Ricardo Vale, General Manager at Bahrain’s newest beachfront hospitality destination, Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain, tells Behnaz Sanjana what’s in store for the island’s discerning clientele.
Originally from Portugal, Ricardo Vale has over two decades of international experience at premier hospitality properties, including London’s The Portman Hotel, Dubai’s One&Only Royal Mirage, and Shangri-La International Hotel Management group in Singapore and in Sri Lanka.
He has now taken on the mantle of General Manager at Emaar Hospitality Group’s prime beachfront destinations -Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain and Address Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain. Located on the picturesque shores of Marassi, they are part of the grand Marassi Al Bahrain development in Diyar Al Muharraq.
“I have been pleasantly surprised by Bahrain, its vibrant upcoming youth scene, charming residents and the warm welcoming nature of the locals – a truly positive and heartwarming experience to say the least,” says Ricardo. “Fittingly, Vida is a haven for those who celebrate art, design, fashion and entrepreneurship – a place where art is a lifestyle and fashion is a belief. Whether you’re looking to relax, embark on an exciting family staycation, or seek inspiration for your next big idea; Vida will make it happen and you will return for the experience and the easy interaction the crew provides.”
Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain will open on December 16 this year, coinciding with Bahrain’s 50th National Day, and has pulled out all stops to wow islanders. “Our amazing white sandy beach is one of the largest you’ll see in Bahrain – stretching over 2km - and is truly spectacular,” Ricardo reveals. “We have 158 hotel keys and 141 serviced apartments with direct access to the upcoming Marassi Galleria Shopping Mall, rooftop temperature-controlled swimming pool, two experiential restaurants, 1 pool bar, a 24-hour fitness center with fantastic sea views, contemporary meeting spaces and a kids’ club. Don’t forget to ride our fully sustainable Vida bicycles from Chari Cycles when you stay with us!”
The industry veteran observes that the hospitality scene in Bahrain is currently booming. “Thanks to Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority’s commendable job and the extensive support from the Kingdom, we are in a thriving industry in Bahrain,” he says. “We will soon become a part of a much larger complex once our sister property, Address Hotels & Resorts, will open in 2022. Although we are the new kid on the block, we have quite a few hidden surprises up our sleeves, like being the only hotel on the island with both, direct beach and mall access.”
Being a hotel brand that recognises the importance of eco-friendly operations, Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain has some unique green initiatives. “We have installed our own water cleaning and bottling plant that provides clean drinking water to all hotel guests and staff. As water will be served in glass bottles that will be hygienically repackaged for consumption, the need for one-time-use plastic bottles and labels is eliminated,” informs Ricardo. “Our restaurants have partnered up with local farms to source farm-fresh ingredients directly from Bahraini suppliers and we fully support sustainable fishing.” Additionally, auto dimmers in the lobby lounge and all-day dining outlets, and motion sensors in corridors and staff areas will help save energy during low-traffic times.
Ricardo continues, “I am extremely proud to see how far we have come as the pre-opening team. Our project will add more life to the bustling hospitality scene in Bahrain. We cannot wait for the completion of the bigger picture - Marassi Al Bahrain’s mega project that includes Marassi Galleria; one of the largest shopping malls in Bahrain and of course, our flagship property, Address Hotels & Resorts.
“Let us at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain show you a totally unique experience that will make you want to return for more.”
