Michael Schaer
Michael Schaer, general manager of The Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat in Ipoh tells a little about his profession and his journey to Malaysia.
What do you do and how did you get into the industry?
I’m Michael Schaer and have been the General Manager of The Banjaran for the past eight months. Previously I worked in Indonesia, Thailand and Switzerland. Actually I grew up in the hospitality industry as my parents had their own restaurant so my baby cot was inside the kitchen. Most probably the art of hospitality has been passed on through my parents since I was tall enough to watch over the buffet counter and help out as it usually is in a family business.
Share with us an interesting story from behind the scenes.
There are many, from good to bad to weird, from fighting scenes to moments which are not really legal to mention to any young readers. What is always a pleasure to do is to organize something special for a young couple who wants to propose during their stay. These are some of the best memories and long-lasting joy.
What’s a food memory from your childhood or travels that stands out?
Usually with my parents and my brother we made holidays within Europe which were accessible by car. Often, we would go to Italy renting an apartment and going to the beach. At the beach, you always had local people selling local goodies where I was always craving for a bombolone which is a sweet snack… especially as a kid I loved sweets.
What’s the best/ worst part of your job?
The worst part might be the long working hours and working public holidays such Christmas and New Year when everyone else usually has their days off to celebrate with friends and family.
The best part is always making people happy and receiving guest comments that they had a great time during their stay and hearing that they appreciated the service of every team member.
What’s your favourite food and beverage pairing?
Coming from Switzerland, I definitely love cheese with a bottle of wine.
What’s one of the funniest things you’ve seen behind the scenes?
Maybe a funny one to share was once a couple ordered dinner then joined the kitchen team to prepare their own dish as they really wanted to know how to prepare a special local delicacy so they could cook the dish back home. Apart from burn marks and cutting injuries they successfully prepared their own dinner.
The perfect day off would be…
On a sunny day having fun on the beach with the family.
What does Michael Schaer for fun?
Meet guests from all over the world, different backgrounds with their own unique and interesting stories.
What’s something you’d like guests to know about The Banjaran?
Visit Ipoh and spend a night or two at our hidden gem The Banjaran. You’ll experience all of our unique facilities… especially the geothermal hot springs.
What’s something you’d like people to know about being a General Manager as a profession?
Apart from having good communication and interpersonal skills, we also need to be flexible and react quickly to changes in the tourism industry. You certainly need the ability to remain calm under pressure and stressful situations and continuously motivate all team members. Look after your staff well and they will look after your guests well!
What’s your view on the hospitality industry in Malaysia?
The current situation as the borders are still closed forces, everyone, to actually explore the nation. Malaysia is lucky to be so versatile. From beautiful mountain areas, rain forests and national parks to wonderful beaches with turquoise waters, the country offers something for every traveller. I believe that Malaysia’s Hospitality will recover sooner than other nations.
What’s in store for you in the upcoming months?
We are very lucky to have many loyal guests returning to The Banjaran as well many new travellers who like to explore Ipoh and stay with us to experience the beauty of our retreat. If time allows, I certainly looking forward to exploring different parts of Malaysia as well as I have already many places on my bucket list that I am very excited to visit.
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Gee!!! I sure would not want to be stuck at work come Christmas or New Year!
An interesting manager who grew up in the right environment. Love Switzerland but have not been there for a very long time. As the situation is at present we might never get there again!!
Keep safe, Cheers Diane