Getting Ready For Wakatobi
Several weeks ago, the Wakatobi team set a goal of reopening the resort in June/July of this year. This news prompted an enthusiastic response from our global community of guests, and our reservations team has received numerous requests for bookings in the coming summer and beyond. Our valued team members are equally excited to be returning soon to get the resort back up and running and to receive guests. They’ve all made many sacrifices over these past months and we’re humbled and proud of our staff for standing by us through these difficult times.
If you are among the many Wakatobi followers from around the world who are planning a visit, we have a few suggestions to offer as you begin to look at dates and travel schedules.
Make sure your documents are in order
Now is the time to pull that unused passport out of storage and be sure you are up to date. Per Indonesian immigration, passports must have at least one totally blank page remaining, and be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your arrival in Indonesia. If a renewal is in order, you’ll want to start the process ASAP to avoid any potential processing delays. Equally important is staying on top of the ever-changing requirements for vaccination, and if any testing will be necessary. Many of these requirements are easing, but you can avoid any surprises with a bit of web surfing and a call to your Wakatobi Guest Experience Representative or even your airline’s customer service desk.
“While I was waiting to return to Wakatobi, I was fortunate to be selected as a dive guide on a large private yacht that made a trip to the Wakatobi Regency to dive. I was very pleased to see that the reefs are in pristine condition! Now, I can’t wait to soon get back to the resort and once again share the beauty of Wakatobi with our guests.”
~ Sutiyono (aka “Yono”), Wakatobi Dive Experience Manager
Don’t wait until it’s too late
Due to pent-up demand, Wakatobi has already seen a flurry of reservations for the month of July, with some weeks already getting fully booked. As a result, guests looking to travel to Wakatobi sooner rather than later should get in contact with their guest experience representative to reserve space as soon as they are ready to create travel plans.
“Chef Wayan and I spent time at the resort at the end of last year creating new dishes and making some updates to the menu. We loved just being there and taking in all the beauty of Wakatobi. Now we are excited to get back and prepare for our guests to return. It will be wonderful to see my coworkers again, and to serve the delicious foods for which Wakatobi is known.” ~Tafik Ibram, Restaurant Manager
Be flexible on your dates
Guests who have the luxury of flexible travel plans can take advantage of available dates that fall outside of peak seasons or between periods of popular holiday travel. Airfares may be lower at these times and these months offer great diving and snorkeling conditions at Wakatobi. As we have noted in the past, there really is no bad time to visit Wakatobi, just certain months that remain more popular with travelers due to work, holidays, or social schedules. Be sure to discuss your options with your Wakatobi Guest Experience Representative.
“It has been a long road to reopening, and I’m proud of the sacrifices all of our team has made. And soon we will be cooking for our guests! There is nothing that gives me more pleasure. We have worked on exciting new menu items, and we are eager to prepare them.” ~ Chef Wayan
Consider a Villa or Pelagian cruise
If a Palm or Ocean Bungalow isn’t available for your preferred timeframe, you might want to look at upgrading to one of our oceanfront Villas. These premium accommodations are just a relatively modest up-charge from an Ocean Bungalow and in addition to great views, a Villa stay garners you extra perks such as a private dive guide, butler services, and concierge assistance for trip preparation.
You might also want to consider reserving a cabin on the resort’s dive yacht Pelagian, which is also back in service, refreshed, and better than ever.
“I am really excited to be heading back to Wakatobi soon, to serve our loyal guests. I have missed the Resort and all my Wakatobi colleagues so much and cannot wait for my return. I am looking forward to welcoming you and there will be a big celebration by the staff when we see our guests again!” ~ Mahdi Hanapi, Front Office Manager
When Wakatobi reopens, our team will be waiting to greet you with warm welcomes, ready to deliver the unique hospitality that truly is “An Experience Like No Other.”
To start your own Wakatobi experience, simply contact our team. We’re here to help make your visit extra special. We can’t wait to see you!
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