Meet the Duty Managers! - Miguel Franceschi

It's the turn of Miguel - another one of our new Duty Managers at The Dunstane and Skerries! Hello Miguel......

1. So far in your role you mainly cover the restaurant and bar. What do you like most about your role?

I enjoy the restaurant and working together with my team to ensure that guests have a memorable dining experience with us - whether they are residents or outside guests. I am enjoying the guest interaction more and more. I am especially excited about introducing new ideas into Skerries such as my cocktail menu which will be launching before Christmas.

2. What is your favourite dish on the menu at the moment?

I would have to say the Spelt Risotto - it is simple but full of flavour and a twist on the conventional Risotto dishes.


3. What is your favourite bedroom in the hotel?

In the main building I would have to choose room 120 our Luxury Blue room - I think it creates a very dramatic first impression for guests checking in to the hotel. In the Townhouse I love City 19 - our suite... it is so clean cut and contemporary - I wouldn't need to leave the room!

4. Do you prefer the Luxury Townhouse or the main building?

I personally prefer the main building for its character and that is where the Restaurant is! But the Townhouse has is benefits and I do like running functions over there - such as Christenings in the Stroma Lounge etc.

5. You are over here from Zimbabwe - that must be quite a change for you! How does working in the UK differ from your work in Zim?

It certainly is a change!I have however worked in the UK before so I found it easier to adapt to that you might imagine! Going back to Zimbabwe for that 1.5 years was quite challenging as I felt very unsettled due to the economic situation. I didn't feel that staying in Zim was right for me.

6. If you could make one change to the hotel so far what would it be?

The hotel itself is beautifully finished and furnished and I don't think it needs to be changed in anyway really. however I would like to change the menus more often so our residents get a better selection of dishes if they are staying for a few nights and a few more veggie options would be great.

7. If you could bring something over from your experience in Zim what would it be?

While working in Zim, Tapas and live music became a huge trend and it was a fantastic atmosphere - maybe in the future we could look at this!

8. Describe your perfect day in Edinburgh

It is rather difficult to describe the perfect day i have had since i moved here but if I had to narrow it down, I would star my morning with a coffee in one of the many coffee shops Edinburgh has to offer - Maybe the Elephant Cafe in town where JK Rowling started Harry Potter! The head out to the Pentlands for a walk and then a braai with friends to finish off the day - maybe lastly a movie at the Dominion Cinema.

Thanks Miguel! Nice to meet you!

The Dunstane - Meet our Head Housekeeper - Laura Taylor

Another instalment of - MEET THE…..Head Housekeeper – Laura Taylor

Hi Laura, so you have been at The Dunstane for over 8 years now…. Tell us….

1. You have covered so many different areas of the hotel and learned so many different roles….what do you like the most?

I have enjoyed all my roles at The Dunstane, all of them are different but I love the guest interaction you get when working in the bar and restaurant. I do like helping out when I can in any department as I learn more about the hotel that way. But definitely my favourite department is my own as I am very passionate about maintaining the high standards of cleanliness throughout the hotel that we are well known for! The rooms are my babies! I have a great team too that also makes my job easier.

2. Did you like the guest interaction in your role at the Townhouse?

The interaction with the guests was definitely the best part of working a the Townhouse. Finding out about our guests and what they were doing her in Edinburgh - especially getting to know the regulars was great. I always had a story or two to tell them myself and I now have a long list of place son my list to visit as a result of their recommendations.

3. You briefly did Revive at the Dunstane, tell us about that. Was it a rewarding experience?

I am also a trained beauty therapist and I love working at the Dunstane so I thought it would be a great idea to combine the two roles! I transformed one of the bedrooms into a beauty therapy room for guests and outside clients. Although in the end it didn't work out at the time it was rewarding I am an so glad I had the opportunity to try it.

4. What is your favourite memory in the hotel?

My favourite memories from the Dunstane have to be the Christmas staff parties! Everyone who knows me knows I get a little excited as each one gets close. I have been to 9 parties now and every one has been so much fun! All staff here get on so well which makes them so much better. I think if I ever leave The Dunstane I will keep coming to the parties!!


5. What is your favourite room in the hotel?

My favourite room has to be room 108 the deluxe double room in the main building. Especially after the refurb - the colour scheme is just so me!

6. Do you prefer the Townhouse or the main building?

I love them both! they are both so different in style, but I would have to say probably the main building as that is where I started all those years ago!

