EHL: A Legacy of Excellence in Hospitality
Switzerland has long been synonymous with world-class hotelier training, and the École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) is at the heart of this tradition. Located above Lausanne, EHL prepares students for high-stakes environments, including Michelin-starred restaurants, where impeccable service is essential for earning a degree.
Learning Under Pressure at Le Berceau des Sens
At Le Berceau des Sens, a student-run Michelin-starred restaurant, learners face intense pressure. One student waiter, nervously preparing a flambée, shares that the fear of failure is common. With the guidance of professional chefs, students handle both food preparation and service, gaining hands-on experience in a high-pressure setting.
A Rich History of Hospitality Education
EHL, founded in 1893, is the world’s first hospitality management school. Originally located at Hotel d’Angleterre, it now sits on a modern 80,000-square-meter campus. The facility, which includes seven restaurants, recently underwent a 250 million Swiss franc renovation, blending state-of-the-art resources with Switzerland’s long tradition of luxury service.
Netflix and Swiss Hospitality’s Global Appeal
Switzerland’s long-standing luxury hotel industry has even caught the attention of Netflix. A forthcoming series will explore the origins of Swiss luxury tourism, co-produced with Swiss national broadcaster RTS, underscoring the global allure of Switzerland’s hotelier legacy.
Hands-On Learning with a Touch of Reality
Students at EHL experience all aspects of hospitality, from wine tasting and mixology to housekeeping. Despite their often wealthy backgrounds, students quickly learn the realities of the industry, such as changing sheets and cleaning rooms, which can be eye-opening.
EHL’s International Reputation and Student Diversity
With 72% of its students coming from abroad, EHL’s global reputation attracts those ready to invest heavily in their education. While the school is prestigious, other Swiss institutions like Les Roches and César Ritz College also draw international students seeking a career in hospitality or even luxury goods.
Developing People Skills to Enhance Guest Experiences
At EHL, the focus is on mastering the “human experience” in hospitality. Students like Jurriaan have found these skills invaluable, especially when dealing with demanding guests in five-star hotels. While formal dress codes and professional expectations are the norm, many students, like Julia, embrace the tradition and structure that defines Switzerland’s elite hospitality training.
SOURCE: Ref Image from CNA Luxury
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