In a momentous announcement by the World Travel Awards, Le Méridien Batumi proudly secured the title of Georgia’s Leading Hotel for the year 2023. This esteemed accolade sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what makes this hotel a jewel on the Black Sea. In a candid and expansive conversation with General Manager Toni Toshev, we unveil the myriad features that contribute to Le Méridien Batumi’s distinction. From its prime location, to its commitment to sustainability and active community engagement, the hotel stands as a beacon of elegance in the vibrant cityscape.
The Enchanting Location
Toni Toshev expresses his enthusiasm for the exceptional location of Le Méridien Batumi, strategically positioned at the commencement of the historic boulevard that has graced the city for many a year. The hotel seamlessly integrates Le Méridien’s signature contemporary design with Georgian aesthetics, offering a modern, stylish haven that complements the surrounding cityscape. In Toni’s words, “The location is truly the heart of Batumi, allowing our guests to experience the best of what the city has to offer.”
Highlighting the distinctive design, Toni points out that each suite within the hotel is a testament to the marriage of modernism and local flavor, envisioned by talented Georgian designers. He emphasizes, “The materials used, such as metal and brass, intertwine effortlessly to elevate the hotel’s overall ambiance.”
Spacious Retreats with Panoramic Views
Toni Toshev takes pride in the generous space offered by Le Méridien Batumi’s rooms, a rare find with each boasting an expansive 35-36 square meters. “Our focus on spaciousness is intentional. We want our guests to feel a sense comfort throughout their stay,” says Toni.
Beyond the sheer size, each room boasts meticulous design, blending elements that capture the essence of Georgia’s rich cultural tapestry with the sleekness of modernity. According to Toni, “The presence of balconies in all rooms provides guests with a coveted feature, allowing them to soak in the beauty of the Black Sea during the day or revel in the city lights during the evening.”
Sustainability as a Guiding Principle
Le Méridien Batumi’s commitment to sustainability emerges as a significant part of its identity. In a region where waste management practices are evolving, the hotel takes a proactive stance. Toni Toshev acknowledges the challenges and notes, “We are actively participating in projects, collaborating with entities like USAID, and investing in education to foster a culture of environmental responsibility.”
Education has become a cornerstone in Le Méridien Batumi’s strategy for promoting sustainability. Toni emphasizes the hotel’s investment in educational initiatives, stating, “We firmly believe that true change begins with education. By imparting knowledge about environmental responsibility, we aspire to cultivate a mindset that transcends generations.” This commitment not only reflects a global awareness but also positions Le Méridien Batumi as a responsible steward of its local environment.
Culinary Excellence and Diversity
The culinary journey at Le Méridien Batumi unfolds with La Brasserie, the hotel’s main restaurant, offering a delightful interplay between buffet-style and à la carte service. Toni emphasizes, “Our culinary offerings are a key aspect of the Le Méridien experience. We strive to provide diverse and enticing options for our guests.” The recent addition of a new chef, hailing from the Gulf, promises an exciting transformation of the hotel’s menus. Toni elaborates, “With his knowledge of diverse cuisines, we aim to introduce enticing food and beverage options, elevating the overall dining experience for our guests.”
Engaging with the Local Community
In an era where hospitality extends beyond the confines of hotel walls, Le Méridien Batumi, under the astute leadership of Toni Toshev, has elevated its role to that of a community partner, weaving a tapestry of initiatives that transcend traditional hospitality boundaries. In shedding light on Le Méridien Batumi’s active involvement in the local community, Toni underscores the hotel’s role beyond the realms of hospitality. “Our PR marketing manager, sales team, and multi-property director of Human Resources are deeply engaged in various initiatives, collaborating with governmental institutions and embracing private initiatives that contribute to the betterment of Batumi,” notes Toni. Initiatives range from supporting the elderly and orphanages to contributing to the local dog shelter, showcasing a holistic approach to community engagement.
