Page 39 - Special Issue QTM 2021

Christophe Thomas

(General Manager – Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris):

“ We are ready for a booming 2022 ”

Prior to being appointed as the General Manager of Le Royal Monceau –
Raffles Paris, Christophe Thomas had an extensive international career,
from Europe, to South America, the Caribbean and the United States. It all
started officially at the Lycée Hôtelier de Strasbourg in France. Intuitively,
he has been passionate about the art of hospitality since his childhood, his
eagerness for excellence has always been his driving force. He has always
been an avid host and feels pride by taking care of his guests from around the
world. His determination and expertise led him as Managing Director in
prestigious hotel establishments in the United States for 20 years. Thomas
was among the prominent people who participated in QTM and on the side-
lines of the event, Al Bayan Magazine had the opportunity to conduct the fol-
lowing interview with him. Below Is the Q & A.

We are very fortunate to be part of Katara Hospitality

* How do you evaluate the tourism sector overall during iconic Chef Nobu. “La Cuisine” known for its outstanding
2021? brunches, and “Le Bar Long” famous for its cocktails and chic
- We reopened the hotel on June first of this year and we tapas. Spa My Blend by Clarins: The centerpiece of the 1500m2
saw improvement in Paris during the summer months, we spa is a spectacular 23-meter swimming pool that is flooded by
are grateful for all the business coming from Qatar. We natural light from above, it is one of the largest Palace pools in
have been very fortunate and we are hopeful that our hotel Paris.
occupancy levels continue in the same trend; the last few
month were even stronger than in 2019. We are witnessing * What is the importance of being under the umbrella of
a very strong recovery in the Parisian market but we remain Katara?
cautiously optimistic. - We are very fortunate to be part of Katara, which cele-
brated its 50th anniversary last year. Katara has an iconic
We are unlike any other Palace portfolio of properties around the world. Being part of
Katara allows us to benefit from a great deal of business
* What makes your hotel special and unique? from Qatar, and we are very grateful.
- Le Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris is unlike any other
Palace. It is a property that has a unique flavor. Our hotel * What is the purpose behind your participation at QTM?
opened initially in 1928 and it has been totally reimagined in - It is wonderful to be here in Doha and be part of this event.
2010. It is a hotel where timeless Parisian elegance meets It is an honor to promote the Royal Monceau Raffles Paris
outstanding contemporary design. It is like step-
ping inside a masterpiece at the heart of here in Qatar. It is great to see that the Raffles
the City of Light, and situated majes- brand continues to grow, and in 2022
tically steps from the Arc de Katara will bring to life the Raffles
Triomphe, Le Royal Monceau is Doha.
not just a luxury hotel but a
legend that has played host * What is your outlook for
to the luminaries of history. 2022?
Daringly redesigned by - There is no doubt that
Philippe Starck, this Parisian people are anxious to trav-
icon is just a stone’s throw el from all corners of the
from the world’s most famous world and especially to
avenue, the Champs Elysées. Paris, after a long pause due
The Royal Monceau Raffles Paris to lockdowns and restrictions,
features one Italian restaurant “Il travelers are looking forward to
Carpaccio” by Chefs Oliver Piras and future explorations. We are ready
Alessandra Del Favero. “Matsuhisa Paris” by for a booming 2022, and to welcome
travelers from Qatar in the city of Light.
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AL BAYAN ECONOMIC MAG - ISSUE 603 - FEBRUARY 2022