Angelo Zuccala, General Manager of Hotel „Regent Porto Montenegro“
Mr. Zuccala, you have extensive experience in the hospitality industry. Since May last year, you have been appointed as the General Manager of Hotel Regent Porto Montenegro, and before that, you managed many InterContinental hotels and worked at Regent Carlton Cannes. How would you reflect on your experience so far and the challenges you have faced in this position?
Transitioning to a new hotel, particularly one as unique as Regent Porto Montenegro, is always an exciting challenge. Every property has its own character, shaped by its location, history, and guest expectations. My focus has always been on understanding these nuances and ensuring that we consistently deliver the highest level of hospitality.
At Regent Porto Montenegro, I was particularly impressed by the blend of Mediterranean elegance and the world-class luxury that our guests expect. A key challenge was adapting to the seasonality of the market here, as summer brings an influx of international guests, while the off-season requires a strategic approach to maintain steady occupancy and guest engagement. However, the strength of the Regent and IHG brands and the commitment of our team have allowed us to navigate these dynamics successfully.
IHG is one of the leading hotel groups in theworld. Considering that you hold the position of Area General Manager for all luxury IHG hotels, how would you assess its current position and development in the Balkans?
IHG has established itself as a leader in the luxury hospitality sector, not just globally but also within this region. Over the years, we have witnessed a remarkable evolution in the Balkan tourism industry, with increasing demand for high-end travel experiences. For example, Montenegro has positioned itself as a prime destination for luxury tourism, attracting sophisticated travelers from all over the world. Our portfolio in the Balkans reflects this growth. We have continuously worked to enhance our presence in key markets by introducing world-class properties that align with the needs of both leisure and business travelers. Regent Porto Montenegro is a prime example of how IHG is contributing to this transformation, offering an exclusive experience in one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Europe.
Recently, the Crowne Plaza hotel was opened in Podgorica. What significance does this investment have for Montenegro and the expansion of the IHG brand in this part of Europe?
The opening of Crowne Plaza in Podgorica is a significant milestone, not just for IHG but also for Montenegro’s hospitality sector. As the capital continues to develop into a regional business hub, there is an increasing demand for high-quality accommodation catering to corporate travelers. Crowne Plaza is known for its seamless blend of comfort and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for professionals attending conferences, meetings, and business events in the city. From a broader perspective, this expansion reinforces IHG’s long-term commitment to Montenegro and the wider region. It also highlights the country’s growing reputation as an attractive destination for both business and leisure travel. As international interest in Montenegro continues to rise, having globally recognized brands like Crowne Plaza further elevates the hospitality offering in the country.
Hotel Regent Porto Montenegro is increasingly positioning itself as a destination for conferences and business events. What are the key advantages of your hotel for hosting such gatherings, especially outside the summer season?
Regent Porto Montenegro has established itself as a premier venue for high-end conferences, corporate retreats, and business events. Our key strengths lie in our stunning waterfront location, sophisticated meeting spaces, and impeccable service standards. Beyond our luxurious setting, we offer state-of-the-art conference facilities, personalized event planning, and a range of activities that create a unique experience for attendees. Tivat is destination known for many sunny days and overall mild climate, which makes our hotel an attractive year-round destination, ensuring that events held outside the peak summer months still benefit from a picturesque and comfortable environment. We are also seeing a shift in the way businesses approach corporate gatherings. More companies are looking for inspiring locations that blend work and leisure, and Regent Porto Montenegro is perfectly suited to meet this demand. Whether it’s a high-profile business summit, an incentive trip, or a networking event, we provide an unparalleled setting for success.
Last year, you hosted the Brdo-Brijuni Process. How do you perceive the importance of such events for the image of the hotel and the destination as a whole?
Hosting the Brdo-Brijuni Process was a tremendous honor for us. This prestigious diplomatic gathering brought together some of the most influential leaders from the region, and we were proud to provide a setting that reflected the importance of the occasion. Such high-profile events significantly enhance both the hotel’s reputation and the overall prestige of Montenegro as a destination. They showcase our capability to host world-class gatherings, reinforcing our position as a premier luxury venue for international summits, governmental meetings, and high-end corporate functions. Beyond the immediate impact, hosting events of this caliber contributes to the long-term perception of Montenegro as an important and well-connected location for global diplomacy and business. It demonstrates that the country is not just a beautiful leisure destination but also a serious player on the international stage.
At Regent Porto Montenegro, we remain committed to welcoming distinguished guests and ensuring that every event held at our hotel is executed to perfection. The success of the Brdo-Brijuni Process further validates our ability to handle complex, high-profile occasions with professionalism and discretion.