A Master of Protocol Sharing Canarian Flavors

Manuel Martínez-Fresno, Director of Protocol and Communications at the Canary Islands' most prestigious hotel, Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, has conducted an interview introducing the gastronomic culture of Gran Canaria.

Regarded as the perfect embodiment of 'savoir faire,' he has spent his lifetime practicing the philosophy that "communication is the core of all human relationships." Although born in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, the centers of his life are Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Canteras Beach, and his mother's hometown of Tenerife.

From Diplomatic Family to Hotelier

Martínez-Fresno studied law and aspired to pursue a diplomatic career. His family was a distinguished lineage that had produced diplomats for generations, and his uncle Nicolás served as Spain's National Protocol Director. However, his path changed when he settled in Tenerife following his marriage to his wife Clara.

He subsequently built his expertise by studying National and International Protocol at the University of Oviedo. In the early 1990s, he began his formal career when he was appointed Protocol Director for the Cabildo of Tenerife (regional government), a rare protocol specialist role in the Canary Islands at that time.

Transition from Politics to Hospitality

His relationship with his mentor and lifelong friend, Adán Martín, former President of the Canary Islands Autonomous Community, was special. He formed deep professional and personal trust while serving as Protocol Director for the Office of the President of the Canary Islands Government.

He later built a solid career in the public sector, including joining the city council at the request of Santa Cruz Mayor Miguel Zerolo. Currently, he oversees protocol, public relations, events, and communications at Hotel Santa Catalina, a landmark hotel in Gran Canaria, and is responsible for the hotel's prestige.

The Secret to Perfect Manners

He still follows principles inherited from his mother: "Always wear a jacket on airplanes and never wear shorts." His sensitivity, uncomfortable with skin contact with strangers, is also evident in his attitude as a protocol expert.

Born to a father from Madrid and a mother from La Orotava, he inherited style and taste from his father and manners and education from his mother. The most important person in his life remains his mother, who still resides in Tenerife.

Ambassador of Canarian Gastronomy

Currently, he serves as a guide to the authentic flavors of Gran Canaria for all visitors to Hotel Santa Catalina. His efforts to harmonize international-level service with local culture as the face of the hotel are setting new standards for the hospitality industry in the Canary Islands.

For him, who loves Las Canteras Beach and the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, culture is life's compass, and Gran Canaria is not merely a workplace but a second home.