The best concierges in the world will meet in Cannes
After Dubai, Berlin and Seoul, the Clefs d’Or (Golden Key) Concierges are meeting in Cannes from 22 to 27 March 2019 for their 66th International Congress, during the course of which the 90th anniversary of the founding “Clefs d’Or France” section will be celebrated. The Union Internationale des Concierges d’Hôtels (UICH: International Hotel Concierge Union) brings together 46 member countries across 5 continents, representing the most prestigious hotels in the world. On this 66th edition and the soon to be one hundredth anniversary of the French Association, there will be no less than 600 professionals coming to discover the charms of Cannes over the course of 5 days. A programme that alternates between meetings, conferences, discovering the town of Cannes and its hinterland, typical dinners and gala evenings. Wonderful shared moments allow for combining work and pleasure and for forging bonds or strengthening an already tight-knit network between people who are passionate about their trade.
A return to its roots
A return to its roots for the Clefs d’Or, as 66 years ago, the first Congress of the Union Européenne des Concierges d’Hôtels (European Hotel Concierge Union) took place in Cannes. In 2019, the location idea was floated by Roger BASTONI, Head Concierge at the Majestic Hotel for over 40 years and a native of Cannes who is very proud of his magnificent town, and who is the Lifetime Honorary Chair of the UICH. An expert on the Riviera, Roger’s aim, with the help of his town, several “Clefs d’Or” concierges and partners, is to introduce the hidden facets of the Côte d’Azur, far removed from the clichés, to the world of the Clefs d’Or.
About the Union Internationale des Concierges d'Hôtels
The Association, created in France in 1929 by Mr Pierre Quentin and 10 of his peers, remained a national institution until 25 April 1952, the year the Union Européenne des Portiers de Grands Hôtels (European Grand Hotel Porters Union) was founded in Cannes by Mr Ferdinand Gillet with the 9 chairs from the countries represented: France, Italy, Switzerland, England, Ireland, Belgium, Germany and 2 observer countries, Denmark and Spain. In 1971, with the admission of Israel as the 16th section, the association became international and now counts 46 member countries. Every day, some 4000 Clefs d’Or across the world’s 5 continents defend exceptional know-how in a field that is the showcase to a country: tourism. More than a simple sign of recognition, the two keys elegantly affixed to their uniform lapels have always symbolized confidence in the advice given by passionate and engaging professionals, who are focussed reception, service and discretion above all.