INTERVIEW WITH SEBASTIEN MENESGUEN, GENERAL MANAGER MĀUA NUSA PENIDA, BALI      

Congratulations on your new role! How do you feel about being the General Manager of the first Māua brand in Indonesia? 

Thank you. MĀUA Nusa Penida is indeed the first of its brand. And looking at the DNA of the brand concept, our first MĀUA could not find a better location than Nusa Penida. MĀUA is meant to be rural and submerged in the countryside – away from the bustling pressures of cities and population, where guests will be able to rejuvenate and connect with elements of nature and open spaces. I am also delighted to bring the first 5-star resort on the island of Nusa Penida that will bring a new type of market to this beautiful island.

Can you tell us about Maua Nusa Penida, Bali? Does the name MĀUA have a special meaning?  

MĀUA comes from Te Reo Maori – the indigenous language of the Maori people of New Zealand who are involved in developing harmony, relationships, environmental understanding, and appreciation, which sits at the core of our brand MĀUA.

MĀUA as a brand features the special environmental relationship of a resort or hotel complex. It relates to sustainability, environmental preservation, and cultural understanding where guests will experience the unity of the natural elements, bringing together the strength and hospitality of the people serving and enhancing the guest experience.

Share with us the latest update about Maua Nusa Penida, Bali 

MĀUA is an eco-luxurious resort designed for a calm, peaceful, and relaxing ambiance. MĀUA Nusa Penida features 25 villas that offer the perfect setting for forging a connection to the beauty, romance, nature, and island lifestyle. It is a state of togetherness and the willingness to strengthen our commitment to the environment.

We opened Māua Nusa Penida on April 1st, 2022. We look forward to welcoming guests to restore their minds and heart to peace and tranquillity. Guests can explore the island based on their activities preferences, including visiting a playground of Mola Mola fish or some Manta-Ray and exploring Nusa Penida and its most beautiful hidden gem. We also provide a culture trip, “a journey of Balinese culture,” for guests who want to learn more about the local culture, including crafting an offering and receiving a blessing while dressing in a Balinese costume.

For guests seeking specifically a pathway to wellness and relaxation, we are also preparing a range of resort activities as part of the guests’ experience program that includes: spa and massage treatments, yoga, meditation, pilates, aqua stretching, cooking class, enjoying sunrise and sunset moments at the pool bar or in the villa.

Having worked as General Manager in several hotels and resorts in Indonesia and abroad, what attracted you to go back to Bali?  

Bali and Indonesia feel like home to me. What attracts me to come back to Bali is mostly its people, and the kindness of Balinese people is extraordinary with a fascinating culture.

What is the most challenging thing in your current position you have experienced so far?

The most challenging thing is the current situation we are all facing with the Covid-19 pandemic.  Bali is a great place, and its people deserve the best as they have given so many memories to tourists in the last few years. We need to work hard to rebuild our tourism and hospitality here in Bali. I believe this year will be a crucial one.

Share with us the most memorable moment that has ever happened during your career.

It is hard to choose one, as there are many. However, a memorable moment would be the reward of opening properties successfully in the challenging condition when seeing the team and the owners are happy with the results and the efforts we all put in to achieve it.

What do you do for fun during your day off? 

I love decent food. So, during my day off, I would like to discover new culinary tables, meet friends, and travel. I used to be very active in horse jumping competitions to keep myself fit. I think I will start again soon!