Angelica and Savina are the proud new owners of the stunning Hotel Sages in Bali. With careers in content creation and real estate under their belts they were uniquely prepared to start an international business. That ambition led them to Bali, where they found the perfect opportunity in Hotel Sages.
Angelica shared the triumphs and setbacks of their acquisition journey, offering valuable insights for aspiring hotel owners. Their combined expertise in real estate and a shared passion for travel-based hospitality proved to be the driving force behind their success.
“We were vacationing in Tuscany in May 2023,” Angelica told Travel Noir “We stayed in a charming bed and breakfast… and that’s when the seed was planted. We thought, ‘We can do this too’ and began thinking of locations where we’d want to retire.” Bali quickly rose to the top of their list. Initially, they envisioned purchasing a villa, but fate had other plans. They stumbled upon commercial listings, revealing the opportunity to acquire Hotel Sages.
While the prospect of owning a hotel might seem daunting to most, Angelica and Savina, both experienced in real estate and content creation, felt prepared to explore the possibilities. “For the average person, an acquisition of a commercial property may seem daunting, but we are both in real estate,” Angelica explained. “Coming across the hotel investment opportunity, instead of doubting ourselves, it was natural for us to explore the possibilities.”
A Queer Safe Haven in Bali
In a region where LGBTQ+ rights are not universally recognized and queer relationships are criminalized, Hotel Sages offers a vital sanctuary. Angelica and Savina are committed to creating a safe and affirming space for all guests, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. They understand the importance of providing a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and respected, and Hotel Sages stands as a beacon of inclusivity in Bali.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, Bali presents a complex landscape. While the island boasts stunning natural beauty and a vibrant culture, Indonesian law does not recognize marriage equality, and expressions of LGBTQ+ identity can face social stigma. Public displays of affection, even for straight couples, are generally discouraged, and this caution is amplified for same-sex couples.
However, Bali’s tourism industry is heavily reliant on international visitors, and many establishments, particularly in more cosmopolitan areas like Seminyak and Canggu, cater to a diverse clientele. These areas often have gay-friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants, though it’s wise to research and confirm their current status as they open and close frequently. Despite the legal and social complexities, many LGBTQ+ individuals and couples enjoy their time in Bali, focusing on the island’s natural beauty, rich culture, and the pockets of inclusivity that do exist.
Welcoming Hospitality
Though their formal hospitality experience was limited, their passion for curating exceptional travel experiences for themselves, friends, and family, coupled with Savina’s expertise in HR management and strategic operations from her healthcare background, and Angelica’s financial acumen from her tax and accounting experience, equipped them with the necessary skills. Angelica’s creative side, further fueled by her work as a travel creator, was immediately ignited by the aesthetics of Hotel Sages, sparking ideas for creating magical moments for their community.
The acquisition process, however, wasn’t without its challenges. While their real estate background provided a solid foundation, securing financing proved to be the biggest hurdle. As non-Indonesian citizens, traditional lending was unavailable, forcing them to get creative. “This was the most important learning lesson for us during this process,” Angelica shared. “We realized that we needed to raise our own capital through a mix of our own funds and leveraging private investors.” Leveraging Angelica’s experience in real estate rehabilitation projects, they successfully secured the necessary funds.
Working as partners on such a significant venture presented its own set of dynamics. “Ultimately, we have a shared vision about the life we want to live,” Angelica emphasized. “It’s a beautiful thing to nurture and pour into that dream, and when you both are intentional and powerfully aligned, you can later look back on what you created together in pure awe and amazement.” They stressed the importance of trust, communication, shared vision, and clearly defined roles within the partnership.
Looking forward, Angelica and Savina have big plans for Hotel Sages. “Hotel Sages will be a global brand!” Angelica declared. “We plan to expand the brand across the globe and have already started thinking about the concept for our next location with a continued focus on luxury and wellness.” Beyond their own expansion, they are committed to sharing their journey and expertise to inspire others to pursue their own dreams.
Hotel Sages offers 5-star accommodations, picturesque decor, and a sanctuary for wellness retreats and gatherings. Angelica and Savina’s journey, from a Tuscan inspiration to Balinese bliss, is a testament to their vision, resilience, and the power of partnership. They invite you to experience the magic of Hotel Sages on your next visit to Bali.
