Adrien Gloaguen

What do you do and how did you get here? 

I’m a French independent hotelier. At the end of my studies I was 25, I took over a small hotel in the Left Bank. It was a great experience for me and I was so thrilled that I could make renovations only one year after the first day of business takeover. I occupied all functions in the hotel. Quickly, it has been a success, I was able to acquire a second hotel very fast.

What makes a great hotel?

The most important thing in an hotel, is the simplest and the hardest: a sense of welcome. Whatever the star ranking is, clients have to feel good and “at home.” With technology everywhere it’s good to go back to the essentials.

What’s the next big thing in the travel/hotel industry?

The next big thing is the end of standardization. Even in a big hotel chain, the trend is to create a unique concept, an atmosphere for each unit. Each hotel has to be involved in their area and create a link with local people, local restaurants, local bars, etc…

What’s unique about Paris in terms of hospitality? 

Paris is unique because we don't have big resorts, big hotels. Hotel chains are underrepresented. The majority of Parisian hotels are managed by independent hoteliers, and I think this is a strength.

How have you seen Paris change for better or worse since the 2015 terror attacks?

After the shock, I think the French felt they had to pay more attention to the others. This terrible period brought people together.

Who do you admire in the industry? 

The people who have changed the hospitality industry in the last years: Ian Schrager, Andre Balazs, Chip Conley, Alex Calderwood, Liz Lambert, Rafael Micha.

What’s the most memorable journey you’ve ever been on?

Maybe a trip in Jericoacoara, North Brasil few years ago with my wife. It was an amazing and a great experience in a nice Pousada owned by an American woman who fell in love with this small village 20 years ago. 

If you could host a party for anyone dead or alive who would it be and why?

I would organize a big dinner at Hotel des Roches Rouges‘ terrace in Corsica with Cesar Ritz, Ilse Crawford, Steve Rubell, Michel Denisot, Andre Balazs, Pierre Gagnaire, David Bowie.

Where will you be in your next day off? 

I’m going to Corsica with my family. It’s the best part of my year…it’s all about eating figatelli and making “oursinade” on the beach.

What advice do you have for aspiring hoteliers?

Travel a lot, be curious.