In an exclusive interview, led by Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, with Ms. Bria Guishard-Blanc, General Manager of Long Bay Beach Resort, we delve into the vision, leadership, and insights behind one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious luxury resorts. Under Ms. Guishard-Blanc’s expert guidance, Long Bay Beach Resort has earned its place among the TOP 100 Luxury Hotels and Resorts of the World—a well-deserved recognition that reflects the resort’s commitment to exceptional service, stunning design, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Join us as we explore both the art of luxury hospitality and the personal journey of one of the industry’s leading figures.

Alexander Chetchikov: Ms. Guishard-Blanc, Long Bay Beach Resort has quickly made a name for itself in the luxury hospitality space. What, in your opinion, sets Long Bay apart from other luxury resorts in the Caribbean?

Ms. Bria Guishard-Blanc: Long Bay Beach Resort has been a pillar of luxury hospitality in the Caribbean for over 50 years, celebrated across the region for its timeless commitment to exceptional service and genuine warmth. What truly sets Long Bay apart is our seamless blend of laid-back sophistication and refined comfort, creating an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.

At Long Bay, we’re not just a resort—we’re a family. From the moment you arrive, you’re embraced with authentic island hospitality that is as warm and genuine as the Caribbean sun. Our attentive staff, available at your beck and call, embody a service philosophy that places guests at the heart of everything we do. It’s not just about fulfilling requests; it’s about anticipating needs, learning preferences, and creating meaningful connections. Here, every staff member knows that true luxury is about service above self.

Our beachfront villas and suites, thoughtfully designed with a minimalist yet luxurious aesthetic, are personalized sanctuaries tailored to your unique tastes. From knowing your name to understanding your likes and dislikes, our team ensures that every stay feels deeply personal, making you feel not like a visitor, but a cherished member of our Long Bay family.

For decades, Long Bay Beach Resort has remained a beacon of excellence, redefining Caribbean luxury with an unparalleled sense of place, personalized service, and heartfelt hospitality.

AC: As a luxury resort manager, you must have a keen sense of what modern luxury travelers seek. How have you seen luxury travel evolve over the years, particularly in terms of guest expectations?

BGB: Today’s travelers seek experiences that are meaningful, immersive, and tailored to their unique preferences. It’s no longer just about indulgence—it’s about connection. Guests want to feel a genuine sense of place and engage with their surroundings, whether through local cuisine, adventure activities, or cultural encounters. At Long Bay Beach Resort, we’ve embraced this shift by offering curated experiences that celebrate the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the British Virgin Islands, while maintaining an atmosphere of relaxed elegance.

AC: With the British Virgin Island’s stunning natural beauty as your backdrop, how do you ensure that your resort offers a unique and authentic experience while maintaining the highest standards of luxury?

BGB: We take immense pride in showcasing the British Virgin Islands’ extraordinary landscape and rich culture. Our resort is a seamless blend of locally inspired cuisine, engaging activities like paddleboarding and catamaran day trips, and a design that embraces understated elegance, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding natural environment. Guests are invited to connect with the islands in meaningful, immersive ways that highlight the BVI’s charm and authenticity.

Our commitment to authenticity extends beyond experiences to the very landscape of our 52-acre property, which mirrors the beauty of the BVI. Vibrant local flowers such as flamboyant, bougainvillea’s, hibiscus, and oleanders adorn the grounds, creating a lush and welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the islands. Additionally, our dedicated local staff brings an extra layer of genuine BVI flair, providing personalized service with warmth and a deep connection to the culture.

By focusing on authenticity, personalized attention to detail, and harmony with nature, we ensure every guest leaves with unforgettable memories of their time in the British Virgin Islands.

AC: The recent accolades, including recognition as one of the TOP 100 Luxury Hotels and Resorts of the World, speak to the success of Long Bay Beach Resort. What do you attribute this success to, and what role does personalized service play in your offering?

BGB: The heart of our success lies in our people, culture and our philosophy. We treat every guest as part of the Long Bay family, going above and beyond to anticipate their needs and create moments of genuine connection. Our team’s passion for delivering this service coupled with a deep respect for the unique charm of the BVI, has allowed us to craft a resort experience that feels both exceptional and authentic.

AC: The luxury hospitality industry has faced significant challenges over the last few years, from the pandemic to environmental concerns. How have these challenges shaped your approach to managing the resort and delivering luxury experiences?

BGB: These challenges have deepened our understanding of the importance of adaptability and empathy in everything we do. During the pandemic, we humbly learned to navigate uncharted waters, always prioritizing the safety, well-being, and comfort of our guests and team. Environmental concerns have inspired us to listen more closely to our guests’ values, leading us to innovate with sustainable practices, from energy efficiency to supporting local initiatives. Throughout it all, we remain committed to creating experiences that not only meet but genuinely connect with our guests’ needs, while honoring the natural beauty and spirit of the British Virgin Islands.

AC: As someone at the helm of such an esteemed property, what drives you personally? What aspects of your work in the luxury hotel industry are the most fulfilling for you?

BGB: What drives me is the joy of creating memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on our guests. Seeing a family bond over a sunset dinner, or a couple discover the beauty of the islands on a catamaran trip, is incredibly rewarding. It’s also deeply fulfilling to work alongside a dedicated team and contribute to the local community, helping to share the wonders of the BVI with the world.

AC: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the luxury sector. How does Long Bay Beach Resort integrate eco-conscious practices without compromising on luxury or guest experience?

BGB: At Long Bay Beach Resort, we are deeply committed to respecting and preserving the natural beauty of our surroundings. While we may not have large-scale sustainability projects, we take pride in our thoughtful, eco-conscious practices. We organically grow much of our fresh produce, minimize plastic and paper waste, and strive to reduce our environmental footprint in ways that enhance both our guest experience and the local ecosystem. By sourcing locally and supporting sustainable practices, we aim to create an environment that feels as genuine and beautiful as the island itself. We believe that caring for the environment adds to the authenticity of every stay we offer.

AC: Finally, looking ahead, what trends do you foresee shaping the future of luxury hospitality, and how do you plan to keep Long Bay Beach Resort at the forefront of those changes?

BGB: The future of hospitality is deeply rooted in adventure, meaningful value, and the well-being of our guests. Travelers today seek experiences that not only align with their values but also nourish their bodies, minds, and souls. At Long Bay, our commitment is to go beyond providing exceptional service—we aim to touch the hearts of every guest, offering memorable experiences that truly resonate, enriching their journeys and empowering them to reconnect with what matters most. By listening attentively to their needs and evolving alongside them, we strive to remain a sanctuary that fosters lasting memories and continues to inspire future generations to come.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Bria Guishard-Blanc for taking the time to share her invaluable insights with us. Her dedication to excellence and her vision for Long Bay Beach Resort have clearly set a new standard in luxury hospitality.

To learn more about the resort, visit https://www.longbay.com/