Batch 10 of the MGLuxM Program at SP Jain School of Global Management went on an industrial visit to St. Regis, Mumbai, on June 8, 2022. The objective of the trip was to help students gain an understanding of how luxury hotels work.
Here’s a peek into what the students learnt and experienced at St Regis:
The day started with the HR of St. Regis sharing the hotel's history, rich heritage and core values with the students. They also got an opportunity to learn that the brand St Regis is very traditional. They adhere to their rituals strictly. For instance, four rituals are practised in every St. Regis - The Bloody Mary, Evening Ritual, Afternoon tea, and Midnight supper.
Did you know the famous cocktail Bloody Mary was first invented at St. Regis? Different countries have different versions of Bloody Mary as their signature cocktail. In Mumbai, they call it Mumbai Mary, and the staff welcomed the MGLuxM students with a shot glass of virgin Mumbai Mary!
Next, the staff from various departments came forward and shared an overview of what they do to provide the best customer service. They also spoke about why they are the best and their work to remain different from other luxury hotels. It was an insightful session, where the young luxury enthusiasts learnt how every staff is trained to behave and conduct themselves.
There was a session on Luxury Culinary Experiences with the Director of Culinary at Regis – Paul. He spoke about the different restaurants in the hotel and the difficulties in catering to a luxury clientele on a day-to-day basis. St. Regis Mumbai has seven master chefs working with them to provide the best food in their restaurants.
The General Manager of St Regis also interacted with the students, where he spoke about what luxury meant to him. The students loved the session as he shared his experiences in this industry.
The food and beverages executive, Keith, took the students through some dining etiquette and shared his experience working in the finest luxury bars.
David, the L&D Head, spoke about - How to land a job at Regis and what goes behind the interview preparation at any luxury hospitality group.
The staff served them lunch at an Asian-inspired restaurant, where there was champagne too. During the sit-down meal, the bartenders demonstrated how they make their signature cocktails- Mumbai Mary and Violet Martini. They also got to witness Napoleon’s infamous ‘champagne sabring’ ritual. It was mesmerising!
Post the lunch session, which ended with a tempting dessert, the students were divided into groups of four to go on tours. They headed to explore all the restaurants at the hotel.
They were given a brief on the philosophy of each restaurant, their speciality, aesthetic, decor, and even details about their seating occupancy.
The students were also taken to the wellness floor, where the guests can treat themselves to a salon, gym, spa and swimming pool. They also took a tour of the suites and premium rooms. The students ended the day by having their afternoon tea at one of the lavish banquets of St Regis.
In an interactive Q&A session, the MGLuxM students got an opportunity to clear their doubts. It was indeed a different experience, where the students got a first-hand experience of the luxurious hospitality industry!
SOME INTERESTING FACTS WHICH STUDENTS LEARNT IN THEIR TOUR