Mikael Svensson, previously General Manager of the newly opened Viceroy Palm Jumeirah Dubai, has a mantra that “if you don’t enjoy it, then don’t do it.”
He pours passion, energy and dedication into a culturally enriching career that has taken him around the world. A self-professed globe-trotter, Mikael left the shores of his homeland Sweden at the tender age of 5 and hasn’t looked back; he was attracted by the bright lights and vibrancy of Dubai in 2015 when he made his move to the Middle East to oversee Viceroy Hotel Group’s flagship property in Dubai.
Before that he had spent 21 years working with Hyatt in many countries including Thailand, Japan, India and Hong Kong. We sat down with him for morning coffee to find out how he likes to spend his downtime!
What’s the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?
Check my phone before the kids jump on me
How do you like to spend your evening?
A glass of red, some cold cuts and a good series
Where is your ‘happy place?’
At home with the family
Where’s one of your favourite places to go on holiday?
Anywhere in the Mediterranean
How would you describe your style?
I hope it’s with the times but not too ‘try hard’
Whose style do you admire?
The cast in SUITS look the business
What do you do to relax and unwind?
Have friends over and fire up the BBQ
What’s your pet hate?
Negative people
Are you reading any good books at the moment?
Shantaram for the 2nd time. Gives you a true perspective on life
If you could talk to your 18-year-old self now, what would you say
Don’t rush through life as there is too much fun to be had along the way
What’s a lesson you try to impress upon your kids?
Appreciate what you have and understand what others may not have
Do you have any favourite restaurants or place to go in the region?
I went out to Qasr Al Sarab out in the desert recently and it was simply magical!