Indonesia Expat recently had a chat with Sander Looijen, currently serving as the General Manager of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, as the latter shared some of the exciting things coming up at the Island of the Gods’ brimming paradise.
When it comes to wellness, Sander Looijen is your man. As the General Manager of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, he understands very well how, nowadays, travellers across the globe seek genuine, authentic wellness far beyond typical nightlife whoopee. Wellness has, indeed, become the new form of entertainment, especially in a country that is widely regarded as the global hub for a soulful recovery. And, as Sander manages one of the most prominent resorts, which also happens to be located on one of the most famous islands in Indonesia (and the entire world!), the Dutch native also understands that offering a typical wellness indulgence is never sufficient.
In our recent conversation, Sander shared, among many things, his humble background, which wellness experience truly makes The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, stand out from the other lifestyle properties, and why The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, would be the dreamiest place for tourists and travellers to bask in the sunshine and escape the winter chill come holiday season.
Hi, Sander! Let’s get started with a brief introduction. What can you tell our readers about yourself?
Well, I’m originally from the Netherlands, but I’ve spent most of my career living out of a suitcase across Asia—from Shanghai to Phuket to Hong Kong—and now, here I am in sunny Bali. I started with Marriott back in 2002 as an intern and somehow never looked back. Food and beverage have always been my playground; it’s where hospitality really comes alive.
Fast forward two decades, with a few hotel openings and a handful of moves under my belt, and now I’ve landed at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, as its General Manager. Outside the office, I’m a bit of a wellness junkie—I play water polo, do CrossFit, and love open-water swimming. My wife Ligia and I, along with our three kids, are thrilled to now call Bali home. Sunshine, great food, and a team that truly believes in well-being—what’s not to love?
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, has become a go-to wellness destination on the island. How do you see its progress so far, and what’s still on your to-do list?
It’s been amazing to watch the resort really live and breathe wellness. We’ve integrated the Six Pillars of Well-Being into practically everything we do—how guests sleep, eat, move, and even play. Our Celebrate Wellness event, for instance, has grown into something people look forward to every year.
But wellness is never ‘done.’ It’s like fitness—you can always take it further. We’re constantly exploring new ideas, from more immersive wellness programmes to sustainability initiatives that let you feel good while doing good. The goal? That every guest leaves just a little lighter, calmer, and maybe with a new healthy habit or two in their suitcase.
Which wellness experience truly makes The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, stand out from the rest?
Oh, where do I start? The Heavenly Spa by Westin is definitely our showstopper—sixteen treatment rooms, a thermal area, and our in-house wellness guru, Dr. Jitendra Pokhriyal, who somehow manages to make meditation sound like the best part of your day.
Then there’s our Westin Beach Workout. Picture this: instead of staring at a wall, you’re lifting sustainable wooden weights with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop. It’s hard not to feel good after that. And our WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio is fully equipped with all the high-tech toys you could want. Together, it’s not just about exercise—it’s a lifestyle that meets you where you are.
Indonesia is being recognised globally as a wellness hub. How does that affect The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali?
It’s incredibly exciting. Indonesia has all the right ingredients—natural beauty, spiritual depth, and an innate sense of balance. Seeing the government push wellness tourism and being listed among the top destinations by global travel media is fantastic validation.
For us, it’s the perfect tailwind. We’re already in that space, and now the momentum is building around us. It pushes us to keep evolving—whether that’s through collaborations, local partnerships, or new wellness programmes. The more people see Indonesia as a place to heal and recharge, the more they’ll discover what makes The Westin Resort Nusa Dua special.
The holiday season is just around the corner. Anything special coming up for those escaping winter for some Bali sunshine?
Oh yes, the festive season is our favourite time of the year! This time we’re celebrating under the theme “Whimsical Harmony.” It’s all about connection, joy, and togetherness—with a little sparkle, of course. Expect beautifully curated dinners, uplifting performances, and plenty of festive cheer.
And for our wellness-minded guests, don’t worry—it’s not all indulgence. We’ll have yoga sessions by the beach, healthy gourmet options, and of course, a few mindful moments in between. It’s the kind of holiday where you can toast the season and still feel great the next morning.
These days, people seem to seek ‘healing’ experiences more than nightlife. Would you say wellness has become its own form of entertainment?
A 100% yes. Wellness is basically the new nightlife—just with better lighting and no hangovers. Travellers today aren’t just chasing fun; they’re chasing feeling good. And honestly, who can blame them?
It’s entertainment with meaning—yoga at sunrise, sound baths, mindful dining—all experiences that leave you both relaxed and inspired. People are realising that joy and well-being go hand in hand. It’s less about the party and more about presence. And here, in Bali, that shift feels perfectly natural.
Respecting Balinese culture has never been more important. How does The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, blend local spirituality into its wellness offerings while keeping it authentic?
The keyword is “respect.” We don’t borrow—we collaborate. Our team works closely with local healers, artisans, and cultural advisers to make sure that what we offer is genuine. For example, our spa rituals draw from Balinese traditions using local herbs and techniques that have been passed down for generations.
You’ll see Balinese touches everywhere—from the architecture to small blessings during special occasions. It’s our way of celebrating where we are, without crossing the line. We want guests to experience that sense of spirituality that Bali is known for, in a way that honours its roots.
Lastly, how can our readers reach you and The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali?
You can find us at westinnusaduabali.com, or follow us on social media to see what’s happening around the resort. But honestly, the best way is to drop by and say hello. Chances are you’ll find me somewhere between a meeting and a swim—hopefully not both at once.