In Dubai you can see how traditions meet the future

Introduce yourself in a few words..

My name is Todor Minev and I am the general manager of the hotel Novotel Sofia. I have been part of the hospitality world for nearly 20 years – a world where hospitality is not just a profession, but a calling.

My path in this industry resembles the experience of a guest in a hotel – it starts with the first contact and goes through every important link. I had the opportunity to personally get to know and work in all the main operational departments – from the entrance greeting, through the reception, restaurant, to housekeeping. It is this journey, filled with experience, lessons, and a passion for detail, that led me to my current role as general manager.

Just as a guest goes through the entire hotel experience – from the first smile of the bellboy to the last meeting with the manager – I have traveled the path from the foundation to the top, driven by the desire for excellent service and unforgettable experiences for every guest.

For you, what is traveling the world?

For me, traveling is much more than moving from point A to point B. It is an experience that opens the mind, enriches the soul, and teaches us to see the world with new eyes.

Every new city, every encounter with a different culture, and every smile from a stranger remind me that the world is colorful, multifaceted, and full of inspiration. Traveling is an opportunity to step out of the routine, feel the rhythm of life in another place, and connect – with people, with nature, with oneself.

Professionally, it is also a source of ideas – what makes a place special, how to create a feeling of home away from home. And personally – traveling is my way to recharge, to dream, and to grow.

How many different countries have you seen so far? Share an interesting story or highlights from your travels? 

So far, I would say I have visited a sufficient number of different countries on several continents. Each one of them has enriched me in its own way – with its culture, its people, its atmosphere. I believe that it is these encounters with the different that most strongly develop the sense of empathy and understanding – qualities that are invaluable in my profession.

One of the most memorable experiences was during a trip to Bali. There, I was impressed by the incredible calmness of the locals and their inner harmony, which seemed to be transmitted to everything around them – from nature to service. I stayed in a small villa nestled in the heart of the jungle, where the hosts would place fresh flowers and small gifts in front of my door every morning as part of their traditions. This was not just a gesture, but a deep respect for the guest and for the very experience of each day.

Such moments inspire me even today – and I strive to bring them into my daily work at the hotel, so that every guest can feel something special.

Do you like to repeat destinations? Give examples and motivation “for” or “against”?

Yes, I definitely love to repeat destinations, especially when a place has left a strong emotion or feeling of inner comfort. I believe that the first trip to a new destination is a discovery – everything is new and exciting. But on a return visit, you start to see things in depth – you are no longer a tourist, but you get closer to the local rhythm, noticing details that previously escaped you.

What was your first trip that truly changed you as a professional and can be said to have changed your thinking?

The first trip that really changed me as a professional was to Dubai. This was not just a trip, but a revelation. As a person working in the hospitality field, I was impressed not only by the scale and shine but by the overall philosophy of service and the pursuit of perfection in every detail.

Dubai showed me how vision and ambition can transform the desert into a global center of innovation and hospitality. My visit there was like live lessons – how to create an experience that not only satisfies but inspires the guest.

I remember one specific moment – my stay in an iconic hotel, where everything was elevated to the level of art: from the greeting, through the personal attention, to the technologies integrated into service. At that moment, I realized that hospitality is not just a process, but an experience that can remain for a lifetime in the guest's mind.

What do you learn about yourself and your professional skills when you are in a new cultural environment?

When I find myself in a new cultural environment, I mainly learn how flexible and adaptable I can be – both as a person and as a professional. In such moments, I realize that universal skills in hospitality, such as attention to detail and a desire for excellent service, must be combined with respect for cultural differences and specifics.

My work in an international environment teaches me to listen more carefully, to observe more, and to learn from local customs and ways of communication. This way, I better understand the needs and expectations of guests who come from different parts of the world, and I can offer a personalized experience.

From the perspective of myself – I understand that my greatest strength is to create bridges between cultures, uniting the team and guests around a common goal – exceptional hospitality. This makes me more confident, more open, and always ready to grow.

Have you met people or ideas during your travels that have influenced your career Inand path?

Yes, during my travels I have met many inspiring people and new ideas that have significantly enriched my professional development. These encounters taught me to view hospitality more broadly and to seek innovation and attention to detail in everything I do.

Do you think that your travels help you expand your professional network? How?

