The moment I arrive at the hotel’s spectacular grounds, I am greeted with a “Selamat datang” and a bracelet made by the local Manggarai people. This welcome epitomises the warm hospitality Indonesians are known for and my stay at Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, which means ‘green land’ in the local ethnic Manggarai language.
Ta’aktana, which opened its doors in May 2024, is the first international hotel brand on the island and part of The Luxury Collection, a prestigious division of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio. A short four hours’ flight from Kuala Lumpur and a mere 10 minutes’ drive from the Komodo International Airport, the hotel is spread over a sprawling 16ha area overlooking the shimmering blue waters of the Flores Sea.
A Paradise Waiting to be Explored
Closely interwoven into every aspect of the waterfront property are the essence of the rich culture of the island, the splendour of luxury, and sustainability practices. The flair for design of the Manggarai, who lay out their rice terraces in an incredible spiderweb design, inspired the hotel’s logo and are subsequently replicated on the rooftops of its buildings, and even shaped into pats of butter served at breakfast. Additionally, structures such as the Maiga! bar resemble their conical clan houses.
Ta’aktana also takes its dedication to cultural preservation a step further by working with local communities to supply its victuals such as tea and coffee, produce for which Flores is known, and even sculptures made by local artisans.
Due to its location as a main hub for island-hopping, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and improved road connectivity, Labuan Bajo is an emerging must-visit destination, without all the congestion of Bali. Nearby experiences can be arranged for with a fee upon request to Ta’aktana’s recreational team, such as the Komodo National Park, home to the world-famous Komodo dragons, a boat’s ride away, and the Pink Beach with its wondrous pale pink sands.
A Room with a View
As Labuan Bajo is known as the City of a Thousand Sunsets, these are best viewed at one of seven exclusive Overwater Sea Villas, part of 70 elegantly appointed guest rooms.
Within the voluminous 2,098 sq ft space are an airy living space, a pantry, a walk-in-wardrobe, handcrafted wooden interiors, a deep soaking bathtub looking out to the ocean, and a stunning vibrant tapestry by local artists above the bed frame. This opens to a two-level balcony complete with day beds and ocean nets to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding vistas and of the starry night sky at night. These are all accompanied by top-of-the-line appliances such as a Smeg kettle, a rain shower by Kohler, and a Dyson hairdryer, which the ladies will truly appreciate.
Exceptional Dining & Amenities
Each of the seven food and drink establishments that can be found throughout the resort are culinary experiences of their own, such as Umasa, which presents an elevated take on Indonesian cuisine with its distinct flavours and spices. Beverages are also a delightful part of the experience at Ta’aktana, and guests can also opt for culinary workshops such as a coffee roastery experience at the Coffee Hub.
There is an endless array of experiences for guests on the property, such as kayaking and snorkelling, swimming at the Olympic-sized swimming pool or beachside pool, and treating young ones to new adventures at the Kids Club. Athletic enthusiasts will delight in the fully equipped gym, including a Kickr Bike Shift that virtually replicates an outdoor bike.
A truly tranquil wellness experience awaits at the two-storey Di’a Spa, where guests can unwind in the aromatic steam rooms, saunas and plunge pools. A diverse selection of curated treatments at the spa includes body massages, facials, traditional body wraps, and hand & foot treatments that blend local ingredients and traditional spa rituals. An exceptional offering is the hair treatments created by Ao Lado, Korea’s first scent artist, which combines traditional Korean practices and innovation to nourish the scalp and hair.
At Ta’aktana, every moment unfolds like a beautifully woven tapestry of luxury, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality, creating an unparalleled resort that discerning travellers must visit at least once in their lifetime.
