Page 54 - Masala E-magazine Vol 9 Issue 3 December 2017-January 2018

People

Business in

Paradise

As the newly-appointed Area General
Manager of The Angsana Laguna

Phuket, Michal Zitek discusses the
growing market for destination
weddings and his vision for the future

of the Angsana brand.
By Ashima Sethi

Over the years, Thailand has established itself as a prime
destination for luxury travel, as well as a sought-after choice
for weddings and the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions,
and Exhibitions) industry. With competition at an all-time
high, it is no surprise that hotel brands are extremely careful
in choosing the hands that will shape their businesses. With
an impressive career in hospitality that spans over 25 years,
Michal Zitek is one of these individuals. His vision for Angsana
Laguna Phuket promises a venture into fresh and exciting
territory, one that holds great potential for this luxury resort.

What makes Thailand appealing as a destination for
luxury travel?
I believe it is the uniqueness of Thai hospitality. You can have
a beautiful product anywhere in Asia but it is the spirit of the
people that makes a huge di erence. The sensibilities of Thai
people, and the spirit of caring is what puts Thai hospitality at a
di erent level compared to competing destinations.

How do you see the country developing further as a
tourist destination?
The Thai spirit has been with the country for hundreds of years
and it will be present for a hundred more. It’s unparalleled by
any other destination and isn’t something you can create or
teach as it comes naturally within the spirit of the country and
its people. I feel this unique spirit will only get stronger as the
country has enjoyed stability over the last few years, and this
seems to be continuing for the foreseeable future. Stability will
result in greater strength from a shared sense of identity, which
will then be noticed within the greater international community.

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