Ida Adyu Nyoman Widiaptini is the Director of Spa at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island expresses an accord of form, function and innovation in driving hospitality trends that has set the benchmark in its style. Rejecting trends in design to create a space that invites and inspires with a distinctive design that sits in perfect harmony with the natural environment. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an inspirational backdrop featuring intuitive service, infinite connections and a distinctive mix of once-in-a-lifetime experiences making it an extraordinary destination for couples and families to discover paradise.

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you started your career?

I started my career in the hospitality industry; my first job was working as a concierge in 1996. However, I soon decided I was ready for a change and moved into the spa industry a year later. I began working as a Spa Therapist in Bali’s finest luxury resorts before moving to Bintan Island on a transfer program. From there I continued growing my career, progressing to increasingly senior roles and became a Spa Director in 2011. Now, I’m honored to be part of the team here at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, especially as the resort prepares for an exciting time ahead with its grand relaunch in February.

What made you want to pursue your career in this industry?

I always knew there was scope for this field of work to continue to expand. I see the wellness industry and the demand for holistic offerings being extremely long lasting. Year on year, the industry continues to evolve and inspire us to learn and develop, too. It’s fantastic to be part of a sector that is so beneficial to our collective mental and physical health.

What has your experience in the Maldives been like so far?

This is my first experience in Maldives and it’s magical. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a paradise island with its turquoise waters, unique under-the-sea offerings and incredibly welcoming staff and guests. I am certain that the wellness industry will continue to grow in this country.

What do you believe is the key to providing an excellent spa service?

The most important thing is understanding guests’ individual needs. Guests come to the spa with different requirements and their own ideas about what they will take away from the experience. I always encourage my staff to listen and then perform as personalized an offering as possible. Passion and delivering service from the heart is always key.

What is the most unique feature about Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Spa?

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island features a twin-island design, so we’re fortunate enough to offer two separate and unique wellness experiences to guests – Spa Retreat on the family island, Rangali-Finolhu, and The Over-Water Spa on the couple’s island, Rangali Island. Each retreat boasts its own signature treatment menu and unique offering.

Wellness concept is now taken to another level and adopted by many resorts. What are the changes Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is bringing to provide a better wellness experience for the guests?

The Over-Water Spa is currently undergoing a refresh as part of our multi-million-dollar refurbishment to ensure we continue catering to the needs of our discerning clientele. A new product range for the Over-Water Spa is in development and will complement the overall concept. We’re also aiming to explore a more combined approach between the spa and wellness activities on offer throughout the resort as we have a huge amount of indoor and outdoor space to utilize. The hotel’s pioneering approach has truly set the standard for luxury hospitality in the Maldives for almost 25 years, so to have the opportunity to be part of the next phase of its story is a real honor.

What’s the best advice you can give to those looking to join the industry?

Love what you’re doing, be patient and deliver every experience from the heart. Discipline and commitment are the keys to achieving success in the wellbeing industry. Rest assured that hard work pays off!