About Tech Behind Tourism and Trails Behind Mullet Bay – Visitor Interview with Nima Anvar (GuestChat)
In our interview series with visitors, today’s spotlight is on Nima Anvar. In addition to being a hotelier on another Caribbean island, he serves hotels and the wider tourism industry in St. Maarten / St. Martin through his new AI company, GuestChat. The application helps hotels inform potential and current guests about their offers and services 24/7.
As a frequent business traveler who often brings his family to the island, Nima has gotten to know this dual-nation destination well. VisitStMaarten.com was curious to hear about his experiences and insider perspectives.
First – how did it all start?
“I’m a Grenadian hotelier who pivoted to technology during the pandemic. With GuestChat, we build customized AI chatbots for hotels that answer guest questions 24/7. We turn website visitors into direct bookings and save time for both guests and staff.”
And this line of work is a seemingly endless frontier.
“There’s so much activity with new technologies being rolled out. Right now, the biggest development is AI agents. They can use your computer to accomplish complex tasks without you. It’s both scary and exciting. The capabilities of these agents are rapidly expanding.”
Work in St. Maarten / St. Martin began to blend with leisure when he first visited the St. Maarten / St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART). He started bringing his family, made friends, and immediately connected with the island.
“I’ve been to many Caribbean islands, and all of them feel like they’re moving in slow motion compared to St. Maarten. For its size, it’s a country far ahead of the rest in terms of development, policy, and mindset. They have embraced new opportunities, particularly in technology, not to mention that the people are among the kindest you’ll ever meet.”
In Nima’s view, the people are one of the island’s greatest strengths. He now looks forward to SMART every year, as it’s when he reconnects with his St. Maarten friends.
“Ricardo Perez, for example, has become a friend I admire. He’s just as curious as I am about what new technologies can bring. Karen Hana of the University of St. Martin inspires me too; she has dedicated so much of her time and energy to the betterment of the island.”
He is also grateful for recent opportunities to connect with the local community:
“A recent webinar we did with the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association on AI allowed me to meet more people in the community. It gave me a chance to contribute to the island’s continued development.”
A Visitor’s View
Over the years, Nima and his family have taken the time to explore the island and discover several favorite spots.
Many are in the Mullet Bay area:
“Take the trails behind Mullet Bay via Rhine Drive. It’s quiet and peaceful, perfect for a walk. Since it was the first beach I discovered on foot, it remains my favorite.”
It’s also nearby where he enjoys dinner, recommending JAX Steakhouse.
Parotte Ville Bird Park is always a hit with the kids. He also enjoys the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, appreciating its rich history.
“A favorite stop is Le Dutch – Delft Blue Shop at the Holland House Beach Hotel.”
Sports are part of his routine as well:
“I’m an avid pickleball player. When I’m not working on technology, I spend my time playing pickleball; a sport that has a lot in common with the locally popular padel. I haven’t visited yet, but I think SXM Padel Club will soon become my favorite spot. I’m looking forward to going there often.”
Another area he still wants to explore more is Grand Case. Although it’s famous for its many restaurants and bars, Nima keeps things simple as business in times of AI is 24/7:
“I don’t drink, so I’d go with a virgin colada.”
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