Interviewe to the Director of the Maria Cristina Hotel
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In this interview, Rafael González Ensesa shares his impressions at the helm of San Sebastian's iconic hotel, his plans for the future and his commitment to maintaining the excellence and prestige that define the Hotel Maria Cristina.
The María Cristina Hotel is a symbol of San Sebastián. How do you see the hotel's evolution since its inception?
The María Cristina Hotel opened its doors in 1912, and we have now celebrated 113 years of history. A history that I would sum up in one word: formidable. The truth is that it was incredible when the hotel began construction in 1908-09 and it was decided to name it after the Queen of Spain, who at that time resided in Madrid but always chose San Sebastián as her holiday destination.
How did you hear about the opportunity to manage this hotel?
At that time, I was living in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, and I was happy with my professional situation, but I think that being called by your former employer, Marriott International, to manage an icon of European hospitality such as the Maria Cristina, deserved a change of direction.
What role does the hotel play in positioning the city as a high-end tourist destination?
This hotel is an institution in San Sebastian. We are a luxury hotel and attract that type of clientele. We believe that these clients contribute greatly to the destination, local businesses, transport, restaurants, etc. At the Hotel Maria Cristina, we work every day to remain an international benchmark and a source of pride for the people of San Sebastian, who consider it an essential part of the city's cultural and social life.
Are there any details or services at the hotel that particularly surprise guests?
There are many, many. The suites, for example, of which there are 29 among the 139 rooms we have available, are fantastic and very spacious. The hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2012, with impeccable workmanship and a timeless design that was very well thought out and executed, and which is still very much in vogue. Our breakfasts are very famous in the city, and it is not unusual to see entire families from San Sebastian enjoying them at the weekends, as well as our Sunday brunches, which are incredibly popular.
What type of guest is most common at the hotel?
We have many North American customers who love Southern Europe, but also many other nationalities, and of course, Spanish customers. San Sebastián is more fashionable than ever, thanks to its gastronomic offerings, but also its cultural and musical offerings, with such iconic events as Zinemaldia and the San Sebastián International Jazz Festival. It is no longer primarily a summer destination.
The San Sebastián Film Festival is one of the highlights of the year. How does the hotel experience it?
With great enthusiasm. Each edition is special for us. Internally, we prepare every detail of each guest's stay to ensure that their visit is unforgettable during this special time when the hotel is more alive than ever.
What challenges do you currently face as a director?
To continue the hotel's flawless operation throughout these 113 years and contribute to its growth and evolution while maintaining the essence and historical character of which we are so proud.
Recommend a plan for our readers to do this autumn in San Sebastián.
I am in love with La Concha. I love walking there when I have free time. It has a special charm. I also really enjoy going to the Chillida Leku Museum, not only for the works it houses, but also for its surroundings. It is a place I always recommend.
And I love discovering new restaurants, as there are endless possibilities in this city, going out for pintxos, steakhouses... I have a very long list. We usually recommend unusual places to our guests, places that not all tourists go to. We tailor our recommendations to each customer, always offering them the best the city has to offer.
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