The St. Regis Belgrade sets new standards in hospitality
CORPORATE INTERVIEW
Marc C.A. de Ruijter
General manager The St. Regis Hotel and The St. Regis Residences
Marc C.A. de Ruijter, General Manager of The St. Regis Belgrade and The St. Regis Residences, shares how this iconic brand has reshaped Belgrade’s luxury hospitality landscape.
The soul of an exceptional hotel lies in its people
What does the arrival of the St. Regis brand in Belgrade signal, not just for the city’s hospitality scene, but for Serbia’s positioning on the global luxury map?
The arrival of The St. Regis Belgrade on November 1, 2024, represents far more than the opening of a new hotel, it signifies a defining moment for both the city and the region. Whenever a house of such heritage enters a destination, it signals that the market has matured, ready to welcome a new caliber of travelers, investors, and residents.
Located at the heart of Belgrade Waterfront, our presence has become a powerful catalyst, inspiring confidence in Serbia’s evolving position on the global luxury map. With the support of our visionary owners, we are proud to have established ourselves as the address of choice for statesmen, global leaders, key opinion leaders, cultural Luminaries, and leisure travelers seeking a truly world-class experience in Belgrade.
In practical terms, how is St. Regis redefining what it means to be a 5-star hotel in Serbia? What sets it apart from premium or 4-star offerings?
What distinguishes The St. Regis Belgrade is not merely the architecture or the refinement of our spaces, even though our guestrooms are among the most generous in the city, it is the art of service. Our guests consistently tell us that what delights them most is the unexpected warmth and precision they experience here.
We go beyond meeting expectations to anticipating them, tailoring each stay to the personal preferences of our Luminaries. This hallmark of bespoke service, together with our signature rituals, cutting-edge technology, and exquisitely curated public spaces, defines a level of graciousness that elevates us well above other premium offerings. Ultimately, it is our people, their intuition, attention to detail, and genuine care who transform a visit into a lasting memory, inspiring many of our guests to return time and again.
How does St. Regis Belgrade blend local culture, gastronomy, and artistry with the brand’s international standards? Can you share a few standout examples?
The St. Regis story has always been synonymous with heritage and celebration. We carry forward the spirit of John Jacob Astor, who opened the first St. Regis in New York in 1904 and transformed the social landscape of his era with innovations and iconic gatherings that were both pioneering and elegant. Here in Belgrade, we honor that legacy by celebrating Serbia, its artistry, craftsmanship, and traditions. Our design narrative draws inspiration from the hotel’s unique setting at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Throughout the interiors, bespoke artworks echo the shimmering waterlines, while intricate metalwork pays homage to the region’s 5,000-year-old heritage of metallurgy.
In gastronomy, we honor the Serbian terroir, sourcing ingredients from local artisanal producers. Our iconic Bloody Mary is reimagined with a distinctly local character, infused with quince rakija, while each evening the Champagne Sabrage at sunset marks the graceful transition from day to night in true St. Regis style. At the heart of it all is our signature butler service-an art form in itself: discreet, intuitive, and deeply personal.
How did St. Regis quickly become a preferred choice for diplomats, international guests, and business travelers, and what role does it play in shaping MICE tourism in the region?
Our strategic location and seamless accessibility certainly set the stage, but what truly differentiates us is the level of privacy, security, and thoughtfulness we provide. From dedicated valet services to meticulously managed arrivals and discreet in-house security protocols, every detail is orchestrated to ensure a sense of ease and confidence for our guests.
In less than a year, we have hosted prominent international delegations, global corporations, and key decision-makers who recognize The St. Regis Belgrade as the natural setting for high-level meetings and events. In doing so, we are contributing to Belgrade’s emergence as a sophisticated hub for MICE tourism, attracting influential leaders whose presence elevates the city’s profile on the international business stage.
On a personal note, what drives your vision as GM, and how do you see the future of St. Regis Belgrade evolving alongside the city itself?
For me, the soul of any exceptional hotel lies in its people. My guiding vision has always been to cultivate a team of passionate hoteliers, talents, and individuals whose commitment to service transforms hospitality into an art. I see The St. Regis Belgrade not merely as a hotel but as a destination unto itself, where both business and leisure experiences are infused with a sense of occasion and celebration.
Our foundation is strong, our standards constant. As Belgrade continues its cultural and economic renaissance, I believe The St. Regis Belgrade will remain its best address -continuously innovating yet always rooted in the timeless elegance and service ethos that define the St. Regis legacy.