Today, we have the honor of sitting down with  George Stanfield, the Managing Director of Waldorf Astoria Cancun, a distinguished destination recently crowned as one of the TOP 100 Hotels and Resorts of the World, 2023 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards.  

Join us as we delve into the exquisite world of Waldorf Astoria Cancun, exploring the essence of luxury, personalized experiences, and the unique charm that sets this resort among the elite. 

Luxury Lifestyle Awards: It is an absolute pleasure to meet with you today Mr.  George Stanfield. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us. 

LLA: Congratulations on being named among the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts of the World, 2023.  Can you share the unique elements that contributed to Waldorf Astoria Cancun earning its place among the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts of the World? 

GS: Our resort is a sanctuary where every detail, from the design of our spaces to the warmth of our service, is meticulously crafted to provide a transformative experience for our guests, we provide unforgettable experiences. 

LLA: How does Waldorf Astoria Cancun cater to the preferences of luxury travelers, offering an experience that goes beyond accommodation? 

GS: We anticipate guests’ needs and provide memorable and personalized experiences that we want them to remember forever. We do it in a very homely way in all its essence, therefore creating an emotional connection with our guests.

LLA: In what ways does the resort’s exclusive location contribute to the overall appeal for discerning travelers seeking a transcendent escape? 

GS: The hotel’s setting between the Caribbean Sea and the mangrove is unique, allowing guests, regardless of the reason they visit us, to relax, disconnect, and have an entirely dedicated time just for them, whether visiting us alone, as a couple or with family and friends.  

LLA: Could you highlight specific features or services that have been exceptionally well-received by guests and contributed to the resort’s global recognition? 

GS: All our rooms are ocean-front and have a soaking tub, a feature that enhances our guest´s experience, and it is unique in the destination. We also have great food and beverage venues within the resort, each with its own concept and identity, allowing guests to stay on the property and discover different flavors and textures.

LLA: What role does nature play in the Waldorf Astoria Cancun experience, and how is it uniquely integrated into the overall design and guest experience? 

GS: All rooms are decorated with tapestries from local artists that reference to the fauna of our location, the colors of the property match our environment, gold as the sand, blue as the ocean, and white as seashells. It’s all connected. 

LLA: As the Managing Director, how do you ensure that every detail, from design to service, aligns with the commitment to providing a transformative experience for guests?

GS: The key is staying close to our guests and collecting their thoughts, feedback, and suggestions so we can immediately adjust, fine-tune, or even switch gears of every controllable aspect of service. Looking back, I am so proud of and grateful for the team and all their achievements.

LLA: In your opinion, how has the resort’s ability to curate nature in a meaningful way elevated the overall guest experience and contributed to its reputation as a luxury destination?

GS: Our location provides a secluded experience with the feeling that you’re in a unique and special place. As previously mentioned, we are located between a protected mangrove area and the second-largest coral reef in the world. And the best part is that it’s just 15 minutes away from the airport. It’s not in the Hotel Zone, it’s in a new exclusive area of Cancun, in which nature prevails above all. 

LLA: With world-class dining experiences at the forefront, how does the resort redefine gastronomic indulgence, creating memorable culinary journeys for guests? 

GS: We have great food and beverage venues within the resort, each with its own concept and identity, allowing guests to stay on the property and discover different flavors and textures. We are also designing surprises in food and beverage with the creation of pop-up events and some theme nights in some of our restaurants. 

LLA: How does Waldorf Astoria Cancun balance the needs of different guest segments, such as couples seeking a romantic getaway, business travelers, and those seeking a wellness retreat? 

GS: It’s all about personalized experiences. We contact our guests before their arrival to gather more information about the reason for their trip and their stay. The key is to understand their needs and expectations. Then we assigned a personal concierge to each reservation and it’s their main contact throughout the stay. 

LLA: In what ways does the resort continue to evolve and innovate to meet the ever-changing expectations of luxury travelers, ensuring a consistently exceptional experience? 

GS: As you mentioned, we need to evolve to be flexible, it’s in constant change. So we have our Management Cocktail twice a week and we gather our guests’ feedback firsthand. That is incredibly valuable to us since it allows us to understand if we’re on the right track or if we need to change. And in a new property like ours, we’re constantly learning.  

LLA: For potential guests considering Waldorf Astoria Cancun, what invitation or message would you extend to encourage them to embark on an immersive journey into the essence of Cancun’s beauty and luxury at your resort? 

GS: Please, experience the Jewel of Cancun where you will find unexpected delights in every corner. From its secluded location to the wonderful holistic spa and to the impressive F&B experience, you will discover a new home away from home. 

In concluding this exclusive interview with  George Stanfield, Managing Director of Waldorf Astoria Cancun, we’ve gained profound insights into the meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to excellence that define this globally acclaimed resort.  

From its exclusive location harmonizing with nature to the unrivaled luxury experiences curated for every guest, Waldorf Astoria Cancun stands as a beacon of opulence. As the resort continues to set new standards for the luxury hospitality industry, we extend our gratitude to Mr. Stanfield, for offering a glimpse into the world where nature, personalized service, and extraordinary moments converge.  

For those seeking a transcendent escape, Waldorf Astoria Cancun beckons—an invitation to immerse in the allure that has earned its well-deserved place among the TOP 100 Hotels & Resorts of the World. Find out more at https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/cunwawa-waldorf-astoria-cancun/