Midweek Interview with Camilla Deague of Art Series Hotels
The challenge for the industry is… As with all hotels, it is about trying to ensure we exceed the expectations of our guests. Our loyal visitants are desperate for us to expand interstate, especially in Sydney. If anyone knows of any suitable empty blocks of land, do let us know! We are looking forward to opening our first hotel in Adelaide soon, which is really exciting.
The things I like about my job are… The dynamics – working in hotels is like working in the theatre, every day is different and new…a new performance essentially and you can never be sure of the kind of audience that will attend.
And the frustrations… I love that Art Series Hotels was one of the first boutique hotel chains to open in Australia. Though like anything new, it’s often a challenge to educate travellers on why they should stay with us over a larger chain – but experience is everything and I honestly believe you receive the same attention to detail in a larger hotel.
If I didn’t work in travel I would be a…. A professional skier
Qantas or Virgin? I’m a huge fan of Qantas – their frequent flyer program is the best in the world and the new partnership with Emirates is genius.
My proudest moment was…. When Art Series Hotels won the Gold Lion at the Cannes Festival of Creativity. We are constantly trying to be innovative and to stand out for the pack and our Steal Banksy campaign really set the benchmark.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was…. I am obsessed with hotel slippers, the often make their way in to my luggage; they’re my favourite souvenir!
I try to relax by… Practicing yoga and jumping into the infrared detox box at Norbu spa at The Olsen
The last time I feared for my life…. Hiking the Aspen Highlands Bowl, I force myself to do it each year even though it completely terrifies me.
If I can, I always try to avoid… Crowds. I love travelling to places where you feel like you’re the only person there.
I really wish I had… The ability to time travel, those 16 hour flights to LA are a killer.
The best advice I’ve ever received was… To never give up, and to create something that matters.
I don’t understand why… 5 star hotels insist of providing bain marie style buffet breakfast. Some hotels in the industry need to evolve.
My greatest weakness is…. Not being satisfied with sitting still for too long and I have an insatiable sweet tooth!
And my greatest strength…. My drive. I’m a relentless explorer and I love to learn. For me, it’s all about life experiences – and I think, in turn, that gives me a good perspective on what’s really important.
If I was prime minister I would… Allocate more money to the arts. I think it’s so important that the country invests in our cultural footprint. We have many talented emerging Australian artists who need the supported and encouragement of the country.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would…. Split it between some charities which are close to my heart. I’m currently on the committee for My Room, which supports the Children’s Cancer Centre at the Royal Children’s’ Hospital in Melbourne – I’d definitely donate a substantial amount to My Room.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be… Sheryl Sandberg of Facebook, I’ve just started reading her book ‘Lean In’ which encourages women to lead in the workplace.
I’ve always wanted to travel to…. Argentina and Uruguay. I haven’t had the chance to make it to South America yet but I can’t wait to get there in the next few years.
My favourite holiday was…. A friend’s birthday in Morocco. Discovering Marrakech with a group of 20 friends was unforgettable.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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