Q&A with Aman Resorts
FOR ALL OUR AMAN JUNKIES OUT THERE – We connected with our friends at Aman to talk about the latest with the brand and what we have to look forward to for the rest of 2020 and into next few years!
ANDIAMO: What do you anticipate being the most requested type of trip once travel resumes?
AMAN: Just this past week, our 4 properties in China were running at 70% + occupancy – while this was comprised of domestic travelers, it is great to see that people are giving themselves a well-earned break, but also staying close to home.
Within the US market, we are seeing a huge demand for our North America properties (Amangani & Amangiri). People want quick and accessible getaway options coming out of this, however they still want to stay within the borders and prefer smaller, boutique options set in clean air environments. Thank god for the great American outdoors!
ANDIAMO: How is Aman preparing their properties to reopen? What type of social distancing and sanitization protocols are you planning to implement?
AMAN: Each property is preparing to gradually and safely reopen their doors, while we remain highly sensitive to the various compliance and government mandates, while also keeping the expectations and comfort of all guests and resort staff at the forefront in everything we do. Since most of our properties are situated in remote, clean air environments, we feel very privileged and fortunate as we reopen.
Our concerted efforts to maintain proper Social Distancing will focus on:
Reopening the Hotel at reduced capacity to ensure minimal density of guests and staff
Reimagining our common areas to maximize privacy
Limiting the size of all activities and transportation
Allocation time for the private use of certain wellness areas (fitness center, sauna, steam room)
Limiting the size of some shared interactions to minimize congregating
We continue to ensure the highest level of cleanliness and enhance our sensitive sanitary practices, such as:
Convenient and abundant sanitizing amenities throughout the hotel for guests and staff
A thorough review of our cleaning processes by 3rd party inspection to adhere to updated health recommendations
Minimizing same-day turnaround of guests rooms
An entire replacement and replenishment of all in-room amenities following each guest departure
A stringent use of PPE for all staff, with the objective of joining above and beyond required protocols
A mandatory twice daily temperature and wellness check for all hotel visitors and staff (excluding guests)
ANDIAMO: What travel trends do you foresee into 2021?
AMAN: Wellness Retreats, Clean air environments / Isolation, Family / Multigenerational, Sustainability / Give Back Travel - People are going to be keen to stay with brands that are working with the local communities and suppliers and Private Travel
ANDIAMO: For our clients who have never stayed at an Aman property, which destination do you recommend they start with?
AMAN: Given the current situation, should people wish to stay closer to home, we have two incredible properties out West - Amangiri (Canyon Point, UT) and Amangani (Jackson Hole, WY) that can be a great combination of Mesas to Mountains. While we also have two properties to explore in the Caribbean from Turks & Caicos at Amanyara to Playa Grande, DR at Amanera. Both destinations offer incredible Villa options for larger groups/families wanting space and privacy.
There are also 5 properties within Europe that offer a wonderful mix of culture, relaxation and adventure – depending on what your client might be looking for.
ANDIAMO: For our Aman Junkies out there, what is the most unique property in your portfolio and why should it be on everyone’s bucket list?
AMAN: Very tough question! While every property in the portfolio is incredibly unique based on the destination and culture, it is entirely up to what type of an experience the client is wanting to have, whether it be beach, culture, spiritual, adventure, etc. However, I would say Amanoi is very top of the list for me! Situated within the Nui Chua National Park in Vietnam overlooking the Vin Hy bay is our tranquil retreat where the property makes the most of its land-meets-sea setting. All accommodations have incredible views of the ocean or national park. The spa / fitness facilities are out of this world – where we have our very own “Wellness Villas” which is the first of its kind for the brand. All in all, the guest experience can be a mixture of many different aspects from relaxation, wellness, adventure and culture. For me, it’s the ultimate “Vacation from your Vacation” and total package for relaxing and enjoying the views and environment around you.
ANDIAMO: What is it that makes Aman properties so special?
AMAN: Aman properties are meticulously designed to frame their natural settings which are renowned for space and privacy. Our main ambition is to claim a new space in ultra luxury brands, while creating sanctuaries where we embrace our pathfinder spirit and curate an uncomplicated sense of belonging.
The main elements that make Aman so special:
o Restoring Balance – Creating a pure sense of balance from gastronomy to spa
o Privacy – A celebration of space in abundance!
o Pioneering Locations – Natural or historical settings of extraordinary provenance
o Harmonious Design – Contemporary, timeless design grown from each location
o Transformational Experiences – One-of-a-kind, crafted and exclusive experiences
o Compassionate Hosts – Genuine, heartfelt and personalized
o Kaiteki – The sustainable well-being of people, society and our planet
ANDIAMO: Lastly, anything new with Aman that should be on our radar?
AMAN: Yes! We’ve got quite a bit going on in our expansion at the moment.
Wellness Immersions + Programs aimed at Optimal Health (see press released attached)
Camp Sarika at Amangiri to open on July 1, 2020.
Aman Private Jet
Aman’s dedication to offering ease of access and the finest service available has now taken to the skies, with the launch of the Aman Private Jet – an airborne extension of the Aman philosophy
Janu – Aman’s sister brand
“If Aman is sanctuary, then Janu is connectedness”
An entirely fresh new direction in hospitality, designed to restore the soul with vibrant and social alternatives to Aman’s epic sanctuaries
First locations: Montenegro | Saudi Arabia | Tokyo
New Openings: Aman NY (Q1 2021) | Amanvari / Los Cabos, Mexico (2022) | Aman Miami (2022) | Aman Nai Lert / Bangkok, Thailand (2023) | Aman Al Ula / Saudi Arabia *3 properties