Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour, a luxury brand within Hilton’s chain, is opening later this year. General Manager Chantel Moore shares highlights from the journey so far, her experience living on the island and a secret talent!

You have 30 years’ international experience in hospitality, including the Middle East. How, in your opinion, does culture influence operations in this sector?
At Hilton, we strive to create an environment for all our guests and team members that is culturally diverse and offers inclusion to all. These distinct elements are essential in the hospitality industry. It is important for us to ensure everyone feels welcome and a sense of community within our properties. When you are operating a hotel in a country that has a distinct culture it is always important to be culturally sensitive to the destination you are welcomed into.

Having had involvement with hotel openings, how easy or difficult has the journey to launching Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour been?
Opening a flagship luxury hotel in Bahrain has been an exhilarating experience. It is an exciting time to be part of the tourism sector here as it moves from strength to strength. With many new developments and tourism initiatives in the pipeline in keeping with the Economic Vision 2030. We have been very grateful to have so much support from our owners, partners and suppliers, and the various government entities such as EDB (Economic Development Board), BTEA (Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority), Tamkeen and LMRA (Labour Market Regulatory Authority) to ensure we will be able to provide a new luxury experience in the Kingdom.

What does a typical workday look like for you?
Every day is different in a pre-opening hotel environment. When I am not in a hard hat and boots, I am spending my time onboarding, building and training our new team members. I spend a lot of time with partners, suppliers and the community as well. We are always looking for ways to work with sustainability initiatives, as well as with the local community. For example: our hotel will have an LEED certification to ensure we are a sustainable building from the offset, and we will feature beautiful artworks from renowned Bahraini artists throughout the property.

You moved to Bahrain for this new role. How has your experience of the island been so far?
My family and I have loved moving to Bahrain. The laid-back, friendly and welcoming people here are like nothing I have experienced so far in the Middle East. We have already made so many great friends here. I can see why it is voted, every year, as one of the top worldwide expat destinations to live in. The food, the culture and the diversity have been a wonderful experience for us, and we feel very happy to be here in such a beautiful country.

What do you like to do when you are not working – do you have a secret talent you can share with us?
My secret talent would be that I believe in people. I have a great ability to cultivate the potential in others and enjoy watching people reach their goals. In my spare time, I am a foodie. I enjoy being with family and friends around good food and music. I am sure you will soon find me on the Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour rooftop, as we open the coolest venue on the island with our partners at SUSHISAMBA. With 360-degree views of the Manama and Bahrain Bay skyline, DJ beats, and a triculture Brazilian, Peruvian and sushi menu. ✤