7. What’s the funniest things that’s ever happened to you in Housekeeping at Dunstane?

Has to be when a young couple were staying for their honeymoon - they were obviously in high spirits and decided to play a practical joke. They went out for the day and left a plastic poo in the middle of the bathroom floor. One of the housekeepers came to get me armed with rubber gloves and bags etc and was absolutely mortified. you should have seen her face when she went to pick it up and realised it wasn't real!!


8. If you could make one change to the hotel, what would it be?

A lift! Although I actually don't think I would be as fit as I am now! I have always said I would love to have a conservatory built on to the front of the hotel for the guests to enjoy a glass of wine or two as well. If I had to pick though I would love a god run built somewhere so my dog could come to work with me and I would never be away from the hotel!

9. What is your Housekeeping worst nightmare?

Definitely running out of laundry when we have a full hotel and lots of arrivals! I have never made beds so fast in my life!

10. Describe your perfect day in Edinburgh.

My perfect day in Edinburgh would have to be a nice hot sunny day in August during the Edinburgh Festival. It would start with a walk down to the Royal Yacht Britannia and afterwards I would find a little restaurant with tables outside for a bite to eat and a nice chilled glass of wine. then a stroll up to the Royal Mile to soak up the festival atmosphere and see some street entertainers. Then in the evening maybe a show or two!!

Thanks Laura - its good to see a bit of Dunstane behind the scenes! We really appreciate all your hard work - it wouldn't be the same without you and I am sure our guests agree!

Celebrate New Year with us at The Dunstane

Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Come New Year’s Eve The Dunstane Hotel will be right in the centre of all the fun, excitement and fireworks. After all, it wouldn’t be a Scottish Hogmanay without the proper festivities and celebrations, would it?? The Dunstane proudly opens its doors every year to millions of visitors and guests and Hogmanay is no different. In fact, Hogmanay is more of a reason to open our doors and invite new people in, to share and enjoy the experience of our hospitality.

Four Star Service and a Friendly Smile

The Dunstane is proud of its placing in the local community and the ability to bring guests and new business to the area. After all, tourists who come for Hogmanay stay for the scenery, the excitement and the brilliant Edinburgh shopping. We can promise you elegance and boutique style accommodation, our award winning restaurant—Skerries—where we serve freshly caught Blue Shell Shetland Mussels, Arran Salmon and some amazing cuts of Orkney beef that will literally melt in your mouth.

Hogmanay Menu and More

Amuse Bouche and celeriac soup are just two of the incredible starters you will find on our Hogmanay dinner menu. If you fancy getting your teeth into a juicy Angus Beef Tartare with quail’s egg, then go ahead; or how about a Poached Halibut or an Angus Beef Fillet for your main course? It’s all there just waiting.  Oh, and let us not forget the whole reason for the meal—the dessert—and you can let your taste buds water with the idea of Chocolate and Highland Park Whiskey tart. If chocolate isn’t your thing, you can finish with a selection of world class cheeses, served with crackers, grapes and fig jelly. End the night with a lovely rich cup of coffee or tea, which are served with a tasty selection of Petit Fours.

Hogmanay like no other

For the highly competitive price of £120 per night, per person, you can enjoy luxury accommodation and all the choices on the Hogmanay menu, plus so much more. You can’t beat Hogmanay in Scotland, so why try? Just come to the Dunstane, stay for the duration and have a Hogmanay that you will not forget for many years to come.       

The Dunstane - Edinburgh City Break

The Dunstane - Edinburgh City Break

Escape to the stunning Dunstane for an amazing Edinburgh City Break

Renowned for their exciting hustle and bustle, array of attractions and immersing culture, city breaks offer a truly enticing escape. Certainly, Edinburgh’s enchanting beauty will make for an exciting escape where you will be able to discover the city’s rich history and tradition. Choose to stay at one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy a truly fantastic stay at The Dunstane.

Explore dramatic Edinburgh and immerse yourself in a city escape which guests of all ages will enjoy. Indeed, with such an array of sights and exciting destinations awaiting in eager anticipation, choose to discover Edinburgh’s array of thrilling attractions and enjoy a city break in true style. Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s fantastic shopping or explore the dramatic Edinburgh Castle and discover its array of enticing delights. Indeed, Edinburgh’s array of thrilling sights will ensure a truly excellent city break, catering to your every desire. Edinburgh’s fantastic array of attractions will ensure a truly unforgettable escape!

