Located just moments away from top attractions like The White House, National Mall, Smithsonian Institution and Freedom Plaza, JW Marriott Washington, D.C. is the perfect base from which to explore the historic sights of the US’s capital city.
To celebrate its partnership with Elite Traveler, we spoke to the hotel’s director of operations, Daniel Bauer.
What attracted you to your position at the hotel?
I was drawn to my role at the JW Marriott Washington D.C. for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the hotel holds the distinguished position of being the original JW hotel that inspired the JW Brand, embodying the pinnacle of luxury and hospitality within the Marriott portfolio. Furthermore, its stature as one of the largest luxury properties in the city, boasting an impressive 777 rooms and over 40,000 sq ft of meeting space, reflects a commitment to excellence and grandeur that resonated with me. The hotel’s strategic location just a few blocks away from the White House lends an aura of prestige and exclusivity, attracting a discerning clientele that includes high-profile individuals and dignitaries.
Tell us about a defining moment in your role that sticks out.
Although I’ve only recently joined the team at the hotel, one upcoming event stands out as a defining moment that I eagerly anticipate: the presidential inauguration in 2025. The significance of our location, situated right on Pennsylvania Avenue, where the President of the United States traditionally walks during the inauguration procession, instills this occasion with profound significance and to play a role in facilitating the experiences of guests and dignitaries during such a momentous occasion. The inauguration will undoubtedly be a day etched in my memory forever, symbolizing not only the prestige of our hotel’s location but also the privilege of being entrusted with the responsibility of delivering exceptional hospitality during such a momentous event.
And what has been the hotel’s biggest challenge during your time there?
During my tenure at the hotel, our most significant challenge has been elevating our luxury service to a level that exceeds the expectations of our guests. Given our hotel’s size and status as a conference resort network property, rather than a traditional boutique hotel, this presents a unique set of challenges. To address this challenge head-on, I’ve been actively collaborating with our team to devise strategies aimed at enhancing the guest experience. One key initiative involves partnering with Forbes to gain valuable insights into the nuances of delivering a truly exceptional luxury hotel experience. By leveraging their expertise and guidance, we’re able to refine our approach and ensure that every aspect of our service reflects the epitome of luxury.
What is it about your top suite, the Washington Suite, that separates it from anything else on offer in the region?
What sets this suite apart from anything else in the region is its comprehensive luxury experience, both indoors and outdoors. With panoramic views from the suite’s balconies showcasing Washington DC’s most iconic historic landmarks —such as the White House, the monuments, and the Capitol—the experience is truly unmatched. Additionally, the suite’s spacious layout makes it ideal for hosting a variety of gatherings, from family celebrations to meetings, to private dining offering versatility and exclusivity that few other options can match
What exciting plans do you have for the hotel that you can share with our readers?
Firstly, our dedicated Food and Beverage team is diligently crafting a delightful Spring/Summer menu that we’re confident our guests will absolutely adore. From seasonal delights to culinary innovations, there’s something to tantalize every palate. Additionally, as we gear up for the upcoming presidential inauguration, we’ll soon be releasing rooms for booking. If you’re seeking a prime location in the heart of the city to witness this historic event, keep an eye out for our presidential inauguration plans. We’re committed to providing an unforgettable experience for our guests during this momentous occasion, and we can’t wait to unveil what we have in store. Stay tuned for more updates!
