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Chilling out in tropical paradise

Desmond Hatton, general manager, Shangri-La's Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa, has one big grouse. Most people think his life is a big party as the general manager of one of the most prestigious hotel projects in the sultanate. He says that's just half the story, the rest is all hard work and more hard work to ensure that the resort remains on top, ahead of competition. So then what is his idea of a perfect vacation? Definitely not rushing from one place to another, sightseeing. I like to relax when away from work and that is my idea of a vacation. There are times when I don't venture out of my holiday home for days at a stretch. That's the luxury of a vacation for me.

Unlike what most people think, hospitality industry is not all fun and frolic. Many times people ask me why I need a holiday at all. It is a stressful life and a lot of hard work where even small things can mar reputations. So when I go on a vacation I make sure that itÕs a chilled out affair. Personally I feel a vacation should relax you completely. I see a lot of guests who check into Shangri La for a week or so and never leave the hotel premises. They just want to relax and be pampered. I understand completely.

While most people like to stay in lavish hotels when on holidays, you will see that most hoteliers want to get away from hotels while on vacation. I went to Bali for the first time six years ago. IÕve been in love with the place since then and have gone back every year. Three years ago I saw some projects being developed and the next year I bought a three-bedroom villa with a private swimming pool, near the beach.

There is a lot going for Bali. People are very gentle, caring and giving. Also when you are there, nobody knows you and you can completely switch off. That's a wonderful feeling. Of course, in this modern world with mobile phones, Internet and laptops, there is not a chance to completely get away unless you find some remote, isolated island.
Bali has fantastic beaches and walks. When I'm there I like to go for long walks, sometimes even along the paddy fields. I love the place so much that I've already booked my tickets for next summer. Bali offers a mixture of people, culture, shopping, cuisine and scenic spots.

Whether you want a relaxed holiday or a luxurious one, Bali gives you the options. The bomb blasts really hit the tourism industry in Bali but believe me, itÕs an idyllic location. I'm happy that it's bouncing back.

Near my villa in Seminyak, there are a lot of eateries serving ethnic cuisine. During holidays lunch is a casual affair by the pool. Evenings are for outings. There is another thing which I do only in Bali. Though I trained as a chef in my early career, I havenÕt been practicing much. Though I enjoy home cooked food, I donÕt cook in Oman as I have a wonderful maid here. However, when I go to Bali I enjoy getting behind the oven and cooking. I usually try out some dishes and the great thing in Bali is that you can get someone to tidy up after the mess you made cooking.

If you ask me why I bought a house in Bali I will tell you two reasons. One I love the place, its people and the culture. Two, I have been living in Asia for several years now. That has kind of spoiled me. One gets used to the luxuries Asia offers as compared to Europe. As told to Letha Jose