"Summer Conversations" by TNews with João Figueira, Director of Operations at AHM - Ace Hospitality Management

Source: TNews

In this casual and personal TNews interview, João Figueira, Director of Operations at AHM - Ace Hospitality Management, shares his favorite holiday spot, essential travel items, a travel mishap turned lesson, and his dream resort concept. A casual interview with one of those who are part of the hospitality industry in Portugal.

Where would you choose for a vacation without thinking about work?

I’d go with my favorite destination: the hills of Tomar, near the Castelo de Bode dam. I see it as a paradise where I can truly disconnect from the work world. It holds strong emotional meaning for me, taking me back to my humble, hardworking family roots and reinforcing my connection to the past.

What can’t be missing from your vacation bag?

I always bring my phone charger and a multi-tool like a Swiss army knife with pliers. It goes everywhere with me and has come in handy many times — both at work and during leisure time.

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

It’s not exactly about travel, but it’s an inspiring life story of an extraordinary hotelier: Isadore Sharp. I’m referring to the book “The Story of a Business Philosophy – Four Seasons.”

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

A trip to Belgium to buy a car with two friends. It was supposed to be quick but ended up lasting over a week. We went without a plan or reservations, and lots of unexpected things happened. We even ended up in Germany, where we had to sleep in the car in freezing temperatures because we had no accommodation. It left us with plenty of stories — and a great lesson on the importance of at least some basic travel planning.

If you could invent the perfect resort or hotel, what would it be like?

It would be a resort entirely dedicated to Blues music, with daily concerts and spaces for jam sessions between guests. It would serve lots of Cajun food and recreate the cultural richness and intensity of the Blues universe. Inside, there would be a vintage instrument shop that would also function as a museum, paying tribute to the history of Blues.