Marc LeBlanc and Laura Robinson embody the essence of adventure and dedication in the hospitality industry, having lived and worked in some of the globe’s most enchanting destinations, from the Maldives to Bali and the Cayman Islands. Their journey began in markedly different ways—LeBlanc, a Canadian, stepping into the world of hospitality at the youthful age of 16 as a dishwasher, while Robinson, a British native, initially carved a path in marine biology before transitioning to hotel management and operations. Together, they met in the Cayman Islands and have since continued their journey across various islands in Southeast Asia, including their current residence at the Shinta Mani Wild, a luxury resort nestled in Cambodia’s breathtaking Cardamom Mountains.
As general manager, LeBlanc’s responsibilities encompass a wide range—from human resources to security and financial management. Conversely, Robinson oversees a blend of operational tasks and sustainability initiatives, ensuring the resort not only meets high standards for guest experience but also prioritizes environmental stewardship. Their lives are not just about work; they resonate with a sense of community and responsibility, not only towards the patrons of the resort but also towards their employees, many of whom come from local backgrounds.
Guests at Shinta Mani Wild often express curiosity about the couple’s unique story, and LeBlanc is always eager to share insights into the realities of working in such idyllic locales. He draws attention to the stark differences between visiting and residing in a resort like those in the Maldives—famous for the “one island, one resort” concept. “You’re locked on that island, surrounded by water,” LeBlanc noted, emphasizing the inescapable nature of island life. This isolation, while beautiful, comes with its own set of challenges as employees require their own living arrangements, forming communities akin to summer camps, complete with interpersonal dynamics that can mirror those of larger societies.
Robinson highlights the importance of managing these interpersonal relationships within a multicultural workforce, a skill that has been particularly beneficial at Shinta Mani Wild, where the majority of employees hail from Cambodia. Creating a harmonious workplace involves addressing the multifaceted needs and desires of around one hundred staff members while also ensuring that guests receive exceptional service. Highlighting the necessity of celebrating employee milestones, she notes that these gestures help foster a sense of belonging and community among the staff.
Yet the alluring landscapes of these tropical paradises present their own set of maintenance challenges. In the Maldives, saltwater corrosion becomes a significant issue for infrastructure and equipment, while the moist and lush Cambodia environment introduces its own set of hurdles for those in operational roles. Robinson, with her background as a diving instructor, views these challenges as opportunities for adaptation and innovation in the hospitality industry. Shinta Mani Wild may be a mere fraction of the size of expansive resorts, but its location and environmental impact emphasize a high degree of vigilance and dedication in property management.
As they navigate their roles, both LeBlanc and Robinson acknowledge the difficulties posed by separation from family. Their tenure in the Maldives allowed for annual visits from family members, but current dynamics necessitate yearly travel back home to the U.K. and Canada, especially as relatives age and new generations emerge. They have recently adopted two dogs from the local Cardamom Mountain region, providing companionship in their otherwise solitary lifestyle.
Having collaborated for nearly two decades, the couple has cultivated a robust understanding of each other’s working styles. LeBlanc credits their successful partnership to navigating the complexities of remote locations as a team, while Robinson emphasizes the necessity of maintaining separate office spaces to ensure effectiveness. Their skills complement each other, with Robinson’s meticulous organization balancing LeBlanc’s creative ideation, providing a model that is both functional and enjoyable.
As they reflect on their time together in the hospitality sector, LeBlanc points out a growing trend of hiring couples to manage remote hotels. This model not only enhances operational cohesion but also addresses the loneliness that can accompany expatriate life. He cites recruitment firms specialized in pairing couples for managerial roles at luxury hotels and private islands, which illustrates the ample opportunities available within the high-end travel sector.
In a world increasingly reliant on experiences rather than transient possessions, the work of individuals like LeBlanc and Robinson embodies not just the spirit of hospitality but also a strong commitment to community, sustainability, and operational excellence. Their story serves as a reflection of the interconnectedness of personal passion and professional pursuit, illustrating the increasingly nuanced world of hospitality work in exotic locales.