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Q&As

10 Questions: David C. Wilson, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

In our General Manager series, we catch up with heads of hotels for personal stories and insider perspective. This week, we get to know David C. Wilson, of Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeriah.

Q Best hotel room at the property:
A

The Royal Suite, located in the heart of the hotel with panoramic sea views of the Dubai skyline and iconic Palm Jumeirah, provides the ultimate privacy. A sprawling 1567 square meters, this exclusive sanctuary takes the grand title of largest suite in Dubai.

Q The hotel’s most interesting detail, service or historical tidbit:
A

True Waldorf Service. The concept is an extension of the personal service principles that were first introduced at the legendary Waldorf Astoria property in New York. Under this service initiative, a personal concierge is assigned to each qualified guest and acts as their primary contact, before, during and after a stay, to guarantee every requirement and request is met.

The Royal Suite, located in the heart of the hotel, with panoramic sea views of the Dubai skyline and iconic Palm Jumeirah, provides the ultimate privacy.
Q Favorite drink at the nearest bar:
A

I enjoy the occasional glass of champagne at our Venetian inspired bar, Serafina

Q Favorite dish at the nearest restaurant:
A

We are always looking for culinary treasures; our last find was a wonderful little Chinese restaurant, near Dragon Market, that offers one of the best Peking Duck in town.

Q The neighborhood shop or boutique you love:
A

One of my favorite places for shopping is the Box Park, a new shopping district on Al Wasl Road with a great selection of luxury boutiques, international brands and different restaurant concepts.

Q Best touristy activity or outing to do in your city:
A

I recommend my guests to explore Dubai by air with Seawings. It’s an experience that showcases the amazing architecture, landmarks and landscape of the UAE.

Q Best non-touristy activity or outing to do in your city:
A

Take the abra (traditional wooden boat) from one side to the other side of the Dubai creek, it’s one of the original forms of transportation that has been used by many for decades.

Q Outside the hotel lobby, what’s your hobby?
A

I’m an avid tennis player and can be found regularly on the tennis courts.

Q Your last holiday destination:
A

I had a wonderful break in Amsterdam this spring. It was my first time in the capital, I stayed at the recently opened Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam; walked hours on end through the little cobbled streets; tried the old Dutch cheese; and, of course, went on a guided tour through the Van Gogh and Rijks Museum and admired the Night Watch by Rembrandt.

Q Your next holiday destination, planned or wished:
A

My next destination will be visiting the Sultanate of Oman. I’m looking forward to exploring the history and culture of Muscat, the mountains and local villages; trekking through the beautiful wadi’s; and staying over in one of the tented camps.