Beverly Chin and Gary Xie.

From luxury to pet peeves, we find out how the man behind Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts likes his vacations.

What is luxury to you?
Gary Xie Getting away from the everyday din. Space and seclusion, privacy complemented by life’s little extra comforts of attentive service, good food and wine (and the perfect cup of coffee), caring staff and a comfortable bed!

What do you consider to be a holiday?
Xie To be at a place that immerses you within its natural surroundings, wrapped in the embrace of your loved ones in utter peace and bliss.

What do you look out for when you travel?
Xie Well-designed smart spaces, practicality, functionality, comfort and excellent guest service are non-negotiable essentials. Fast and free Wifi access and in-room AV equipment that connect to the modern traveller’s devices without complexities are important as well. I can’t do without a good night’s sleep so I have to add: Comfortable bed, blackout curtains and a soundproof room to the list. On-site fitness centre and healthy eating options too.

Does this differ from your expectations when you travel with your family?
Xie When travelling with my family, I forget my age and recollect my experiences as a child to bring ideas to stimulate family togetherness and creativity. This is why at our resorts, we develop weekly kids’ programmes centred around the environment, where activities encourage children to play, explore and create in open, free spaces with a deep connection with nature, while keeping them engaged in the destination.

Essential for my family travel considerations are privacy, safety, security and an overall family-friendly atmosphere defined by attentive and intuitive service. Keeping boredom at bay is important and I appreciate hotels that offer suggested family itineraries, activities and attractions around the area, enabling my family to enjoy experiences that delight, inspire and spark memories.

What are three things you never travel with?
Xie Towels, shampoo, and soap. Bath amenities at The Residence by Cenizaro resorts are exquisite; from plush, soft cotton bath towels to fragrant bath gels and shampoo, each features a memorable scent, unique to each destination.

And three things you never travel without?
Xie A good toothbrush, razor and comb. It’s so unfriendly to use disposables!

What’s your travel pet peeve?
Xie Bland, soulless, overrated destinations and hotels without an authentic sense of place. It annoys me, having travelled the distance, wasted precious vacation time only to find myself in a place so similar or out of place or which could very well be found in any part of the world. Travel is about uncovering new experiences, immersing oneself in the local culture, decor and flavours offering a truly memorable insight. Hence, hotels should be a reflection of the location’s history, culture and not resemble any place I’ve been in before.