Hospitality Heroes by One&Only Resorts

The luxury hotel group One&Only Resorts has filled half of its current 14 hotels with General Managers from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Connoisseur Circle brings these personalities in front of the curtain.

! Thomas Peruzzo !
One&Only One Za'abeel and SIRO One Za'abeel

Since October 2024, the 49-year-old has been Cluster General Manager of One&Only One Za'abeel and SIRO One Za'abeel in Dubai. The experienced leader is responsible for the strategic development and day-to-day operations of both properties. He is known for his ability to inspire teams and drive operational innovation. The twin tower project One&Only One Za'abeel and SIRO One Za'abeel is a symbol of luxury in Dubai. With breathtaking 360-degree views, world-class restaurants, wellness programs and private residences, the two properties set new standards for urban luxury.

Where in the two hotels do you personally prefer to relax?
"One of my favorite places to relax is the Aelia, right in the heart of The Link. I sit there with a well-made espresso and enjoy the panoramic view of Dubai while watching the energy and flow of our guests. It's a space that captures the essence of One&Only One Za'abeel - sublime, inspiring and always on the move. As someone who values both physical wellbeing and mindful pause, this is the perfect place to find balance in the middle of the day."

And how do you organize your free time?
"Time with my family is what I value most in my free time. Whether we're eating together, exploring new places or just being at home, these moments give me stability and perspective. In an industry that is so fast-paced, it's these personal relationships and quiet moments with my loved ones that keep everything in balance."

What should your guests definitely experience outside the two hotels?
"Dubai is a city of contrasts, where tradition and innovation meet at every turn. I always encourage my guests to go outside the expected and explore neighborhoods like Al Fahidi or the art scene on Alserkal Avenue. Behind the skyscrapers, you will discover a dynamic cultural heart. It's a city where you can be dining in a world-class restaurant one moment and sipping karak in a hidden courtyard the next. That's the magic of Dubai - it surprises you
again and again."

! Roman Goetsch !
One&Only Le Saint Géran

The Swiss Roman Goetsch has been General Manager of One&Only Le Saint Géran since August 2020 and is responsible for the entire operation of the resort. Located on an exclusive peninsula and known as a legendary luxury retreat in Mauritius, the resort is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The hotel's history began in 1975 as Sol Kerzner's first hotel outside South Africa. Since then, the "Grande Dame" has stood for first-class service, an exclusive location and ultra-luxurious accommodation framed by the Indian Ocean and an idyllic lagoon. The resort has dressed up for its anniversary, for example with the first Guerlain spa in Mauritius. Three exclusive treatments were created, inspired by the mountains, waterfalls and tropical flora of the island.








! Jan Tibaldi !
One&Only Reethi Rah

In mid-2024, Swiss national Jan Tibaldi returned to familiar surroundings as Managing Director of One&Only Reethi Rah. He had already managed the ultra-luxury resort in the North Malé Atoll in the Maldives from 2018 to 2022 before becoming Cluster Manager for the opening of One&Only One Za'abeel. Tibaldi is responsible for the operational and strategic development of the villa resort and aims to develop it further with innovative ideas. His most recent initiative is the opening of the Tapasake restaurant in March, which serves guests an exciting twist on traditional Japanese cuisine with Mediterranean influences at the highest level. Designed by Belgian architect Jean-Michel Gathy (founder of Denniston International), the 3,665 square meter Tapasake floats above the sapphire blue surface of the Indian Ocean.

Where in the resort do you prefer to relax?
"There are many hidden, lush corners to relax on our island and beaches. However, I love spending time in our beautiful One&Only Spa, where I can unwind in the peaceful gardens and facilities and indulge in a rejuvenating treatment."

And how do you spend your free time?
"As an all-round sportsman, I am an avid tennis fan and enjoy playing tennis and padel matches. I also love getting to know different cuisines and wines from all over the world and enjoy cooking at home in my free time."

What should your guests definitely experience outside the resort?
"Our beautiful island is surrounded by the stunning Indian Ocean and all its wonders. Our guests should definitely try our water experiences, especially sailing and fishing, scuba diving and free diving, as well as our many snorkeling excursions. I recommend the Turtle Adventure snorkeling adventure in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project to learn more about these important marine creatures and see them in their natural habitat.
habitat."








