Bahía del Duque: People Are the Heart of Luxury Hospitality

For over three decades, Hotel Bahía del Duque has stood as an icon of luxury and architecture in southern Tenerife. Set on a sprawling estate of more than 100,000 square meters, it faces the Atlantic and is surrounded by lush tropical plants. Beyond its stunning looks, the hotel has fostered a team culture built on excellence, dedication, and a deep care for its people.

Recognized by experts as one of Europe's finest hotels, Bahía del Duque is a global leader in high-end hospitality. It serves as the flagship property for The Tais Hotels & Villas, a group known for its outstanding service and meticulous attention to detail.

This flawless experience is made possible by a team of 650 dedicated individuals and a talent management strategy that has grown alongside the evolving luxury tourism sector. Maricruz Fernández, who has been with the hotel since it first opened, leads the People department.

You've been with the hotel almost since the beginning. How long have you worked at Bahía del Duque? 'I'm very proud to say I was part of the team that opened the hotel,' Maricruz shares. 'I arrived at Bahía del Duque in September 1993, full of excitement and admiration for this wonderful place.'

What has your career journey been like at the hotel? 'Incredibly enriching,' she replies. 'The hotel has given me the chance to grow and learn in an environment that has challenged me and helped me overcome difficulties. I've been lucky to work with outstanding professionals, learning so much from them and continuing to grow professionally. We've shared many significant moments together.

I've learned from those who came before me, and I continue to learn from my colleagues every day. Over the years, I've also developed a crucial quality: resilience. I'm very thankful for all my experiences, as every challenge has helped me grow. Thinking about it now, it truly makes me feel good.

Over time, Bahía del Duque hasn't just added new offerings like Las Villas and the Bahía Wellness Retreat spa. It has also redefined luxury itself, moving towards a concept that is more emotional, experiential, and human.'

From your point of view, how has luxury tourism changed, and what kind of professionals are needed now? 'The industry has changed a lot,' Maricruz explains. 'Today, it's not just about technical skills or specific knowledge. Adaptability, empathy, and a keen eye for detail are highly valued. So too are the ability to anticipate guest needs, creativity to provide unique experiences, and, naturally, resilience when facing challenges.

Teams now need to blend traditional skills with a more innovative and flexible mindset. Modern luxury calls for sensitivity, intuition, and a strong connection with the guest.'

How many people are currently on the team at Hotel Bahía del Duque? 'Our hotel team consists of 650 people,' she says. 'They work across various departments including Accommodation, Food and Beverage, Image and Entertainment, Administration and People, Labor Relations and Purchasing, Commercial and Events, and Revenue and Reservations. All these teams operate under the guidance of General Management and their respective Area Managements.'

What spirit and qualities define the people who work here? 'Their excellent work stems from a passion for service, a commitment to excellence, strong teamwork, a positive approach to challenges, flexibility, and meticulous attention to detail,' Maricruz states.

'Managing talent in a hotel of this scale requires strict processes, but also a welcoming approach that instills our culture, values, and a sense of belonging from the very first day.'

What is the process for selecting and bringing on a new employee? 'It all starts with recruitment,' she explains. 'We source candidates through schools and universities, employment platforms, our website, or LinkedIn. We then conduct one or more interviews to assess their skills and how well they fit with the hotel's culture.

Once hired, new employees go through an induction program where we introduce them to our vision, values, and job responsibilities. During their first few weeks, they receive ongoing support to help them integrate into the team and settle into their role.'

If you had to summarize why the staff is the hotel's true mark of distinction, how would you put it? 'Because our staff doesn't just offer a service; they create unique moments,' she says. 'They achieve this with their attitude, natural charm, spontaneity, dedication, and personalized care, all of which reflect our core values of excellence and warmth.'

From the team's perspective, what makes working at Bahía del Duque special? 'It's the camaraderie and teamwork,' Maricruz emphasizes. 'Things aren't always easy, and obstacles always come up, but when difficulties arise, we all work together. We share common goals, and even when things don't go as planned, our supportive and collaborative environment helps us face them as a team. It's a place where collective effort is always appreciated.

Bahía del Duque has proven that luxury isn't just about its facilities, food, or location. It's about our ability to attract, nurture, and develop the people who make it all happen every single day. This is a model where excellence starts and is maintained from within.'