If you’ve ever visited the Versō hotel in Magog, you’ve probably come across Joane, our receptionist. A familiar face to many and a native of the Eastern Townships, she has been manning the front desk for 17 years! Joane was in fact already working at the property when it was known as Étoile-sur-le-Lac, before its name changed to Versō in 2021, after extensive renovations.
Joane has an infectious smile which instantly makes guests feel welcome! Recently, we chatted with her about her job.
What led you to work at Étoile-sur-le-Lac hotel 17 years ago?
I love to have fun when I’m working and during my interview for the job, I mentioned that. I regretted it right away, thinking that might mark me as not being serious enough for the company! But I did get the job. It was a full-time position, in reception.
The job was very different back then. The manager, working on her own, had to run the restaurant plus the hotel, so those of us who were at the front desk became her right-hand men and women! We’d help with schedules, we took reservations for both the rooms and the restaurant, we did the inventory…
What are your day-to-day duties nowadays?
I look after our customers, answer questions and solve problems (laughs). Here at the front desk, we make sure that our guests leave feeling that we have addressed their concerns. When the people are happy, we are happy!
Have you had any encounters over the years that have left a lasting impression?
Many more than one! We have regular clients and not too much time goes by between their visits. I remember them. They remember me. We have a friendly chat when they check in. It’s a really pleasant aspect of my job.
Is there anything that stands out?
Oh yes! And it’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life! One of the local fellows used to come to the restaurant quite often. I’d see him having a drink or eating lunch or dinner. He was always on his own, so I figured he was single.
One evening, he booked a room under his name and went upstairs with a lady. A little while later, he turned up at the desk, dressed in little more than his underwear! He had gotten into an argument with his companion who had apparently kicked him out of the room, even though he was the person who had made the reservation. It was quite a comical turn of events, even if we had to call the police to come and sort it all out!
What do you like best about working for the PAL+ group?
Working with great colleagues and managing to have fun every day. We have a good clientele. They’re fine people and friendly. I certainly have nothing to complain about!
How would you describe the Versō hotel?
It’s a beautiful property and it was renovated not long ago. The hotel’s location on the shoreline of the lake is a major draw. People come for the view and they’re never disappointed. There are many picturesque places in the province, but the Eastern Townships region beats them all!
What are your favourite things to do in the region? Any recommendations?
A cruise with Escapades Memphrémagog is a must. The jetty is a stone’s throw from here.
During the fall, the landscape with its changing colours is even more beautiful than at other times of the year. The scenery is breathtaking! In October, you’ll experience the region at its best…
I would also recommend having a meal at the Kóz bistro, which is part of our hotel. There are also many other good restaurants in the area—just along the road, for example, on Magog’s Rue Principale (the main street) or in Orford. It not for nothing that the Eastern Townships is known as a hub of fine eating!
Don’t forget to say hello to Joane on your next visit to the Versō hotel! Need help with your reservation? Call her at: 1 800 567-2727
