Midweek Interview with David Constantine, GM, Parmelia Hilton Perth
![Midweek Interview with David Constantine, GM, Parmelia Hilton Perth](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
The challenge for the travel industry is… in Perth there is a perception of lack of accommodation availability and high rates. However, during most of the year there is ample availability and reasonable rates if you book early. Weekend rates are still very competitive with the rest of Australia.
The things I like about my job are… talking to our customers, talking to our team members. The variety of each day.
And the frustrations… emails!
If I didn’t work in travel I would be a… new car salesman – top of the range luxury imported brands only.
Qantas or Virgin?… hard to tell the difference these days.
My proudest moment was… becoming the general manager of the Parmelia Hilton and being able to lead such a terrific team and take special care of our very loyal guests.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was… walk on a railway line when I was six years old.
I try to relax by… playing golf and watching AFL.
The last time I feared for my life… I was stuck half way up a chairlift at Whistler swinging from side to side.
If I can, I always try to avoid… deep fried food.
I really wish I had… a photo taken with Muhammad Ali when I met him in the lobby of the London Hilton where I worked before coming to Australia. But I did get his autograph and shook his hand.
The best advice I’ve ever received… was some years ago in New York at our head office. The Hilton HR Vice President said to me, “be firm but fair, treat people the way you would wish to be treated yourself”. Simple advice but oh so true.
I don’t understand why… there is no cure for cancer.
My greatest weakness is… pistachio nuts.
And my greatest strength… patience, never losing my temper.
If I was prime minister I would… lower the income tax rate.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would… buy my two sons a house.
If I could be someone else for the day I would be… my wife.
I’ve always wanted to travel to… South America, in particular Brazil and Ecuador.
My favourite holiday was… skiing in Whistler.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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