“Not wanting to go to work.” Said Mr Gibbons General Manager of Millennium Resort Patong, Phuket about his greatest worry in life.

Phuketindex.com had an enlightening chat with Peter Gibbons, General Manger of the Millennium Resort in Patong. Peter gradated from Dorset University in the UK and became the recipient of The Grand Metropolitan Hotels scholarship programme. Between 1980 and 1982 he trained at many famous establishments including The Grande Hotel in Paris, The Carlton in Cannes, and the Hotel de la Ville in Rome. Most recently he was the Managing Director at Loong Palace Hotel, Beijing, China, before joining The Millennium.

What do you think is the most distinguishing feature of this hotel?
“Location and flexibility of choice. We have two very distinctive wings here; one is right alongside the largest shopping mall in Phuket which is quite unique and stylish in itself. The other wing is more of a retreat with of Cabana style rooms, each with its own Jacuzzi. Whatever your fancy we can cater for it, and don’t forget, as regards location,we are right in the heart of Patong with its vibrant 24 hour lifestyle.”

What is the guests’ trend nowadays? What would they like?
“The trend right now is more value for money plus a bit more on top of that. Guests always shop around for the best deal, particularly on the internet. It’s a buyers market and we need to ensure that we do not compromise in service, facilities, amenities and all-round quality. Going that extra yard – meeting the customer’s expectations, then a bit more, is what makes the difference. You have to listen to what they are telling you, and what they are telling your staff who are in closer contact than I.”

As a GM of the hotel, what worries you most?
“Not wanting to come to work. I really enjoy and love my job and I wake up every day keen to get started. My wife says I am married to the hotel. I am not a workaholic but I have a passion for what I do and that’s different.”

Has the world’s unstable economic crisis affected the hotel? How do you handle it?
“Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. We are focusing on markets which are remaining solvent and are more insulated and less vulnerable to the present situation. Co-operation with partners helps, sales and marketing ploys plus, of course, keeping our high standards and a good relationship with the customer.”