Many say that smile is a universal language. It is, but also is hospitality. When we travel, we seek to reconnect with friends, to meet new people, explore new destinations, to blur geographical borders. Beyond all borders, we seek for a place where we feel valued and cared for. That’s why hospitality is not just a service industry. It is a new level of essence of human connection, hedonism, fostering relationships and creating memorable experiences.
Excellent hospitality starts with understanding one’s needs, expectations and preferable ways of enjoyment. With globalization driving the expansion of travel and tourism, the demand for hospitality services continues to grow exponentially. It’s just one more reason to wisely use the potential of hospitality which knows no bounds.
Hospitality is how we show welcome; thus, Gabriela Basovska is welcome at every world coordinate.
Who is Gabriela Basovska?
Gabriela is a driven and adaptable individual who thrives on challenges and continuous growth. Hospitality is my passion. I aspire to become a mentor for young women someday. I believe in the power of collaboration and always seek opportunities to learn from others while contributing to a team’s success. My background is quite diverse, which has shaped me into a problem solver with excellent communication skills. Above all, I am dedicated to personal and professional development, always striving to improve and make a positive impact in everything I do.
From student jobs to career brilliance
Youth days are for exploring new avenues of expression and uncovering our passions. It’s a time of growth, both personally and professionally. Basovska always had a long-standing desire to delve into the world of tourism.
MAG. by Lifestyle: Your journey sounds inspiring. How about your educational and professional path?
Gabrijela Basovska: My professional journey began during my studies in Vienna. I worked at different positions in the hospitality sector, revealed in each experience. After completing my Master’s, I moved to Düsseldorf in Germany and started working in hotel sales. However, the onset of the pandemic disrupted my plans, leading me back to Vienna, where I immersed myself in consulting for three years.
In October 2023, I joined the Hyatt development team and together with my colleague Briana Swift, I look after the expansion in Northern Europe (DACH, Benelux and the Nordics).
Wherever she goes, her heart always guides her back to her family, Adriatic coast, shores, streets of Budva.
MAG. by Lifestyle: What is your bridge between Montenegro and Austria?
Gabrijela Basovska: I lived in Budva until I was 11 years old and it holds a special place in my heart. Not just because my family lives there, but because Budva and Montenegro are an integral part of my life. Imagine a recipe without the right spices – that’s me without Budva.
But moving to Vienna was a transformative experience for me. That city completed me, gave me the opportunity to build myself as a person and develop in the direction I wanted.
Despite exploring other places and considering starting a new life elsewhere, I always found myself returning to Vienna.
MAG. by Lifestyle: How do you envision Montenegro as a destination - its profile and positioning?
Gabrijela Basovska: The hotel industry holds significant sway in Montenegro. When Aman arrived in 2009/2010, it not only attracted international guests but also caught the eye of investors, spurring growth in the hotel market in recent years.
Montenegro aimed to offer luxury accommodations in a small country, and it has succeeded. Alongside these, there’s a wide range of cozy boutique hotels and private stays.
I reckon Montenegro has huge potential, with plenty of hotels and private accommodation needing a fresh touch as well as exciting possibilities for unique stays like glamping and farm-to-table experiences.
MAG.by Lifestyle: With all your experience how do you perceive the hospitality industry in Montenegro?
Gabrijela Basovska: I believe Montenegro should strive to become a year-round destination. Extending the tourism season and generating revenue throughout the year are crucial for all seasonal destinations, not just Montenegro.
Moreover, Montenegro has the potential to attract international MICE business, not only during summer.
MAG. by Lifestyle: What do you think are the biggest challenges and advantages in Montenegro?
Gabrijela Basovska: Montenegro’s greatest advantage is its climate, natural beauty and the potential of this country, characterized by wonderful people and the size of the country – in a short period, it’s possible to visit the north and the south.
Surely, one of the biggest challenges is Montenegro’s air connectivity with the rest of the world, as well as public transportation.
MAG. by Lifestyle: If you were to bring friends from your company to visit Montenegro, what would you show them?
Gabrijela Basovska: I would take them to explore our mountains and lakes – experience rafting, indulge in local cuisine and enjoy our wines. We’d leisurely journey around, stopping by Skadar Lake for a scenic view and enjoying a meal in Virpazar. Then, we’d head south from Herceg Novi to Ulcinj and Ada Bojana, immersing ourselves in every facet of Montenegro’s beauty – if possible, within a short timeframe.
We’d definitely have to stop for lunch at Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay! 🙂
MAG by Lifestyle: If you had to describe Montenegro in one sentence - what would that sentence be?
Gabrijela Basovska: Maybe I couldn’t do it in one sentence, but in two words I would say: unpredictable beauty.
MAG by Lifestyle: What are your plans for the upcoming period?
Gabrijela Basovska: I’m trying to make as few plans as possible.
This year, my plan is to take a trip to a distant destination and enroll in French language courses.
Check back in with me next year to see if I’ve accomplished these two goals!