Asian women, like any woman in the world, want the time to do what they like best. Some are absorbed in their private lives, others devote their time to their family and some work an 18 hour day. One such lady is Stekaylo Galina Nikolaevna, the general manager of the Poytaht Hotel. Stekaylo, an economist, graduated from the Institute of National Economy of Uzbekistan. She started her working career at the Tashkent Municipality, taking hotel room reservations. In 1993 she was appointed as vice-president on the board of directors of the Joint-share company Shodlik Hotel. She completed an internationally recognised course on hotel management and currently is the general manager for Poytaht Hotel, which opened its doors in May 2002.
A charming woman, with a financial flair and a strong character took time out of her busy schedule to some questions:

Question: Since 1993 you must have experienced many changes in the hotel environment?
Answer: Yes, during the last 10 to 12 years, enormous changes have taken place. Many international hotels have opened, successfully enhancing the city and increasing tourism.

Question: Does Uzbekistan have the infrastructure to offer other types of holidays?
Answer: Uzbekistan is a land locked country, but Chimgan with its massive lake, will soon be suitable for tourism. The area surrounding Chimgan is under construction, new hotels and motels are being built. Nature lovers and hikers will be able to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the lake, waterfalls and mountains.

Question: In your opinion, what generally attracts foreign tourists to Central Asia?
Answer: Monuments, historical sites, our warm climate, and certainly the original art of our skilled craftsmen. You probably have noticed the varying works of art in the hotel. We promote and frequently exhibit art by national craftsmen and artists. Our staff are knowledgeable on these exhibits, as well as imparting information on what to see and do in the city. We work in close co-operation with museums, exhibition halls, theatres, and we organize excursions around Tashkent. Our tourists enjoy it immensely.

Question: Are you pleased with those services, which you render to tourists?
Answer: What is pleasant to see, is that our guests frequently return to our hotel. We try to be attentive to each visitor, if it is their birthday, we send a complimentary card, flowers and eastern sweets. We have a broad spectrum of guests: ages between 19 and 82, either for business or pleasure and some are involved with scientific research. We attempt to satisfy their individual needs. Many people, finding themselves in a strange country, do not know what to expect and they feel vulnerable. " Can 1 help you? " is a frequent question asked by our staff. It is important that our guests understand that we care about their well being. Many visitors have become our friends, communicating with them via the Internet, exchanging the latest news. We have the time and inclination to help those who have arrived in Central Asia. Our poem, written by our staff, sums up how they feel about where they work and the service they offer.

We don't wont to buy or sell Rather introduce our distinguished hotel
Our modern rooms are a dream
Our staff is equipped
With the strongest team.
Our reception is so warm
Truly a home away from home
We await you as our guest
Poytaht Hotel, one of the best.

Question: What is your opinion of our magazine?
Answer: I really enjoy "Discovery". It has interesting subjects and colourful photographs. The magazine has only had 2 issues but it is already possible to tell that it is on the road to success. There arc a lot of people reading DISCOVERY, it is wonderful that they have the opportunity to read all about Central Asia. Furthermore, I would like to wish your readers to live in harmony with the environment, to travel often and visit Central Asia, where love and eastern hospitality meet as one.