Self-defining experiences are largely shaping attendees’ view of luxury. We spoke with Teddy Bouroncle, complex executive chef for the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino to see how the resort is delivering on this trend. Here’s what he had to say:
Prevue: How has the overall perception of luxury changed over the past year?
Bouroncle: True luxury can mean different things to different people, but in the past, the majority of people defined and associated the term luxury with high-quality brands and refinement–material. However, luxury has come to also mean exclusivity in experiences. Aruba Marriott not only offers exclusivity with the H2Oasis Adult Pool or the indulging Tradewinds Club, but focuses in bringing a distinctive ultimate retreat experience through extended service.
How does luxury translate into food & beverage these days?
At the Aruba Marriott we continuously seek to bring unique flavors and senses in each of our dishes. We embrace and respect the origin of the products, the cultivation of the products, how the community is involved and how local suppliers benefit from business with bigger organizations. Back in the day, luxury in food and beverage was defined by using the most expensive products. Currently, the simplest, less-processed products are most impactful in the life of a community.
Do you offer any unique amenities that promote an overall sense of wellbeing?
Aruba is well-known for its aloe vera plant and for being the world’s largest aloe exporter. The Caribbean sun and Aruba’s environment intensifies the plant’s natural healing qualities and produces the earth’s most potent aloe gel, with medicinal qualities to revitalize and help repair the skin. Aruba Marriott tries to incorporate the Aloe Vera plant grown in Aruba in a few products, such as signature ‘Aloe’ cocktails.
