Dhaka : As Bangladesh's hospitality sector evolves, Radisson Blu continues to set benchmarks in luxury service under the leadership of Cluster General Manager Duco Everen de Vries.
Overseeing both Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden and Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View, de Vries highlighted the hotels' journey, market positioning, and ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cultural engagement while talking to The Bangladesh Monitor in an exclusive interview.
Legacy of excellence
Since their inception, Radisson Blu properties in Dhaka and Chattogram have been synonymous with luxury, blending global standards with local hospitality.
"Both hotels have consistently delivered world-class service, catering to business, leisure, and large-scale events," de Vries noted.
From being among the first internationally branded hotels in Dhaka and Chattogram to remaining the preferred choice for discerning travelers, Radisson Blu's journey reflects adaptability, innovation, and a relentless commitment to guest satisfaction.
Distinctive experiences in Dhaka, Chattogram
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden offers a unique urban city-resort experience, complete with two pillarless grand ballrooms, multiple meeting rooms, fine dining across Pan-Asian, European, and local cuisines, and landscaped gardens with jogging tracks.
Meanwhile, Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View, the city's only five-star hotel, provides breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal and surrounding hills, contemporary design, and the largest pillarless event spaces in Chattogram.
Both hotels embody the Radisson Hotel Group's "Yes I Can!" philosophy, ensuring personalized and anticipatory service.
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden
"Our properties successfully blend global standards with local essence, creating experiences that resonate deeply with guests," de Vries said.
Market strategy, guest engagement
Radisson Blu Dhaka positions itself as a resort-like urban escape for international business travelers and local guests seeking exclusivity, while Chattogram Bay View caters to both business and leisure travelers with versatile rooms, award-winning F&B offerings, wellness facilities, and a prime location near the airport and business hubs.
Both hotels actively leverage marketing initiatives, lifestyle partnerships, and seasonal promotions to attract domestic and international guests alike.
Key elements defining the guest experience include modern, comfortable rooms, curated dining options, spacious event venues, and recreational facilities such as spas, infinity pools, fitness centers, and salons.
"Personalized service covers every detail-from warm welcomes to seamless problem resolution, reinforced through regular staff training," de Vries emphasized.
Innovation, sustainability
In response to evolving guest preferences, Radisson Blu continues to innovate with refreshed menus, wellness programs, room refurbishments, and flexible event solutions.
Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View
Sustainability remains central to operations, aligned with Radisson Hotel Group's Net Zero 2050 goals. Initiatives include energy-efficient systems, water conservation, waste reduction, elimination of single-use plastics, and corporate social responsibility programs supporting local artisans, charitable causes, and environmental awareness campaigns.
Opportunities amid challenges
While facing challenges such as fluctuating travel trends, rising operational costs, and increasing competition, the hotels see significant growth opportunities in Bangladesh's expanding middle class, rising domestic tou-rism, increased international business travel, and the growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibi-tions) sector.
"By continuously innovating, differentiating services, and leveraging brand strengths, we can capture both established and emerging markets," de Vries observed.
Cultural engagement, community connection
Both properties celebrate Bangladeshi culture in décor, cuisine, and events.
Traditional Jamdani motifs, wooden sculptures, and local photography adorn the hotels, while culinary offerings combine local flavors with international cuisine.
Partnerships with performers, artisans, and local businesses create authentic experiences for guests while supporting the community.
Looking ahead
Future plans include refurbishments and enhancements at both hotels, new dining experiences, themed promotions, upgraded event facilities, and strategic partnerships designed to elevate the guest experience.
"We reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, maintaining service excellence, and celebrating Bangladesh's vibrant tourism future together," de Vries stated on the occasion of The Bangla-desh Monitor's 34th anniversary.
With a focus on personalized service, sustainability, and cultural engagement, Radisson Blu continues to lead the way in Bangladesh's luxury hospitality sector, offering both business and leisure travelers unforgettable experiences, concluded Duco Everen de Vries.