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Hospitality
True luxury = comfort + elegance + exceptional service
Exclusive interview with Pantelis Leptos, Co-President Leptos Group of Companies
How does Leptos Calypso Hotels define luxury in the context of hospitality?
At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we define luxury not merely by the opulence of our surroundings but by the unique experiences we offer. Luxury, in our view, is about providing an environment where every detail has been meticulously curated to exceed guest expectations. It’s about personalizing every aspect of a guest’s stay, from the moment they walk through our doors to the time they leave. We believe true luxury is found in the seamless integration of comfort, elegance, and exceptional service that leaves a lasting impression.
How do you incorporate the essence of Mediterranean luxury into your hospitality offerings, and how might this appeal to discerning travelers from the UAE?
Mediterranean luxury is at the heart of everything we do at Leptos Calypso Hotels. It’s about capturing the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and laid-back elegance. Our properties are designed to reflect the Mediterranean’s stunning landscapes, with architecture and interiors that evoke a sense of place. We use local materials, traditional craftsmanship, and regional flavors to create an authentic and immersive experience.
For travelers from the UAE, this approach resonates with their appreciation for both authenticity and refinement. The Mediterranean lifestyle is one of relaxation, indulgence, and understated sophistication, which aligns with the expectations of discerning guests from the UAE who seek not only comfort but a sense of connection to the destination.
Given your extensive experience in the hospitality industry, do you see any potential for Leptos Calypso Hotels to expand into the UAE market?
The UAE is a dynamic and growing market with a deep appreciation for luxury and hospitality. While our focus has traditionally been on the Mediterranean, we are always exploring opportunities to bring our unique approach to new markets. The UAE, with its cosmopolitan population and high standards for luxury, presents a compelling opportunity for us to extend the Leptos Calypso experience. We see potential in creating a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern elements, offering a distinct luxury experience that could appeal to both local and international travelers in the UAE.
Considering your deep appreciation for ancient Greek history and Cyprus’ rich heritage, how do you integrate cultural elements into the luxury experience at your hotels?
Cyprus has a rich cultural tapestry, and we see it as our responsibility to share this heritage with our guests. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we integrate cultural elements into every aspect of the guest experience. This includes architecture inspired by ancient Greek and Cypriot design, art collections featuring local artists, and culinary offerings that celebrate traditional Cypriot and Greek flavors. We also offer curated experiences that allow guests to explore the history and culture of Cyprus, from guided tours of ancient sites to workshops on local crafts. By doing so, we provide our guests with a deeper connection to the destination, enriching their stay with meaningful and memorable experiences.
How do you see your leadership philosophy influencing the growth and success of Leptos Calypso Hotels?
My leadership philosophy is grounded in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and respect for our heritage. I believe in leading by example, inspiring our team to embrace these values in everything they do. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and solutions. This collaborative approach has been key to our growth and success, allowing us to adapt to changing market conditions while staying true to our core principles. By nurturing talent and promoting a shared vision, I believe we can continue to elevate our brand and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests.
In an increasingly competitive market, how do you measure and maintain guest satisfaction at Leptos Calypso Hotels?
Guest satisfaction is at the core of our operations, and we take a proactive approach to ensuring it. We measure satisfaction through a combination of direct guest feedback, online reviews, and detailed surveys. This data is analyzed regularly to identify areas for improvement and to recognize what we are doing well. However, maintaining guest satisfaction goes beyond metrics. It’s about creating a culture where every team member is committed to going above and beyond for our guests. We empower our staff to anticipate needs, resolve issues swiftly, and deliver personalized service. In a competitive market, this focus on guest satisfaction is what sets us apart and ensures our guests return year after year.
Is luxury defined by price or by experience?
Luxury is unequivocally defined by experience. While price can be a factor, true luxury is about the value that guests derive from their experience. It’s about creating moments that are priceless—whether it’s a stunning view, a perfect meal, or a gesture of kindness from our staff. At Leptos Calypso Hotels, we strive to offer experiences that resonate on a deeper level, leaving our guests with memories that last a lifetime. Luxury is about how our guests feel when they stay with us, and that feeling is something that money alone cannot buy.
We also find that a select few fall in love with life on the beautiful island of Cyprus and desire a more permanent presence, which we are well-equipped to support them with through our residential development arm, Leptos Estates. As the largest and most successful developer in Cyprus we offer a wide range of prime luxury villas, apartments and houses on full-service resorts or developments that offer a wide range of amenities and excellent security in envious locations. We also have an entire team in place to support with and manage residency and visa applications for those looking to spend more time on the island or enjoy wider access across the EU.
Grand Iftar by Mövenpick Bur Dubai
Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai invites guests to experience The Grand Iftar, a refined Ramadan celebration hosted across two distinctive venues, thoughtfully designed for meaningful moments of togetherness.
Gather with family, friends, and colleagues over a generous Iftar buffet showcasing a curated selection of Arabic specialities and international favourites. Signature highlights include Chef Feras’ lamb ouzi, slow-cooked for over 12 hours, alongside classic Ramadan dishes such as chicken shish taouk, beef kebabs, and lamb kofta, served at Fountain Restaurant and The Garden.
The experience continues at Garden Lounge, an elegant outdoor setting featuring live BBQ stations with premium meats, chicken, and seafood. Guests can unwind under the open sky with shisha available, while enjoying live entertainment in a warm and inviting Ramadan ambience.
