In this series, we go behind the front desk to learn everything from the strangest room service requests to quirky fun facts, to the most heartwarming reunions. We pick a new destination and hotel each month to give you the inside scoop.

Next up – InterContinental São Paulo, a luxurious property offering exclusive elegance in the heart of the Jardins region in Brazil. We chat with General Manager, Johannese Bayer, who has been with the hotel for almost four years.

1. What has been your most memorable guest room request?

We once had a couple who requested vegan accommodations. There couldn’t be any leather items, amenities (shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, etc.) that had been tested on animals, pillows made of feathers, etc. in the room. We were able to fulfill this request and offer a personalized service that really satisfied the couple.

2. What was the strangest item a guest forgot or left behind?

We've had guests who forgot medication such as insulin (diabetes medication), money from around the world, Disney tickets, jewelry (including a wedding ring), and even someone’s entire luggage set!

3. What was the most memorable reason for stay/celebration?

A husband and wife stayed at the hotel many times for a little over a year, due to a health treatment he was undergoing at a nearby hospital. There were many difficult moments and special requests, but finally, he finished his treatments and wanted to celebrate at the place that had contributed to his healing process with his family. We were honored that we were able to serve this guest throughout his health journey - it was very gratifying!

4. Most recognizable guest or celebrity stay?

I can't tell you exactly who, but let's just say she's an internationally known pop star, particularly among the young crowd. She checked in and immediately the front of the hotel began to fill with fans. As she interacted with her fans, the crowd grew to the point that even the street was closed and cars were unable to pass. One highlight was when she had her production buy McDonald’s burgers for all the fans outside of the hotel. This situation took a lot of coordination, but do you think she was sorry? Sorry, Not Sorry – she just, Let It Go!

5. Cool hotel features that guests don’t know about?

Our hotel has one of the largest room inventories with bathtubs among hotels in the region. We also have an entire floor with rooms without carpet, dedicated to guests with allergies.

6. The moment you were most proud of the brand?

Our hotel colleagues have a genuine spirit of service in their DNA that reflects IHG’s culture of hospitality and legitimate guest care. I believe this sets our brand apart from the rest and is recognized and valued by our guests.

7. What is your favorite place to visit outside of the hotel?

Our hotel is located in the charming Jardins region, one block away from the famous Paulista Avenue, and is surrounded by a business and shopping area with the best cultural and gastronomic options in the city. There is something for every kind of traveler, but a few of our favorites included the MASP (São Paulo Art Museum) or the Oscar Freire Street with its elegant stores and much more.

8. Any other fun fact you’d like people to know about the hotel?

It is worth mentioning that the Club Lounge at InterContinental São Paulo is one of the most differentiated among other club lounges in the city, due to its exclusivity and full F&B service. Plus, the Club Lounge offers incredible views of the Paulista neighborhood, which can be seen from the lounge’s location on the 20^th floor of the building.

9. If you had to pick your favorite guest room, which would it be and why?

I have a couple favorite guest rooms including Suite 306, which is unique because of its wooden floors, integrated bedroom and living room, an elegant bathroom, and a large balcony. This suite is ideal for guests with pets, as they use the larger area to stretch out and play. The Junior Suite, room 2001, located on the top floor of the hotel, is also a favorite because of its main attraction – a large round whirlpool bath, ideal for relaxing.

10. What’s your most favorite F&B offering and why?

Our onsite restaurant, Tarsila, boasts contemporary cuisine with an international influence. The Brazilian style picanha with white rice, french fries and farofa is a favorite among guests. It is really delicious!

11. How would you define the hotel in three words?

Location, Exclusivity, Excellence.

12. Where can people book their stay?

Experience InterContinental São Paulo for yourself and book your exclusive stay here. Room rates from USD$305.33 per night.

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*IHG One Rewards members have access to our lowest rates, and can earn more points faster and gain rewards sooner. With richer benefits from free breakfast to more opportunities for Elite members to receive early check-in, late check-out and room upgrades, IHG One Rewards offers more choice, value and relevant benefits than ever before. Room rates are subject to change depending on dates. Please consult ihg.com or the hotel’s website for the most up-to-date pricing.

About IHG^®

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a further 1,800 in the development pipeline.

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InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 350,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

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