Beyond government-led endeavors, Le Méridien Batumi extends its reach to embrace private initiatives that bear testament to a holistic approach to community engagement. Toni highlights the hotel’s involvement in diverse initiatives, ranging from supporting the elderly and orphanages to playing a pivotal role in contributing to the local dog shelter. It is a conscientious effort to address various facets of community well-being.
The hotel’s involvement in societal initiatives is not an obligation; it’s a genuine expression of care and responsibility towards the city that embraces it. The ethos is clear: Le Méridien Batumi doesn’t just reside in Batumi, it actively contributes to the city’s growth, development, and the overall quality of life.
Differentiating between Tbilisi and Batumi
Drawing from his extensive experience, Toni reflects on the distinctions between Batumi and Tbilisi, emphasizing the unique charm of each city. In Toni’s words, “While Tbilisi pulsates with the energy of a bustling capital, Batumi embodies a more relaxed, tranquil atmosphere.” The city’s greenery, subtropical climate, and proximity to the mountains contribute to a more laid-back lifestyle. Toni explores the sociocultural aspects, noting that Batumi’s rain-prone weather fosters socialization, encouraging people to gather in cozy settings and engage in leisurely conversations.
Welcoming a Diverse Mix of Guests
Discussing the diverse mix of guests, Toni delves into Batumi’s evolution from a purely resort destination to a multifaceted hub attracting visitors for various purposes. “Beyond leisure travelers, the city welcomes business professionals, gamblers drawn to its renowned gaming facilities, cultural enthusiasts seeking Georgian experiences, and sports aficionados attending international events,” says Toni. The hotel’s strategic location, coupled with its versatile offerings, positions it as a preferred choice for a myriad of guest profiles.
Challenges and Future Plans
As Le Méridien Batumi prepares for the upcoming high season, Toni Toshev unveils plans for enhancements and improvements. The hotel envisions refining its product offerings, focusing on areas such as room aesthetics and public spaces to elevate the guest experience. However, amidst the excitement, Toni acknowledges a looming challenge—the scarcity of skilled associates in the hospitality sector. The demand for qualified personnel far exceeds the current supply, necessitating collaborative efforts between the government, educational institutions, and the private sector to address this critical issue collectively.
In anticipation of an influx of visitors, Batumi faces the ambitious target of welcoming over 4 million visitors to the Ajara region, presenting both an opportunity and a challenge. As the hotel gears up for a busy season, there is a concerted effort to balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the influx of guests does not compromise the city’s charm or the quality of service provided by the hotel.
Guest Mix and Global Recognition
Toni Toshev delves into the diverse mix of guests that Le Méridien Batumi welcomes, highlighting the transformation of Batumi from a pure resort destination to a multifaceted hub. “Our guests range from leisure travelers and corporate professionals to cultural enthusiasts and sports aficionados. The strategic location of the hotel makes it an ideal choice for various profiles,” says Toni. The recent accolade from the World Travel Awards as Georgia’s Leading Hotel further solidifies the global recognition that Le Méridien Batumi has garnered, attracting visitors not only from neighboring countries but also from far-flung destinations.
Embracing the Future
In looking ahead, Toni Toshev expresses both excitement and concern. The hotel’s growth plans align with the city’s aspirations to welcome millions of visitors, but the scarcity of skilled associates poses a formidable challenge. “Our commitment to sustainability goes hand in hand with our vision for growth. We are not just preparing for a busy season; we are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and enriching future for Le Méridien Batumi,” he states. The hotel aims to continue contributing to the community’s well-being, participating in initiatives that extend beyond the realms of hospitality.
As the conversation concludes, Toni Toshev’s passion for Le Méridien Batumi shines through. The hotel, beyond being a luxurious retreat, emerges as a dynamic player in community engagement, environmental responsibility, and the seamless fusion of culture and modernity. Le Méridien Batumi stands not just as a hotel but as an integral part of the city’s narrative, contributing to its growth, sustainability, and the unique charm that defines Batumi on the global stage. As Toni eloquently puts it, “Our journey is not just about providing accommodation; it’s about being woven into the very fabric of Batumi, enriching the experiences of both guests and locals alike.”
