Álvaro Aragão, General Manager of the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, Featured in TNews’ “Summer Conversations”

Source: TNews

Álvaro Aragão is one of the latest guests in TNews’ “Summer Conversations” series — a relaxed, summer-inspired interview that gives us a closer look at the people behind Portugal’s hotel industry. From dream destinations to vacation must-haves, the General Manager of the Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel reveals his more personal side.

What destination would you choose for a vacation with no thoughts of work?

Regardless of the destination, it’s hard not to think about work, but I would choose Bali and try to completely disconnect.

What’s one thing that always goes in your suitcase?

Clothing and footwear suited to the chosen destination, a phone charger, personal hygiene items including sunscreen, any necessary medication, and a book.

What travel book or movie has had the biggest impact on you?

"Faz Acontecer" (Make it Happen, in free translation) by André Leonardo.

Do you have a travel memory that went wrong? What did you learn from it?

I was working in Funchal and booked a few vacation days in Porto Santo in October. The beach is magnificent, but at that time of year, many restaurants and other businesses are closed after the demanding summer season. Nowadays, I choose the same amazing destination in July, for example, if possible. The part that didn’t go so well was the unfortunate fact that my son got an ear infection during that vacation, which forced us to return home earlier than planned.

If you could invent your dream resort or hotel, what would it be like?

The hotel’s location would be on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, in a unique setting with stunning views over the sea and a picturesque fishing village. It would be a luxurious five-star boutique hotel, offering every comfort and exceptional service.

The hotel would only feature two room categories — Sea View Suites and The Royal Suite — and would have two restaurants, one of them with three Michelin stars, a wine cellar with over 500 different wine labels from around the world, two bars, an outdoor pool, a heated indoor pool, a spa offering exclusive treatments in partnership with a luxury brand, and a 24-hour gym. Guests could also enjoy transfer services and private tours in one of our Range Rover SV Carmel Edition vehicles, a private marina, and a 50-foot yacht for exclusive coastal excursions. After all, dreaming… doesn’t cost a thing.