Time flies when you’re chilling with Marlene Buckridge, senior sales manager Courtyard Marriott Kingston, Jamaica. She’s energetic, whip-smart and a woman who has her finger on the global hospitality pulse.

What is it about the hospitality industry that has kept you in it?

The people I get to meet from all over the world and the opportunity to move to an entirely new country.

The industry has taken you from Jamaica to Europe with a stop in North America and back. What brought you back to Jamaica?

The Courtyard Marriott Kingston, Jamaica.

Is there a blueprint involved in the industry and does one size fit all?

One size absolutely does not fit all! This job only suits people who are passionate about people and triply passionate about providing exceptional service.

The bedroom or the bathroom? Which one closes the deal, and why?

Bedroom! I spend a maximum of 10 minutes at a time in the bathroom (except for the odd soak). You just can’t beat the comfort of a few feather pillows and large windows spilling in that natural daylight.

Four Seasons or The Ritz?

Well, The Ritz of course.

What determines a luxury destination?

Exclusivity.

How can Jamaica cement its position as an upscale destination?

I think some areas/hotels in Jamaica already identify as upscale. More boutique hotels from additional international luxury brands would definitely boost the upscale profile.

What has corporate Jamaica’s response been to the Courtyard Marriott Kingston?

Tremendous! We still have a bit of work to do, though, to raise our local profile even more.

Which is more important: marketing a destination or word of mouth?

You can’t have one without the other. However, traditionally word of mouth has always proven to be more powerful than any global marketing engine.

Were you able to check in five celebs, who would they be, and why?

Rhianna – Talking philanthropy with her would be interesting. I think there is way more to her than what she shows to the public.

Bill Maher – I’m very attracted to his intellect. I think we’d have scintillating conversations.

Karl Lagerfeld – I’d like his unbridled opinion on fashion today and why he hasn’t retired yet.

Serena Williams – For me she is the epitome of a black woman who chose a path not traditionally walked by us and has dominated at every turn.

Barack Obama – I think he is the greatest black man to have ever walked this earth! He’s defied every odd and rewritten history as we know it.

How would you describe your style?

Boho chic.

Who does your hair and nails?

I do my hair and nails at Cutting Edge in Liguanea. Tanya for my hair and Jenelle for my nails. I keep going back because they are

sooooo nice.

What’s the one must-have travel item for every female?

And for a male?

Nothing beats having a good book…especially a funny one….time flies by and it’s a welcome break from people watching.

What’s the most asked question by a guest on check-in?

There’s no particular outstanding question on check-in. The requests for taxis are as frequent, however, as what time the (Emancipation) Park closes.

Finally! Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Still in hotels.