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Simone Giorgi Takes the Helm at Orient Express La Minerva

Simone Giorgi has been appointed as the General Manager of the luxurious Orient Express La Minerva hotel in Rome as of October 1st. Bringing over 20 years of expertise in luxury hospitality, he leads one of Italy’s most awaited hotel ventures under the ownership of Arsenale Group and in partnership with Orient Express. His role encompasses steering the strategic direction, overseeing development, and managing day-to-day operations with a strong emphasis on delivering timeless Italian hospitality and unmatched excellence.

An Impressive Career in Luxury Hospitality

Giorgi’s journey in hospitality began in 2000 as Director of Food & Beverage at Park Hyatt Milano. He quickly rose through the ranks, serving as Director of Operations for Starhotels Italy, managing prestigious locations across Venice, Milan, Trieste, Paris, and New York. Later, he assumed General Manager positions at renowned Italian properties including Il Salviatino in Florence, JK Place Capri, and Villa Cora.

Most recently, Giorgi has been the General Manager of Park Hyatt Milano since 2018 and acknowledged as the Chairman of the Board of Feasibility for Hyatt in Italy. His ability to orchestrate exceptional guest experiences was recognized when he was named Hotelier of the Year 2024 by Virtuoso.

Orient Express La Minerva: A Blend of History and Modern Luxury

Strategically placed at the heart of Rome, just steps away from landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, Orient Express La Minerva officially opened its doors in April 2025. It beautifully revives aristocratic grandeur within the walls of a 17th-century palazzo, once a favored stop for historical European Grand Tour travelers — luminaries such as Stendhal, George Sand, and Herman Melville sought inspiration here.

The hotel boasts a thoughtful restoration led by Artist-Architect Hugo Toro, harmonizing the property’s historic elegance with contemporary sophistication. Guests are invited to explore not just an exquisite stay but to immerse themselves in a living Roman landmark rich with artistry and heritage.

Rooftop Dining with a View

One of the hotel’s crowning features is the rooftop restaurant and bar, Gigi Rigolatto in Roma, located on the seventh floor. This space offers breathtaking views over the Pantheon, exuding the glamour of the Riviera with a vibrant and flamboyant atmosphere. It’s a captivating spot where culinary artistry meets spectacular panoramas, perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and luxury.

A Historical Perspective on the Orient Express Legacy

The Orient Express brand is synonymous with elegance, journey, and luxury travel, tracing back to the famous transcontinental train journeys across Europe that began in the late 19th century. A pioneer in the luxury travel industry, the Orient Express originally linked Paris to Istanbul and became famed for its lavish interiors, fine cuisine, and exclusivity.

Over time, this brand has evolved, encompassing exceptional hotel experiences that aim to replicate the romanticism and timeless charm of the original train voyages. The launch of Orient Express La Minerva in Rome is a continuation of this ambition, offering travelers a refined blend of the old-world charm and the finest comforts of modern hospitality.

The Role of Luxury Hospitality in Global Tourism

As international tourism continues to flourish, landmark hotels like Orient Express La Minerva play a pivotal role in elevating the travel experience. Their blend of cultural heritage and modern luxury attracts discerning travelers who seek authentic experiences coupled with exceptional comfort.

Such venues often become hubs of activity in their cities, contributing to the local economy and inspiring visitors to explore beyond traditional tourist circuits. This feeding of curiosity and wonder is reminiscent of the joyful exploration spirit celebrated in yachting and sailing activities, where travelers seek access to new horizons, whether on land or on water.

Forecasting the Influence of Elegant Hospitality

The continuing rise of luxury travel offerings, such as those by Orient Express, suggests strong future growth in themed tourism sectors that emphasize stories, history, and crafted experiences. In regions like Rome, with their historical landscapes and vibrant cultural scenes, these hotels act as gateways that connect visitors to the authentic spirit of the destination.

Conclusion: A New Era of Elegance in Rome’s Hospitality Scene

Simone Giorgi’s appointment signals a promising chapter for Orient Express La Minerva, blending rich heritage with contemporary hospitality expertise. This magnificent hotel invites travelers to indulge in the art of refined living set against Rome’s breathtaking history.

For those drawn to the world of luxury and exploration, whether by sea or by land, the Orient Express experience sets a new standard in how cultural journeys can be savored. The hotel’s strategic location near iconic landmarks combined with exceptional service promises to redefine high-end stays in the Eternal City.

For travelers eager to combine their love of refined stays with adventures on the water, platforms like GetBoat.com offer a gateway to enriching experiences. As an international marketplace for renting sailing boats and yachts, GetBoat.com complements luxury ground services by opening routes to the sea, lakes, and oceans—perfect for those who wish to explore destinations with a sailing captain or simply enjoy boating under the sun. Marrying land-based luxury with marine adventures creates seamless journeys filled with charm, comfort, and discovery.