VRWS Leadership Interview of the Day
In approaching the 12th edition of the Vacation Rental World Summit, we’re releasing a series of interviews to leaders, key players and highly motivated people in our industry whose companies make a deep impact in our space and will be present at VRWS.
The aim is to get you some insight into these leaders and the company they founded, manage or work for, as well as getting some behind the scenes on their thinking, their motivation and their drive.
GIOULI VARTANOVA
- What inspired you to enter the vacation rental industry?
Coming from a tech-driven background, I was drawn to the vacation rental space because of its strong focus on automation, smart tools, and constant innovation. But what really made it stick for me was the human side—building real relationships with hosts, understanding their needs, and helping improve their guest experience. It’s an industry where tech meets genuine connection, and I love being part of something that helps travelers feel more like locals. - What sets your company apart in the vacation rental industry, and how do you ensure you stay ahead of the competition?
At Welcome Pickups, we turn airport transfers into seamless, memorable first impressions. What truly sets us apart is our fully automated solution that’s easy to implement, globally available, and consistently earns great guest reviews. We blend reliability, personalization, and smart tech to create a solution that vacation rental hosts can trust. Our edge comes from listening to our partners and constantly evolving based on their feedback—because when they grow, we grow too. - If you attended the 2024 Vacation Rental World Summit in Porto, what was the most exciting or valuable takeaway for you? And looking ahead to the 2025 edition in Rome, what are you hoping to gain or experience this time?
The 2024 Summit in Porto highlighted just how aligned technology and guest experience have become. It was exciting to see how innovation is being embraced across the board. But above all, it was the people—the chance to connect with new property managers, share ideas, and meet industry leaders—that made it so valuable. For Rome 2025, I’m looking forward to more of those in-person conversations, exploring partnership opportunities, and diving into new ways to support hosts at scale. - Beyond business, what’s one experience or destination that left a lasting impression on you, and why?
Vietnam was a game-changer for me. It was my first time outside of Europe, and the experience was eye-opening—from the incredible people to the vibrant culture and atmosphere. It felt like stepping into an entirely different world, and it left me with a lasting appreciation for how diverse and beautiful the world really is..
5. What’s one fun fact, hidden talent, or little-known secret about you that other attendees should know to spark a great conversation with you?
As the parent of a very curious 3-year-old, I’ve mastered negotiating with toddlers and property managers—turns out the skill set is surprisingly similar.
You’ll have the opportunity to meet Giouli directly at VRWS in Rome
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