Hotel warned advert that demeans staff
The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has issued a warning about misleading advertising at the Vintage Luxury Yacht Hotel.
The advert in question showed a photograph depicting the hotel staff kneeling down to serve customers. This prompted strong criticism through social media, such as Facebook.
The ministry dispatched its officials to look into the matter late last week. Hotel management said it had already removed the picture and that it would avoid a repeat of such mistakes.
The ministry cautioned the hotel not to provide misleading information on services being offered because foreign visitors might have get the wrong impression of Myanmar customs and traditions.
The ministry will take legal action against the hotel if it fails to heed the warning, officials said.
“The ship [converted to floating hotel] is decorated with ancient designs. The hotel’s services are billed as those fitting for a King and a Queen. We warned the hotel officials about their services. The hotel used the photo only for advert,” the official said.
“The photo was taken during staff training before the hotel opened. This happened under a former Italian manager and staff who are no longer with the hotel. They resigned for fear of having to offer such services. The ministry checked and found out that the hotel’s services were normal, said a ministry official.
To ensure hotel service standards, the ministry said it has so far sent out warnings to 1,036 licenced hotels, guest houses and tour operators.
