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15 Years of The Lady in Red: Kempinski Soma Bay’s Icon Still Turns Heads and Hearts

Kempinski Soma Bay
15 Years of The Lady in Red: Kempinski Soma Bay’s Icon Still Turns Heads and Hearts
written by
Malak Gharib

Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay is raising a glass to a legacy that’s become as unforgettable as the Red Sea sunsets. It’s been 15 years since the Lady in Red first graced hotel lobbies around the world, and to this day, her presence is unmistakable. If you’ve ever been greeted not just with a smile but with a warmth that felt tailor-made, chances are, you’ve already met her.

 

Born in the Desert, Raised on Elegance

From the dunes of Wadi Rum to the shores of Soma Bay, the Lady in Red emerged from a bold idea about creating hospitality that is more human, personal, and stylish. In 2008, Kempinski’s general managers gathered for a brainstorming retreat in the extraordinary desert of Jordan. Surrounded by vast silence and starry skies, they began to develop a concept that was not simply another guest relations role but rather a true ambassador of elegance. Inspired by the allure of a haute couture red dress and the desire to transcend scripted service, the concept of the Lady in Red was brought to life. This character would represent more than just a hotel employee; she would become the face, voice, and spirit of a warm welcome around the world.

 

From Concept to Crimson Icon

One year later, the vision was unveiled to Kempinski’s global leadership in Geneva. By 2010, the Lady in Red had become a permanent fixture across the brand’s portfolio. But she’s never been just about the looks. Equal parts local expert and gracious host, she offers guests a seamless blend of insider knowledge and thoughtful touches, from hidden beach gems to last-minute dinner tables at the hottest restaurants in town.

In some locations, the Gentleman in Red took on the role, but the mission remained the same; to create personalised, intuitive hospitality that lingers in memory long after checkout. She’s poised but approachable, polished but never distant. In short, she’s everything you want a first impression to be and everything you hope a hotel stay could offer.

 

Kempinski Soma Bay Joins the Celebration

This month, Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay joins the global festivities with its own seaside spin on the anniversary. To mark the occasion, the property hosted an intimate Red Sea gathering just for its Ladies in Red, a heartfelt pause to honour the dedication behind the elegance. Set against crystal-clear waters and golden light, the event offered a moment of reflection and gratitude. From heartfelt toasts to shared stories, it was a celebration of the years spent creating exceptional stays for guests from all walks of life.

 

Sip the Celebration: Lady in Red Cocktails at Sultan Bar

As part of the festivities, guests are invited to raise a glass with a limited-time Lady in Red cocktail menu at the elegant Sultan Bar. Each signature drink draws from the Lady in Red’s essence; some are bold and daring, while others are delicate and floral, all undeniably refined.

Available for one month only, the menu isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s instead a toast to timeless hospitality, bottled into beautiful concoctions that reflect her unforgettable flair. Whether you’re a returning guest or a first-time visitor, this menu is the perfect excuse to slow down and savour the story behind our signature red.

 

Looking Ahead from A Legacy of Warmth

Hospitality isn’t just standing still, and neither is she.  As travel tastes shift and luxury evolves, so does the Lady in Red. Kempinski is redefining the role of today’s world traveller, making her an even more intuitive host, cultural guide, and memory-maker. Think less script, more connection. The red attire might catch your eye, but it’s the heart behind it that stays with you. Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay’s celebration is more than just an anniversary; it’s a love letter to the people who make hospitality feel human. The Lady and the Gentleman in Red remind us that the best kind of luxury is the kind that feels like home, no matter how far you’ve travelled.

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