Experience Paradise: The Joys and Adventures of Living and Working in the Maldives, Bali, and Cayman Islands
Marc LeBlanc and Laura Robinson have carved out a remarkable life in the hospitality industry, traversing stunning locales from the Maldives to Bali and the Cayman Islands. Their journey began in different corners of the world-LeBlanc, a Canadian, started at just 16 as a dishwasher in a hotel, progressing through various roles to become a general manager. Meanwhile, Robinson, hailing from the UK, initially pursued a career in marine biology before shifting gears to hotel management after working as a diving instructor.
The couple’s paths crossed while they were both employed in the Cayman Islands, and they have since managed properties across Asia, including the lesser-known island of Sumba in Indonesia. Today, they call Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains home, where LeBlanc oversees the resort as general manager, and Robinson leads operations with a focus on sustainability.
Guests at Shinta Mani Wild often express keen interest in the couple’s story. “Many are curious about our journey,” LeBlanc shared. He noted that working in paradisiacal destinations like the Maldives is starkly different from merely visiting. “You’re somewhat isolated,” he remarked. “You stay on that island with limited access to the outside world.” For resort staff, life revolves around shared living quarters akin to a summer camp atmosphere, where camaraderie blooms amid the challenges of cohabitating.
Managing interpersonal dynamics is crucial, particularly in the Maldives, where a multicultural workforce is the norm. “It’s been easier here at Shinta Mani Wild since most of our staff are Cambodian,” Robinson explained. “While ensuring guest satisfaction is vital, we also prioritize our 100 employees’ happiness.” The couple fosters a sense of community by celebrating staff birthdays and hosting events, with LeBlanc sometimes DJing for the team.
Despite the allure of working in tropical locations, LeBlanc and Robinson face unique challenges. As Robinson pointed out, saltwater can wreak havoc on infrastructure in coastal resorts, while the Cambodian jungle presents its own hurdles. Shinta Mani Wild features 15 luxury guest tents on a sprawling property that demands meticulous attention to service and conservation. “The conditions here require constant learning and adaptation,” LeBlanc said, underscoring the dedicated efforts of their team in maintaining the expansive grounds and farm.
Living abroad also means occupying a space far from family. During their time in the Maldives, they saw relatives annually, but now they make yearly trips home to reconnect with aging parents and meet new family members. “We’ve adopted two dogs from the Cardamom Mountains,” they shared, indicating their commitment to the region.
The couple’s nearly two-decade partnership has proven that navigating remote life together can work exceptionally well. “It’s an experiment that’s turned out positively,” LeBlanc noted, emphasizing how working in tandem is beneficial in isolated settings. Robinson, who handles front-of-house operations, complements LeBlanc’s creative vision with her organizational skills. The couple often collaborates on ideas, seizing inspiration from their travels.
Despite challenges, the demand for hospitality management couples remains robust. “Many properties are eager to employ couples, including private islands and exclusive resorts,” LeBlanc mentioned, showcasing the variety of opportunities in the sector. Having each other’s support in remote environments provides not only companionship but also enhances their effectiveness in managing the intricate demands of the hotel industry.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/28/whats-it-like-to-live-and-work-in-the-maldives-bali-cayman-islands.html
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Publish Date: 2025-05-28 05:30:00
