Have you ever wondered who’s behind the scenes of a hotel’s day-to-day management, or what true success in hospitality really means? Between two busy days, Vikram took the time to reflect on his remarkable 28-year journey in the hotel industry. From 1997 to today, his career has been built on passion, humility, and dedication. Through his words, we invite you to see Veranda Pointe aux Biches through his eyes those of a hotelier deeply devoted to his team, his guests, and his island.
Hello Vikram, can you tell us a bit about your background? How did you start in hospitality, and what have been the key milestones along your path?
“I took my first steps in hospitality in the early 1990s, while I was still a student. During every school holiday, I worked as an intern in the Food & Beverage department of various hotels. These repeated experiences allowed me to discover the pace of the profession, the importance of human connection, and the joy of making others happy. After five or six years of learning on the job, I knew for sure this was where I wanted to build my career.”
What first inspired you to join this industry? Was there a meeting, an experience, or a particular moment that made you say: ‘This is what I want to do’?
“What drew me to hospitality was, above all, the human connection. I love meeting people from all over the world, engaging with them, and discovering their cultures and stories. This career has given me a unique window to the world, where every day brings a new encounter and a new experience.”
As a Hotel Manager, what still excites you most about your job today? What keeps you motivated and inspired every morning?
“What still excites me the most is the human aspect. No two days are the same they’re filled with interactions, smiles, and shared moments. I love being at the heart of the hotel’s daily life, close to both the team and our guests. That genuine connection, that shared energy, is what drives me to start each day with the same enthusiasm.”
From Mauritius to Seychelles and cruise ships what makes Veranda Pointe aux Biches unique for you?
“What truly makes Veranda Pointe aux Biches unique is the dedication of its team. Every member of staff puts their heart into making our guests happy and delivering a sincere, warm experience. There’s a genuine sense of family here, a natural spirit of support, and a shared passion for Mauritian hospitality. It’s that authenticity and generosity that make all the difference.”
If you had to define the philosophy of Veranda Pointe aux Biches in one sentence, what would it be?
“Living with your feet in the sand and your heart open to Mauritian warmth that’s the essence of Veranda Pointe aux Biches: simple, sincere, and deeply human.”
How would you describe your relationship with your team?
“I value close relationships built on trust and listening. For me, good management is founded on mutual respect and communication. I try to be present, approachable, and to ensure that everyone feels recognised and valued. A united, fulfilled team is the key to genuine service and a positive atmosphere throughout the hotel.”
What values guide your leadership every day?
“The values that guide me daily are authenticity, kindness, and passion. Authenticity because it’s important that everyone can be themselves and genuine in the way they welcome guests. Kindness because taking care of our team means taking care of our guests too. And passion for our profession, our island, and the joy of sharing it’s what drives us to give our best every single day.”
What advice would you give to a young person who dreams of becoming a Hotel Manager one day?
“Hospitality is, above all, a human adventure. Every guest, every colleague teaches you something new. My advice would be not to rush every stage matters. Working in the restaurant, at reception, or in other departments helps you understand how a hotel truly functions and the importance of teamwork. That hands-on experience, built step by step, makes all the difference when you become a Hotel Manager.”
In your opinion, what makes a hotel truly successful? Is it about the location, the team, the attitude or a mix of all three?
“The success of a hotel lies in the balance between several elements: the place, the team, and the attitude. When these three align an inspiring setting, a passionate team, and a genuinely human approach the magic happens. That’s when a simple stay turns into a memorable experience, filled with emotion and sincerity.”
What’s the most meaningful compliment a guest has ever given you about the hotel?
“The most beautiful compliment I’ve ever received was: ‘Here, it feels like home only better.’
That’s exactly what we strive to create at Veranda Pointe aux Biches: a warm, simple, and genuine atmosphere where everyone feels at ease from the moment they arrive, as if among friends.”
How do you ensure the service remains consistently excellent, day after day?
“For me, it’s all about keeping the spirit of the place alive simplicity, warmth, and authenticity. Service should never become mechanical; it should remain sincere, human, and true to the Mauritian way of welcoming others. By nurturing that natural generosity and attentiveness every day, we’re able to offer our guests a truly authentic experience.”
If a guest only had 48 hours to discover Mauritius, what would you recommend in and around the hotel?
“In 48 hours, I’d tell them to focus on the present moment. Start with a relaxing massage at the Seven Colours Spa, then enjoy a sunset drink at the Footloose Bar facing the lagoon. Nearby, the Grand Baie market is a must to experience local flavours and the vibrant Mauritian spirit. I’d also suggest a walk through the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden a true natural gem and a stop at Cap Malheureux with its iconic, red-roofed church, a place that perfectly captures the beauty of the island’s north.”
‘Feel Mauritius, Feel Mauritian’ what’s your favourite spot on the island, and why does it represent you?
“My favourite place in Mauritius is Cap Malheureux that peaceful northern spot where the lagoon meets the horizon, facing the islets. I love going there early in the morning, when everything is still quiet, fishermen prepare their boats, and the sky is painted in shades of pink and gold. This place feels like me because it embodies the simplicity and authenticity of Mauritius no ostentatious luxury, just natural beauty, serenity, and everyday generosity. You feel a true connection to the sea, nature, to people. Much like at Veranda Pointe aux Biches, it carries that ‘barefoot spirit’: sincere, warm, and full of heart, where every smile reflects the soul of Mauritius.”
If you could describe your guests in one word, what would it be?
“Authentic. They come looking for more than just a seaside getaway they seek a real experience, one made of simplicity, connection, and shared moments. Their sincerity and open-mindedness create the beautiful energy that makes Veranda Pointe aux Biches such a vibrant and welcoming place.”
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time? Do you have a hobby, ritual, or activity that helps you recharge?
“On Sundays, I recharge in my garden. It’s my quiet moment away from the rhythm of the hotel. I love growing plants, especially from the Araceae family philodendrons, monsteras, anthuriums, alocasias, colocasias. Watching them grow, their shapes and colours, is both soothing and inspiring. Gardening gives me the same joy as hospitality: caring for something, helping it thrives, and seeing it return beauty in its own way.”
What qualities do you look for in your team members?
“Above all, I look for passion a passion for service and for our island. Working at Veranda Pointe aux Biches means sharing a love for Mauritius, its culture, its scents, and its joy of living. This passion can’t be taught it’s something you feel and naturally pass on. Kindness is just as important, because a hotel runs like one big family. Everyone depends on one another, and it’s this sense of cohesion that creates the smooth, harmonious atmosphere our guests can feel. In short, I look for people who are smiling, genuine, and proud of what they do. They are the ones who give the hotel its soul and each stay, its unforgettable touch.”
On a scale from 1 to 10, how lucky do you consider yourself?
11 out of 10
“Working at Veranda Pointe aux Biches and living in Mauritius is a real privilege. Every day, I get to enjoy an exceptional setting, surrounded by a passionate and caring team. I have the chance to create experiences that make people smile, to share simple yet meaningful moments, and to meet people from all over the world. This blend of emotion, nature, and humanity makes each day unique and that’s what makes me truly grateful.”
Finally, if you could have any talent, what would it be?
“If I could have one talent, it would be the ability to slow down time. To savour each moment, to appreciate the small details we often overlook in our daily routine. Watching a sunset, listening to the sound of the waves, sharing a smile… Those simple moments are, to me, the most precious.”
And with that, Vikram invites you to Veranda Pointe aux Biches, where every stay is lived with your feet in the sand and your heart at ease.
Want to know more about Veranda Pointe aux Biches and its barefoot-chic spirit?
