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At the European Hotel Awards 2024, held on October 14 in the prestigious setting of the Radisson Collection Royal Copenhagen, the focus was on influential women whose leadership and vision are transforming European luxury hospitality. This edition highlighted iconic establishments, innovative hotel groups, and key positions, all directly or indirectly led by remarkable women embodying excellence and authenticity in the sector.
The prestigious Historic Hotel of the Year award was granted to the Grand Hotel Vilnius, Curio Collection by Hilton in Lithuania, under the leadership of Sigita Rudzviciene, general manager. Infusing her style and attention to detail, Sigita Rudzviciene has made Grand Hotel Vilnius a model of refinement and heritage preservation, where each guest is welcomed in a unique and elegant atmosphere. Her professionalism and ability to integrate the hotel’s historical values with subtle modernity make it an example of high-end hospitality.
Mareke Watson, general manager of voco The Hague in the Netherlands, received the Business Hotel of the Year award. Recognized for her strategic insight and ability to meet business travelers’ demands, Mareke has transformed voco The Hague into a hub of innovation and comfort. Under her direction, the hotel has captured and retained a discerning international clientele while promoting an eco-friendly approach and offering work and relaxation spaces perfectly suited to professional expectations.
The award for Art of Hospitality for France was given to l’Hôtel Restaurant La Rose in Juliénas, led by Christine Bleton, a passionate and visionary owner. In this warm setting, Christine embodies the spirit of French hospitality with a personal and intimate touch. She has made her establishment an authentic place where every detail, from the service to the decoration, reflects her commitment to sincere and refined hospitality, rooted in the local traditions of the Beaujolais wine region.
In Brussels, the Dominican Hotel, under the direction of Sophie Weytens, sales director, was awarded the Historical Boutique Hotel of the Year prize. Sophie, with her dedication and deep knowledge of the market, has played a central role in the prominence of this unique hotel, known for its blend of historical architecture and contemporary design. She has developed strategies that highlight the charm and uniqueness of this establishment while attracting a loyal clientele seeking authentic experiences.
At the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, Sanda Sokol, public relations specialist, was honored with the Luxury Hotel Public Relations of the Year award for her exceptional work. With a creative approach and a keen understanding of luxury clients’ expectations, Sanda has positioned the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel as an essential establishment, appreciated for its history and excellence. This recognition also marks an important milestone for Sanda, celebrating her 20 years at the Esplanade as the public relations manager, having contributed to the hotel’s international reputation and prestige.
Céline Risso, director of l’Hôtel & Spa du Castellet in France, was awarded the Next Generation Hotelier prize, which acknowledges her innovative approach and ability to anticipate luxury hospitality trends. With a rich and varied experience, Céline embodies a new generation of leaders who combine strategy, creativity, and sustainability concern. Her work has allowed l’Hôtel & Spa du Castellet to reach new heights in customer satisfaction and industry recognition.
Tiina Fabre, general manager of the Institut Escoffier and recipient of the Education Excellence Award, was honored for her major influence in training future generations of chefs and luxury hospitality professionals. Her role at the Institut Escoffier illustrates her ability to perpetuate excellence in craftsmanship while integrating essential innovations to meet the industry’s new demands.
Finally, the Hotel Group of the Year award was given to Quality Lodgings in the Netherlands, under the leadership of Pauline Verhoef, general manager. Pauline, with her human approach and sense of innovation, has transformed Quality Lodgings into an exemplary hotel group, combining local charm with international quality standards. The independent hotels in this group, of very high quality, stand out for their innovative vision and offer a unique experience within the European offering, including high-level gastronomic experiences. Several of these establishments house starred restaurants, thus offering a unique combination of hospitality and refined cuisine that meets the expectations of travelers seeking luxury and authenticity. Under Pauline Verhof’s leadership, Quality Lodgings continues to grow while maintaining a strong identity focused on service quality and the authenticity of the experiences offered.
These exceptional women, at the helm of prestigious establishments and innovative groups, embody values of excellence, creativity, and resilience that transform the luxury hospitality sector. Their contributions not only reinforce the reputation of their establishments but also enrich the European hospitality industry, inspiring future generations of leaders.
