Valerie Berthelsen

Director of Marketing at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

Tell us more about your day-today role and what keeps it challenging and exciting…
Every day at The Gulf Hotel brings something new. I feel lucky to work with a team of people who are passionate about their fields and open to new ideas which has led to some really fun projects. In addition to our hotel rooms and executive apartments, The Gulf Hotel also has 10 restaurants, a beautiful state-of-the-art spa, the largest five-star convention centre and several bars and lounges which means that there is never a dull moment for the Marketing team. My day to day life was very different before the COVID crisis when we had non-stop events to prepare for every week. I love the challenges and flexibility that my role provides. Having the opportunity to drive awareness for one of Bahrain’s brightest gems has been an honor and I have cherished the opportunity to work with award-winning chefs to help bring their talents to a wider audience.

What are some of your favourite cultural hotspots in Bahrain and why?
Bahrain has such an amazing history to explore, with so many beautiful places to visit. My favorite spots are the Shaikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center, the Pearl Trail and the Vertical Garden. These are great places to take friends when they come to visit and there are so many cafes to walk to in those areas.

What are your personal and professional goals for 2020?
To survive 2020! This has been a rollercoaster year and it has taught me so much about the value of community and relying on the people around you. Simple acts of kindness like checking in with friends have become more meaningful. Having our fast paced world come to a screeching halt has caused so much uncertainty for everyone but it has also revealed that we’re stronger when we come together and help each other. My goals for the rest of the year are rather modest: to be supportive of those around me and remain positive as we go through a recovery period.