Ruth Kong, Reservation Manager at One&Only Desaru Coast: My secret spot is the pathway heading towards the yoga pavilion. As it is amidst the rainforest and close to the beach, the earthy smell of nature, the feel of the cool sea breeze and the sound of the lapping waves have a calming effect that help me to relax and destress.

Alex Ortiz, Director of Wellness & Guest Experience at One&Only Mandarina: My secret place at One&Only Mandarina is La Abuela, an Higuera Blanca Tree which is at least 450 years old. Although most people know about it, very few have seen it. I have created some wellness activities for our guests to experience La Abuela themselves including a hike to the 'grandmother tree' to experience the free, endless space of the rainforest that we were given by nature to holistically heal ourselves.

Burwing Caetan, Manager, Club One at One&Only Le Saint Géran: By taking a kayak you can find my secret place in the mangroves at One&Only Le Saint Géran. When I need peace of mind, this is my place to go after work.

Dwayne Krisko, Executive Chef at One&Only Reethi Rah: There are so many amazing spots to choose, but for me it would have to be sitting amidst the fragrant gardens at Botanica under the ancient banyan tree enjoying a cold cocktail; or at Sunrise Beach after midnight, stargazing at the perfect angle to spot shooting stars.

Grace Uwingeneye, Experience Guide at One&Only Nyungwe House: My favourite spot at One&Only Nyungwe House is the hilltop where guests take part in spear throwing and archery. It’s my favourite spot because you have a beautiful view of not only the resort but the tea plantation and Nyungwe National Park. The views are mesmerizing.

Benoit Dushimiyimana, Front Office Supervisor One&Only Gorilla’s Nest: Club One is my secret spot – it offers such a relaxing atmosphere that you end up not wanting to leave the place. The pool views, which are backdropped by the eucalyptus forest, are simply breathtaking.

Sandro Falbo, Executive Chef at One&Only Palmilla: The herb garden at One&Only Palmilla. It is quite special and unique, and not too many guests know about it unless it’s pointed out or they get lost exploring the resort. It’s very private and quiet, and we host intimate dinners, special wine dinners and cooking demonstrations for our guests there throughout the year.

Yasir Sulaiman, Front Office Manager at One&Only Reethi Rah: I love visiting the beautiful lawn located in the heart of the island, a charming area enveloped by lofty palm trees giving a real feeling of peace and serenity. Here, guests can enjoy a game of giant chess or lawn bowls, but the hidden secret lies as you enter the trees to discover steps leading up to a treehouse. This is a really magical place, surrounded by nature and views of the sunset; resonating a story of love, for which it was original built. By night, you feel as though you are in an enchanted dream. It is rare to find such escape to share with friends or loved ones, or simply enjoy the solitude of being alone.

Secrets & Sounds