What if success in hospitality came down to passion, humility, and above all, people?
During her busy days, Elodie Sooriah, Hotel Manager at Veranda Grand Baie, took a moment to reflect on her remarkable journey and her vision of a profession she has embodied with heart for over fourteen years. Through her words, we discover not only an accomplished professional, but also a woman driven by a passion for service and a deep sense of connection — to her team, her guests, and her island.
Hello Elodie, could you tell us a bit about your journey? How did you begin in hospitality, and what have been the key stages leading to where you are today?
“At first, I wasn’t destined for hospitality,” Elodie says with a smile. “I began studying to become a pilot in civil aviation, but that project didn’t work out. I then tried studying law in France, before realising that it wasn’t my path.”
Upon returning to Mauritius, she took time to reflect on her future. It was ultimately in Bali, at Club Med, that everything changed. “Jean-Benoît Nisin, whom I greet warmly, recruited me as a GO animator and entrusted me with managing teenagers, with a focus on water sports. That experience was a revelation — I discovered my passion for hospitality and human connection.”
Driven by that newfound calling, Elodie decided to pursue studies at Vatel, before gaining experience in prestigious establishments both in Mauritius and abroad — from the Caribbean to the French Alps, including a rewarding stint with the Maison Paul Bocuse. “With my MBA in hand, I joined Veranda Paul & Virginie, and later continued the journey at Veranda Grand Baie, where I now hold the position of Hotel Manager.”
Each stage, she says, has been a lesson in itself: “I’ve learned discipline, attentiveness, and the passion for service. And even today, I keep learning every day — from my team and from our guests.”
What first inspired you to join this industry? Was there a specific encounter, experience, or moment when you realised: ‘This is what I want to do’?
“It all began with the desire to create happiness around me. Hospitality is a profession of emotion. We welcome, we share, we help people discover our culture and our sense of hospitality. That warmth immediately spoke to me.”
She also recalls the mentors who shaped her approach to service: “Very early in my career, I was fortunate to meet passionate leaders who passed on their sense of precision and excellence. They taught me that in hospitality, ‘good enough’ is never enough. Their dedication left a lasting impression on me — and that’s when I knew I wanted to grow in this field.”
As a Hotel Manager, what do you love most about your job today? What still gives you the same drive every morning?
People. My team, our guests, our partners are what give true meaning to my work. I love creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and purposeful. When a team member grows, or when a guest leaves with a smile, I know my day has been a success.
For Elodie, hospitality is a living, ever-evolving world. “What I love is seeing the hotel come alive — to feel it vibrate and breathe. No two days are ever the same: there’s always a new challenge, a new story, a new encounter.”
Then, with a spark in her eyes, she adds: “Working in a place as symbolic as Veranda Grand Baie is a source of energy in itself.”
You’ve worked in several hotels — in Bali, the Caribbean, and the French Alps. What makes Veranda Grand Baie unique to you?
Having worked in such diverse destinations, Elodie understands the richness and variety of the hospitality world. Yet, no place inspires her quite like Veranda Grand Baie.
“What makes Veranda Grand Baie unique is, above all, its soul,” she says. “Here, you can feel the Mauritian spirit in every smile, every gesture, every detail. The hotel’s human scale creates a natural sense of closeness, where guests truly feel at home.”
She adds with emotion: “It’s a warm, genuine, and heartfelt place — one where every stay becomes a personal and memorable experience.”
If you had to define Veranda Grand Baie’s philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?
“It’s a place where every guest feels at home, while experiencing the true soul of Mauritius.”
A sentence that perfectly captures the essence of the house — warmth, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality.
How would you describe your relationship with your team? What values guide your management style daily?
For Elodie, a hotel’s success rests first and foremost on the strength of its people. “The relationship I share with my team is built on trust, respect, and listening. Everyone has their place, their voice, and their value. I make sure that each person feels they are part of a shared journey.”
Her management style fully reflects her values. “Humility, kindness, and consistency guide each of my decisions. You can’t expect from others what you don’t show yourself. I try to stay close to the field, to listen before acting, and to recognise every effort — big or small.”
What advice would you give to a young person who dreams of becoming a Hotel Manager one day?
To those aspiring to this role, Elodie shares a heartfelt message: “Stay curious, patient, and passionate. This career is built over time — and with a lot of heart.”
She emphasises the importance of genuine motivation: “If you choose this path for the title or the status, it won’t work. Hospitality is first and foremost about people and human connection — one cannot exist without the other.”
And she concludes with a touch of wisdom: “You must love to learn, to question yourself, and to remember that every experience — even the difficult ones — brings a valuable lesson.”