! Andreas Porias !
One&Only Portonovi

Andreas Porias comes from Vienna and moved from One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives to One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro as General Manager in 2024. The One&Only Portonovi at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, which opened in 2021, marks the premiere of the One&Only resorts in Europe.
The design of the ultra-luxury resort reflects the architectural style of old Venetian palaces. All 123 rooms, suites, villas and private homes offer views of the bay and the mountains. Porias aims to further expand the culinary offerings and guest experiences at the resort and create exceptional unique experiences. Culinary delights include Italian Riviera-style cuisine, modern Japanese creations and Montenegrin-inspired dishes. Guests can relax on the private sandy beach and in the exclusive Chenot Espace.








! Heiko Schreiner !
One&Only Royal Mirage

Heiko Schreiner is General Manager of the One & Only Royal Mirage in Dubai and is responsible for the overall
overall operation and strategic development of the award-winning luxury resort. The 437-room hotel is an opulent oasis in the heart of Dubai and a harmonious blend of Arabian elegance and contemporary luxury. With a pristine private beach, cascading pools and lush gardens, it provides an exquisite backdrop for those seeking tranquillity. Schreiner's passion for elevating the guest experience to a new level is perfectly matched by the resort's unique suites and villas, soothing spa and myriad leisure options.

Where in the hotel do you personally prefer to relax?
"With my strong background in Food & Beverage and my passion for the culinary arts, relaxing for me also means spending time with the team and enjoying a positive working atmosphere. Personally, I find the resort's award-winning restaurants particularly inspiring."

And how do you spend your free time?
"In my free time, I enjoy exploring Dubai - a vibrant city that has become a real home for me and my family. Discovering new hotspots or simply spending time with the family - Dubai offers the perfect balance to professional life."

What should your guests definitely experience outside the hotel?
"Admire the architecture - many, if not most, of the buildings are iconic landmarks
landmarks, such as my former workplaces Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis Sanya. Dubai is vibrant and dynamic, offering an abundance of culinary delights alongside its impressive skyline and cultural attractions. It is a city where tradition meets innovation and I always recommend my guests to immerse themselves in Dubai's diverse culinary scene."







! Gerald Krischek !
One&Only Aesthesis

The 52-year-old globetrotter Gerald Krischek is the latest German-speaking addition to One&Only. As General Manager of One&Only Aesthesis, the ultra-luxury resort in Glyfada, directly on the beach of the famous Athens Riviera, the charismatic and passionate hotelier is responsible for the operation, the guest experience and the strategic direction of the resort and the private homes. The One&Only Aesthesis with its trendy mid-century chic has revived Glyfada's glamorous past. Spacious rooms and elegant interiors meet modern amenities, a luxurious ambience and sophisticated technologies. The luxurious Guerlain Spa, private beach access and a glamorous beach club are among the most sought-after offerings. The resort's restaurants pamper guests with Mediterranean cuisine.







! Tim Bilfinger !
One&Only Gorilla's Nest and One&Only Nyungwe House

As Cluster General Manager, 52-year-old German-born Tim Bilfinger is responsible for One&Only's two ultra-luxury resorts in Rwanda, which offer guests access to unique wilderness experiences: One&Only Nyungwe House on a working tea plantation on the edge of the ancient Nyungwe Forest and One&Only Gorilla's Nest in the foothills of the Virunga Volcano Range, home to wild mountain gorillas. Bilfinger also sets the strategic direction for the further development of One&Only in Rwanda and is responsible for the resorts' sustainability and CSR programs.

Where in the two resorts do you personally prefer to relax?
"The view of the cultivated plantations and eucalyptus forests that
surrounding our luxury resorts is very relaxing. Clean air, observing nature and quietly participating in this magnificent ecosystem brings a deep sense of peace and relaxation."

And how do you organize your free time?
"I am an avid trekker and have had the incredible opportunity to travel some of the most challenging routes in the world, including the Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp and the Langtang Valley. In my spare time, I enjoy exciting outdoor activities such as white water rafting, mountain biking, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding. Being active in nature not only awakens my thirst for adventure, but also helps me to recharge my batteries and stay connected with the world around me."

What should your guests definitely experience outside the two resorts?
"Our guests have the unique opportunity to see gorillas up close and take part in a chimpanzee trek - a truly impressive and immersive nature experience.
You can also help with the tea harvest and learn about everyday life in the surrounding communities. Much of life here takes place on the streets outside the reserve: people walk to church, ride bicycles, push carts to work or meet for friendly conversation. This lively daily rhythm is what makes a visit here so authentically African."