Crafting a Multi-Sensory Experience
In this month’s Leisure Insight, Yannis Stanisiere, COO of COYA, the Peruvian fusion restaurant with expert mixologists, live music and art, presents to us his views on how to best craft multi-sensory offerings, which are becoming a pivotal part of modern day hospitality.
Ask a room of seasoned travellers and hospitality professionals what defines luxury and you’ll hear a variety of answers. For some, it is world-class amenities – Michelin-starred dining, exceptional spa treatments, or a suite with panoramic views. For others, it’s about privacy, exclusivity and discretion. But after more than three decades in the industry, I’ve come to see luxury through a different lens.
Luxury today has evolved beyond price points and opulence. It’s no longer defined solely by material extravagance. Instead, it’s about authenticity, emotional connection and the thoughtful curation of every moment. At its core, it’s about the experience – a multi-sensory journey that leaves guests feeling truly seen, understood and inspired.
This shift is shaping how we design, operate and deliver luxury hospitality across the globe. We are seeing this transformation reflected more broadly across the industry. Luxury is becoming increasingly experiential. High-end fashion houses like Bulgari, Louis Vuitton and Dior have extended into hospitality – not to showcase their logos, but to let guests live the essence of their brand, extend the narrative and sentiment and create meaningful experiences.
I think that luxury clients value connection and purpose. We have seen that they want to understand the roots of a dish, meet the artisan behind a handmade piece, or participate in traditions that go beyond the typical tourist narrative. The result is a growing emphasis on storytelling – both in service and design.
In architecture and interiors, this means moving away from ostentation toward spaces that feel intentional and emotionally resonant. Design is no longer about making a grand statement, but about curating an authentic atmosphere that complements the overall experience.
I also believe that service has also undergone a quiet revolution. The traditional model – formal, uniformed and distanced – is gradually giving way to something more personal. Precision remains essential, but personality now plays a critical role. Guests appreciate genuine warmth, familiarity and intuition. A sincere welcome, a remembered preference, or a casual yet meaningful exchange can be more impactful than the most elaborate flourish.
This blend of authenticity and sophistication is something we champion in all our teams. Whether in Dubai, Monte Carlo, Paris, or beyond, we aim to make each guest feel like they belong – without losing the elegance and attention to detail that defines a luxury experience.
Technology, of course, has entered the scene and continues to reshape the landscape. The challenge lies in its application. Used thoughtfully, tech can enhance the guest journey – seamless check-ins, personalised room settings, AI-supported preferences. But it should never replace the irreplaceable: human connection. The best use of technology is when it amplifies the emotional element, not when it replaces it.
Another interesting evolution is the convergence of luxury hospitality with the world of fashion and lifestyle. Today, high-end brands aren’t just curating spaces – they’re crafting entire journeys. From private jet services to curated in-residence experiences, they’re creating ecosystems where everything aligns with the brand’s narrative. Audemars Piguet’s AP Houses are a great example of this – more than retail, they offer a space to experience the ethos of the brand in a setting that feels personal and refined.
I think that there is a delicate balance. As more brands step into hospitality, the real test lies in remaining relevant and intimate. A luxury experience should never feel mass-produced. Personalisation and cultural authenticity are more critical than ever, guests don’t just want access – they want meaning too.
Looking ahead, I think that the future of luxury hospitality will be defined by purpose, creativity and depth. Our role as operators is to keep pushing boundaries – not just in aesthetics, but in how we create lasting emotional impact. The next frontier isn’t about being the most extravagant – it’s about being the most memorable.
At the heart of it all, this industry remains what it has always been: about people. The emotional resonance of a well-executed moment, the warmth of true hospitality and the ability to make someone feel valued – those are the foundations. As we continue to evolve, we must never lose sight of the human touch because in the end, that’s what transforms a beautiful space into a meaningful experience.
