INTERVIEW WITH LUIS DANIEL GARCIA GENERAL MANAGER DISCOVERY KARTIKA PLAZA HOTEL
What excites you most about your role in Bali as General Manager of Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel?
What excites me most is the opportunity to lead a resort that truly represents the spirit of Bali, warm hospitality, rich culture, and a strong sense of community. Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel has a unique beachfront location and a long-standing reputation, and being able to continuously elevate guest experiences while working closely with a passionate team in such an inspiring destination is incredibly rewarding.
You have worked in many countries around the world. How have these international experiences shaped the way you lead and work today?
Working in different countries and cultures has been a very humbling experience for me. It has taught me to stay adaptable, to listen more, and to truly respect the people and traditions of each destination. Every place and every team has its own strengths, and these experiences have helped shape my approach as a leader one that values collaboration, empathy, and continuous learning, while striving to uphold consistent global hospitality standards.
What does a typical day like for you as General Manager at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel?
No two days are ever the same. My day usually starts with reviewing operations and guest feedback, followed by meetings with department heads to ensure service excellence across all areas. I also make time to walk around the property, interact with guests and our team, and stay closely involved in strategic planning, partnerships, and continuous improvements throughout the hotel.
Among the hotel’s Food & beverage outlets, is there a particular restaurant or signature dish that you would personally recommend to guests?
I would highly recommend our beachfront dining experience, where guests can enjoy beautifully crafted canapés inspired by both Western and Indonesian flavors while watching the sunset. In addition, one of our most legendary signature dishes is our Sop Buntut, which has long been a guest favorite. Beyond the classic version, we also offer a selection of oxtail fusion dishes, including grilled , penyet, and fried rice, all thoughtfully prepared with modern cooking techniques while still honouring the authentic Indonesian flavors.
Can you share the latest updates or developments at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel?
We are continuously enhancing our offerings, from refreshing guest rooms and public areas to introducing new dining concepts and wellness experiences. One of our latest highlights is Sokube, our dining venue that is open 24 hours, allowing us to cater to guests both day and night with greater flexibility and convenience. In addition, we are strengthening our sustainability initiatives and community engagement programs, ensuring that our growth remains responsible and aligned with Bali’s cultural and environmental values.
What is one experience or highlight that guests should absolutely not miss during their stay at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel?
Watching the sunset from our beachfront area is truly a must. Combined with a relaxing walk along the shore or a sunset dining experience, it perfectly captures the essence of a Bali holiday—peaceful, beautiful, and unforgettable. In addition, our hotel offers daily full entertainment programs, ranging from cultural performances that celebrate Balinese heritage to live band music across several outlets, ensuring guests enjoy vibrant experiences every day throughout their stay.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Maintaining balance is about discipline and mindfulness. I prioritize staying active and making space to recharge. At the same time, I believe in building a strong leadership team and delegating effectively, which allows the hotel to run smoothly while ensuring personal well-being.