The one thing that is key to being able to handle all these responsibilities successfully is to surround yourself with great colleagues.

Peter Pottinga was appointed the first General Manager of InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping in June 2021, to oversee all aspects of the hotel’s pre-opening and opening phases.

A native of the Netherlands, Pottinga has over 25 years of experience in Senior Manager and General Manager positions working across the globe, from America, through Europe and Asia.

His appointment at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping marks a nostalgic return to Thailand, the country of his childhood where he graduated from the International School Bangkok. It is also a chance to help elevate Chiang Mai’s profile as one of Asia’s leading tourist destinations following its designation as a member of the UNESCO Crafts and Folk-Art Creative Cities Network in 2017. Pottinga is uniquely positioned for this role as his previous hotel, the InterContinental Budapest, also provided a window to the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel has always been a passion for Pottinga, and he looks forward to living in another vibrant and historic city. “As we work towards the opening in mid-2023, the team and I have immersed ourselves with excitement in the awe-inspiring task of unveiling InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping to domestic and international travelers,” he said. “By blending the region’s tantalizing cuisine, the handiwork of local artisans, and northern Thai history along with the signature traits of an iconic brand like InterContinental we aim to create a guest experience that promotes the cultural and artistic traditions of the Lanna people.”

What is your expectation for this newly opening resort? What do you want to see in the next 6 months?

I am looking forward to launching a new hotel that is as much a part of the culture and landscape of the city, as it is a host for visitors who want to explore. I expect The InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping to be a destination in itself, where visitors to Chiang Mai want to come to learn more about the art, culture, and culinary heritage of this amazing city.

What do you like most about your resort?

My favorite part has to be the overall design of the hotel. Everything about The InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping reflects local culture and design. Our landscape seamlessly blends in with the historic Wat Chang Kong temple complex. The art featured throughout the hotel reflects the rich history and craftsmanship on display throughout Chiang Mai. Every corner you turn in the hotel will showcase a new highlight of the city and region.

What are the challenges in your role as a GM and how do you overcome them?

One of the many challenges is that we are competing against time. Over time, the GM role has diversified more and more, where we are trying to meet our commitments to owners, guests, our team, corporate offices, and more. The one thing that is key to being able to handle all these responsibilities successfully is to surround yourself with great colleagues. Opening a hotel like The InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping is largely the success of a strong team of colleagues, who make my work so much easier to handle.

If you were to suggest one experience to try at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, what would that be?

After all the busy exploring of Chiang Mai, relax and unwind with a Doi Suthep sunset at our rooftop bar, or conversely start off the day with great energy by enjoying breakfast in the shade of Wat Chang Kong, on our Gad Lanna terrace. Chiang Mai is blessed with clean air and comfortable temperatures, so enjoy the outdoor environment of our great hotel.

Visit InterContinental Chiang Mao The Mae Ping here