Ayana Celebrates First Anniversary with Promotion

One year ago, Andrew McKinnon and Jessica Grant had the honor of being the first guests to check into Ayana Resort and Spa Bali as the resort commenced its journey as an independent property. Formerly The Ritz-Carlton Bali, Ayana rebranded on 1 April 2009 after a management change initiated by the owner.

Coincidentally, the Australian couple happened to be in Bali for a repeat visit one year later, just in time to join Ayana for its first anniversary celebrations which began with a private party at the iconic Rock Bar, one of the new facilities added after the property’s rebranding.

Andrew and Jess joined a select group of media, travel agents and community members gathered at this open-air bar, perched on natural rock 14 meters above the ocean. They celebrated with the cool sounds of DJ Martin East from LA, an indigenous drumming band, Japanese saxophonist Chika Asamoto, fireworks over the ocean, and a magician who produced door prizes virtually from thin air.

General Manager Charles de Foucault expressed his delight that Ayana’s first official guests had returned to Bali a year later, totally unaware that the resort was planning a special event to mark the anniversary. In recognition of their continued support the couple were presented with the ‘Eternal Love’ couple’s treatment at the spa, which was recently acknowledged in a Conde Nast Traveller readers’ survey as the “World’s Best Spa”.

He also presented a Grand Prize of an accommodation package at Capella Singapore, Ayana’s sister property, as well as spa and dining vouchers to lucky guests. The lucky draw was conducted by the magician, who performed mind-boggling close-up magic tricks during the event.

New Executive Chef Giordano Faggioli served a sumptuous array of canapés that featured some of the spectacular seafood for which Jimbaran Bay is famous, including Bloody Mary with Jimbaran prawns, and Crepe parcel with lobster ragout and crème cheese. Sweet items included Iced spicy chocolate cream, and Pistachio lollypops.

The 77-hectare property retained the vast majority of its 950 staff and selected West Paces Hotel Group led by Horst Schulze, former president and founder of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, to provide management expertise. General Manager Charles de Foucault brings more than 30 years’ experience, including 17 with Ritz-Carlton hotels.

In recognition of this milestone, the resort has launched a 1st Anniversary Package from US$239++ per night. Available for stays before 15 June 2010, the promotion allows guests to experience new facilities including the Rock Bar and the renovated Padi restaurant, and original highlights such as the Aquatonic Seawater Therapy Pool. The package also includes a signature Ayana gift for every guest upon check-in.

See recent travel news from: Travel News Asia, Ayana, Bali, Anniversary