Hospitality industry veteran, Mark Samsow, has been appointed general manager for the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound. The Compass hotel is part of the newest brand from global lifestyle brand Margaritaville, inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter, and best-selling author Jimmy Buffet. The six-story, 123-room hotel opened in 2020 and has combined the brand’s signature casual luxury with the convenience and comfort of a more intimate hotel setting.
Samsow, with an impressive 28-year hospitality career, has spent the past six years operating branded select service and luxury boutique hotels in San Luis Obispo County, California. He comes to Compass by Margaritaville with more than 28 years of operational management experience specializing in the hospitality and transportation industries.
Samsow operational background includes building and guiding associate teams who are fully engaged and focused on delivering an outstanding and memorable experience to guests. In addition, he works closely with his team on all aspects of the business to make the property a leader in its market and within the brand. Samsow’s ability to problem-solve while executing operational initiatives has led to an exceptional track record. His previous hotels achieved 98% brand audit compliance and 100% cleanliness scores from all brand and county agencies.
“I’ve had my eye on moving to the Florida west coast for some time,” said Samsow. “Anna Maria Island felt like paradise. This move allows me to work with an innovative brand, management company, and ownership group. I am extremely excited about collaborating with the Compass Team to deliver a phenomenal experience to every guest we serve.”
Michael Gulotty, executive vice president of operations, Vista Host Management & Development, commented, “We are excited to have Mark join our team and lead this outstanding hotel. He has an excellent track record of developing and maintaining daily operational efficiencies that have consistently led to outstanding customer service and client satisfaction. We are confident he will bring that singular focus to Compass Anna Maria Island.”
The rooms and suites at Compass Hotel Anna Maria Island embody Margaritaville’s laidback luxury by featuring modern, nature-inspired designs with Margaritaville’s signature bedding, oversized bathrooms with rainfall showers, smart television, and luxury onsite amenities. While staying at the hotel, guests can enjoy a complimentary daily breakfast buffet, cocktail happy hour, high-speed wi-fi, a fitness room, and an outdoor pool area overlooking the marina. Guests can peruse a selection of books, board games, cards, and other table games in the Living Lounge, purchase souvenirs from Margaritaville’s signature Provisions grab-and-go retail store, or relax in a pool cabana.
In addition, two restaurants provide guests with a taste of the island’s local cuisine. Floridays Woodfire Grill & Bar located next door features local seafood, salads, and steaks perfectly paired with signature cocktails and craft beer, and the Compass Bar and Chill located on-site offers a light menu and drinks near the outdoor pool.
Owned by Floridays Development Company, Compass Hotel Anna Maria Sound is managed by Vista Host, Inc.
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