INTERVIEW WITH   REKA YANTI GENERAL MANAGER CICADA RESORT BALI UBUD, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

Congratulations on the launch of Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection. As  Cicada Resort Bali Ubud has just joined the Marriott family, what excites you most  about being the General Manager of Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection?
Thank you! What excites me the most about being the General Manager of Cicada  Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection, is the opportunity to be part of an incredible  team and a unique property that blends the beauty of Ubud with the exceptional  standards of Marriott. As part of the Autograph Collection, the resort has a distinct  identity, and it’s exciting to bring that to life for our guests, offering them an  experience that combines luxury, personalization, and the essence of Bali. I’m also  thrilled about the opportunity to build lasting relationships with guests, our team, and  the local community. For my personal, being General Manager at Cicada Resort Bali  Ubud, Autograph Collection is an inspiring opportunity to continue my hospitality  journey as a leader with Marriott International. We strive to deliver personalized  service, and create memorable experiences for our guests while honoring the unique  charm of Bali and Ubud. I’m eager to see the resort flourish under Marriott’s  prestigious banner.

Out of all the luxury properties in Bali, what do you think makes Cicada Resort Bali  Ubud, Autograph Collection stand out?
As part of the Autograph Collection, we bring an element of exclusivity and  individuality – “Exactly Like Nothing Else”, ensuring that every guest enjoys a one-of a-kind experience where they can connect with nature and immerse with culture. I  personally think that this resort is located in unique location with a lush greenery  backdrop with a very easy access, our resort is ideally positioned close to Ubud’s  most iconic destinations, as well as Bali’s renowned attractions. We are dedicated to  delivering an enriching experience for our guests, blending the beauty of nature with  the richness of local culture. As an intimate boutique resort nestled in the valley, we  offer a selection of suites and villas, providing both privacy and comfort. Above all, it  is the exceptional effort and warm hospitality of our team that truly makes the  difference.

If you could describe Cicada Resort Bali Ubud in just three words, what would they  be and why?
Tranquil, Cultural, Exclusive.
Tranquil reflects the serene environment of Cicada Resort, set amidst lush nature,  the peaceful energy of Ubud, providing a serene retreat.
Cultural highlights the resort’s deep connection to Balinese heritage, offering guests  authentic cultural experiences and immersions through the activity offerings.
Exclusive emphasizes the resort’s boutique nature, with intimate accommodations  and personalized services that cater to each guest’s needs.

You have worked in the industry for some time, what is your biggest achievement  that you have accomplished and what do you think is the secret to your achievement?
My biggest achievement has been stepping into my first General Manager (GM) role,  a culmination of years of hard work, learning, and growth in the hospitality industry.  Before this position, I dedicated myself to a variety of learning journeys, from starting  in entry-level roles to progressively taking on more responsibilities in management  positions. These experiences taught me the importance of leadership, empathy, and  the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

I believe this achievement lies in a combination of continuous learning, mentorship,  and a deep passion for hospitality, and work experiences. Along the way, I was  fortunate to work with amazing mentors and leaders who guided me and helped  shape my leadership approach. Additionally, embracing every challenge as an  opportunity for growth, being open to feedback, and learning from both successes  and setbacks have been key to my journey. Building a strong team and creating a culture of collaboration and trust also played a significant role in helping me reach  this milestone.

Ultimately, it’s the combination of a relentless drive to learn, a commitment to  delivering exceptional guest experiences, and the ability to adapt and lead through  different stages of my career that brought me to this exciting role as General  Manager.

When you’re at work, what puts a smile on your face?
The genuine greetings and to see happy faces from the team, as I step in to our  back of the house door. I am happy knowing they are happy and excited to start the  day. Also, seeing the team come together to deliver exceptional experiences for our  guests, working together harmoniously, achieving our shared goals gives me so  much joy, like “yeah…everyone moving to the same direction!”. I also find joy in the  little things—like hearing positive feedback from guests or observing the team’s  passion for creating memorable moments. Ultimately, knowing that we’re making a  difference in people’s lives, providing them with a sense of comfort and belonging,  truly brightens my day.

How do you maintain a work-life balance?
Well…I am doing my best for this as the day goes. I believe by maintaining a work life balance is essential for my well-being and productivity, and especially in my  current role. I believe in setting clear boundaries and ensuring that I delegate tasks  effectively, so I can focus on both work and personal time. It’s about managing our  time well and being intentional about the moments you dedicate to each aspect of  your life. During my days off, I ensure that I carve out time for activities that recharge  me, like doing sport (padel or tennis), or enjoying nature; like morning beach walk, spending time with friends over lunch or dinner. I visited my mom once a week – this  makes me feel good, or just relaxing at home with my husband, spending time with  our cats.

Can you share tips for women who would like to follow the same career path?
For women aspiring to pursue a career in hospitality management, my advice is to  believe in yourself and embrace opportunities for growth. This industry offers  immense potential for career advancement, and with a strong work ethic, adaptability and a positive attitude, I believe everyone can succeed and deserves for something  better. Don’t be afraid to take on challenges, seek mentorship, and learn from every  experience – every day we learn something new from each other and success is  never final. Building a network of supportive peers and mentors is key to long-term  success. And most importantly, stay passionate about hospitality and people — that  will drive you forward! It’s a journey that requires hard work, dedication, and passion,  but with the right mindset.