There are places in the world that feel less like destinations and more like doorways — thresholds into a quieter, more elemental way of being. Miavana, Time + Tide’s crown jewel off the northern coast of Madagascar, is one of those rare places. Remote yet refined, wild yet whisper-soft in its luxury, it’s an island where time loosens its grip and nature takes the lead. But behind this seamless sense of stillness is a team working with extraordinary intention — and at the helm is General Manager Damian, whose journey to this pocket of paradise is as layered and compelling as the island itself.
From the vibrant hospitality scene of Johannesburg to the far reaches of Botswana’s wilderness, from luxury lodges to ocean-crossing cruise ships, Damian’s career has been shaped by adventure, purpose, and an unwavering belief in connection. His path to Miavana wasn’t linear — but it was inevitable. Today, two years into managing one of the most exclusive island retreats on the planet, he brings with him a philosophy rooted in passion, integrity, and a deep respect for both people and place.
In our conversation, Damian opens up about what drew him to Madagascar’s untouched beauty, why Miavana is redefining the future of luxury travel, and how life on a remote island has reshaped his own perspective. He shares a candid look at leadership, community, conservation, and the magic that unfolds when travelers step into a world where nature, culture, and flawless service exist in perfect harmony.
A heartfelt thank you to Damian for taking time out of his busy schedule — and for helping our readers discover a deeper, more intimate understanding of Miavana.
Below, you’ll find the full, unedited conversation—part of In Conversation With, a series from Suite Sojourn spotlighting the hoteliers, entrepreneurs, and creative minds shaping the future of luxury travel.
Suite Sojourn: Can you share a bit about your journey in hospitality? Where has your career taken you, and how did you ultimately land on this island paradise?
Damian, GM of Miavana: My journey in hospitality started just outside Johannesburg, South Africa, where I worked in a few bars and small hospitality outlets. It was there that I discovered my passion for working with people — I loved that no two days were ever the same. That realization inspired me to study at the International Hotel School in Johannesburg, where I formally began building my foundation in hospitality.
After qualifying, I joined The Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg, one of South Africa’s most renowned properties. I worked my way through various departments, learning the importance of detail and service at the highest level. From there, I was offered a remarkable opportunity at Singita Lebombo. This experience truly cemented my place in the luxury travel and hospitality sector. I spent about four years there, growing both personally and professionally.
Following the challenges of COVID, I decided to combine my passion for hospitality with my love of travel. I joined Celebrity Cruises for a contract that allowed me to explore incredible destinations while gaining valuable international experience. Although I only completed one contract, it was a defining and enriching chapter of my journey.
Soon after, I was offered a position with &Beyond in Botswana, managing a safari camp. Having always loved the bush, this was a natural next step. After several years there, I felt ready for a new challenge — one that would allow me to explore a completely different environment. Running an island, after all, presents an entirely new dynamic compared to a bush camp.
When I reached out to a recruiter friend, she told me she had the perfect opportunity — and she was right. Two years later, I’m still here, managing an island resort and loving every minute of it.
Suite Sojourn: What drew you to Madagascar—and to Miavana in particular? Was it the challenge, the remoteness, the beauty?
Damian, GM of Miavana: I always knew I would one day work for Miavana. I first came across the property in early 2019, when it was still quite new — just two years old at the time. Even then, it resonated deeply with me. There was something about the vision, the beauty, and the commitment to both the country and its environment that truly stood out.
I’ve always been a strong advocate for luxury with purpose — the kind that exists in harmony with nature and celebrates stillness and authenticity. Remote destinations have always drawn me in; there’s something special about places that most people only dream of visiting. For me, the sense of adventure, combined with the opportunity to work in such a meaningful and inspiring environment, made Miavana the perfect fit.
Suite Sojourn: What’s your personal mission or philosophy as a GM? What kind of atmosphere do you try to create for your guests—and for your team?
Damian, GM of Miavana: There are two key elements that define my leadership style.
The first is my personal mantra — and while it may sound a little cliché, it’s something I truly live by: “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” For me, this isn’t just a saying; it’s a mindset. I believe in showing up each day with purpose and passion. Our work plays such a significant role in the lives we create, so we might as well enjoy it — and honestly, what’s not to love about working on a remote island surrounded by nature and people who share that same passion?
The second is the framework I use to guide my leadership and decision-making: the acronym FIRE, which stands for Fairness, Integrity, Respect, and Excellence. These four values are the pillars of how I lead and live. I strive to treat everyone fairly, act with integrity, respect those around me, and pursue excellence in everything we do.
