Jakub Sippl, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Alishan, has graciously consented to participate in our exclusive sharing in order to provide tourists with a comprehensive view of the new potential of tourism in 2024 and the introduction of prestigious destinations and hotels around the world from the perspective of experts.
This conversation is the first in a series of interviews with the general managers of the world’s finest hotels and resorts. The Alishan Scenic Area’s first international brand hotel is the Hotel Indigo Alishan, where Jakub Sippl is employed. Indigo Alishan has the unique design motif of “the key to Alishan’s inexhaustible treasures” and is located on the beautiful mountaintop of Alishan, where four wonderful natural treasures converge in the heart of Taiwan’s legendary area. The planning incorporates indigenous, coffee, tea, and other local cultural elements. Let’s delve deeper into the interview to learn more about the necessary travel items and the fantastic hotel in Taiwan for your upcoming vacation.
Good day, Jakub Sippl! Please introduce yourself to the readers.
I’m Jakub Sippl, I’m 38 years old, and I’m from the Czech Republic. I am the General Manager of Hotel Indigo Alishan in Taiwan.
Can you share with our readers more about the employment opportunities at Hotel Indigo Alishan and the hospitality industry?
This ideal opportunity presented itself in May 2023, when IHG contacted me to rejoin the organization following a brief absence. Taiwan has always been at the top of my list; it is an incredible place to work, live, and experience. Hotel Indigo is a brand that is very dear to my heart and reflects my DNA. The choice to work in the best industry in the world was inspired by my mother, who worked in a hotel while I was growing up; therefore, when deciding on a career path, I attended hotel high school and the rest is history. My personal goals align closely with IHG’s expansion in Taiwan, so I foresee myself remaining on this flourishing island for several years.
In your opinion, What are the Hotel Indigo Alishan’s most appealing features for local and international visitors, including a special guest from the United States?
Taiwan has so much to offer visitors from all over the world, but particularly those from the United States, as the relationship between the two countries is strong and Taiwan is still very exotic. Taiwan is rich in culture and history, beautiful landscapes, delectable cuisine, a secure and clean environment, and generally hospitable individuals. Those are the primary factors, and even the distance could be considered an obstacle. I would encourage every American traveler to visit the “Heart of Asia.”
What is the current development strategy for the Hotel Indigo Alishan? A mountain resort hotel with a distinct ecological and aesthetic culture?
Being the only branded resort in the area provides us with a significant competitive advantage and allows IHG Rewards One members to stay and truly experience the Alishan neighborhood. We are currently constructing an outdoor dining area adjacent to our hotel, as well as in-room treatment facilities, so we have a lot to look forward to.
How do you feel about the tourism industry’s robust recovery in 2023?
In 2024, worldwide tourism should be robust and return to pre-pandemic levels, although I do not have any specific predictions regarding numbers. As more incredible hotels open and more incredible destinations are developed, I am extremely optimistic about travel. We can see that some regions have recovered more quickly than others, with Asia-Pacific lagging behind but gaining momentum.
What is the hotel’s development strategy for the future years? What factors will Hotel Indigo Alishan concentrate on?
We intend to establish ourselves as THE mountain resort in Taiwan and provide all visitors with neighborhood stories. Our focus will always be on providing excellent customer service and enhancing it with just the right amount of human interaction. In addition to expanding our food offerings, we will provide a traditional “Tsou” experience.
What are the top 3 activities to do during a stay at the Hotel Indigo Alishan?
The rooftop heated pool and rooftop with the most breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains are our primary draw for visitors. Our in-room technology simplifies our guests’ stay by allowing them to control most of the features with their voice, such as requesting wake-up calls or ordering in-room dining. Lastly, you should not neglect the area’s carefully selected trails, which are suitable for a casual stroll or a strenuous hike.
What are your interests outside of work?
I am currently pursuing a doctorate in management, which consumes the majority of my discretionary time. But I do have an illicit pleasure: Read Dead Redemption 2 on PlayStation. There is nothing more terrifying.
Consider them one of the factors that facilitate your development as a general manager?
I believe that leadership is the most important aspect of being a General Manager, and it is something that we should always strive to improve. I don’t believe I was born a leader, but I’ve developed leadership skills over the years. I could summarize leadership in a few terms. Influential, directing, empowering, and inspiring.
How about a memorable moment from your professional journey?
Every day, something remarkable occurs, but I will never forget the beginning of my career, when we worked much harder without the technological benefits we enjoy today. Coming from Food and Beverage, I will never forget the long days of service and the after-shift team hangouts where we discussed ideas and methods to improve. We would visit new restaurants and bars in search of inspiration.
What message do you wish to convey to today’s travelers?
It is a concise and straightforward message that Jakub Sippl has yearned to convey to travelers. Through this interview, Wanderlust Tips USA aims to provide readers with a more in-depth look at Taiwan’s tourism potential as well as a clear overview of Hotel Indigo Alishan, a beautiful hotel in Taiwan.
Let’s wait for our next article to update essential travel information and amazing destinations around the world.