Personal Touches

Published June 9, 2022 in RESORT

Our chefs take pride in delivering a savory and varied menu, and they are always open to special requests and dietary needs, be it for a favorite entree or a gluten-free confection. Gerrye Stegall recalls how, after complementing the chef, he took the time to personally show her how to create the recipe.

“We hung up the phone and I said ‘Wow, that’s never happened at any hotel we’ve ever stayed at!’” ~Shannon Weatherall

With the option of open-air seating and direct views of the beach, the dining room is an ideal setting to enjoy meals, but it is not the only option. Guests can have breakfast brought to their private terrace, or request a special picnic lunch that can be carried to a quiet palm grove or on the beach. Particularly memorable dining experiences are the sunset dinners that the staff can arrange, with a private table set on the beach.

Romantic sunset dinners are our specialty. Photo by Marco Fierli

Romantic dinners are our specialty. Photo by Marco Fierli

“We had our anniversary dinner on the beach,” says Shannon Weatherall. “There was seven courses, and it was perfect.” Shannon also commented on the impressive level of attention the serving staff provided at every meal. “One night we were really tired after diving, and just stayed in the room napping. We got a call from the restaurant staff asking if we’d like them to bring dinner to the room, or if we needed anything. We hung up the phone and I said ‘Wow, that’s never happened at any hotel we’ve ever stayed at!’”

Beyond the beach

Wakatobi’s personal attention isn’t just a shore thing. M. Scott Smith refers to the in-water experience as “valet diving.” It begins with learning each diver or snorkeler’s desired experiences, then suggesting itineraries and locations that best fulfill those expectations. Every detail of gear transfer and stowage is handled by the staff, and in-water guides are always available to assist rather than dictate the dive plan. “The guides were experts at pointing out and identifying critters big and small,” says Susan Cooper-Smith. “The small group sizes also add to Wakatobi’s high safety standards,”says Susan Cooper-Smith.

“Our guide was gifted at finding a wondrous list of subjects, and helped us create an itinerary for each day that was well suited to our expectations. He also helped us to get the most out of our dive times.”

Divers desiring an even greater degree of personal attention and freedom can engage a Personal Dive Experience Manager. These dedicated guides focus entirely on the needs of a buddy pair or a single diver or snorkeler. “Having a private guide certainly made for an even better diving experience,” says Marcus Lindenlaub. “Our guide was gifted at finding a wondrous list of subjects, and helped us create an itinerary for each day that was well suited to our expectations. He also helped us to get the most out of our dive times.”

private-boat-on-reef

Taking a private boat is a great value. Be sure to inquire with our concierge team about this option. Photo by Didi Lotze

For the ultimate in diving freedom, guests can even charter a private dive boat for the day. This option provides the exclusive services of one of the resort’s full-sized launches with captain and crew, allowing an individual or a small group to set their own schedule and dive when and where they want. This option is popular with friends and families, couples and photographers. “Taking a private boat gave me the freedom to focus on my photography,” says Harald Hordosch. I was able to fully immerse myself into the image I wanted to capture, and forget about the rest of the world for a while.”

Whether you are looking those extra little touches that help you connect, escape or just enhance the vacation experience, our staff takes pride in providing that personal touch. A common saying in the upscale hospitality business is “you need only ask.” At Wakatobi Resort, our goal is to anticipate each guest’s needs and desires so that there may never be a need to ask.

Isn’t it time to experience Wakatobi Resort for yourself? We’re easy to reach with private charter flights from Bali to the island every Monday and Friday. Learn more here.

Contact us at office@wakatobi.com or complete a trip inquiry at wakatobi.com.

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