Mark Twain once said: “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius.” Discovered by Arab and Malay sailors in the 10th century, the island country sits on Africa’s eastern coast and is known for its diverse wildlife and over 27 microclimates. A favoured holiday destination of celebrities and royalty such as Kylie Minogue, Prince Harry, and Gwyneth Paltrow, Mauritius is a playground for travellers who enjoy a convenient balance of water sports, lounging on the beach, and being immersed in the many different cultures that are intertwined within the Mauritian ecosystem.
One of the stalwarts of the country’s hospitality scene is the Beachcomber Resorts and Hotels group, a collection of eight luxury properties all providing unique experiences for discerning guests. Perhaps the most famous within the group is the Royal Palm Hotel, which holds the status of being the first Indian Ocean hotel to become a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The all-suite beachfront hotel benefits from an award-winning food and beverage programme and an enviable location near the lively Grand Baie neighbourhood. It recently welcomed a new general manager, veteran hotelier Patrice Landrein, who spent decades building his career at iconic properties such as Hôtel de Crillon in Paris, The Savoy in London, and Athénée in New York.
“Royal Palm is renowned for its long-standing reputation as one of Mauritius’ premier luxury properties. Its exceptional service and focus on personalised experiences make it a standout choice,” says Landrein, when asked about his move to join the Beachcomber group. “The property seamlessly blends elegant design with its breath-taking beachfront location, creating a sanctuary of sophistication and tranquillity. The warm Mauritian hospitality that infuses every interaction makes for an unforgettable stay and sets it apart from other luxury destinations.”
Ina Yulo Stuve speaks with Landrein about fostering loyalty with guests and the must-have item he always packs when going on a trip.
Did you always know you wanted to have a career in hospitality?
I originally dreamed of becoming a football player, but I quickly realised I was not quite good enough to pursue it professionally. This led me to enrol in a hotel institution where I began exploring a different path. My ambition truly sparked after my first internship at The Ritz in Paris. It was there that I discovered the world of luxury hospitality and its unique charm. That experience cultivated my keen eye for detail, a quality that has been pivotal to my career ever since.
You’ve worked in establishments all over the world. If there was one posting that made the biggest impact on your career, which one would it be?
My time at Pimalai Resort and Spa in Thailand made a significant impact due to the balance of luxury and sustainability I achieved there. Leading initiatives like the Green Globe certification and coral conservation programme taught me the value of blending environmental responsibility with high-end hospitality.
What do you love most about living in Mauritius?
There is a lot to love about Mauritius. Undoubtedly, the natural beauty of the island, from its pristine beaches to lush landscapes, the warm, welcoming spirit of the Mauritian people and the vibrant culture and cuisine that make everyday life a discovery.
How important is it to you to incorporate the local culture in the guest experience?
Incorporating local culture into the guest experience is essential, as it adds authenticity and fosters a deeper connection between guests and the destination. By integrating local traditions, cuisine, and crafts, the hotel creates a more meaningful and memorable stay. For example, guests at Royal Palm can participate in interactive cooking classes with local chefs, learning to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This not only enriches their experience, but also provides a genuine taste of the island’s heritage.
The Beachcomber Hotels and Resorts group has a strong reputation in Mauritius. How do you build loyalty with your guests to keep them coming back and staying at different hotels within the group?
We build guest loyalty by maintaining consistently high standards of service across all of the Beachcomber properties. We focus on delivering unique, tailored experiences that cater to individual preferences, ensuring every stay feels special. By fostering strong relationships through personalised attention and anticipating guest needs, we create lasting connections that encourage guests to return and explore other hotels within the group.
Is there a particular business skill you’re currently trying to master?
It’s important to continue learning and challenging yourself to do better. At the moment, my focuses are on refining my understanding of digital marketing to enhance guest engagement and visibility of Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury, and also exploring new technologies to improve operational efficiency and sustainability practices.
What are some of the best practices you follow for hiring and retaining talent?
I ensure that we are hiring individuals who align with the property’s values and bring a genuine passion for service. It’s then essential that we provide ongoing training and growth opportunities to nurture professional development for all individuals. Lastly, we ensure we are creating a positive work environment that values teamwork, recognition, and open communication.
Any must-pack items we will always find in your luggage?
A small Ganesh statue: This statue holds a special place in my heart. It was gifted to me during my travels in India, and on that same day, I had the privilege of meeting someone who profoundly shaped the last five years of my life. Since then, it has become a symbol of good fortune and meaningful connections, always accompanying me on my journeys.
Where are you off to on your next holiday?
I am planning a trip to Kenya and Tanzania for a humanitarian cause, contributing to community development projects and supporting local initiatives. It is really important to me to combine my love for travel with a meaningful purpose, connecting with people and giving back to the region. I am also planning to visit some South American countries and hope to explore places like Peru and Chile.
Factbox
Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury
Address: MU, Royal Road, Grand Baie 30512, Mauritius
Phone: +230 209 8300
Website: beachcomber-hotels.com
Instagram: instagram.com/beachcomber_hotels
Photography courtesy of Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury.
