Author Archives: Quinn Pochekailo

Guest Services, Inc.’s Condominium and Property Management Division continues its strategic growth under the leadership of Vice President of Condominium and Property Management Joana Vasilescu. Following an outstanding year of expansion in 2024, the division has added two prestigious properties that reflect luxury and legacy: The Whitehall of Naples and the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation. These new additions mark a step forward in strengthening Guest Services’ presence across Florida’s high-end residential and cultural sectors.

“Together, The Whitehall and the Rauschenberg Foundation represent both luxury and cultural significance within our Condo Division, expanding our portfolio into properties that blend exclusivity, creativity, and community impact,” says Joana.

Introducing the New Additions

The Whitehall of Naples

Located in the highly sought-after Coquina Sands neighborhood, The Whitehall Condominiums is an intimate beachfront community consisting of only 16 exclusive residences. Each spacious home, averaging around 3,000 square feet, offers direct Gulf of Mexico views, private beach access, and luxurious amenities such as under-building parking, a heated pool and cabana area, and a beautifully renovated lobby. With highly valued units, The Whitehall represents the pinnacle of boutique coastal living in Naples. Its premier location and discerning ownership make it a natural fit within Guest Services’ growing portfolio of luxury properties.

The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation

The Robert Rauschenberg Foundation brings an entirely new dimension to the division’s portfolio. Established to preserve and advance the legacy of world-renowned artist Robert Rauschenberg, the Foundation is headquartered in New York City but rooted in Captiva Island, where Rauschenberg lived and worked for nearly 40 years. His expansive 22-acre compound, featuring 12 historic and contemporary structures, now hosts the internationally recognized Rauschenberg Residency, a program that welcomes artists from around the world to live, create, and collaborate in an environment shaped by art and nature.

The Captiva property embodies creativity and community, a unique operational challenge, and a statement of Guest Services’ versatility. “The Rauschenberg Foundation allows us to support a space where creativity, collaboration, and purpose come together, showcasing the adaptability and excellence that define Guest Services,” says Joana.

Aligning with Our Vision for Growth

“These new contracts align perfectly with our strategic goal of expanding and strengthening Guest Services’ presence in Florida’s luxury market,” Joana explains. “The addition of The Whitehall of Naples reinforces our expertise in managing boutique, service-driven communities that prioritize exclusivity and exceptional resident experiences. Meanwhile, our partnership with the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation broadens our reach into the arts and nonprofit arena, reflecting our versatility and ability to support diverse operational environments.”

What Sets Our Team Apart

Behind each new partnership is a team whose approach is defined by precision, care, and collaboration. “These partnerships highlight what truly sets our team apart: our personalized, hands-on approach, strong service culture, and ability to adapt to each client’s unique needs,” Joana notes. “Our reputation for operational excellence, attention to detail, and collaborative mindset made Guest Services the natural choice for both The Whitehall of Naples and the Rauschenberg Foundation.”

Looking Ahead

As the division continues to grow, Joana remains focused on strengthening relationships with both new and long-standing clients. “I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with both ownership groups and discovering the unique character each property brings to our portfolio,” she says. “At The Whitehall of Naples, we’ll have the opportunity to elevate the resident experience within a highly exclusive, service-driven community, while the Rauschenberg Foundation allows us to help preserve an inspiring legacy through exceptional property management.”

In addition to these two new partnerships, the division also successfully renewed seven existing contracts this year, an achievement that speaks to the continued trust and satisfaction of their clients.

Congratulations to Joana and the entire Condominium and Property Management Team for another year of remarkable growth and innovation.

Each winter, Blue Spring State Park becomes a sanctuary for hundreds of West Indian manatees seeking the warm, crystal-clear waters of the St. Johns River. Recently, Travel + Leisure featured how the park’s constant 72-degree spring welcomes one of the largest seasonal manatee gatherings in Florida. What began in the 1970s with just a few dozen manatees has grown into a thriving refuge where more than 700 visit annually.

Blue Spring Adventures offers visitors the chance to experience this natural wonder through guided tours, kayaking, and eco-friendly recreation. The park’s ongoing conservation efforts continue to protect both the manatees and the pristine habitat that makes Blue Spring one of Florida’s most remarkable destinations.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Naples earned the Q2 2025 DoubleTree Make It Right Award for U.S./Canada hotels under 224 rooms, recognizing excellence in service quality, Hilton Honors appreciation, problem resolution, and cleanliness. The brand’s announcement highlights Naples as the Q2 winner and celebrates teams that lead with heart and ‘CARE’ (Creating A Rewarding Experience).

“We have focused a lot on training and each team member’s role in delivering a great stay to our guests,” said Jennifer Robbins, General Manager. “We work to foster a culture of teamwork balanced with ownership and genuine care. We empower our team members and ensure they have the knowledge and resources to make it right for the guest.”

Guest feedback is central to how the team learns and improves. “We share reviews and feedback, both complimentary and constructive, to celebrate our successes and identify areas of opportunity,” Jennifer said.

The recognition reflects the pride and commitment of the Naples team. “Our team takes great pride in the property and delivering a memorable stay to every guest,” Robbins added. “To be recognized as the Q2 MIR Award winner, 225 rooms and under, celebrates the team’s collective efforts and shows that the work they do every day to make our guests feel welcomed and appreciated makes a real difference.”

Looking ahead, Naples is building on this momentum. “While we have specific goals for property improvements, we will continue to prioritize problem resolution and guest experience,” Robbins said. “Q3 is a slower time for our area, and we have used the time to complete projects and training. We look forward to busier times and increased occupancies. We will be hiring new team members and will focus on harmonized training and building on the strong team that is in place.”

Thank you to the entire DoubleTree Naples team for your dedication to training, heartfelt service, and guest care. Your commitment shines through in every stay.