Inside the World’s Most Extraordinary Hotels with Monica Galetti

As a seasoned globetrotter and food connoisseur with a penchant for extraordinary experiences, I must admit that the hotels showcased in BBC2’s Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby have left an indelible impression on me. From the enigmatic allure of Gangtey Lodge nestled in Bhutan’s mountains to the awe-inspiring Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland, hidden within a quarry, each location has offered a unique perspective that has expanded my horizons. However, among these diverse offerings, I found myself utterly smitten by Argos in Cappadocia, Turkey, where I soared above the biblical landscape in a hot air balloon. The experience was nothing short of breathtaking and left me beaming from ear to ear like a Cheshire cat!

In Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby on BBC2, Monica Galetti and Rob Rinder explore hotels that are far from typical, such as a lodge in Bhutan’s mountains, a quarry-turned-resort in Shanghai, and one nestled deep within Malaysia’s rainforest. They not only visit these extraordinary places but also pitch in with the staff tasks. This series concludes with Monica Galetti, who is recognized from MasterChef: The Professionals and known as one of London’s top chefs, sharing her most peculiar job experiences, lessons learned during her travels, and what she finds most challenging about globetrotting.

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Which was your favourite hotel in this series?

They’re all so different! In Shanghai [at the Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland], we were in the bottom of a quarry where you can’t see the sky. It’s almost like waking up in a cave. In Bhutan [at Gangtey Lodge], we were up in the mountains below a monastery: you open the curtains, and there’s nothing but a valley and mountains – beautiful.

Among all experiences, the most captivating moment for me was when I ascended with my guests in a hot air balloon over the landscapes of Argos in Cappadocia, Turkey. This was my first time riding in a hot air balloon, and it left me speechless by its breathtaking beauty; I couldn’t help but smile from ear to ear! The scenery resembled something straight out of the Bible – it felt like being in an isolated, tranquil world, with no other sounds except for the gentle drift as we admired the stunning sights around us. That moment was truly extraordinary.

You take on lots of tasks on the show — which are the most memorable?

At The Datai Langkawi in Malaysia, we undertake some extraordinary tasks! Not just any ordinary hotel, this one is nestled within a lush rainforest. In its grand lobby, there’s an expansive lily pond brimming with frogs. You might wonder who tackles the job of cleaning it? Well, that was me! I waded in, gathering all the frogspawn, and then released them back into the forest. This task is crucial as an overabundance of frogs can attract snakes to the pond. The experience had me laughing uncontrollably due to the challenging terrain – it was a slippery, muddy mess! One could easily get stuck if moving too hastily. I felt like a giant marshmallow, the Michelin man! Despite the challenges, I relish these unique experiences. After all, there’s only so much bed-making one can do.

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Which travel experiences are on your bucket list?

Despite visiting numerous places like Sweden and Norway, the mesmerizing Northern Lights have eluded me. Each time, I’ve found myself longing to witness this natural spectacle, only to hear stories about its magnificent displays the very next day. It feels as though everyone else has caught a glimpse except for me!

What do you think makes a good — or a bad — hotel?

I’d never return to a hotel or restaurant where I received poor service. A delicious meal is essential as well; even basic ingredients can make a significant impact on my dining experience. Speed and efficiency in addressing issues within the hotel are key factors for me, too. The lobby sets the tone for the entire establishment – it reflects the welcome, check-in process, and overall friendliness. While a hug isn’t expected, a warm smile can go a long way, particularly for weary travelers.

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Any particular bugbears?

It would be much more convenient if the power outlets were located near the bed, and light switches weren’t so intricate. Modern switches can be a hassle with their various functions – press, scroll, double-tap – before they finally switch off. And when there are multiple lights, it becomes a challenge at night to find the right ones to turn off, leaving you thinking “All I want is a good night’s sleep!” (Informal and conversational)

Were there any behind-the-scenes surprises this series?

During my visit to Malaysia, I spent an entire day assisting them in managing their food waste. They meticulously separated all items: oyster shells are either pulverized for use in construction or as a component of building materials; protein-rich foods are collected and sent to a dog shelter for feeding the animals; leftover rice dishes are taken by a local farmer to feed his poultry. The amount of food waste is substantial, yet they creatively reuse it. I find this practice very commendable, it truly embodies sustainable tourism.

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How did you get along with the hotel staff when you were working alongside them?

You have a knack for forming strong connections with others. During our stay in Shanghai, we were warmly integrated into the group, and even as we parted ways, all the supervisors took the time to bid us farewell. It wasn’t long before we found ourselves belting out Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” during a karaoke session. Despite our less-than-stellar singing abilities, the team spirit was palpable and that’s what truly mattered. I cherish my travels and encounters with various hotels, but these heartfelt moments are especially memorable.

2024-10-15 07:33

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