In this episode, we are meeting Carmela Piazza from the Grand Hotel et Des Palmes in Palermo.

Carmela shares her career journey from Sicily to the Grand Hotel, detailing her passion for hospitality and the rich history of the hotel.

She discusses the unique experiences available to guests, the impact of the pandemic on the travel industry, and the growing demand for authentic local experiences in Palermo.

Finally, she offers valuable advice for travel advisors and highlights some undiscovered gems in the city.

Connect with Carmela via her LinkedIn profile and find out more about the hotel at despalmes.mangias.com

Takeaways

• The Grand Hotel et Des Palmes has a rich history dating back to the 1870s.
• Guests can experience the Belle Epoque atmosphere at the hotel.
• The hotel features a roof garden restaurant and a historic ballroom.
• Couples and families are the primary clientele at the hotel.
• Memorable experiences include personalised wedding proposals in the Presidential Suite Wagner.
• Post-pandemic, the travel industry has seen a shift towards last-minute bookings.
• Travellers seek genuine local experiences in Palermo, including street food.
• Sicily is a large island with many attractions, encouraging repeat visits.
• Travel advisors should seek local insights to create customised itineraries, and the team at the Grand Hotel can help

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Carmela and the Hotel
• 01:21 Carmela's Journey in Hospitality
• 04:06 The Grand Hotel et Des Palmes: A Historical Overview
• 06:55 Unique Guest Experiences at the Hotel
• 09:40 Post-Pandemic Recovery and Demand Trends
• 12:07 Authentic Experiences in Palermo
• 14:35 Carmela's Travel Insights and Recommendations