| 1. Since 1988 when Aman Resorts was founded, the concept of elegant small resorts distinguished by use of indigenous materials with unique moods and guest experience based on location has now been exploited by many other resorts. Now this type of resort is no longer unique but ubiquitous. How have you changed as a company given this evolution in luxury destinations?
Each Aman is different and we have a wonderful team of passionate and caring individuals who get to know the guests and intuitively tailor their stays and experiences as if they were guests in their own home. We keep our focus on what we believe does work, caring and intuitive service and an appreciation of the environment.
2. What would you say is the next stage of evolution for your company following your growth to 24 resorts around the world and your recent expansion into North America and China?
In Europe the Adriatic coastline has a great deal of appeal and we have opened three new destinations in Turkey, Montenegro and Greece (September 2012) will be attractive for international travelers. Our founder and Chairman, Adrian Zecha has an incredible understanding of the world geographically and visualizing what would make a good Aman destination. We have also had the good fortune in having many of new locations find us. Our expansion globally is key to our future and we do not limit it to any particular region.
3. The term “Amanjunkies” has been coined for repeat customers. Besides having the opportunity to exclusively rent or own villas in a few of your locations (e.g., Amandar-Bali, Amanpulo, Phillippines, Amanpuri, Thailand) what other perks are available to these elite customers?
While Aman resorts offer all the privacy, luxury and relaxation guests could desire, Aman Villas take things to an entirely different level. Situated adjacent to a number of Aman resorts around the world, from Thailand to Indonesia, the Caribbean to the Philippines ?in essence the villas are the ultimate tier in terms of Aman accommodation options, offering all the services and facilities of the resort in consummate privacy. They also enable families and friends to holiday together, with the obvious benefits of a personal chef, live-in maid and concierge service. The ideal venues for family gatherings and events such as weddings or meetings, Aman Villas also offer owners and guests unlimited access to all the facilities and services of the Aman resort. This ensures a home-away-from-home experience with every possible convenience, from spas and tennis courts to restaurants and libraries on the side. These gracious villa homes are available for exclusive rental through Aman Resorts, and, in a number of destinations, for purchase.
4.35% of Aman patrons originate from Europe, another 33% from Asia-Pacific, 30% from the Americas and 2% from the rest of the world. How would you characterize the unique needs of the Chinese luxury traveler which is distinguishable to luxury guests from other parts of the world?
We appeal to travelers who value their time and have a desire to authentically engage with the local surroundings of faraway places and cultures, or, just relax and enjoy their own space with a certain level of comfort and genuinely caring service. This is the same for our Chinese guests.
5. How has ownership by DLF Limited (India) changed the course of the company¹s growth and operation?
The shareholding of a company facilitates expansion and the ability to add more Aman destinations. |
