A moment with AAHOA’s Independent Hoteliers Committee members
By AAHOA Staff
AAHOA’s Independent Hoteliers Committee represents independent hoteliers across the nation, helping to shape strategies and drive innovations that support independent owners and those seeking to strike out on their own. We sat down with two committee members to learn more about the advice that’s shaped their journeys, what fuels their success, and how they recharge.
Bhavik Patel
Vice President, Acquisitions, BNP Hotels
Southeast Texas Regional Director
Houston, TX
What’s the best business advice you’ve received that has guided your journey as an independent hotelier?
The best advice I received was to never get comfortable. Travel patterns, guest expectations, and technology in hotels change constantly. We must stay adaptable and open to be competitive.
What strategies or practices have helped you navigate the biggest challenges of running an independent property?
A few key practices are keeping a good relationship with guests, staff, and local vendors, and creating loyalty.
Looking back, what’s one lesson you wish you had learned earlier in your hospitality career?
I wish I had learned earlier that not everything has to be done by ourselves. Trusting and empowering the team not only lightens the load but also builds a stronger, more committed workforce. I wish I had learned earlier that change is constant in hospitality, whether in technology, guest expectations, or market conditions. Being adaptable is not just an advantage; it is a necessity.
Who has inspired you most in your career, and how has that influence shaped your approach to business and leadership?
My biggest inspiration has been my parents. Watching their perseverance and work ethic has taught me that success is built on discipline, sacrifice, and treating people with respect.
Mitesh Patel
President, Pinnacle Management
Cantonment, FL
What’s the best business advice you’ve received that has guided your journey as an independent hotelier?
Be honest, unique, and fun. Being different can be an advantage and help you set yourself apart from branded properties.
What strategies or practices have helped you navigate the biggest challenges of running an independent property?
We treat our hotel guests how we would treat our own families who visit us at home. Simply be hospitable, generous, and respectful. Mistakes happen in every business; be able to learn from them, do not be afraid to tell guests you made a mistake, and find a way to correct the issue.
What advice would you share with the next generation of independent hoteliers starting out today?
Having an independent property does not have to limit your potential, and it should be something you are proud to own and operate. As an independent property, you have no restrictions, and updates, upgrades, and differentiations can be implemented fast. Use that to improve your guests’ experience. Provide a unique experience to keep them coming back and sharing about their stays – that will help drive the marketing and advertising potential for your hotel.
Owning and operating a hotel can be all-consuming – what’s your favorite way to recharge and take care of yourself?
Playing sports with my kids, and taking cruises with my family is one of my favorite types of vacations. It allows us to disconnect, eat, and enjoy our time together. Also, maintaining a routine of working out in the gym several days a week helps me take care of myself, push myself physically, and it gives me a few hours each week to focus on myself.
Image: 4zevar/stock.adobe.com
Leave a Reply