By Neha Mehrotra
06-Aug-2024
Nestled in a 5-star luxury setting, OZEN Reserve Bolifushi offers a unique opportunity to savour the luxury of time. More than just a lavish retreat, it is a beloved sanctuary that you will eagerly return to. The resort boasts an array of exceptional dining options, transformative wellness experiences, and a variety of enriching activities. Additionally, as one of the first in the destination, the ultra-luxury property allows you to enjoy dining anywhere, anytime on Bolifushi Island under The RESERVE™ Experience.
In an exclusive conversation, we spoke with Monica Coppetta, General Manager of The Ozen Reserve Bolifushi, to learn more about the brand’s philosophy, exceptional services, and exciting new additions.
1. The RESERVE TM Experience at Bolifushi promises guests the privilege of dining anywhere, anytime. Can you elaborate on how this concept was developed and how it enhances the guest experience?
At OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the RESERVETM Experience redefines luxury dining by offering our guests unparalleled flexibility to dine anywhere on the island at any time. This concept was born out of our desire to provide an elevated and personalised culinary experience, reflecting the sophisticated tastes and preferences of our guests. By allowing dining in various idyllic settings, such as at the comfort and privacy of your own RESERVE villa or on the pristine white beaches with panoramic views of the lagoon, we offer a level of customisation and exclusivity that enhances the overall guest experience. This concept has been widely acclaimed by guests, who appreciate the ability to enjoy gourmet meals in picturesque locations across the island, exemplifying our commitment to creating extraordinary and bespoke dining experiences.
2. How have you integrated the growing trend of wellness cuisine into your dining establishments, and what impact do you see this trend having on the culinary Landscape?
At the property, we have embraced the growing trend of wellness cuisine by incorporating health-conscious options into all our dining establishments. Our culinary team is dedicated to sourcing the finest and organic ingredients, which ensures that our guests receive the freshest and most nutritious meals possible. This focus on wellness cuisine aligns with the broader culinary landscape, which is increasingly prioritising sustainability and healthfulness. We see this trend as a positive evolution in the industry, as it encourages innovation and creativity in menu development while meeting the rising demand for healthier dining options. By offering diverse and balanced meals, we enhance the overall wellness experience for our guests, contributing to their relaxation and rejuvenation during their stay.
3. With dining venues like Vista del Mar, SANGU BEACH, SAFFRON, and the signature ORIGIN?, how do you ensure each restaurant offers a distinct and memorable dining experience?
Each dining venue at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI is meticulously curated to provide a distinct and memorable experience, reflecting our dedication to culinary excellence. At Vista del Mar, guests can enjoy vibrant world cuisine with a Spanish influence, emphasising fresh, locally sourced ingredients against stunning ocean views. SAFFRON offers an exploration of India's rich culinary heritage, featuring authentic dishes crafted with aromatic spices and traditional methods. ORIGIN? is our avant-garde dining venue, where contemporary gastronomy meets innovative presentation, using the finest ingredients to create visually stunning dishes. SANGU BEACH, with its Levant and Moroccan cuisine, offers a unique beachfront setting that combines rich, aromatic flavours with a relaxed atmosphere. Each restaurant is designed to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of our international clientele, ensuring that every meal is a unique and unforgettable journey.
4. How has Ozen Reserve Bolifushi integrated sustainable practices into its operations? Could you highlight some of the specific sustainable initiatives you’ve implemented?
Sustainability is a fundamental principle at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI. We have integrated several sustainable practices into our operations to minimise our ecological footprint. Our resort always aims to use eco-friendly materials in construction, designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Energy efficiency is a priority, with the installation of solar panels and water conservation technologies. We are committed to reducing plastic waste, having installed glass bottle water plants across our resorts, which significantly reduces the use of plastic bottles. Our marine conservation efforts, including coral planting programmes and regular beach clean-ups, further demonstrate our commitment to preserving the vibrant marine ecosystem of the Maldives.
5. What is your personal favourite part about the property?
My favourite part of the property is undoubtedly the overwater villas. They offer an unparalleled sense of tranquillity and luxury with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters. There’s something incredibly special about watching the sunrise over the horizon from the comfort of your own private deck or simply gazing down at the vibrant marine life below. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and sophisticated design, and it truly embodies the essence of the Maldives.
6. What does a typical day look like in your life in the Maldives?
A typical day here starts early, often with an early arrival or departure and a morning walk along the resort and check-in on the property to ensure everything is running smoothly. My role involves a mix of overseeing operations, meeting with the team to discuss any updates or issues, and engaging with guests to ensure their experience exceeds their expectations. Throughout the day, I might be involved in everything from planning special moments for our guests to reviewing guest feedback and making strategic decisions. Even though it’s a busy role, the stunning surroundings and the satisfaction of creating memorable experiences for our guests make every day rewarding.
7. Can you tell our readers why OZEN Reserve Bolifushi should be their next holiday destination? What kind of unique experiences await Indian tourists in the country?
OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI offers a luxurious and serene escape in the Maldives, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Indian Ocean, making our resort the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure.
Indian tourists can enjoy a range of exclusive experiences at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, including authentic Indian culinary offerings at SAFFRON, exciting water sports and excursions, including snorkelling and diving expeditions to explore the vibrant marine life. At the heart of our offerings is ELE | NA ELEMENTS OF NATURE, our signature spa and wellness brand. This sanctuary delivers a holistic experience inspired by the natural beauty of blue water, white sand, and lush green tropical forests. Our spa engages all five senses through personalised wellness rituals, each tailored to individual needs, ensuring a truly immersive and transformative journey.
We are committed to delivering personalised and memorable experiences tailored to each guest's preferences. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, our resort offers the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. We warmly welcome Indian travellers to experience the beauty of the Maldives, complemented by the exceptional hospitality that our resort is known for.
By Vishakha Talreja