kongres_interviews

The Meetings Star winners in 2024/2025 deserve special recognition. We talked to representatives of the leading, most swanky, outlandish, elegant and unique hotels in New Europe to hear about their recipe for success. Ljubljana’s ONE66 Hotel undoubtedly belongs to the category of quirky, authentic design hotels. Lejla Bučan, the hotel’s Marketing Manager, explained why the hotel is not a cookie-cutter boutique hotel, but an establishment with a personality. 

Q1: What makes your hotel truly unique for meeting planners?

Hotel ONE66 is not just a place to meet — it is a place to feel inspired. From our cosy, design-forward interiors to flexible event spaces filled with natural light, we create an atmosphere that is both relaxed and energising.

Our spaces aren’t cookie-cutter — they are full of personality, with stylish furniture and the option to expand into our restaurant or The LOFT for larger or more casual events. Add in a great location, lots of parking, and comfy rooms, and you’ve got everything in one spot.

Q2: If your hotel were a personality, how would you describe it?

Warm, welcoming, and just a little bit quirky. One that loves good design, fresh ideas, and meaningful connections. One of those people you instantly like — easygoing, creative, and thoughtful.

Q3: What are the three key experiences that every event attendee should have when visiting your hotel?

Spending time (or hosting something!) in The LOFT – our social hub, restaurant and creative space.

Connecting with our friendly team — always here to help and genuinely happy to see you.

Enjoying the vibe — stylish, relaxed, and just the right mix of professional and personal.

the_loft_ljubljana
Photo: ONE66

“We minimise food waste, source ingredients locally, and say a firm no to single-use plastics. It’s all about small steps that make a real difference.”

Q4: How has your hotel positioned itself as a leader in the meetings industry?

We are boutique, flexible, and people-focused. We work closely with our clients to shape events that are smart, stylish, and stress-free. Our setup blends top-notch facilities with a cosy, modern feel — it is professional without ever being stiff.

Q5: What are the biggest challenges and opportunities you foresee in the industry over the next three years?

Meeting the needs of new generations will reshape the industry. Guests want more personal, flexible, and meaningful experiences — not just another meeting. That’s a big shift, but also an exciting opportunity to do things differently.

Q6: How do you engage with international event organisers and decision-makers to showcase your hotel?

We take part in key trade shows, invest in digital outreach, and team up with partners like the Slovenian Tourist Board, Conventa, and the Meetings Star to share what makes Ljubljana — and ONE66 — special on a global stage.

the_loft_ljubljana
Photo: ONE66

“Our interior is inspired by retro Slovenian and Yugoslav design, featuring reprinted vintage travel posters, exhibitions in our hallways, and creative projects with local designers.”

Q7: How is your hotel innovating in the business events sector?

Our focus is on consistently delivering reliable, high-quality business events. We prioritise seamless execution, attention to detail, and personalised service to ensure every event runs smoothly. In addition, we are actively preparing for the future by integrating AI into our upcoming website to streamline event planning and improve the overall guest experience.

We are also investing in training for hybrid events to ensure we can host both in-person and virtual participants effectively. We stay adaptable to our client’s evolving needs, always striving to provide exceptional service and a tailored approach to each event.

Q8: What sustainable practices have you integrated to make meetings and events more environmentally responsible?

We are Green Key certified, which means we take sustainability seriously. We minimise food waste, source ingredients locally, and say a firm no to single-use plastics. It’s all about small steps that make a real difference.

Q9: How do you balance heritage and modernity to create an appealing business tourism experience?

Our interior is inspired by retro Slovenian and Yugoslav design, featuring reprinted vintage travel posters, exhibitions in our hallways, and creative projects with local designers who incorporate Slovenian landscapes into their work. It’s a fresh take on tradition — and guests love it.


Find out more about ONE66 Hotel here

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