In Caux, students from around the world imagine the future of hospitality
By Gisèle F.
Meeting the new generation of international hospitality professionals
Based in the stately Caux Palace overlooking Montreux, the Swiss Hotel Management School (SHMS) is cut from a different cloth to other hotel schools: It is a genuinely cosmopolitan environment that attracts soon-to-be hospitality managers from all over the world. Between 1,500 and 2,000 students of nearly 90 different nationalities pursue hotel management qualifications, including Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, on its two campuses in Caux and Leysin. The school has thus made a name for itself as a global training hub.
Lucie Marrier d'Unienville
Age
21
From
Mauritius
Year of study
3rd year of a Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management at the Swiss Hotel Management School
Interests
Nature, event management, hospitality
Ananh Sensathit (Jim)
Age
26
From
Laos
Year of study
2nd year of a Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management at the Swiss Hotel Management School
Interests
Catering (food and beverage), management, guitar
Could you introduce yourself in a few words?
Lucie
I come from Mauritius. I grew up in a cosmopolitan environment, because I had schoolmates from different cultures from when I was very little. Hospitality has always been part of my life. Tourism is a big part of the Mauritian economy, and some members of my family also work in it.
Ananh (Jim)
I come from Laos. My family owns a number of restaurants, and I’m particularly interested in the sector and the customer experience. I enjoy turning ideas into tangible results. I want to develop the restaurant industry in Laos, particularly through my family’s business.
Why did you choose Switzerland for your studies?
Lucie
Not only for its beauty but also – and in particular – for its world-leading reputation in training people for the hotel and hospitality industry. Switzerland has some of the best establishments in this sector, and SHMS stands out for the quality of its programs.
Ananh (Jim)
I chose Switzerland because it’s seen as the birthplace of hospitality training and is still a byword for excellence. The quality of the teaching, the practical approach, the internships and how safe the country is – as well as its natural beauty – made it the ideal choice.
What was your first impression on arriving here?
Lucie
I’d fallen in love with Switzerland before I’d even arrived, while I was doing my research online. Once I’d set foot here, I was touched by just how kind the locals are. The mountains and the lake are simply breathtaking. It’s a world away from Mauritius, where you’re surrounded by the ocean and sandy beaches.
Ananh (Jim)
I remember the first thing I saw – the snow-capped mountains from my plane window – it was magical. I was also struck straight away by how well organized the airport was, which made me feel safe and secure.
Could you name a Swiss culinary specialty that you like?
Lucie
I love cheese, especially fondue with a glass of white wine. My favorite cheese is Gruyère AOP, and I always bring some back in my suitcase.
Ananh (Jim)
I particularly enjoy the pasta dish known as “Älplermagronen.” It was a Swiss German friend I met while studying French in Lyon in 2023 who introduced me to this specialty.
Is there a local restaurant you’d recommend?
Lucie
I’d highly recommend La Rouvenaz in Montreux. It was the first restaurant I tried out when I arrived, and I keep going back for its fantastic Italian food.
Ananh (Jim)
I love Le Coucou in Caux for its traditional cheese fondue and authentic atmosphere.
What local sights do you show your friends and family when they come to visit?
Lucie
I take everyone to Chillon Castle at least once – it’s an essential part of any itinerary! The castle and the view of the lake are amazing and just packed with history. I also show them Les Planches, a village above Montreux that has some lovely narrow streets and feels really picturesque.
Ananh (Jim)
Personally, I’d say the train is the best way to explore the region and Switzerland in general. The landscape is jaw-dropping, and you can really see the quality of the infrastructure for yourself. And then I’ll take them to Caux, of course, to see the school, and then on to Chillon.
What three adjectives best describe your experience in the region?
Lucie
Charming, serene, picturesque.
Ananh (Jim)
Memorable, life-changing, inspiring.
Are you thinking of coming back to Switzerland after your studies?
Lucie
Yes, I can see myself coming back or even staying long term. I particularly like Montreux and how peaceful it is there. I prefer small, quiet towns and can imagine putting down roots there one day.
Ananh (Jim)
Yes, I’ll definitely come back one day. I don't plan to stay here forever, though, because I want to do my bit to grow the hotel and restaurant industry in Laos. But Switzerland will always hold a special place in my heart.
