bensley-designed JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay in Vietnam. During his 2.5-year tenure here, despite facing many difficulties from the Covid-19 pandemic, with his resilient mind and warm heart as well as his excellent work experience and leadership skills, he led the hotel staff to stand firm in the face of all challenges. He has brought home numerous awards for JW Marriott Phu Quoc, culminating in the Marriott International Global Award for “Best JW Hotel 2022” at MILUX in Abu Dhabi.

From 2023, he has been General Manager of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island.

In addition, Mr. Kristian is also an active participant in the activities of the Vietnam and Cambodia Business Council and especially through sustainable efforts, establishing the only resort coral farm in Phu Quoc, rebuilding coral reefs destroyed by fishing boats in Emerald Bay, Phu Quoc.

In 2022, Mr. Kristian Petersen was honored to be named in the “Best General Manager” category of the prestigious global International General Manager Awards 2022, honoring General Managers of the year with outstanding contributions in talent, intelligence, vision and leadership strategy in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Having worked in many countries around the world, what is your opinion on the quality of hotels in Vietnam? Some people say that resorts and hotels in Vietnam have been built in the last 10 years, so they are modern and classy. What do you think about this ?

In recent times, the hotel industry in Vietnam has made a breakthrough development, going beyond the concept of modernity to simultaneously achieve global standards and preserve its rich cultural heritage.

The emergence of a diverse range of hotels and resorts today represents a harmonious combination, providing world-class facilities while still maintaining the colorful traditions of Vietnam. This is a testament to innovation without losing the cultural identity of the country - a harmonious balance of Vietnam's tourism industry.

How do you see Vietnam in general and Vietnam's tourism industry in particular changing over the past 4 years?

Over the past 4 years, Vietnam has emerged as a golden destination on the global tourism map, creating a picture of an exciting and attractive journey for tourists with a passion for exploring here and there.

From stunning landscapes to rich cultural experiences, Vietnam has become an attractive destination for adventure enthusiasts, culture lovers, foodies and relaxation seekers. The unique combination of tradition and modernity creates an irresistible appeal, inviting visitors from all over the world to come to Vietnam to explore and have unforgettable experiences.

After Covid-19, what opportunities and challenges do you see for the Vietnamese tourism and hotel industry?

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Vietnam’s tourism industry has faced significant challenges, along with promising opportunities. Unpredictable travel patterns and prolonged economic impacts have created significant obstacles, affecting strategy development, planning, and impacting the financial side of the industry.

However, amid these challenges, there has been a notable shift: increased investment in technology, a greater focus on safety and sustainability. To adapt to this change, the tourism and hospitality industry has been quick to adopt advanced technology solutions to support offline experiences, tours and online bookings, thereby optimizing convenience and engagement for travelers.

In addition, there has been a noticeable shift in priorities towards strict safety measures and environmental initiatives. With international travel currently restricted, a strategic shift towards encouraging domestic tourism has been highlighted, diverting tourism to the beauty of less-explored local destinations. Flexibility in service provision, coupled with a renewed focus on flexibility, has been instrumental in overcoming the challenges and paving the way for a disruptive and innovative future of tourism development in Vietnam.

So , how can the Vietnamese tourism industry take advantage of opportunities and resolve those difficulties and challenges, sir?

Vietnam’s tourism industry currently has a wide range of opportunities waiting to be exploited. One of the key factors for development is the implementation of sustainable tourism activities, ensuring that the beauty of Vietnam’s nature is preserved for future generations.

Adaptability is another area of ​​concern. Flexibility in service delivery, personalized experiences, and the ability to adjust based on changing travel trends will be key to meeting the diverse needs of travelers post-Covid-19.

By focusing on sustainability, adapting to technological innovations and remaining flexible, Vietnam’s tourism industry can not only overcome the current challenges but also thrive in the future, especially attracting a new wave of adventurous, culture-loving tourists who are always proactive in seeking unique experiences.

During the operation of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island , how did you receive support from the investor, VinGroup Corporation? How do you evaluate when Vietnam has strategic corporations like them?

Vingroup is an investor who has played a key role in driving the success of Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island. This dedicated support, backed by invaluable resources and experience, has contributed significantly to the resort’s achievements.

In addition, Marriott International recognizes the importance of deeper research into specific local insights and preferences to enhance service experiences and strengthen the resort's position on Vietnam's vibrant tourism map.

The emergence of strategic enterprises such as Vingroup marks an important milestone in the country's development. Their strategic investments represent confidence in Vietnam's potential as an attractive destination for major players in many industries. These enterprises bring financial resources, expertise and international standard processes, contributing to the comprehensive development of the Vietnamese economy.

What are your plans for the future? How long will you stay and work in Vietnam? What place does Vietnam hold in your heart?

Vietnam holds a special place and deep connection in my life journey. The appeal of this country is not limited to career opportunities; it has become a second home, where every corner resonates with warmth and unique culture. The sheer charm of this country, the vibrancy of its cities, and the genuine hospitality of its people have touched my heart.

Looking forward, my commitment to Vietnam’s tourism industry is that I am here to stay. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the development of the country, using my expertise to further improve the visitor experience. More than a career path, this is my commitment to nurture, to bring the beauty and hospitality of Vietnam to the world.

As I look to the future, Vietnam remains an important chapter in my life story, and I am eager to continue contributing to, and exploring, this colorful story.

As someone who loves Vietnam, how do you hope Vietnam's tourism industry will develop in the future?

My vision is to contribute significantly to Vietnam tourism by promoting sustainable development, celebrating cultural richness and creating unique experiences for customers. For me, Vietnam tourism is a vivid and sophisticated picture, a blend of modern technology and cultural heritage, creating a special attraction for tourists around the world. I strongly support sustainable tourism activities to preserve the country's nature and cultural heritage, while providing tourists with authentic and profound experiences.

I envision a Vietnam tourism map that embraces the rich traditions of thousands of years, harmoniously combined with innovation, to attract tourists, culture lovers and explorers from all over the world. This vision drives my dedication to shaping Vietnam tourism into an attractive destination that resonates deeply with travelers seeking meaningful and enriching experiences that add color to their lives.

Besides being a hotel industry expert, from a personal perspective, what do you hope Vietnam needs to adjust and change to become not only a place to go but also a place to return to, a home for global citizens?

Personally, I believe that Vietnam can thrive through a sustained commitment to sustainable development, strengthening infrastructure and nurturing communities, welcoming the world with open arms. This is not just about becoming a destination, but also about creating an environment where tourists feel an emotional connection, a place to belong, beyond the mere tourist experience.

Prioritizing sustainable development will not only help Vietnam preserve its amazing natural beauty, but also pave the way for responsible tourism activities that benefit local communities.

Besides, it is necessary to enhance infrastructure to ensure convenience and comfort for visitors, while improving the overall travel experience. Moreover, nurturing the spirit of the community is an essential action to show the symbolicity of Vietnam- a natural tourist destination, extremely diverse culture, where the feeling of goodness and warmth.

By focusing on these pillars, Vietnam has the potential to develop from a destination into a beloved place, resonating with each individual, inviting them not only to visit but also build long -term connections and consider it home. As a familiar saying at Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island: "We never say goodbye, but just see you again."

Source: https://baodautu.vn/emagazine-doanh-nhan-kristian-petersen-khat-khao-dua-ve-dep-va-su-hieu-khach-cua-viet-nam-ra-the-gioi-m208778.html