I believe every team member has something meaningful to contribute, and it’s my responsibility to create an environment where they feel seen, heard, and valued — while also being challenged to grow. When people feel that sense of respect and motivation, they naturally push harder, take pride in their work, and deliver the extraordinary. That’s when our guests truly experience the magic of what we do.
Suite Sojourn: How has living and working in such an untouched, remote part of the world changed your perspective—on travel, luxury, or even life?
Damian, GM of Miavana: It has definitely changed my view — and I think it’s also shaping what travel, especially luxury travel, is becoming as a whole. We live in a time where we are more connected than ever, yet somehow more disconnected from ourselves and the world around us. With every piece of information available within milliseconds, what people are now truly seeking is connection — connection to nature, to others, and to themselves.
We’re seeing a shift: from indulgence to intimacy, from performance to purpose, from access to anonymity. Travelers no longer just want luxury; they want meaning, stillness, and authenticity
Madagascar embodies that beautifully. It strips away the noise and brings people back to the basics — back to genuine human connection and the wonder of the natural world. Living and working here has completely changed my approach to life and travel. I now strive for connection above all else — it’s what gives both travel and leadership true depth and purpose.
Suite Sojourn: Let’s talk logistics—because getting to Miavana is part of the experience. Miavana is remote, and that’s part of the magic—but what’s the most seamless route for guests traveling from the U.S. or South Africa? Any updates on that private airstrip we’re hearing whispers about for 2027?
Damian, GM of Miavana: I’ve attached a link to our page https://miavana.com/location/, which outlines the best options for getting to the island. Traveling to Miavana is part of the adventure, and it’s more seamless than many guests expect.
For travelers from America or Europe, Ethiopian Airlines offers daily flights to Nosy Be, providing flexibility and convenience.
From South Africa, there’s a weekly flight that’s around three hours. Once you arrive, our helicopter team will be ready to whisk you directly to the island, offering breathtaking aerial views of Madagascar’s coastline, forests, and reefs — it’s a remarkable introduction to the island and sets the tone for the stay ahead.
As for the private airstrip, it’s still under discussion and no approvals have been granted yet. We’ll share updates as soon as anything is confirmed, so guests can stay informed on developments.
Ultimately, the journey to Miavana is part of the experience — a seamless blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and anticipation for the unparalleled luxury that awaits on arrival.
Suite Sojourn: Many travelers are intrigued by Madagascar, but also intimidated by the distance. Some travelers may be hesitant about the journey. What would you say to those wondering if it’s “too hard to get to”? What makes it more than worth it?
Damian, GM of Miavana: This is the best part about traveling — it’s always about the journey. Yes, we know it can be a long trip, but trust me, it’s worth every moment. Once you arrive, our team will be waiting with a refreshing cocktail or mocktail, and from that point on, you won’t need to lift a finger. Our dedicated butler team is there to anticipate and take care of your every need.
At Miavana, we do things a little differently. We focus on creating completely personalized and immersive experiences. If you’d like to stay active and explore, we’ll craft unforgettable adventures for you. If you prefer a balance of adventure circuits and relaxation, we’ll design that too. Or, if your idea of perfection is unwinding by the pool with spa treatments and uninterrupted serenity — that’s exactly what you’ll get.
There’s truly so much to do… or not to do. For me, though, it’s the people who make Miavana so special. Their warmth, passion, and authenticity ensure that every guest leaves having experienced something deeply personal and truly unforgettable.
Suite Sojourn: That helicopter transfer sounds like a moment guests never forget. Can you describe what they see from above—landscapes, coastline, wildlife?
Damian, GM of Miavana: This is one of my absolute favorites. The landscape over the northern sector of Madagascar is simply breathtaking — a stunning blend of rugged mountains, endless ocean views, and pristine white-sand coastline that radiates beauty and tranquility.
From the helicopter, the experience becomes even more magical. There’s a chance to spot manta rays gliding gracefully through the water, whales breaching in the distance, turtles drifting below the surface, and even large GT fish darting through the reef. As you approach the island, the view transforms — the vivid azures of the ocean and the soft white sands surrounding Miavana create a picture-perfect welcome that never fails to take my breath away.
Suite Sojourn: And for those who are a bit… helicopter-shy—what do you say? Is it something most guests come to embrace?
Damian, GM of Miavana: That’s a very valid question — and to be honest, I completely understand it. I’ll admit, I’m a little helicopter-shy myself! But our aviation team is incredibly skilled, with extensive experience and thousands of flight hours operating in these exact conditions.
