Oliver Schnatz celebrates luxury hotels and his 25 years in the industry on the podcast where2FromHere.
Experience firsthand the future of luxury travel and hospitality in Southeast Asia on the latest podcast episode of “Where2FromHere” , featuring Oliver Schnatz—Area General Manager for MGallery Thailand—and luxury travel authority Renae Leith-Manos.
Oliver Schnatz brings decades of luxury hospitality experience to his current role, overseeing MGallery’s renowned properties in Thailand including, and Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit and Mercure Bangkok Sukhumvit.
The conversation covers how Schnatz, lauded for his innovative leadership, has steered these top-tier establishments through an era of ever-evolving traveler expectations, post-pandemic market shifts, and the region’s dramatic luxury resurgence.
He credits Sofitel CEO Maid Bailly with the huge growth and expansion being seen across the Sofitel and MGallery Collection portfolios globally since her appointment.
If you love hearing about what really happens inside some of Thailand’s most beautiful hotels, this episode delivers. Oliver doesn’t just talk hotel operations—he brings listeners directly into the world of luxury hotels up to his current location at Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit .
Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit
The conversation bubbles with stories: discover what it’s like to manage teams across the region, how to keep innovation alive in a competitive hotel scene, and why MGallery’s story-driven approach makes these hotels so special for both global and local luxury lovers.
This isn’t your typical business interview. Expect laughter, real behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of hands-on advice for anyone dreaming about a career in luxury hospitality. Renae gets Oliver to spill on the secrets of recruitment, the importance of food and beverage partnerships, and what’s trending right now in wellness—think vegan menus, spa upgrades, and even personal travel rituals that top hotel managers swear by.
He even takes the time to describe the many luxury hotel brands he has worked for as people.
The conversation also digs into how travel in Southeast Asia is changing, from adapting to digital-savvy guests to reimagining the “guest journey” with little touches that make trips more meaningful.
Plus, Oliver brings in lively anecdotes from his career that any travel addict will love—cultural faux pas, surprising guest requests, and the pure magic of working in one of the world’s most exciting hotel scenes.
Renae and Oliver’s chat doesn’t just stay in the boardroom; it covers the real pulse of Bangkok, the challenge of creating authentic experiences, and the playful side of hotel life (including which celebrity guests have left their mark on the MGallery scene). Fans of luxury, travel, or just good conversation will feel right at home.
Whether you’re curious about Thailand’s luxury travel renaissance, looking for hotel inspiration, or just enjoy a well-told travel tale, you’ll love this episode of Where2FromHere.
For even more stories and insights, listen and subscribe via YouTube or your favorite podcast app. You’ll come away inspired, entertained, and with a whole new appreciation for what makes the world of high-end hotels tick—plus a few travel tips to make your next Thai adventure unforgettable.
Listeners and viewers are invited to discover how MGallery’s sophisticated blend of local immersion, bespoke guest service, and wellness-forward dining is captivating both global trendsetters and local tastemakers. Schnatz reveals MGallery’s vision for “story-driven” hospitality, where each property becomes a portal to cultural connection and authentic experience.
This approach aligns with the new wave of mindful, experiential tourism—a trend taking hold everywhere from Bangkok’s bustling neighborhoods to the serene sands of Phuket and Hua Hin.
The conversation takes listeners on a journey through Schnatz’s career, including anecdotes from his time with Sofitel Bangkok—recognised for blending French-Asian elegance and recently revitalised with new F&B innovations and wellness spaces.
He comments on how pivotal partnerships with celebrated culinary talents have elevated MGallery kitchens into sought-after dining destinations, echoing the growing international demand for restaurants where local flavors meet world-class technique.
Listeners also learn how Schnatz’s passion for cultivating exceptional teams shapes his hotels’ impeccable service, from curated city walking tours to one-of-a-kind private dining experiences atop Bangkok’s sparkling skyline.
The podcast episode’s anecdotes highlight collaboration with key industry players and dive deep into wellness innovations, such as plant-forward and vegan menu options, which are now signatures across MGallery’s Thai locations.
Sustainability, local sourcing, and wellness-centered hospitality remain at the heart of Schnatz’s approach—mirroring what today’s luxury traveler values most.
Personal stories—such as Schnatz’s journey from Europe to Southeast Asia, his cultural encounters, and the evolving art of service—add depth to the feature, rounding out the portrait of a hospitality visionary at the helm of a transformative brand.
