TMR Unplugged: Real Talk…. With Windstar’s Andreas

Welcome to the first edition of TMR Unplugged, featuring Windstar’s Hotel General Manager, Andreas Pitsch!
This new series is your chance to unplug and hear directly from some of the travel industry’s frontline workers.

Born and raised in Austria, Andreas now lives in Málaga, Spain, with his wife and daughter.

Take a breather and get to know the people who help bring exceptional travel experiences to life — starting with Andreas.

What is your favorite destination?

Anywhere warm, blue skies and crystal-clear water!

What part of your job makes you smile the most?

When I’m interacting with guests and crew.

Besides your family, what do you miss most about home when traveling?

My garden! I love plants!

How do you create a memorable first impression for your guests?

By greeting and introducing myself to each and every one at the gangway with a big smile and a good sense of humor. That sets the tone of a good time.

What is your favorite part of the ship to spend time on when you’re not working?

Always the open decks watching sunrise/sunset.

How do you handle difficult or unexpected situations with travelers?

Always address any issues or concerns asap. Listen to the guests, apologize and find ways to make things better.

What’s a small thing travelers can do that makes your job easier?

Have fun and enjoy the time on board. Happiness is a choice 😊

What’s a common mistake that travelers make, and how can they avoid it?

Don’t pack his and hers separate. Mix it all up. In case a bag gets lost, everyone still has some clothes to wear.

How has working in the travel industry changed your perspective on the world?

It’s great to see that on the ship, no matter what nationality, religion, race or sexual orientation, we all get along. 

What’s a common question you get from guests?

Are you the Captain?

Have you ever formed a lasting friendship with a guest?

Many times. I have several guests on my close contacts. They keep me posted on their travel plans.

What’s a personal travel experience that had a big impact on you?

Vacationing in Abu Dabi with my wife and daughter. I did not have much expectation of that side of the world and was extremely impressed of the friendliness, cleanliness, safety and of course the culinary experience of our stay at a beautiful resort. Simply amazing and I know we’ll be going back there.

If you could swap jobs with anyone in the travel industry for a day, who would it be and why?

Our President Chris Prelog. Jokingly I like to pretend that I am the president when Chris is not on board so I thought it might be a good idea knowing what the day of our president (in Tahiti) is like 😊😊😊.