Mariana ARGUETA CHÁVEZ is currently academic coordinator at Vatel Mexico in Mexico .

What is your background?

Since childhood, I’ve traveled a lot, both in Mexico and around the world, and I have always liked seeing how hotels work. I dreamt of studying abroad and seeing the country: Vatel Nîmes was, therefore, the perfect place to study in a multicultural environment. For two years, I had the chance to evolve in a new “family” of Chinese, Indians and French. The differences in language and culture are sometimes a real challenge!
Over the years, I learned about many jobs in the hospitality industry: banquets, reception, reservations, the role of the concierge, etc. Today, I'm in charge of sales and group reception services at the Chablé Resort & Spa, a position that gives me the perfect balance between office work and customer relations. 

You have the chance to work for the most beautiful hotel in the world: tell us about Chablé Resort & Spa?

This hacienda built in the Mayan jungle mixes architecture and design: it is a very unique establishment in the Mexican hotel landscape. The hotel is also known for its exceptional spa, built around a cenote (underground natural well) and for its gastronomy: Jorge Vallejo, the hotel chef, is famous worldwide.
Receiving the Prix Versailles 2017 (World Architecture Award for Stores, Hotels and Restaurants) was a total surprise: we are very proud of this distinction. This award provoked public interest, increased our occupancy rate and above all, is the pride of Mexico: today, 80% of our clientèle are Mexicans. Previously geared toward international customers, my work now focuses on the Mexican market. My challenge is to stimulate people’s curiosity and encourage them to book a room. 

What are your missions as Reservations Manager?

In the field:

• Retaining hotel customers, encourage the “ambassadors” of Chablé Resort & Spa to create public awareness about the hotel, pick out new potential customers
• Create partnerships with other Mexican luxury facilities
• Accompany customers in their discovery of this wonderful establishment

In the office:

• Manage the income of the hotel by working on the occupancy of the rooms and on the other services we offer (events, spa, etc.)
• Create a strong foundation of partners for my department 
• Meet the requirements of clients and agencies with whom we work

Three hashtags that describe you:

#multicultural #determined #committed

What would you say to those who have never been to Mexico?

We have everything in Mexico: beaches, cities, deserts, jungles, luxurious establishments, architectural heritage, a great culinary culture, a history that goes back to Pre-Hispanic times... It's an extraordinary country. Add to that a pleasant climate and access by sea, air and road: it is the ideal destination!

Photos © Karyn Millet Photography

Also read: 

• Ana Sofia Diaz Duran, Deputy Director of the Paris Office at Mexico Tourism Board
• Morgane Mahieu, Sales & Marketing Manager – La Suite Villa (Martinique)
• Thomas Matteï, Sales & Marketing Coordinator – Le Bristol (Paris)