Following the day’s forays, choose to escape to one of the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and enjoy a stay of sheer exclusivity. Indeed, The Dunstane will facilitate in ensuring you enjoy a city break in true style. Choose to indulge yourself at our excellent Skerries Restaurant where you will be able to enjoy the finest local ingredients. Escape to our truly relaxing rooms and enjoy a stay of sheer exclusivity, ensuring a retreat to Edinburgh in truly unforgettable style.

With that being said, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to an escape to Edinburgh and discover an array of thrilling attractions for all to enjoy. Stay at one the most luxury hotels in Edinburgh and indulge yourself at The Dunstane. Indeed, you will be treated to an array of enticing delights as you discover Edinburgh’s scenic beauty and immersing sights in sheer style! 

For more information contact The Dunstane on 0131 337 6169 and someone from our lovely team will get back to you as soon as possible.

WINTER AT THE DUNSTANE IN EDINBURGH

Avoid the Winter Blues this year with a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland's Capital City. Set in the tranquil and trendy west end of Edinburgh, The Dunstane Hotel offers you the peace and relaxation that you need after the busy festive period. 

We are nestled in beside Haymarket Train station, just a stone throw away from the main attractions. Whether you are a history buff looking to polish up your knowledge at the Castle, or you have a burning itch to go crazy at the sales – Edinburgh is the perfect winter getaway. To make all of these dreams possible, our January Sale is offering amazing rates until the end of February. We have rates as low as £39 per person for bed and breakfast when you book directly at www.thedunstane.co.uk  We are currently extending this offer to include a 2 course meal in our Skerries Restaurant, with a glass of our house wine! Dunstane Hotels have everything from cosy single rooms, to grand luxurious four poster bedrooms. Whether you are coming for a much needed self-indulgence trip, or a weekend of family madness – Dunstane really is the place to come. You’ll have one of the best local restaurants right on your doorstep too! The Skerries Restaurant offer fantastic Scottish cuisine and have a heavy focus on fish dishes. We source all of our food from local suppliers to ensure that only the best quality is served.

What will I do in Edinburgh?

The Edinburgh Winter Festival is undoubtedly one of the biggest events for the UK with German Markets, thrilling rides, and outdoor ice rinks. However, the fun doesn’t stop when it leaves town! We have found an excellent website that gives a good list of all the activities you may find yourself up to. Why not visit the site and see for yourself http://www.informededinburgh.co.uk/whats-on/whats-edinburgh-january-2014/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter+27+December+2013&utm_content=Newsletter+27+December+2013+CID_fe6afe3e7c732dcbdcdbe8fcd5835188&utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&utm_term=Whats%20On%20in%20Edinburgh%20January%202014.

So why not visit our website today, or better still – speak to one of our friendly staff who will be able to discuss all of the great offers we have available today! Call us on 0131 3376169 or email reserve@thedunstane.co.uk for our best offers!

Super Saver Shopping Break at The Dunstane Edinburgh

To be surrounded by luxury, a gorgeous environment and world class shops, choose Edinburgh for a great shopping experience and an amazing day out. Visit this elegant City and stay at The Dunstane Hotel, for stunning accommodation in the heart of the Edinburgh.

Take a walk along Edinburgh’s Princess Street and George Street - these two famous streets offer designer stores and all the main high street brands we all love. During your shopping time, you can enjoy Afternoon Tea at one of the cafés above Princes Street. If caffeine doesn't revive you, the view of Edinburgh Castle certainly will. While George Street offers shops mostly comprising of high-end designer brands. Other shops are concentrated in the Old Town such as Deadhead Comics, rated as one of the top five comic shops in the UK, Howie Nichols, where you’ll find traditional Scottish kilts that range from kitsch to cutting-edge since launching his designs at London Fashion Week in 1999, and make sure to drop into Antiqueas, where you’ll have a genuinely luxurious and authentic high-tea experience. Forget about the time… Indulge yourself in a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience. Here at The Dunstane we have put together an amazing shopping package for you to enjoy a relaxing shopping break to the capital with lots of added perks, in the packages you will receive the following:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Full Scottish Breakfast each morning
• Glass of Prosecco on arrival
• A luxury Molton Brown gift set from us at The Dunstane
• A Trip to the Molton Brown store on George Street for a mini pampering package and an amazing treat bag as you leave the store.
• Homemade Chocolates in your room.

For more information on this amazing offer click here or call 0131 337 6169.