Radisson Hotels, staycation, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Gautrain Image: Supplied
Checking into a hotel that ticks all the boxes allows you to lean into the moment, whether business or pleasure. Here, Director of Operations at Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton, Themba Mpofu gives us insight into their customized offering.
Glamour: What gives Radisson Hotels the edge?
Themba Mpofu: Radisson Rewards which is Radisson Hotels official regards program and is designed to guarantee memorable moments by rewarding your loyalty with truly relevant benefits every day. As a Radisson Rewards member, you unlock a world of exclusive benefits across a wide range of our hotels and destinations including member only rates, priority line, discounts of food and beverages, free room upgrade, early check in and late check out (subject to availability) and more
Glamour: What’s the difference between the Radisson Blu and Red offerings?
TM: Radisson Blu is an upper upscale hotel brand that delivers positive and personalized service in stylish spaces. Characterized by attention to small details and the Yes I Can! service philosophy, Radisson Blu hotels are designed to make a big difference and inspire unforgettable experiences with every stay. Through personalized service and local nuance, each stay at a Radisson Blu hotel becomes a true meaningful and memorable experience.
Radisson RED is an (upper) upscale hotel brand that presents a playful twist on the conventional. The brand injects new life into hospitality through informal services where anything goes, a social scene that’s waiting to be shared and stylish public spaces with standout design to inspire our guests. Radisson RED hotels are designed to fit the needs of our guests by giving them endless opportunities to tune in and out switching effortlessly between business and pleasure.
Glamour: What’s the significance of the geographical location of the hotels nationwide?
TM: We have tried to position ourselves in all the major cities, key airport gateways, and leisure destinations in South Africa currently operating in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Polokwane
Glamour: Would you say there’s a notable shift in the hotel industry post-lockdown and how are you responding to this?
TM: Shorter lead time for bookings – guests are booking hotels less in advance, we are seeing more last-minute trips and staycations. We manage this by remaining relevant in the market and creating country wide promotions & campaigns eg. Take A Break Campaign, Dream Deals Campaign.
Increase demand for digital guest experience –introduced new technology to enhance the guest experience including the Radisson Hotels App, Oaky and online-check in and check-out which allows for a more personalized experience.
Glamour: Radisson Blu Sandton specifically is located in Africa’s richest square mile, who is your target market and how do they engage with the space?
TM: We have seen a significant increase in the leisure market, our hotel is in the heart of Sandton and within walking distance of Gautrain Station making it very attractive for staycations. The hotel is only minutes from attractions such as Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City Shopping Centre making it the ideal location for families and couples looking for a weekend getaway.
Another significant part of our business is hosting successfully Meeting & Events, our hotel has 15 meeting rooms which are located on the 7th and 12th floors of the hotel. Delegates will get to experience dazzling city views surrounding the building. The largest room accommodates up to 300 guests for a reception and can also be divided into 3 smaller rooms. The 7th floor houses the Sandton Auditorium, with stadium seating suitable for 95 attendees.
Glamour: Having a shuttle from the hotel to the Gautrain Station is a thoughtful touch, was this in response to a demand for the service or did you pre-empt this?
TM: This decision was well-thought-out, the Gautrain is a great value add for our guests and makes traveling to and from OR Tambo International Airport easy and hassle free. Our complimentary shuttle also runs within a 5km radius making it easy to visit tourist attractions, shopping malls and corporate offices
Glamour: What else sets Radisson Blu Sandton apart from the other hotels?
TM: One of the flagship hotels in South Africa with 302 rooms and 11 penthouses. Perfect for both business and leisure stays. Apart from the great location, the hotel boasts a stunning pool deck on the 8th floor called ONE80 Pool Deck & Bar which get its name from the uninterrupted 180-degree view of the city.
Hotels onsite restaurant Vivace Restaurant & Show Kitchen which is located on the 13th floor, offers patrons striking views of Sandton City and Johannesburg alike. Decorated in a modern contemporary style, Vivace has a warm ambiance suited for any occasion.
Glamour: As we move into winter, what can guests look forward to during their stay?
TM: Our culinary team has prepared a new winter menu, featuring hearty dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a variety of signature cocktails and craft beers in our cozy bar and lounge area with the fireplace (Molo Lobby Bar and Lounge). Additionally, our hotel spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, perfect for relaxing and pampering during the cold winter months including indoor heated roman bath. Overall, guests can look forward to a comfortable and relaxing stay at our hotel, with a variety of activities and amenities to enjoy.
Glamour: Why should guests choose Radisson as they’re home away from home?
TM: Radisson Blu Sandton offers guests a prime location making it easy for guests to access local attractions, shopping, and dining, contemporary design, exceptional dining experiences, impressive event and meeting facilities, exceptional service, and a commitment to sustainability, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and memorable stay in Johannesburg. Some of Radisson Blu Sandton Hotel’s stand out facilities include a spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor pool and deck, business lounge, on site restaurant Vivace and Molo Lobby Bar & Lounge.
Glamour: Please share any info you may deem necessary…
TM: Radisson Hotel Group has recognised as 4th Best Employer in the Travel & Leisure industry by Forbes.
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