By Rama Gaind.
Victor Wybier, general manager of the Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection – Indonesia. Photo: Rama Gaind
Indian poet Avijt Das said we don’t meet anyone by chance. This is a genuine sentiment that aptly describes why people remember certain moments and events in their lives, particularly when travelling. Just such an occurrence came to pass in Indonesia.
It’s about a picture one doesn’t see often in a hotel: the general manager taking the time to interact with guests in a convivial manner. Such was the scenario at the Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection.
Vincent Wybier is one manager, who loves to interact with holidaymakers at his hotel because he says he enjoys meeting people. Not just in the restaurant over breakfast, but in the lobby and in the great outdoors. He was relaxed in conversation with guests, touching on events of the day, talking about cultural activities and programs and ensuring everyone was ready to enjoy the day ahead.
Vincent told me simply: “I come to work and I feel at home”. Not many of us can say that.
Beachfront faces the Indian Ocean at Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection. Photo: Rama Gaind
Wherever I went, it was not surprising to see people seeking out Vincent, asking him questions about the Royal Beach, making conversation about the region’s best tourist highlights, commenting about their early morning breakfast treats or delectable dining experiences.
His cheerful personality immediately puts you at ease. On request, and without hesitation, the congenial GM spent half an hour with me to elaborate on the best that the Royal Beach and Seminyak had to offer. It was obvious that he took pride in the property and in his staff.
It was not only wonderful to meet him, but also refreshingly heart-warming to get to know many of the staff. Their friendly demeanour was beyond expectations.
It really is ‘one big happy family’ at the Royal Beach. What’s more, I know why after also having met Yuliani, Supi and Ekamulya … to name three of the many staff I’d become acquainted with during my short stay. That special hospitable feeling is instantaneous.
It was reassuring to be told that “if we can do anything to make your stay more comfortable, don’t hesitate to let us know”.
Tia welcomes you at reception desk at the Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection. Photo: Rama Gaind
Comfortable with being called by his first name, Vincent is an exceptional manager, who evokes similar qualities of commitment, knowledge, consideration and resourcefulness in others.
When acknowledging my ‘thank you letter’, he responded with: “it was great to talk to you and understand your big interest for Balinese culture. I am happy to know that you have enjoyed our resort”.
Writer Henry Miller is so right when he says: “One’s destination is never a place, but always a new way of seeing things”.
Remarkable personality
The lusciously-green landscaped grounds of this undulating holiday destination, which faces the Indian Ocean, is ablaze with vivid, multi-coloured flowers and densely green shrubs and trees. Even Seminyak Beach has a refined ambiance.
An atmosphere of minimalism permeates throughout the resort. There’s a sense of simplicity, cleanness, where the tropical climate makes relaxation effortless. It’s an amazing complex!
Along with two stunning pools, one beachfront and another nestled in the garden area, the Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection is the top choice for romantic getaways.
Set on 4.5 hectares of landscaped gardens, this upscale beachfront retreat is in walking distance to Seminyak’s trendiest bars, entertainment venues, most fashionable shops and top dining spots with international chefs cooking up world-class cuisine.
Along with two stunning pools, one beachfront and another nestled in the garden area, the resort is the top choice for romantic getaways. The hotel also has 17 exclusive thatched-roof villas, each featuring a private whirlpool or swimming pool.
A lavish blend of traditional Balinese heritage and state-of-art appointments characterises all the superior, deluxe, suite or villa guest rooms.
Suites add living areas, while one- and two-bedroom villas offer private gardens and pools or hot tubs. There’s also a two-bedroom family duplex with a kitchenette.
Overlooking the lush tropical gardens, with balconies affording sweeping views to the ocean beyond, all rooms in the main building are well appointed.
Friendly staff will welcome you to the Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection.
There’s a beachfront bistro, a refined Asian eatery and a Teppanyaki restaurant, plus a beach bar and a cocktail bar. There’s also a gym, a kids’ club and the Namaya Spa offers (much-needed) rejuvenating massages!
For those looking for exciting adventure and fun outdoor activities, surfing and scuba diving remain the top attractions ahead of horseback riding.
A must-see is Seminyak’s central cultural landmark – Petitenget Temple – or ‘Pura Petitenget’ as it’s known locally. Another temple sits besides the main courtyard, named Masceti Ulun Tanjung Temple. Villagers pray here for protection against famine and disease.
I will take heed of Vincent’s advice: to taste the best mangoes and bananas, I’ll have to return in September-October 2019.
My stay at the Royal Beach ended all too quickly, but it was memorable. That said,
I will return!
DETAILS BOX
The Royal Beach Seminyak Bali – MGallery Collection
Jl. Camplung Tanduk, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia
T: +62 361 730730
