Arthur Rojas is the General Manager of Vibe Hotel Melbourne Docklands and says “it’s exciting to see the pipeline of hotel openings ahead for TFE Hotels – we have some stunning properties. There are plenty of new and exciting opportunities ahead and I cannot wait to see where the future lies.”
Find out what else they had to say in this week’s Talking Travel.
What does your job involve?
Day to day, I am involved in revenue management, asset management, owner liaison, guest service and engaging with the team.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?
I enjoy helping my team to develop their skill set and watching them grow both professionally and personally. I also enjoy watching the positive impact individual team members have on the overall guest experience. When we receive positive reviews, we always share the great feedback with each other, and congratulate the relevant parties on a job well done.
Why do you think the travel industry is the best place to work?
No day is ever the same. The travel industry is always evolving, with new destinations, trends, and technologies emerging. This dynamic environment keeps my work interesting and engaging.
What are the biggest challenges for you in your profession?
The ever-changing landscapes of hotels in Melbourne has been challenging. New properties are opening every month, so the market is becoming more competitive and aggressive. We want to stay ahead of the market and drive business but not lose sight of what’s important – our guests.
What do you think are the biggest challenges the industry faces?
Right now, it is the current economic uncertainty. There is a fluctuating demand mixed with increased inventory in certain markets. Adding to this, is the rising operational costs including wages, utilities, and cost of goods.
What do you think will be the biggest game changer in the travel industry in the next 12 months?
For hotels specifically, I believe it is trying to maintain a balance between the use of artificial intelligence – for personalised travel experiences and automated customer service – and providing the all-important face-to-face contact with hotel guests, which is not easily replaced.
What destination/travel trend do you think is the next big thing?
With increasing awareness of climate change and environmental impact, travellers are seeking more sustainable travel options. This includes eco-friendly accommodations, carbon offset programs, and destinations that prioritise conservation and sustainability. I am proud that TFE is advanced on their ESG journey, and I look forward to some great announcements in this space in the not-too-distant future.
What are your thoughts on responsible travel and how do you try to implement this in your workplace?
Continuing from the above, it is about moving past the usual hotel standard of a “green clean” offer and general recycling of rubbish. It’s going that step further, like looking at green power and ways to reduce food waste at our buffet breakfast or the way we manage our electricity consumption and use of air conditioning and heating to reduce our carbon emissions and hit our targets for net zero in 2050.
Who inspires you most and why?
That would be my parents. They moved to Australia from Chille not knowing how to speak English, but that didn’t stop them from working hard to provide for their family. To see them now, retired and spending time with their grandchildren, is extremely rewarding.
What is your must-pack travel item(s)?
Has to be my phone and iPad charger! I have become reliant on my phone to stay connected, and admittedly, the kids are easily entertained by the iPad.
Who would you invite on your next holiday if you could choose anyone and where would you go?
My wife and I have been waiting for the kids to get a bit older so we can take them on a holiday to Disneyland. I think it’s time! We would also like to head to South America to see family.
Contact Email: arojas@travelodge.com.au
