Catherine Parkin: 2017 Mandarin Oriental Rising Fan

Catherine at the Fan Club Forum at the Mandarin Oriental, Geneva

We are thrilled that Brownell Independent Advisor Catherine Parkin was selected as a 2017 Mandarin Oriental Rising Fan. Voted in by Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group General Managers, Catherine had an exciting opportunity to attend the Fan Club Forum at the Mandarin Oriental, Geneva. Catherine gives an inside look at what makes Mandarin Oriental hotels so special, who is the ideal client, and more below.

What is your favorite part about working with Mandarin Oriental as a travel advisor?

The partnership is everything you could ask for and builds on a successful travel advisory practice. They don’t just say they want to WOW your clients…they do it. They take every piece of information you provide about a client and apply it to customize the clients’ stay, going beyond expectations every time. Think: a chocolate shaped Bullet Train for a boy who loves all things locomotive and has an obsession with chocolate. Also, they have excellent spas and if your clients pre-book, you will have a delighted client and a little extra $$$ in your wallet thanks to commission on pre-booked spa treatments. You are doing the work anyway…why not get paid for it?!

A beautiful welcome at the Mandarin Oriental

What sets Mandarin Oriental hotels apart from others?

Service and attention. They aim to anticipate guests’ needs so they don’t have to ask for anything. That and the beautiful modern/contemporary design.

What is your favorite Mandarin Oriental property?

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona. It has an excellent location…just walk out your door and you can easily get to just about anywhere. Also, the spa is amazing and offers the Bastien Gonzales pedicure!

What are the characteristics of a Mandarin Oriental client?

Clients who enjoy a contemporary take on a location but still want a sense of place. Those who rave about how service is the best in Asia will be treated to that same standard at all Mandarin Orientals.

What are the benefits of the relationship between Brownell & Mandarin Oriental?

It’s a love affair! Tom Puleio is sales partner extraordinaire! He is always looking for ways to delight a Brownell Client. And being a Mandarin Oriental Fan Club agency doesn’t hurt with perks like:

$100 Food & Beverage or Spa Credit, per room per stay
Complimentary daily breakfast for two
One category room upgrade, based on availability
Unlimited in-room wireless Internet access
4 PM late check-out, subject to availability
Priority waitlist clearance

What Mandarin Oriental hotel do you want to visit next?

Mandarin Oriental, New York! I am dying to have a cocktail at The Aviary, an amazing bar from Chicago that they just opened in New York. Truly spectacular views and cocktails that will blow your mind.