A Tale of Two Resorts
With a career spanning over four decades, Michael Beechey transitioned from the demanding kitchens of his youth to his current role as cluster general manager at Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach and Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach. He actively shapes these two distinct properties into a seamless multi-generational destination with a unique approach to elevated dining concepts.
Q: How did your career grow from being an executive chef to managing a full resort operation?
A: My journey in hospitality began 44 years ago, deep in the heart of bustling kitchens, learning the ropes through hands-on apprenticeship. At first, my love for food kept me firmly in the restaurant world, with little interest in hotels. But as my curiosity for travel grew, I realised that joining hotel operations was my ticket to exploring the globe. Those early days as a chef laid the foundation for everything I do now, all fuelled by genuine passion.
Q: As a cluster general manager, how did you shift your mindset between managing a family resort and a lifestyle hotel?
A: When we brought these properties to life, many wondered how two distinct hotels could truly connect. I see this place as a destination for every generation. A couple might first visit Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach, fall in love, and later return to marry by the sea. As their family grows, they find new memories at Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach. Our guests return again and again, their needs evolving from childhood through grandparenthood. I focus on their journeys, not just the hotels themselves, making sure both properties blend seamlessly while our team supports guests at every stage.
Q: What is it like navigating the different problems between these two properties?
A: Challenges pop up daily, and as general manager, I see myself as the chief problem solver. When bigger issues surface, I am the one who steps in to find solutions. As my career has progressed, my connection with guests has changed. Now, my interactions are often about smoothing out bumps in the road or backing up my team rather than just socialising. My role shifts with each new day and situation.
Q: How do you elevate the vibrant energy at SugarBEATS Beach Club?
A: Many things inspire me to elevate SugarBEATS. Our interior designers tailored every detail to fit our unique surroundings. We also take special care to curate music that flows with the rhythm of the day. As the sun moves, the soundtrack evolves, matching the mood and meal, turning the beach club into a lively entertainment hub that still respects the comfort of our hotel guests.
Q: How do you arrange the menu for on-site dining outlets?
A: At first, the IHG team mapped out our food concepts during the design stage. Once our executive chef joined, we experimented together, testing ideas to discover what truly delights our guests. With few dining choices beyond our doors, we knew we had to offer both variety and quality. Breakfast, especially, is a highlight, so we keep it fresh by rotating dishes and maintaining top-notch standards throughout the day.
Q: Can you share those details on some major projects planned for Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach and Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach?
A: We are expanding to create a truly integrated resort experience. At Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach, a new building will soon rise, linked to the resort by a bridge. The second floor will welcome guests to Numa, our Cantonese restaurant with an open kitchen and private dining spaces. Upstairs, the third floor will offer an arrival lounge filled with games, a cosy reading nook, a baby room, and family karaoke. At the very top, Bar Emba will invite guests to enjoy sunsets, a cigar lounge, sports screens, and a steak-and-pizza spot.
We are also creating a covered recreation hub for padel, tennis, and basketball, plus an international football pitch with changing rooms. To top it off, a four-storey beachfront spa and wellness centre will offer onsens, treatment rooms, Pilates studios, and a café inspired by nature.
Q: What makes you feel most at home when you finally clock off for the weekend
A: I truly feel at home right here. I savour slow mornings, strolling down to the beach club, and settling into a chair with a view of the sea and sand. I could spend hours people-watching and seeing my team in action. This place is my legacy, a showcase of my vision and passion, and being able to soak it all in fills me with real satisfaction.
Asia Dreams Volume 60
Hotel Indigo Bintan Lagoi Beach
Jalan Gurindam Duabelas
Bintan 29155, Indonesia
T: (+62) 770691188
E: reservations.hotelindigobintan@ihg.com
W: ihg.com
IG: @hotelindigo.bintan
Holiday Inn Resort Bintan Lagoi Beach
Jalan Gurindam Duabelas
Bintan 29155, Indonesia
T: (+62) 770691088
E: reservations.holidayinnresortbintan@ihg.com
W: ihg.com
IG: @holidayinnresortbintan