In your opinion, what determines the success of a hotel? Is it a matter of place, team, or attitude — or a bit of all three?
For Elodie, a hotel’s success depends on a delicate balance. “It’s a mix of attitude, teamwork, and authenticity,” she explains. “A beautiful property is important, but without passionate people to bring it to life, it remains empty. A positive and genuine attitude makes all the difference.”
What is the most meaningful compliment a guest has ever given you about the hotel?
She recalls a comment that perfectly captures the spirit of Veranda Grand Baie: “A guest once told me, ‘Here, you don’t feel like you’re in a hotel — you feel like you’re with family.’ That’s exactly what we aim to convey.”
And how do you ensure that the level of service remains high, day after day?
Maintaining that level of service every day takes dedication and consistency.
“You must be willing to question yourself, celebrate successes, and learn from mistakes. The secret lies in regularity — and above all, in a genuine love for the profession.”
If a guest had only 48 hours to discover Mauritius, what would you recommend — in and around the hotel?
When asked what a visitor should absolutely do with just 48 hours in Mauritius, Elodie answers with enthusiasm: “I would tell them to begin by fully embracing the Veranda experience — a relaxing moment at the spa, a sunset over the bay, and a Creole dinner under the stars.”
She continues: “It’s essential to soak up the unique atmosphere of Grand Baie — its nightlife, its energy, that joyful effervescence that perfectly reflects the Mauritian spirit.”
For a touch of adventure, Elodie recommends setting sail: “A catamaran excursion to the northern islands offers breathtaking scenery, with incredible shades of blue.”
And to end the stay beautifully: “A visit to Port Louis is a must. Between the street food, the market, and the historical heritage, you discover the authentic soul of Mauritius — its diversity and rich culture.”
Veranda Resorts invites its guests to ‘Feel Mauritius, Feel Mauritian.’ What is your favourite place on the island, and why does it reflect who you are?
When asked about her favourite place in Mauritius, Elodie answers without hesitation: “I love Grand Baie, of course, but Le Morne holds a special place in my heart. It’s a site filled with history and energy — a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Mauritian people.”
Her attachment to it goes beyond its spectacular beauty — it’s also about what it represents. “Le Morne symbolises freedom, peace, and pride in being Mauritian — three values that are deeply meaningful to me. When the sun sets behind the mountain and the colours reflect on the sea, you can feel the island’s history — its struggles, the memory of its communities, their courage, and their unity.”
And she adds, with emotion: “This place reflects who I am because it embodies freedom, pride, and collective strength. Standing there, facing the ocean, you can truly feel Mauritius — in all its depth and human richness.”
And if you had to describe your guests in one word?
If Elodie had to describe her guests in one word, it would be curious. “They come to discover, to feel, to connect — and that’s what makes every encounter unique. Their curiosity sparks conversations, creates bonds, and moments that give real meaning to what we do.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time? Is there a passion, ritual, or activity that helps you recharge?
Outside of work, Elodie values simplicity and genuine moments. “I like to enjoy the essentials — spending time with the people I care about, walking in nature, sleeping under the stars, or sailing at sea,” she says.
She is also involved in volunteer work for animal protection and has supported sanctuaries around the world — experiences that bring her back to what truly matters. “These shared moments, in nature or with the people I love, are what really recharge me. I don’t need much — a sunset, the sound of the waves, the laughter of friends… and everything feels perfect.”
Before concluding, she adds softly: “The sea remains my refuge. Its serenity reminds me every day why I love Mauritius so much — and the life it allows me to live.”
What qualities do you look for in your team members?
When asked what qualities she values most in her team, Elodie doesn’t hesitate: “A positive attitude, sincerity, and the willingness to learn.”
She firmly believes that being is just as important as doing. “Skills can be taught, but passion and respect must come from the heart. Those are the values that make the difference every day — and that give each service that touch of authenticity our guests immediately feel.”
On a scale of 1 to 10, how lucky do you consider yourself?
When asked how lucky she feels, Elodie smiles: “A solid 10. Because I do what I love, surrounded by wonderful people, in a place I deeply cherish.” A response that perfectly reflects her — full of simplicity, gratitude, and love for her craft.
Finally, what talent would you like to have?
Before concluding, Elodie pauses for a moment and smiles: “Perhaps the ability to stop time… just to savour those little everyday moments a bit longer.”
A simple, heartfelt answer that beautifully captures her outlook on life — mindful, human, and deeply rooted in the present moment.
Elodie welcomes you with a smile at Veranda Grand Baie, ready to share the Mauritian spirit with all its warmth and generosity.
