Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s dedicated reservation offices cover 18 countries, including China, Russia, UK and USA. With over 125 agents, covering over 13 languages, SLH provides 24 hour coverage for customers looking to book or make an enquiry. Dial one of our toll-free telephone numbers to speak to an agent in your location.
We caught up with Rafael, one of our agents in London. He has worked at SLH for over 2 years and speaks English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italian and Polish and is now learning Mandarin & Russian.
1. WHY BOOK WITH AN SLH RESERVATION AGENT?
We rely on our personal relationships with our hotels to arrange those special extras a guest might require.We also provide tips and recommendations based on our own travel experiences and those of previous guests.
2. HOW DO YOU ENSURE EACH SLH EXPERIENCE IS MEMORABLE?
It is all about managing expectations, so the more we know about our guests, the better we can match them with one of our properties. Special requirements and preferences can always be accommodated, so it will make a difference to know in advance if a guest is planning something special.
3. WHICH DESTINATION IS YOUR FAVOURITE?
I think every destination offers something different but if I have to choose one I’d say Italy covers all bases, the vineyards, the lakes, the mountains…But Mexico is definitely a very close second!
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE ORGANISE THEIR HOLIDAYS?
Holidays can be quite stressful to organise, so to be that one person that makes it work is a really rewarding experience. I also really love to learn about people’s upcoming trips as it gives me inspiration and insight when planning my own.
5. WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING HOTEL THAT SLH OFFERS?
Dar Ahlam in Morocco. The whole concept is amazing and I don’t think any other property in the portfolio offers a similar experience. The attention to detail and theatrical way they set up guests meals contribute to this one-of-a-kind experience.
6. WHAT IS THE MOST ELABORATE HOLIDAY YOU HAVE HELPED BOOK?
I think itineraries are the most complex ones, since you have to manage to accommodate hotel availability with where the guests want to stay. I’ve booked a 24-night itinerary for a couple of honeymooners, staying in 6 of our properties in Italy, which proved quite challenging to finally get it right.
7. ANY QUICK TIPS FOR 2017 – WHICH SLH HOTEL WOULD YOU RECOMMEND FOR THE UPCOMING SUMMER SEASON?
Mexico seems to be the hot destination at the moment – and I think our hotels in Tulum are great. My favourite is La Zebra: right on the beach, but close to the ruins of Tulum and Coba, you can do as much or as little as you want.
Latest stories
From Patagonia to Paris: 6 boutique hotels on our editor’s wish-list
In a world increasingly driven by algorithms and automation, there remains something oh-so-sweet about the art of personalised hospitality. For the discerning traveller, it’s not just about where you go — it’s about how it feels to be there. The following six hotels — each distinct in location, culture, and
Independent Minds: the Kestelli family, KestelINN Alaçatı
In the sun-dappled village of Alaçatı, where time moves to the rhythm of cicadas and the scent of olive groves hangs in the air, KestelINN stands as a quiet testament to soul-led hospitality. This hotel is a heartfelt expression of a family’s vision, layered with history, heritage, and the warmth
Cowboy Comporta: Portugal’s wild west coast
There’s a moment, riding over Comporta’s windswept dunes on the back of a hot-blooded Lusitano, when everything falls silent — except for the soft rhythm of hooves padding across the sand and the Atlantic’s ebb and flow just beyond. The air smells faintly of pine and sea salt, and all
A pocket guide to Amoreiras: Lisbon’s leafy, lesser-known neighbourhood
In a city as photogenic and storied as Lisbon, it’s easy to get swept up in the tiled façades of Alfama or the café culture of Chiado. But venture just a little west of the city’s hustle, and you’ll find Amoreiras — a neighbourhood defined by leafy calm, and a
