Hotelier of the Month: Alex Magaton

Don't harbor guilt when taking time for yourself. Self-care is an integral part of maintaining balance.

Alex Magaton, General Manager of Marasca Samui, brings extensive experience and a deep passion for hospitality from Italy to his role. With over a decade in the industry across Europe, the Middle East, and Thailand, Alex has excelled in leadership positions at prestigious properties, including a notable stint at the award-winning Silavadee Pool Spa Resort. Before joining Marasca Samui, he significantly contributed to Veranda Resorts MGallery in Thailand and played a key role in rebranding efforts in Samui. His journey in hospitality, influenced by his family's background in the sector, showcases his commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences.

What do you like most about Marasca Samui? And what would be your suggestion for a first-time traveler staying in your hotel?

What I cherish most about Marasca Samui is the seamless blend of natural beauty, unparalleled service, and a commitment to creating unforgettable moments. At the heart of our hospitality philosophy is the profound emphasis we place on "the feeling of home." This unique concept sets us apart, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and comforting. We believe that a stay at Marasca Samui should not only be a luxurious escape but also a genuine homecoming – a place where guests feel an intimate connection with their surroundings. For first-time travelers, I recommend immersing yourselves in our curated experiences – savor the local flavors and entertainment at Cabanas, explore the vibrant surroundings of Chaweng beach, and participate in our activities crafted to enhance your experience, be it wellness programs, music events, or art sessions. Take advantage of our concierge services for personalized excursions to truly discover the essence of Samui. We aim to make every stay a unique and cherished memory, ensuring each guest experiences the best of what Marasca Samui has to offer.

What is your goal for Marasca Samui?

Marasca is named after a type of cherry, which shaped the essence of our brand. Our goal is to create ‘cherry-on-top’ moments for our guests through stylish designs and high-quality amenities, whilst offering welcoming experiences to make guests feel truly at home—a space where you can spend time to reset while traveling and rediscovering yourself.  We provide exceptional service, ensuring guests enjoy their delightful moments through carefully crafted activities that promote sustainability, wellness, and local immersion from culturally rich culinary experiences to immersive island activities.

What are your thoughts when it comes to Wellness programs in hotels? Where do you think service providers can do better to serve guests better?

When evaluating wellness programs in hotels, I consider them indispensable for elevating the overall guest experience. At Marasca Samui, we prioritize wellness by offering a diverse range of classes, healthy dining alternatives, and rejuvenating spa services. All these elements converge in our immersive wellness packages. However, within the broader industry context, there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of personalization.

To better serve guests, service providers can enhance their offerings by tailoring wellness programs to individual tastes. Guests possess diverse preferences and needs, and customizing these programs could significantly heighten overall satisfaction.

Furthermore, fostering innovation in wellness activities and staying abreast of emerging trends in health and well-being are critical. This may involve collaborating with experts to design unique programs and maintaining a commitment to environmentally conscious wellness offerings. At Marasca Samui, our team is attuned to these considerations, ensuring that each guest experiences a comprehensive sense of well-being throughout their stay.

How do you manage your own wellness?

I prioritize my wellness through effective time management, ensuring that I allocate dedicated slots for self-care activities. Regular workouts are a cornerstone of my routine, and I particularly enjoy CrossFit and trail running as they not only keep me physically fit but also serve as a great stress reliever. In addition to exercise, maintaining a well-balanced diet is crucial for my overall well-being. I make conscious choices to eat nutritious and wholesome meals. Quality sleep is another non-negotiable aspect of my wellness strategy. I understand the importance of adequate rest and strive to cultivate rejuvenating sleep each night. By incorporating these practices into my daily life, I aim to achieve a holistic approach to wellness for both my body and mind.

What advice do you have for those who are looking for a work-life balance?

Finding a work-life balance is a personal journey, and here's my advice based on my own experiences. First and foremost, identify the activities or hobbies that bring you joy and make time for them regularly. It could be anything you love, and by incorporating these passions into your routine, you create a positive balance.

It's crucial not to go to extremes in either work or personal life. Striking a balance means not neglecting one aspect for the other. Give due importance to your professional responsibilities while also ensuring you reserve time for personal fulfillment.

Importantly, don't harbor guilt when taking time for yourself. Self-care is an integral part of maintaining balance. When you feel good mentally and physically, your work is likely to reflect that positivity. Remember, a well-nurtured personal life can enhance your professional life, creating a more holistic and satisfying overall existence.