Q1: You have been managing the Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava for many years. What differentiates Falkensteiner Hotels from other hotel brands?
Falkensteiner is not just a hotel chain; we are a hotel group with a rich heritage in leisure hospitality. Our journey began with the first Falkensteiner hotel, founded by Maria and Joseph Falkensteiner in South Tyrol. This humble establishment started as a 16-bed pension, where the owners dedicated themselves to providing personalized care for each guest. Their commitment to individual service laid the foundation for our success, allowing us to expand to a diverse collection of over 30 hotels. This focus on genuine hospitality and guest experience truly sets us apart from other brands.
Q2: Your hotel is located in the very centre of Bratislava. How important is the location for the success of a hotel in general?
The location of a hotel is incredibly important; it can be a defining factor for its success. Having the right property in a prime location, like ours in the heart of Bratislava, significantly enhances our visibility and accessibility. This strategic positioning not only attracts more guests but also enriches their overall experience by offering easy access to local attractions, dining, and cultural activities.
Q3: What do your guests and event organizers appreciate the most when staying at your hotel?
What sets us apart is the abundance of natural daylight in all our conference rooms. They are bright and inviting, creating a positive atmosphere for meetings and events. Even our large conference lobby, where we host coffee breaks and receptions, is flooded with sunlight. Additionally, our cosy courtyard offers a serene space for guests to unwind, whether they want to take a refreshing break outdoors or enjoy their coffee in the sun. This combination of light, comfort, and accessibility is something our guests and event organizers truly appreciate.
Q4: What are your thoughts on the Conventa trade show? How important is the event for the esteem of Slovenia, Ljubljana and the Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre?
In 2024, we completed a refresh of our conference foyer, enhancing the space used for coffee breaks and receptions. This update is crucial for creating a more inviting atmosphere for our guests. Additionally, we invested in upgrading our technical equipment, including speakers and microphones, ensuring we stay current with the latest technology. Looking ahead, we plan to continue improving our facilities and services to enhance the overall guest experience.
Q5: If you had unlimited funds to promote GR, which marketing activities would you prioritise?
The best part of my job is undoubtedly working with people. It’s not only about organising and managing tasks but also about constantly striving to improve and enhance the hotel experience. What I value most is the interaction and collaboration with my colleagues and guests. Being part of a team, working together, and building relationships with others is what I enjoy most about my role.
“In hospitality, it’s not just about the product or service you offer—it’s about how you interact with people. While quality is critical, the human connection and the way you engage with guests are what truly sets you apart.”
Q6: What advice would you give to young people entering the hospitality industry?
My advice is to dive into the hospitality industry without hesitation, but always remember that you’re essentially stepping onto a stage. In hospitality, it’s not just about the product or service you offer—it’s about how you interact with people. While quality is critical, the human connection and the way you engage with guests are what truly sets you apart. If you’re not comfortable being in the spotlight and interacting with others, then perhaps a different field, like office work, might be a better fit.
Q7: How does the Falkensteiner group approach the need for sustainable transformation in our industry? What kinds of measures are most appreciated by guests?
Sustainability has always been a core focus for the Falkensteiner group, especially given our origins in South Tyrol, where respect for nature is deeply rooted. From the very beginning, environmental responsibility has been integral to our operations. To further this commitment, we established an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) company within our holding, dedicated to developing sustainability strategies for our hotels, ensuring compliance with European and national regulations. Beyond our own properties, we also offer these services to other hotels interested in improving their sustainability efforts.
Currently, guests primarily seek certification as there isn’t yet a universally recognised standard for sustainability that can be easily communicated to them. However, we expect this to evolve as the industry continues to progress.
Q8: Do you think Bratislava could become one of the European capitals facing over-tourism?
While Bratislava is a European capital, I don’t foresee any immediate risk of over-tourism in the near future. The city is still developing its tourism infrastructure and has room for growth before reaching the levels of over-saturation seen in other European cities.
Personal questions for Gernot
Q9: What is your favourite spot in the hotel to invite your business partners?
I prefer the lobby or the lobby bar. It’s a vibrant space where there’s always something happening—guests arriving and departing, casual conversations over coffee, cocktails, or a beer. It’s a lively environment where people can interact and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for informal meetings and networking.
Q10: What are you most proud of in your professional and personal life?
In my professional life, I am most proud of helping people grow and succeed. Developing individuals to reach their full potential, improve their skills, and work better as a team is incredibly rewarding. Seeing my team members improve day by day, using their talents to achieve both personal and collective success, gives me immense satisfaction. I’m proud of my employees, my team, and everyone in the hotel who strives to be just a little better at the end of each day than they were at the beginning.
Find out more about Falkensteiner Hotel Bratislava here.
