(photo) Outrage as Hotel guests a served by a semi-naked woman covered in chocolate during family buffet

An Italian hotel has found itself in hot water after a bizarre and offensive incident involving a bikini-clad female employee being used as the centerpiece of a buffet. The Voi Hotels in Golfo Aranci, Sardinia, stirred controversy when they featured a semi-naked woman covered in chocolate as part of a poolside buffet, alongside sandwiches, pastries, and canapés.

The shocking display left holidaymakers, including HR manager Federico Mazzieri and his 14-year-old daughter, appalled and disgusted. Mazzieri expressed his shock and dismay, noting the objectification of the female figure and the inappropriate nature of the event. The woman, a 20-year-old member of the hotel’s entertainment staff, was reportedly covered in chocolate and displayed for about half an hour.

The incident quickly gained attention, as Mazzieri posted about it on LinkedIn, sparking outrage online. The hotel later issued an apology through its official channels. VOI Hotels, which is used by popular British holiday firms like easyJet and Thomas Cook, expressed deep regret for the incident and emphasized its commitment to values that include respect for staff and guests. The hotel assured customers that they are taking immediate action to prevent such incidents in the future.

Cristian Solinas, the regional governor for Sardinia, condemned the incident, expressing embarrassment over the episode. Paolo Manca, representing Italy’s Federation of Hotels, deemed the incident unforgivable and in poor taste, though he did not believe it to be representative of the hotel chain’s usual practices.

The incident underscores the importance of respecting individuals and treating them with dignity, both in professional and public settings. The public backlash and subsequent apology serve as a reminder of the need for sensitivity and accountability in how businesses and organizations conduct themselves, particularly when it comes to cultural and gender-related issues.