It has changed a lot, especially since I became familiar with the Anantara brand culture. Above all, delivering an outstanding and personalized guest experience is primary focus.

The New York Palace building is beautiful, a landmark building in Budapest, but it is still the experience, the hospitality, personalized service that defines the guest's feelings about their stay. At the end what really matters, are the feelings that guest leaves the hotel with.
 

2. You once described your style as "diplomatic but strict." Does that playbook still work in today's hospitality world?

If I remember correctly, the exact wording was “democratic and strict”, which hasn't changed since then. What has changed is more the communication with the team and leaders.

Generation “Z” needs to be communicated and involved in the procedures in a completely different way now than it did with colleagues 12 years ago. I have to adapt to this too, because in the end, this is a big team work, where you can only achieve results together.

3. Recruiting and getting staff to "take ownership" has been a running theme for you. How do you solve that challenge today?

This is still one of the most important things today, we try to keep our team members constantly informed about the hotel's results - both financial and quality results - and involve them in the decision-making processes, which strengthens engagement and commitment.

It is fundamental that our colleagues are in a position to assess a situation, know how to make decisions and dare to do so. Obviously they must be appropriately empowered to do so.

4. You previously said you like to "plant a tree, harvest the fruits, and move forward." What fruits are you harvesting right now?

It's interesting to face what you said 13 years ago :-) It has changed in the meantime, that I have realized that you can plant and harvest multiple times in the same place, you don't necessarily have to move forward.

It's always positive as long as there are new challenges and opportunities for development, and I feel that these opportunities are available in the case of the Anantara brand.

5. How do you make a 5-star hotel feel like an authentic gateway to Hungarian culture for international expats?

The Anantara brand places great emphasis on introducing foreigners, traveling to a given destination to the culture and traditions of the destination. This naturally includes hospitality and culinary delights as well.

Of course, the biggest attraction here is the New York Café, which has been voted the most beautiful café in the world several times.

Here we try to present a combination of Hungarian food and culture including a local pianist or gypsy band playing. I think this is a good opportunity for both tourists and expats living in Budapest to get to know Hungarian culture.

6. Is Lake Balaton still your favorite place in Hungary, and are you still getting out on the water?

Yes, both Balaton and the Danube are my favourite places in Hungary. I like water, I am still active in doing canoeing, even participating in master competitions in canoe or Dragonboat.
This year I am very proud to become Hungarian National Champion in my age group

7. Does túrós csusza with extra cracklings still hold the crown as your ultimate favorite Hungarian dish?

Túrós csusza is one of the favourites, however I rather prefer anything with poppyseed….i.e.: Mákos guba 😊

8. Be honest: Is your desk still the secret stash for sweets, or do your colleagues hide the candy from you now?

I try to eat less sweets, however in the afternoon, when your energy level drops, some sweet may always help.

9. If you had to pick a classic rock song to describe the chaotic energy of peak summer season at a 5-star hotel, what is it?

Since I think our colleagues are all heroes to control this “chaotic energy”, my first thought is David Bowie: “Heroes”

10. If you had to invent a signature cocktail that represents your career journey in Budapest, what would be in it?

I keep it simple: rum and ginger beer 😊

Related interviews:

Tamás Fazekas, General Manager, Anantara New York Palace Hotel, Budapest

Interview 2: Tamás Fazekas, Former General Manager Buddha-Bar Hotel Budapest Klotild Palace

Tamás Fazekas, Former General Manager Buddha-Bar Hotel