The Gstaad Guy sits down with Radha Arora, President of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, to explore the philosophy and details that define one of the world’s most admired luxury hospitality brands. With decades of experience leading by example, Radha brings an insider’s view on how hotels can transcend function to become sanctuaries of self-actualisation and cultural expression.
The conversation unpacks the art of creating a true “sense of place,” why every detail matters, and how the “cocoon effect” transforms hospitality into an intimate, personal experience. Radha reflects on leadership, the evolution of modern luxury, and the pursuit of hospitality that is as much about inner fulfilment as it is about comfort. A rare look into the mindset of someone shaping not just hotels, but the way we experience belonging away from home.
Filmed at Nobel LA’s St. Ives property.
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro ✨
(00:40) Running a hotel 🏨
(04:23) Lead by example 🌟👣
(06:25) Rosewood 🌹🌳
(10:28) A sense of place 📍✨
(13:20) The living room of Paris 🛋️🇫🇷
(15:21) Shaping perception 👓 🎭
(21:36) Defining Luxury 💎✨
(27:20) Hiring the right team 🤝🏻👥
(31:03) Loyalty lives in the details 🔑🧵
(34:55) Dealing with guests 🙋♂️🤝🏻
(35:55) Hospitality isn’t for everyone 🚪🙂
(36:35) Absurd guest encounters 😂🍾
(46:13) Heritage vs. customer demands 🏛️⚖️
(49:23) The cocoon aspect 🪺🛌
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