Details:
Date: Throughout Ramadan | Time: Sunset – 10:30 PM | Seating: Indoor and outdoor available | Venue: Fountain Restaurant, The Garden & Garden Lounge
Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai
Suhoor at The Garden Lounge
Unwind under the open sky at The Garden Lounge and enjoy a relaxed Suhoor experience in an elegant outdoor setting. Guests can savour traditional and international à la carte dishes, refreshing mocktails, and a wide selection of shisha flavours, complemented by live oud/qanoon music for a serene late-night Ramadan atmosphere.
Details:
Date: Throughout Ramadan | Time: Until 3:00 AM | Venue: The Garden Lounge
Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai.
This February, One&Only Royal Mirage invites guests to celebrate love in its most elegant forms. Throughout the month, indulge in the Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Lobby Lounge and Samovar Lounge, featuring the romantic pairing of chocolate and roses. For those seeking shared moments of serenity, the spa offers intimate couple rituals, while Eauzone presents an unforgettable evening beneath the stars on Valentine’s Day itself. Each experience is designed to evoke connection, indulgence, and timeless romance in the resort’s serene coastal setting.
ROMANCE UNDER THE STARS
An Intimate Valentine’s Evening Beneath the Open Sky: Celebrate the magic of Valentine’s night surrounded by candlelight, gentle sea breeze, and the soft hum of the waves at Eauzone. Begin your evening with two glasses of sparkling wine before indulging in a four-course menu crafted for sharing and savouring together. Every detail from the rose petals to the intimate table setting evokes elegance, warmth, and connection.
INTIMATE GAZEBO UNDER THE STARS
A Private Celebration of Love and Connection: For those wishing to celebrate in complete seclusion, Eauzone offers an exclusive private gazebo experience set amidst candlelight and the shimmering night sky. Begin with a sparkling welcome, followed by a meticulously curated four-course dinner, Champagne, flowers, and sweet indulgences all served with discreet, dedicated attention in a setting designed for cherished memories.
Chocolate & Roses Themed Valentine’s Afternoon Tea Celebration: In honour of the month of love, this February, guests can immerse themselves in an afternoon of refined indulgence with One&Only Royal Mirage’s Valentine’s Afternoon Tea. Inspired by the classic pairing of chocolate and roses, this carefully curated experience features delicate flavours of chocolate, rose, raspberry, and lychee alongside savoury selections including duck breast with beetroot, blue cheese, and caramelised onion. Set in the elegant ambience of either the Lobby Lounge or Samovar Lounge, offers guests the perfect way to celebrate love in an intimate, relaxed setting.
TOTAL HOLISTIC DUO RITUAL
A Shared Journey of Balance, Relaxation, and Connection: Reconnect with your loved one through a deeply restorative ritual designed exclusively for two. The experience begins with personalised facials in the privacy of a serene couple’s suite before surrendering to a harmonising full-body massage. The experience restores balance and invites you both to unwind, rejuvenate, and embrace calm together.
COUPLES HAMMAM EXPERIENCE
Indulge in Shared Serenity and Timeless Wellness: Step into a sanctuary where Moroccan wellness rituals meet contemporary luxury. The journey begins with aromatic steam, gentle exfoliation, and soothing treatments that prepare your body and mind for a shared 30-minute massage, leaving you radiant, relaxed, and perfectly in tune.
VALENTINE’S BASTIEN MANICURE
Perfectly Polished for Your Special Moment: Prepare for your celebrated evening with a Signature Bastien Manicure focusing on refined nail and cuticle care, complemented by a deeply relaxing forearm, wrist, hand, and finger massage. Finished with the colour of your choice, this experience ensures every detail is as flawless as your occasion.
This Ramadan, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island invites guests to embrace the spirit of togetherness through elegant and thoughtful dining experiences. From a refined Iftar at the Yas Grand Terrace to a tranquil late-night Suhoor and tailored group gatherings, every detail has been considered to create moments that honour the essence of the holy month.
IFTAR AT YAS GRAND TERRACE
Set against the calm backdrop of Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Grand Terrace at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island offers a refined Iftar experience crafted to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan. Guests can break their fast with a thoughtfully curated menu that highlights time-honoured flavours, comforting dishes, and indulgent desserts. Whether gathering with family, friends, or colleagues, the elegant outdoor setting and warm hospitality provide the perfect atmosphere to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the season.
Date & Timings: Throughout Ramadan | From Sunset onwards
SUHOOR AT HILTON ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND
Extend your evening with a relaxed Suhoor experience in a serene setting, perfect for unhurried gatherings and quiet reflection. The menu features comforting favourites and Ramadan classics, served in an atmosphere designed for peace and connection before the day begins.
Date & Timings: Throughout Ramadan
GROUP RAMADAN GATHERINGS
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island welcomes group bookings for corporate Iftars, family celebrations, and private Suhoors. With flexible event spaces and attentive service, each gathering is tailored to ensure a seamless and meaningful experience for all.
Date & Timings: Throughout Ramadan
MÖVENPICK HOTEL BUR DUBAI -RAMADAN LISTINGS
CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S WITH THAT SPECIAL ONE AT ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRA
EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF RAMADAN AT HILTON ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND
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