Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts yesterday announced the appointment of Etienne Dalançon as general manager of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. The all-villa resort will offer luxury leisure seekers of all generations the chance to experience this iconic island paradise the Waldorf Astoria way and is set to open in the summer of 2019. 

With more than 20 years of experience in various roles within the hospitality industry, Etienne joined the Hilton team in 2018 and was most recently general manager of opening projects at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Over the years, Etienne has strengthened his experience across multiple geographies including Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, as well as in his native home of France. 

Daniel Welk, vice president, Luxury and Lifestyle, Hilton, Asia Pacific, said, “We are delighted to have Etienne on board, overseeing the team at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi to offer unrivaled service to discerning global travelers. With his immense experience in the industry, his appointment represents our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences – every hotel, every guest, every time.” 

In addition to his experience in hotel management as general manager of Park Hyatt Shanghai, alongside opening hotels such as Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome in 2002, Etienne also has a strong background in sales and marketing, having previously held senior positions at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. As general manager of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Etienne will be responsible for leading the team to deliver “True Waldorf Service,” the personalized, graceful service for which the brand is known. 

“I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to be a part of such an iconic brand,” said Etienne. “Waldorf Astoria has redefined hospitality for the modern-day traveler in landmark locations all around the world, and I am thrilled to be able to play a part in driving this through the forthcoming opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.” 

Spanning three islands in the South Male Atoll, a short 30-minute yacht journey away from Malé International Airport, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi will offer a private escape for couples and families seeking the luxury of space and exclusivity, as well as unique experiences, including a private sandbank available for guests to turn into their own playground paradise. 

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi boasts 122 luxuriously appointed villas, each with exquisite, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.  Every spacious villa opens onto a wide deck that has a swing daybed, dining gazebo, an infinity pool and in-water lounges. 

Guests can also be enticed by a wide array of culinary excellence across ten exceptional specialty dining venues that offer unparalleled, immersive dining experiences – the variety of which is unique to the Maldives. Concepts include an elevated treetop dining experience featuring spectacular views of the ocean and horizon, accompanied by exquisite food and wine pairings in a sophisticated setting seemingly chiselled out of the rock face. From authentic Middle Eastern flatbreads and mezzes to impeccably prepared crispy Peking duck; the verdant spa restaurant where fresh ingredients from the on-site herb garden are used in thoughtfully prepared and deliciously healthy menus, guests are spoilt for choice of extraordinary gastronomic experiences.