Sofitel Warsaw Victoria an iconic property in Poland offers a sophisticated design and prime location. We sit down with our Hotel of The Year 2022 General Manager Aneta Lewandowska to find out what it takes to run such an esteemed Hotel.

1. Firstly, a huge Congratulations to you and the team for being named the LUXE Global 2022 Hotel of the Year. Could you tell us what this means to you and the team and how it inspires you moving forward?

Thank you! It's such a great honor for me and all Ambassadors of Sofitel Warsaw Victoria. We are delighted that our guests see and appreciate our passion and daily efforts we make in order to please them and make them feel like in their second home. There is no greater inspiration than satisfaction and loyalty of our guests.

2. Could you tell us a bit more about your journey leading up to being GM at Sofitel Warsaw Poland?

I have more than 20 years of experience in hospitality. I started my adventure in 2001 in the economy segment as a receptionist at the ibis hotel in Warsaw's Praga district, then being promoted from the Front Desk Manager to the General Manager. In 2014, I joined the Mercure brand and took the position of the Operations Director at the Mercure Warszawa Grand hotel. In April 2017, I joined the team of the legendary Sofitel Warsaw Victoria hotel, and in April 2019 I took the position of the General Manager of this hotel.

3. What made you decide to pursue a career in hospitality and what advice would you give to those looking to pursue it?

I always say that I'm a hotelier both: by passion and by profession. When I was starting my career in hotel industry, I thought it was just coincidence but today I am sure that it was my destiny. I have met many inspiring and experienced people who shared this experience and passion to the hotel industry with me. If you think to start your journey in this business you should remember that you should treat hotel guests the way you would treat your family and friends when inviting them to your own home. So you should be attentive to their needs, generous in service and simply kind. On the other side, you should remember that a hotel is more than just a building, it is people who create this unique place, so you should believe and trust in people- your team, be open minded and think out of the box as well as continuously strive for excellence and be proud of the place you work for.

4. Sofitel Warsaw Victoria is an Iconic property in Poland ideal for both business and leisure travelers, what do you believe sets the hotel apart?

First of all, Sofitel Warsaw Victoria has one of the most convenient locations in the very heart of Warsaw: facing the historic Pilsudski Square and the majestic Saxon Garden, near Polish National Opera, Warsaw’s Old Town and Royal Castle.

Secondly, a stunning design and sophisticated décor of hotel interiors made by renowned designer Didier Gomez create a combination of unique modern style with classic French elegance.

But none of these would matter if not my fantastic, creative and devoted team who takes care of the best service and satisfaction of our guests.

5. What does it take to run a successful operation at Sofitel Warsaw Victoria?

Again, I have to underline the value of the team. My mission is to embrace uncertainly and be an inspirational leader to my team and the legendary Sofitel Warsaw Victoria while sharing a passion of hospitality, securing guests' satisfaction and making employees feel valued what leads to successful operations and financial abundance.

6. What does the future hold for Sofitel Warsaw Victoria?

I am sure that coming years will be as much successful as the past year. Of course, it will be only possible with the excellent service provided every day by my team. That is why I have decided to extend our Talent&Culture (HR) department and appointed two talented people to make Sofitel Warsaw Victoria the hotel of first choice for the greatest talents in the industry. I believe that atmosphere they create will allow for the sustainable implementation of the Owner's aspirations and business goals set for us. I hope that the new organization will help strengthen the pride of belonging to Sofitel Warsaw Victoria and bring our hospitality to the next level of excellence.

I would like to underline that Warsaw has been just recognized as the winner in European Best Destination 2023 contest as well as The Safest Destinations in Europe, The Best Cultural Destination, The Best Destination for Food Lovers and The Best Destinations for a city break. I feel so proud and full of hope for rebuilding international traffic in Warsaw. There is no picture to reflect the beauty and vibes of the city. Please come and discover Warsaw - The city of contrasts. The city of Marmaid. My city.