About this Episode
In this second episode of Hotel Voices, Nikolina Christo sits down with François Diot, Head of Sales & Marketing at Juliana Hotels in Brussels, Paris, and Cannes, for a thought-provoking exploration of what it truly means to be a boutique luxury brand in today’s evolving hospitality landscape.
François shares how Juliana Hotels blends European heritage, art, and design to create intimate spaces where every guest feels seen, valued, and inspired. From elevating direct bookings to curating deeply personal guest experiences, he reveals why independent hotels hold a unique power to stand out in a market dominated by large brands.
This conversation dives deep into the balance between innovation and authenticity, exploring how technology, storytelling, and a human-first approach can transform guest journeys and build lasting loyalty.
Tune in for a masterclass on boutique hotel branding, marketing strategy, and soulful design — a reminder that true luxury is not about scale, but about connection, creativity, and heart.
#HotelVoices #JulianaHotels #BoutiqueLuxury #LuxuryHospitality #StorytellingInHospitality #AuthenticityInLuxury #BoutiqueHotels #HospitalityMarketing

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Episode Transcript:
Hotel Voices x Juliana Hotels: Redefining Boutique Luxury
With properties in Brussels, Paris, and Cannes, Juliana Hotels has built a reputation for art-driven design, authentic guest experiences, and boutique sophistication. In this episode, Nikolina speaks with François Diot about building a luxury brand that prioritizes authenticity, storytelling, and guest connection over trends.
Key takeaways:
Brand Identity First: Why understanding your “why” is essential.
Direct Booking Growth: Juliana’s strategy for a 15% increase in direct bookings.
Storytelling as a Differentiator: How to craft messaging that resonates.
The Future of Hospitality: Balancing innovation, AI, and the human touch.
Perfect for hoteliers, marketers, and leaders shaping the future of luxury travel.
