Award “Stay”: Persea Anastasiou, Manager Ajax Hotel

Hospitality When Mental Health Becomes a Midnight Challenge

The true measure of a guest’s stay is not only the comfort of the facilities, the amenities, or the dining experience. It is revealed in the moments of vulnerability, when genuine care transforms difficulty into relief. Real hospitality emerges when hotel staff respond to personal challenges with respect, empathy, and humanity.

The Story

A Cypriot guest from the diaspora arrived at our hotel with her family for a special occasion. Late at night, she repeatedly contacted reception, distressed about the air conditioning. The technician found no fault, yet the guest—struggling with anxiety and mental health concerns—remained deeply unsettled.

The Hotel Manager personally stepped in, demonstrating swift responsibility and heartfelt care. She visited the room herself, listening attentively and approaching the guest with empathy. Through gentle conversation, she gained her trust, encouraged her to take her prescribed medication, and stayed by her side until she calmed. She dimmed the lights, created a sense of safety, and with a simple human gesture—holding her hand—reassured her that she would be available all night if needed.

By morning, the guest expressed her gratitude openly, introducing the Hotell Manager to her family and emphasizing how this act of compassion turned a difficult night into a moment of comfort and support.

This act of hospitality did more than resolve a single issue:

  • Elevated the Hotel’s Reputation: Beyond quality services, the hotel proved it can stand beside guests during personal trials.

  • Created a Lasting Reference Point: The guest’s family shared the story widely, amplifying the reputation of the hotel and, by extension, Cyprus as a destination of genuine care.

  • Built Trust: Guests understood that Cypriot hoteliers are not limited to standard services—they invest in human connection.

  • Strengthened Cyprus’ Brand: Stories like this distinguish Cyprus on the global tourism map, positioning empathy as a competitive advantage and hallmark of authentic Cypriot hospitality.

This story is not simply one of good service—it is the very essence of hospitality in practice. By managing a difficult situation with respect, patience, and humanity, the hotel transformed a vulnerable moment into a powerful memory. In doing so, it set a benchmark for what “staying in Cyprus” truly means: care that exceeds expectations and humanity that inspires trust.

With pride, we share this winning story—one that exemplifies why Cyprus continues to shine internationally as a place where hospitality is not a service, but a heartfelt promise.

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