Q&A: Get to Know Loews Coronado Bay's Newest Executive

Written by Emily Stanford

Patch recently sat down with Loews Coronado Bay's newly appointed director of marketing George Allen. He spilled on upcoming renovations, surfing dogs and where he goes to eat in Coronado.

With more than 20 years of experience, Allen previously led sales efforts at resorts all over San Diego County, including Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa, La Costa Resort & Spa and Estancia La Jolla. He has also served on the board for numerous charitable organizations, including the Junior Seau Foundation and the Dream Foundation.

Patch: Describe your role at Loews Coronado Bay Resort.

George Allen: My role at Loews Coronado Bay Resort is to lead the sales and marketing efforts for the entire property—group sales, catering events and weddings, leisure travel sales and marketing, restaurants, spa and retail. Every day is different and it is always exciting. One day I may be conducting a video or photo shoot around the property and the next day entertaining a potential client on one of our Loews Coronado sailboats or a gondola. To be sure, it's always fun!

Patch: What do you love about Southern California?

Allen: I love the perpetually perfect weather and the laid back nature of San Diego. I spent my early years growing up on the East Coast, so I don't miss the snow and the cold. Not to mention, it's hard to be bored with the great beaches, attractions and beautiful places to see here in Southern California. Such a diverse landscape!

Patch: If you got to play concierge for a day, where would you send guests in Coronado?

Allen: Of course, my favorite restaurant is Mistral—Chef Adam Cho is a budding celebrity chef and an amazing talent. He is making a huge name for himself. We are so proud! Since we don’t have a sushi restaurant at the resort, I am very partial to Saiko Sushi…it’s crazy good as they say, and I like the friendly staff. Peohe’s is great for the view of downtown and the bay, too.

Patch: San Diego County is quite the tourist spot. With so many places to choose from, how do hotels and resorts remain unique?

Allen: Every resort in San Diego is unique unto itself. I can't think of one that resembles another in the county. The best way to remain unique is to communicate what truly is unique about your resort. For us, the combination of location, privacy and exclusivity, 360-degree water views and beach access make us truly unique. Plus, we were just awarded the number seven pet-friendly hotel in the U.S. by USA Today.

Patch: Loews is of course famous for their surf dog competition. Do you have dogs and if so will they be participating in the competition?

Allen: We are of course famous for our surf dog event. I do have a dog, she is a 13-year-old rescue named Molly. She is a Border Collie/Aussie Shepherd mix. I am afraid she doesn’t surf, since Dad doesn’t surf either. We are lucky to get her to go in the river when we go camping every summer.

Patch: What are some upcoming projects you are working on?

Allen: One upcoming project is our in room video channel. We will have a brand new channel dedicated to the destination of Coronado and San Diego in all of our guest rooms, that will highlight all of the wonderful attractions in our area as well as what to do at Loews Coronado while on property. Another project is the re-launch and communication of our upcoming guest room renovation. Every room will undergo a complete transformation and will be complete in early March. We have lots of news and many people to share it with!