Reka Yanti, General Manager of Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection, is a proud Balinese with hospitality embedded in her DNA.
Born and raised in the heart of Indonesia’s rich culture, she was immersed early on in the importance of being a gracious host, a value deeply rooted in her upbringing. This cultural foundation sparked her passion for creating exceptional guest experiences, which has propelled her career to remarkable heights.
With a background in hospitality management and a career spanning iconic destinations like the Caribbean and the Maldives, Reka has cultivated a diverse and international portfolio. Her dedication to excellence and her love for culture and travel have shaped her leadership at Cicada, where she blends personal connection with professional expertise to craft unforgettable experiences for guests in the lush, romantic setting of Ubud.
Having worked in diverse places such as the Caribbean and the Maldives, how have these international experiences shaped your perspective and approach to hospitality?
My time working in luxury resorts across the Caribbean, Maldives, and Bali has been incredibly rewarding, profoundly influencing my perspective on hospitality. Each location presented its own set of challenges but also offered invaluable lessons that I still carry with me.
Collaborating with people from diverse cultural backgrounds has enhanced my openness and adaptability in various situations. I’ve learned to tackle problems from multiple perspectives and recognise that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. We must stay adaptable and open to fresh ideas. I believe that one of the most vital skills for any leader is the ability to listen.
The Caribbean and the Maldives have had a significant influence on my approach to hospitality. Both regions provided me with unique insights into different cultures and diverse expectations, which have deepened my understanding of guest needs. What I’ve learned is that hospitality goes beyond just luxury—it’s about creating an emotional connection with our guests and offering them experiences that feel personal and memorable. In both the Caribbean and Maldives, I saw how deeply guests value authenticity, whether it’s in the service, food, or the design of the property. Bringing these lessons with me to Bali, and after enlivening it for 9 years in Mandapa, I aim to provide a seamless blend of luxury and local culture at Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, where guests feel both pampered and immersed in the local environment.
Tell us more about Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection. How would you personally describe its unique identity?
Cicada Resort Bali Ubud holds a special place in people’s hearts. The resort itself exudes an undeniable sense of romance, with its stunning views, tranquil atmosphere, and intimate setting, making it an ideal destination for couples looking for a peaceful retreat. While the natural beauty of the resort is a significant part of its allure, its true uniqueness lies in its deep connection to the local culture and nature. Nestled in Ubud, a region rich in spiritual and cultural heritage, surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant traditions, the resort naturally enhances the sense of tranquillity and love we aim to provide. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of it.
We strive to ensure that every couple experiences this magic, whether they come to unwind, explore, or immerse themselves in Bali’s rich culture.
We offer a variety of activities tailored to all types of couples—whether they seek quiet relaxation, romantic outdoor adventures, or deeper cultural engagements. From private candlelit dinners overlooking the rainforest to guided tours of local temples and intimate spa treatments, we aim to create personalised experiences that help couples reconnect and create lasting memories. This holistic approach, blending nature, culture, and tranquillity, is what truly makes Cicada Resort Bali Ubud a sanctuary for couples. As part of the Autograph Collection, the resort is proud to offer a distinctive and unique escape for guests seeking a transformative experience.
You first visited Cicada Resort Bali Ubud as a guest with your husband before joining as General Manager. What was it about the place that made such a lasting impression on you?
The first time I visited Cicada Ubud was around this time last year, in November. I was there for a quiet afternoon getaway with my husband, and from the moment we walked into the resort, it felt like something was deeply familiar. The serene ambience, the stunning views of the rainforest, and the overall peaceful energy of the place made me feel as though I had been there before. In fact, it gave me a sense of connection with the surroundings that I couldn’t explain. It felt like a hidden gem and a peaceful sanctuary amidst nature. The staff–a young lady–showed us around enthusiastically, very friendly, and made us feel warmly welcomed.
What does “luxury” mean to you personally, and how do you interpret that in your role at Cicada Resort Bali Ubud?
To me, luxury is not just about opulence, it’s about the thoughtful details that elevate an experience. It’s about creating a space where guests feel valued, cared for, and completely at ease. Luxury is the ability to anticipate a guest’s needs before they even ask, to offer moments of surprise and delight, and to make every experience feel unique.
At Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, I interpret luxury as providing guests with more than just a beautiful stay; it’s about personalisation, ensuring that each guest is welcomed like they are family and that they remember the team, the people as the highlight of their stay. As they look back, it gives them only profound memories.
Ubud’s charm lies in its cultural and natural beauty. How do you ensure that Cicada Resort Bali Ubud embodies these aspects?
Ubud is truly a gem, with its natural landscapes and cultural richness, and it’s essential that Cicada Resort Bali Ubud reflects that. We organise cultural activities such as temple visits, traditional dance performances, and wellness experiences to help our guests engage with Ubud’s heritage in meaningful ways. Nature is an integral part of the experience here, and we ensure that the resort is designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, allowing guests to feel deeply connected to their surroundings; a beautiful rainforest view with a unique instrument coming from the “cicadas”—or as known in the local language, “Nongcret”.
As General Manager, what are your long-term goals for Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, and what unique experiences are you hoping to introduce or enhance?
My long-term goal for Cicada Resort Bali Ubud is to continue enhancing our offerings and creating an unforgettable experience for our guests. We aim to elevate Cicada Resort Bali Ubud as the ultimate sanctuary for romance and connection while staying true to the essence of Bali’s spirit—its culture, serenity, and deep-rooted connection to nature.
I want Cicada Resort Bali Ubud to be known not just as a unique resort, but as a destination that offers couples the opportunity to reconnect with each other and with the beauty around them in a deeply meaningful way. We strive to offer curated cultural experiences that allow guests to truly engage with the local community—whether through art, cuisine, or nature. Our goal is for Cicada Resort Bali Ubud to be a place where guests not only enjoy tranquillity but also leave with a deeper connection to Bali, its culture, and its people.
What’s next for you and Cicada Resort Bali Ubud?
We are incredibly excited about the future of Cicada Resort Bali Ubud. In the coming months, we will be launching new experiences for our guests, enhancing wellness offerings with the opening of the new Pravi spa, and providing more opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in Balinese culture. We aim to remain a desired destination for couples seeking a peaceful resort to relax or connect with their surroundings and loved ones.
Personally, I’m excited to continue growing as a leader—learning from my team, our guests, and the challenges that come with the role. I’m passionate about creating an environment where everyone can thrive, from the guests to the team members, and I’m looking forward to seeing how Cicada Resort Bali Ubud continues to evolve and make a positive impact on everyone who steps through our doors.
How can our readers get in touch?
For more information about Cicada Resort Bali Ubud, Autograph Collection, guests and readers can visit our website at www.cicadaubud.com, find us on the Marriott Bonvoy app, or connect with us via social media.
We are always happy to engage with those who are passionate about travel, culture, and hospitality. Feel free to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram @cicadaubud to stay connected.