Mumbai, Maharashtra (October, 2023) – AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, the first five-star hotel at Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park, announces the appointment of Dermot Birchall as its new General Manager.

With over 25 years’ experience in luxury hospitality, Birchall’s appointment follows his tenure as General Manager at Barcelo Mussanah Resort in Muscat, Oman, where he successfully led the team to undergo a massive virtual rebranding of the hotel in 2021. In his new role in Labuan Bajo, one of Indonesia’s five super-priority destinations, Dermot will oversee all aspects of the award-winning retreat, and ensure exceptional guest satisfaction across the inland and marine experiences offered by AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach and AYANA Cruises.

Commenting on his appointment, Dermot Birchall, General Manager of AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, said: “It is an honour to join the team at AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach, an iconic property in Labuan Bajo that opens the opportunity for luxury travel in Indonesia’s most spectacular landscape, Komodo National Park. I am excited to work with the team to continue delivering unparalleled guest experiences and help elevate the hotel’s reputation in Indonesia and beyond.”

Dermot also mentioned his commitment to continuing the legacy of AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach in spearheading sustainability efforts in Labuan Bajo. “As we are located in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions, I am excited to strengthen AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach as an example of sustainable luxury in Indonesia, with ongoing coral restoration projects and donations to Komodo National Park.” AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach’s coral planting program has covered a total area of 950 sqm and includes 250 coral frames with over 2,500 planted corals. This has resulted in a thriving and healthy marine ecosystem, providing a home to numerous species of fish and other marine life.

Merging world class luxury with gracious Indonesian hospitality, AYANA Komodo Labuan Bajo is a perfectly balanced retreat that welcomes guests to the heart of Komodo National Park. AYANA Komodo Waecicu Beach offers a luxurious home away from home with its 13 Full Ocean View Suites and 192 Deluxe Full Ocean View Rooms and Full Ocean View Rooms, all elegantly appointed and inspired by Flores Island’s rich cultural heritage and rustic beauty.

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