Ep 13. Ex Marks the Spot

In season 6, episode 13 of Hotel Impossible, entitled "Ex Marks the Spot," host Anthony Melchiorri visits a hotel in Cape May, New Jersey, that is struggling due to the owner's past mistakes. The hotel was formerly owned by the current owner's ex-husband, and the property still reflects his taste and choices, causing confusion for guests and staff alike.

Upon arrival, Anthony immediately notices issues with the hotel's signage and branding. He also discovers that the owner is not taking responsibility for the hotel's problems, instead blaming everything on her ex-husband's decisions. The staff is not properly trained, resulting in poor customer service and frequent complaints from guests.

In order to turn the hotel around, Anthony first sits down with the owner and has a frank conversation about her shortcomings as a leader. He helps her understand how her attitude and behavior are affecting the hotel's success, and encourages her to take ownership of the situation. They also discuss the need to update the decor, as the current style does not match the hotel's location or target audience.

Next, Anthony assesses each department of the hotel, from housekeeping to management. He finds that most staff members are willing to learn and improve, but have not been given proper guidance. As a result, he provides training sessions and implements new systems to ensure better efficiency and communication.

The renovation process begins with an overhaul of the hotel's exterior. Anthony works with a local sign company to create new, eye-catching signage that accurately reflects the hotel's brand. He also hires an artist to paint a mural on the building's side, adding to the hotel's unique charm.

The lobby is next on the list of renovations, as it is outdated and cluttered. Anthony brings in a designer to help revamp the space, creating a cohesive theme for the hotel that reflects the seaside location. They also remove unnecessary clutter and add new seating to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Each guest room is given a makeover as well, with new bedding, curtains, and artwork to modernize the space. Anthony works with a local artist to create custom wall art that pays tribute to Cape May's history and landmarks.

Throughout the episode, Anthony works closely with the owner to emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for the hotel's success. He helps her understand that blaming her ex-husband and avoiding responsibility will only lead to continued failure. In the end, the owner takes ownership of her mistakes and shows a renewed dedication to the hotel's success.

Overall, "Ex Marks the Spot" showcases the importance of effective leadership and taking responsibility for one's mistakes. By implementing new systems and updating the property's decor, Anthony successfully turns the struggling hotel in Cape May into a more welcoming and successful establishment.