Cristina Lozano is a Spanish entrepreneur who has made a name for herself in the hospitality sector with the creation of Cristine Bedfor, a boutique hotel in the historic center of Menorca, and she is currently working on expansion projects. The concept was born from her passion for the island and her desire to offer travelers a unique experience.
Cristina Lozano, the soul of Cristine Bedfor
Cristine Bedfor is not just a hotel it’s almost a way of being in the world.
How did the idea come about?
“The idea came from a need I noticed when traveling: the lack of more personal hotels, more like a home. Places where you can feel comfortable without needing to be ultra-luxurious the ‘old luxury’ and that are affordable and well-located in the city. Menorca seemed like the perfect setting to begin this adventure. To me, Menorca represents the kind of luxury I love on every level.”
You come from a communications background. What lessons did you carry over to your life as a host?
“Yes, I worked in communications, and it gave me the chance to let my imagination fly while organizing events, press trips, etc. Being a host is in my DNA, and I’ve applied it to everything I’ve done but a host without pretensions, eh! I love sharing, welcoming people, and having a good time with my friends.”
Your hotels radiate calm, beauty, and personality. How important is it for you to create spaces with soul?
“Thank you so much! That was one of my main intentions when starting this project to communicate all that and more. Spaces with soul are personal, warm spaces that embrace and welcome you, that make you feel at home with nothing uncomfortable, inviting you to relax. I believe it’s essential to express and share a bit of your essence.”
Do you have any real or fictional British women who inspire your everyday life or your way of hosting? Is there any detail that’s never missing when you receive guests?
“To be honest, no specific figure I’m inspired by anonymous people, English friends or not. I think it’s important to soak up inspiration from everywhere: from younger, more laid-back people and from those amazing ladies who make every detail even more impeccable than the last. I love traditions but also improvising… flowers, candles, special tableware. Food is very important to me good and plentiful!”
Cristine Bedfor Mahón was decorated by Lorenzo Castillo. Marta de la Rica was in charge of designing and decorating Cristine Bedfor’s childhood home in Málaga. It reflects her memories and the stories of her imaginary friends in each room, creating a full experience. How do you convey your characters’ stories through decoration?
“Decoration tells a story in itself, and in this case, it tells the magnificent world of a girl on an island surrounded by inspiring and wonderful characters who shaped her. Through fabrics, textures, colors, paintings, books, photographs, flowers… we want to introduce everyone to those unique and special characters.”
Cristine Bedfor was born in Mahón, Menorca, has found a second home in Málaga, and a new opening is expected in Seville... What connects these places and makes them unique?
“Spanish culture, authenticity, the incredible history of our country, good food, the Mediterranean, the sea, the beauty of our cities. The sun, having a good time that thing we Spaniards do so well: being out in the street with friends, enjoying some olives and a good glass of wine… it’s all unique and unrepeatable.”
What part of the world would you love to explore in your Friulane shoes?
“I’m planning a trip to Japan!”
A book that has had a big impact on you or that you particularly love?
“Recently I’ve been reading Han Kang, the Nobel Prize winner, and I’m really enjoying her. But Gabriel García Márquez and his One Hundred Years of Solitude I loved it. You have to read a lot, because one never stops learning or enjoying.”
How important are shoes in your daily life?
“Very important, especially comfort! I love shoes in all styles and colors, but like I said… they absolutely must be comfortable.”
What are your perfect Cayumas?
“The classic ones in red! I love them, and they’ve been with me these past few years when my leg wasn’t doing well I’d look at my feet, see that red, and feel uplifted.”