Thomas Moons is fast becoming one of the most respected names in luxury hotels in Europe.
Thomas Moons’ name is fast becoming synonymous with transformative leadership and refined guest experience in the world of luxury hotels, He has just been awarded Best Spanish Hotelier, and this podcast conversation is insightful and interesting as he takes us into the world of new luxury as he sees it.
As the Area Managing Director for Spain and Portugal at Belmond, and General Manager of the legendary La Residencia in Mallorca, Moon is redefining what it means to lead in hospitality for the modern era—thoughtful, future-focused, and fiercely people-first.
From Belgium to the Balearics: A Career Forged Across Continents
Moon’s journey is as international as the guests he looks after. Armed with a hotel management degree from Zuyd University in the Netherlands and more than two decades of practical experience across four continents, he talks about navigating nearly every function in the luxury sector—from front office supervisor in Amsterdam to orchestrating full-scale rebrands in Lima, Laos, and Cambodia.
This global journey cultivated a style that combines operational discipline with genuine warmth, earning Moon a loyal following among staff, guests, and industry leaders.
His approach stands out: “I believe in making a real difference in people’s lives—because when you care, are honest, and show respect, everyone wins.”
Moon isn’t afraid of rolling up his sleeves—whether managing hectic seasons, driving renovation projects, or integrating new technology to elevate guest satisfaction.
He talks about his time at Miraflores Park in Peru as a high point: under Moon’s tenure, the hotel earned accolades as South America’s Most Romantic Resort and Peru’s Leading Hotel Suite.
La Residencia: Bringing Soul to Mallorca’s Luxury Landscape
In 2021, Moon took the helm at La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, in the idyllic village of Deià, Mallorca—a move that set the stage for one of the most ambitious transformations in the region’s luxury hotel scene.
La Residencia, built within 16th and 17th century manor houses and surrounded by terraced olive groves, is revered not just for its beauty, but for the authentic Mallorcan soul Moon works tirelessly to protect.
Moon explains his strategy for La Residencia isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about nurturing what sets the property apart. “Our rooms aren’t the most modern, but that’s the attraction—we have character, spirit, and a family feeling,” says Moon.
Recent years have seen a carefully staged restoration of public areas, a refresh of every guest room, and bold cultural programming like the “Art of Flavours” festival, drawing Michelin-starred chefs and elite travelers to the Mallorcan mountains.
At every turn, the property’s history and artistry are front and center: over 800 works by local artists hang on the walls, and resident artist Alan Hydes invites guests into his on-site studio for immersive art experiences.
ACCELERATING SUCCESS: AWARDS, INNOVATION, AND TEAM
La Residencia recently celebrated being crowned “Hotel of the Year 2025,” solidifying its reputation at the top of Spain’s luxury hospitality sector.
Moon credits his team, which swells from 150 to over 200 each summer, for consistently exceeding travellers’ expectations even as the property has grown in international renown. Seasonal challenges—like reopening each year and onboarding new staff—are met through systems of communication, guest engagement, and robust training.
Moon insists every guest is personally greeted at least three times per stay, and that detailed feedback is not only welcomed but actioned in real time.
Driving Belmond Forward: Vision for the Future
Overseeing both La Residencia and Reid’s Palace in Madeira, Moon says he is reshaping luxury for Belmond region-wide. He’s an outspoken advocate for sustainability, pushing initiatives to protect local culture, source food and wine regionally, and minimise waste without sacrificing elegance or comfort.
Technology is implemented where it serves the guest, but never at the expense of the “human connection”—a theme Moon explores during the conversation.
In that candid interview, Moon reflects on the balancing act of traditional service versus innovation, and how Belmond’s success comes down to emotional intelligence and authenticity. He shares his personal insights on team-building, his strategies for operational consistency, and stories from decades of travel and leadership that will inspire hoteliers and wanderers alike.
Why Listen? Inspiration for the Next Gen of Hoteliers
For anyone passionate about hospitality, boutique hotels, or high-end travel, Moon’s trajectory offers not just a blueprint for success but a lesson in humility, vision, and adaptability.
His advice—care deeply, communicate openly, and respect each property’s unique story—rings true for every industry professional.
As Belmond’s profile continues to rise across Spain and Portugal, Moon’s legacy is shaping not just beautiful destinations, but unforgettable guest journeys.
