Our Stories
Haruka’s Story: We all smile in the same language
As a Front Desk Agent at Banff Ptarmigan Inn, Haruka Okumura takes great joy in helping visitors from around the world get the most out of their stay in Banff National Park.
And for international guests visiting Canada for the first time, who may be a little overwhelmed by language or cultural barriers, Haruka offers a particularly comforting connection.
Arriving from Japan in late 2016, Haruka knew little English when she started working in hospitality at Banff Ptarmigan Inn with Banff Lodging Co. As she immersed herself in work and daily life, her language skills and confidence soared. And before long, she was eager to take on more guest-facing roles.
Now specializing in customer service as a Front Desk Agent, Haruka enjoys spending her workdays interacting with guests as they check in, depart, and make enquiries at the hotel.
Wii’s Story: Housekeeping star shines in Banff
Wii Phaiboonyingyot knows that the secret to high-calibre housekeeping is to support a high-calibre team.
And as the Housekeeping Supervisor at Banff’s Ptarmigan Inn, her collaborative spirit shines as brightly as the carefully polished surfaces of the hotel.
Wii says the best part of her job is the strong camaraderie she shares with her co-workers, and the opportunities to meet colleagues and guests from around the world.
“That’s most important for me – everyone is close and friendly. We solve problems fast and all departments work together nicely,” she says.
Born and raised in Thailand, Wii embarked on an adventure to Canada in 2010, eager to experience new cultures and learn English for the first time.
Bellissimo!
Banff Community High School Foods Class Students Pass the Pizza Taste Test!
Working in small teams, each pizza ‘department’ had a clear role: rolling the pizza dough; grating the cheese; making a rich, tomato base; preparing an Italian side salad; sprinkling pre-chopped ingredients of pepperoni, olives, peppers, onion and other tasty toppings onto the base; and finally, shovelling the pizzas into the oven to bake to perfection.

Banff Ptarmigan Inn
337 Banff Ave,
Banff, AB
1 (800) 661-8310
1 (403) 762-2207