"MY BIGGEST TEACHERS ARE MY GUESTS!"

...Says Varun Chhibber, General Manager, The St Regis Mumbai, whose love affair with the hotels started at the young age of 16.

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Varun Chhibber is at the helm of The St Regis Mumbai, the most iconic hotel in Marriott International's myriad portfolio in India. In a candid chat with us, the dynamic hotelier divulges what triggers his passion, his management style and more...

What triggered your interest in the hospitality industry? Where did it all begin?

I first entered a luxury hotel when I was 16 years. That very moment I knew that this was going to be my world for the rest of my life. The spectacular lobby, stunning flowers, happy faces and purposeful walk of the employees won my heart. It was love at first sight and I stayed in love with hotels, ever after.

What, according to you, makes St Regis stand out among its contemporaries?

St Regis stands out for its rich heritage and legacy. I say this with utmost humility that the brand is incomparable and stands tall for its residential luxury elements and the touches of its world-class rituals. No other brand in the world is as focused and committed to its heritage and rituals as St Regis. All luxury hotels provide comfortable beds and indulgent showers but St Regis takes you to the era of Astors in New York and the lifestyle of the gilded age.