Jetsetting with Dhensa’s Steven Chua

SINGAPORE — Establishing a new resort is hard work, even if you work in the happiest country in the world.

“We chose Bhutan to be the site of the first Dhensa brand resort because we feel this is the perfect location to showcase ourselves,” said the director of Dhensa group. “We’re a luxury brand and where better to start with Bhutan, which is a top destination for the well-heeled.

“We can also demonstrate our expertise, experience and execution in a difficult location, where logistics, sourcing for food, and manpower are issues.”

The three years of toil have paid off: The resort started receiving guests last month and will be officially opened in March. And Chua couldn’t be happier. “After going to Bhutan, like, five times in the last six months, I’m starting to get immune to its beauty!” he joked.

Q: Could you tell us what Dhensa is all about?

A: The word Dhensa means “heavenly abode” in Bhutanese. At our resorts, we invite you to return to a form of innocence in that you can decide whatever you want to do here — from camping under the stars, weather permitting, to learning woodwork from the local craftmen. Yes, we will be opening more resorts under the Dhensa brand. We’re looking at another valley in Bhutan and exploring exotic locations in the region. Asia will be our focus. We’re confident we can rub shoulders with the big boys of luxury hospitality.

Q: What do you look for in a holiday?

A: I want an exclusive space where I can isolate myself (from the modern world). A favourite of mine is The Ahwahnee hotel in Yosemite National Park (in the US), which is located in the valley itself, surrounded by mountains and lots of floral and fauna. I enjoy taking long walks in the surroundings. I like drive trips too — I’d book the tickets and the car but won’t book a hotel. I’d just drive and see where I’d like to stay for the night.

Q: What are some of your picks for a road trip vacation?

A: A drive from London up to Scotland for the glens and the lochs. I did that with my wife and we stopped wherever we felt like it, whether it was in little villages or distilleries. I also like driving from Perth to Margaret River and along the West Coast of the United States to Napa Valley.

Does this mean you avoid cities, then?

A: Not really. I love good food and Japan is where I go for that, especially in Tokyo and Kyoto. Kikunoi in Kyoto is one of my favourite restaurants.

Q: What do you think Singaporean travellers will enjoy most about Bhutan?

A: I think Singaporeans will appreciate the expanse of the land. And the whole culture of simple living and interacting with the people. The Bhutanese are really simple, sincere people who are always happy to engage you. Serene Lim