OKU Hotels is a collection of soulfully-curated luxury hotels launched in 2020 and currently comprises two inaugural hotels – OKU Kos and the latest launch OKU Ibiza.
With the curation of our new collection - Earth this year, we couldn’t have picked a better backdrop to shoot our earthy and natural tones than Oku Ibiza itself.
The attention to detail at each Oku Hotel makes them a destination that captivates the modern traveller offering wellbeing practices that relax or revive, and dining and music experiences that awaken the senses. They define understated five-star luxury, inspired by nature and local connections.
Guests are invited to settle into the OKU way of life from the moment of arrival and even the name ‘OKU’ means “inner space” derived from the Japanese spiritual and architectural concept. OKU Ibiza prides itself on offering an alternative way to experience the famed party island of the Balearics. Encouraging a slower pace of life, guests will be able to take time out to focus on themselves.
With our latest collection arriving at the resort in a matter of months and our latest campaign shoot - Earth taking place at this incredible destination, we got the chance to catch up with COO Enrique Mandl and learn a little more about the Oku way of life…
What is your most meaningful, exciting or stand-out memory of travel?
The Salar of Uyuni, the biggest salt flat in the world, is the spot to dream with open eyes. A thin layer of water causes the sky to reflect the earth, all your senses get stimulated and it fills you with a lot of different feelings.
What is your most memorable moment with Wildlife? Any close shaves?
I remember being very young and always going with my grandfather hunting early in the morning at 5 am, but not for hunting, more to see and understand nature - I will never forget the intense understanding of wildlife I have learned during this time.
What's your idea of a perfect family holiday?
The perfect family holiday for me is having time and dedication for my loved ones. Planning something out of the ordinary to make sure everybody has fond memories. Travelling to destinations, where the day-to-day stress can be left behind. A new challenge in the post-COVID time.
What does sustainability mean to you?
Not only leaving the world in the same state as we found it but in an even better way. Co-existing in harmony with our surroundings and respecting the nature and wildlife that surrounds us.
If you had to choose, where is your favourite place on earth (so far)?
My favourite place on earth is the US. The dimensions and the variety of nature and possibilities make it my favourite place to travel for holidays.
Looking back on your successes what piece of advice would you share?
Find the job that you would also do without being paid for it - then you know that you are on the road to success. Don't be afraid of failure on this way & travel and learn as many languages as possible.
To travel is to…
"Go, at least once a year, to a place you’ve never been before,” said Dalai Lama and very true
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One thing about yourself we don’t know...
When I was young I was a huge fan of the band The Cure, I bought all their albums and travelled to all the destinations where they were performing. Great fun and great places I travelled to at that time.
