In our latest inCROWD interview, we chat to Constance Hotels & Resorts head of groups and incentives Nadine Comarmond-Peroomal about island life, perfectionism, family time and what luxury means in 2021…

Having started her career working in the DMC industry, Mauritius-born Nadine joined Constance Hotels & Resorts in 2013 and now heads the Groups & Incentives department, where she oversees sales and marketing, group contracting, reservations and operations of MICE business for all seven resorts.

My favourite #inVOYAGEMoment is… every inVOYAGE has been a memorable experience. My first participation was back in 2015, in Bodrum and the whole journey has been an adventure since. This first show was already excellent, and I met a few people who became (and are still) friends today. St Peter's castle in Bodrum remains one of the most extraordinary locations I have ever visited so I am thankful for that opportunity. Each inVOYAGE has been better every year. I have remained loyal and will keep participating (or ensure Constance remains part of it) for years to come!

It's quite a fulfilling emotion of pride to realise an event for a client. Each event is unique and crafting a full stay with our partners or clients is absolutely gratifying.

It is not only about seeing the event coming to life, but also about the full collaboration with the hotels' teams. The synergy, the energy and the friendship among our teams is worth any team building. The best way to reconnect team members actually is to work together on a group event.

Luxury to me is… a very personal experience. Some see luxury from a material point of view. At Constance, we have a different approach, we believe luxury lies in the moment that we share with the people we love, the people we meet, the emotions we feel.

2020 and its challenges have shifted minds and I am sure some will join me on this thought - luxury is how you feel and, in 2021, beyond feeling good, people want to feel secure! Mauritius has been boldly controlling the pandemic effects by closing its borders early and keeping control of arrivals through a strict 14-days quarantine upon arrival. While this is a hard time for all the industries depending on tourism, we are safe! We can still meet our friends and relatives, hug and kiss our friends and loved ones, go to theatres, events... and this has taken a considerable value.

People can still come and visit Mauritius, with the long stay visa that has recently been created and which starts to raise more and more interest. Once they have finished the quarantine, they can live freely here. This is the new luxury!

My earliest travel memory is… from when I was five old. I travelled for the first time on board a “twin-otter” from Mauritius to Reunion Island to visit family. I was over excited to "fly" and to see a new country, but I ended almost traumatised because of the air pressure. I can still remember the pain in the ears. Well back then I must have told my mother – never again! Never say, never. Of course I enjoy travelling today. Even on “twin-otters”!

City slicker or beach bum? I am an islander by birth, so I am attracted by cities. I enjoy traveling for business as I have the opportunity to visit amazing cities. Of course, I always enjoy a beach break with my children too.

If you could get on a plane right now, where would you fly and why… Anywhere! Mauritius is an amazing place to live, but you can't go anywhere beyond the ocean surrounding it, if not by plane (or boat). 

Suitcase essentials? My pillow! It always travels with me... A good sleep is priceless!

Not to brag but I feel lucky to be part of Constance Hotels & Resorts which showcases some unique locations such as le Barachois at Constance Prince Maurice - a floating restaurant over a natural fish farm. A sunset drink there, is simply spectacular.

My most memorable event? Well that is a tricky question, as I want to name all of them.

I evolved into MICE since 2006 and have worked on amazing events and met with extraordinary people. Joining Constance in 2013 propelled me in a different role as I could then organise our own events to promote our brand and destinations. I had amazing opportunities to travel the world to attend trade shows, and host Constance events in amazing locations. Also, many of our clients' events in our hotels remain memorable.

Do you have a mantra you live and work by? Murphy's law "what can go wrong will go wrong" which is not exactly a glorious statement - somehow pessimistic - as this pushes me (to push everyone else) to be prepared to the worst-case scenario. I am a cursed perfectionist but that's ok. I acknowledge and embrace it! 

When I’m not working, I’m most likely to be… with my family. I have three amazing children, so I ensure to spend as much quality time as possible with each of them. They are my daily motivation and inspiration.

When the pandemic is over, I am most looking forward to… rebooking my groups! I am so grateful to my group partners and clients who have not cancelled and are now waiting to be able to travel to our dream destinations across the Indian Ocean. And obviously I also look forward to travelling again and meeting all my friends out there!