Absolutely! My travels give me the opportunity to meet professionals from different cultures and areas of hospitality. These contacts not only enrich my knowledge but also create valuable partnerships and exchanges of good practices that I apply in my work. In this way, my professional network is constantly expanding and developing.

What skills do you develop the most when you travel, and how do they reflect on your work Inand?

Adaptation and communication, with the latter being one of the most important things in my work. Communication for me is a constant process that leads to success!

Is there a city or country that has Inand inspired you to start a new business or project?

Traveling always inspires me and gives me new perspectives, but at the moment I am fully focused on my professional development in the hospitality sector. I am working hard to enhance my skills, both my own and those of my colleagues, and to provide our guests with unforgettable experiences.

When you are in an unfamiliar country, do you feel more motivated or more distracted? Why?

In an unfamiliar country, I feel more motivated because new experiences awaken my curiosity. Sometimes this can distract me, but it is precisely this that broadens my horizons and drives me to grow.

Are there destinations that act as a “restart” for your creativity and ambition?

I will mention Bali again. For me, Bali is a true “restart” for the soul and mind. There, I immerse myself in the tranquility of nature, feel the harmony in the culture, and open myself to new inspirations. Every visit there gives me a breath of fresh air, which makes me return to my work with a heart full of new ideas and passion.

How do you manage the balance between work and pleasure, when you travel?

It is always difficult given the position I hold, but I have always said that with every next step comes the next responsibility and, if you are not ready to take it on, don’t do it. I’m not saying that balance isn’t important, on the contrary, but there is definitely work to be done on this topic to achieve a good one.

How have travels changed the way you perceive the value of money?

I wouldn’t say that travels have changed these views of mine. Money is a means. Of course, it’s easier with it, but you can travel and live your emotions with little.

Do you travel to find new ways to earn money?

I wouldn’t say so.

What lessons about financial independence have you learned from different economies and cultures?

During my travels, I have seen different approaches to finances, and this has helped me understand how important it is to have flexibility and an open mind. For example, in some Asian countries, people rely on savings and patience, while in Western Europe, there is more emphasis on investments and innovations. This balance between patience and the courage to take risks has given me a new perspective on financial independence. Today, I strive to apply these lessons – I plan carefully, but I am also ready to take advantage of new opportunities, which makes me more confident both personally and in my professional life.

According to Inis it better to spend on experiences than on material possessions?

I definitely believe that investing in experiences brings a deeper satisfaction than material things. Experiences enrich us with emotions, new perspectives, and memories that last a lifetime. They change us and inspire us, while material possessions often are temporary and quickly lose their value. Therefore, I prefer to invest in moments and travels that help me grow as a person and a professional.

How do you see the future of digital nomad life?

I see the future of digital nomad life as one of the most significant phenomena in the modern work environment. It offers flexibility and personal freedom while challenging us to be more organized and self-disciplined. I believe that more and more people will seek this way of life, combining their professional ambitions with the desire to explore the world. However, it is important to find a balance so that they can truly enjoy both the work and the freedom that this lifestyle offers.

Are there specific countries that are more favorable for work and investments?

This is a strictly individual question. For me, what matters is to value not only the financial conditions but also the quality of life, culture, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

If you could choose one place in the world to develop your next big idea, what would it be and why?

If I had to choose one place, I would choose Dubai. The city is a true center of innovation and international business, where cultures, technologies, and ambitions meet. There, I have the opportunity to be inspired by the dynamic environment, to create new contacts, and to implement projects at a global level. Moreover, the infrastructure and support for entrepreneurship make Dubai the ideal place for growth and development.

What are the destinations that you would definitely recommend to be visited and why?

One of the destinations that I would definitely recommend is Dubai. This city is a unique mix of modern architecture, innovations, and rich culture. There, you can see how traditions meet the future – from the impressive skyscrapers to markets with history centuries back. Dubai is a place that inspires with ambition and dynamism, ideal for both business and personal development. Moreover, the city offers incredible opportunities for networking and meetings with people from all over the world, making it a valuable destination for every professional.

What is the career advice you would give based on what you have seen around the world?

To always remain curious and open to the new. The world is changing rapidly, and success comes to those who can adapt, learn continuously, and seek innovations. Let’s be persistent! It is also important to build strong connections between people, as relationships often unlock opportunities that we could not find alone. And last but not least – follow your passion and be ready to take bold steps, even when the path is not clear. This is the key to true professional development.