August 22, 2014

Dear Sir,

Some weeks ago I was invited to a family dinner at The Hamilton Princess Hotel’s new restaurant 1609! I had not yet seen the incredible new marina, pool, dockside terraces and stunning setting.

From the moment I arrived I was struck by the incredible attitude of all of the Bermudian staff I encountered, from the Bellmen to the staff at 1609.

Everyone was smiling, gracious, welcoming and efficient. I was made to feel as though I was an important guest.

I was so impressed, I engaged a number of Bermudian staff in conversation and asked each of them how long they had been with The Hamilton Princess, what they thought of the new development and restaurants, how they felt about the Green family and whether they considered The Hamilton Princess to be Bermuda’s premier hotel destination!

The response was identical from each and every one of them. They were proud of their hotel, proud of their jobs, dedicated to providing excellent service and they all expressed their respect, loyalty and affection for the Green family. I left that evening feeling proud to be a Bermudian!

I was invited for dinner at 1609 again last Friday. When we arrived there was a family in front of us looking for a table for five. The receptionist at 1609 politely asked if they had a reservation, as the restaurant was fully booked.

They did not. She explained that unfortunately they could not be accommodated. The entire family looked crestfallen and started to walk away.

This young lady quickly reviewed her bookings and called after them to please turn back: she promised to move things around and find them a table, she didn’t want them to be disappointed! They were delighted!

What a wonderful impression they were left with resultant from this young lady’s positive efforts.

Throughout our evening we again enjoyed incredible service, all of the staff were happy and upbeat, and the atmosphere was fantastic. The assistant maître d’hôtel Kahnai Woolridge stopped at our table as he made his rounds to ensure all the guests were well taken care of.

The true ambassadors of our Island include all those who work in the hospitality industry, but in particular I take my hat off to the staff at The Hamilton Princess.

They set a standard to which we should all aspire by upholding the high standards of service from days gone by when all Bermudians understood the importance of making our business and holiday visitors welcome and when ‘service’ was not viewed as ‘servitude’.

As for the Green Family, all Bermudians owe you an enormous debt of gratitude! Thank you for believing in our Island and our people!

SUE LUSHER