Safety is absolutely paramount. Our pilots adhere to strict safety protocols, and the aircraft undergoes rigorous maintenance and testing to ensure that every component is in perfect working order. The pilots are professionals who take every precaution — after all, they want to get home safely at the end of the day too.
During the flight, they keep the aircraft smooth, straight, and level to ensure maximum comfort for our guests. Once people realize how experienced and safety-conscious our team is, their nerves usually settle very quickly. In fact, many guests end up chatting with the pilots and even asking for their Spotify playlist — which has become a fun and surprisingly soothing part of the experience!
Suite Sojourn: Once on the ground, that scenic helicopter transfer is a wow moment in itself. Can you paint a picture of what guests see on the flight in? Is there an option for guests who are hesitant about helicopters—or is that part of the “trust the journey” ethos of Miavana?
Damian, GM of Miavana: This part of the journey is definitely a “trust the process” moment. After a long period of travel, our goal is simply to get you here as smoothly and quickly as possible — so that the relaxation can begin and you can immediately immerse yourself in the Miavana experience. Every step is designed with care, ensuring that once you arrive, the journey feels completely worth it.
Suite Sojourn: Miavana sits at the intersection of barefoot luxury and wild nature. How would you describe the essence of a stay here in just a few words?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Miavana is pure harmony — where barefoot luxury meets untouched wilderness. It’s a place of stillness, connection, and quiet adventure; where time slows down, nature takes center stage, and every moment feels effortlessly extraordinary.
Suite Sojourn: What sets Miavana apart from other ultra-luxury island escapes like in Seychelles, or Maldives? Is it the setting, the story, the sense of place?
Damian, GM of Miavana: What truly sets Miavana apart is its sense of place. While the Maldives and Seychelles are undeniably beautiful, Miavana offers something far rarer — a deep connection to both nature and culture. It’s not just about luxury here; it’s about authenticity, purpose, and presence.
Madagascar itself is unlike anywhere else on earth — wild, raw, and full of life found nowhere else. Miavana captures that essence while delivering an ultra-luxury experience that feels completely organic, never manufactured. The island tells a story — one of conservation, community, and reconnection — and guests become part of that story the moment they arrive.
It’s this blend of wild beauty, genuine purpose, and intuitive service that makes Miavana truly one of a kind.
Suite Sojourn: The villas feel both grand and grounded. What inspired their design—and how do you ensure the experience is both high-end and deeply connected to Madagascar?
Damian, GM of Miavana: The villas at Miavana are designed to feel both grand and grounded, reflecting the perfect balance between luxury and connection to the natural environment. Inspiration came from Madagascar itself — its raw landscapes, rich textures, and vibrant local culture.
We use locally sourced materials and natural finishes wherever possible, allowing the villas to blend seamlessly into the surroundings while still offering the comfort and elegance expected at an ultra-luxury property. Every detail is carefully considered, from the layout and flow to the tactile experience of fabrics and finishes, ensuring that guests feel both pampered and immersed in the island’s essence.
Our goal is to create spaces where guests can relax in absolute comfort, yet remain deeply connected to the extraordinary environment around them. It’s about high-end living without losing the soul of Madagascar.
Suite Sojourn: Do your guests often say that even at high occupancy, they feel like they have the island to themselves. How do you preserve that sense of privacy and space?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Yes, absolutely — all the time. Even when we have 20 or more guests on the property, many of them will comment, “Are we the only ones here?” This is a huge positive, as it aligns perfectly with what today’s travelers are seeking: privacy, space, and a sense of exclusivity.
At the same time, for those who want a bit more connection, social moments naturally happen at places like the Fort Bar or Crabshack during sundowners, where guests can meet and share experiences. It’s a balance that ensures both intimacy and community, depending on what each guest desires.
Suite Sojourn: What kinds of wildlife experiences do guests have access to—on and off the island? Lemurs, baobabs, reefs… what’s most magical in your eyes?
Damian, GM of Miavana: On the island, there is so much to experience. Guests can encounter crowned lemurs and explore vibrant, pristine reefs, thanks to the absence of petrol-powered boats in the area. The island also features young baobabs, carefully planted by the island manager, which he personally grew from seeds — a unique touch that reflects our commitment to conservation.
Off the island, excursions are easily accessible by helicopter, allowing guests to reach some of Madagascar’s most remarkable and remote landscapes. Highlights include Tsingy Rouge, with its striking red limestone formations; Anjankeli, a hidden gem of unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery; and Ankarana, famous for its limestone karst formations, underground rivers, and abundant lemur populations.
Together, the on-island and off-island experiences provide a perfect balance of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and immersive exploration, giving guests a truly comprehensive taste of Madagascar’s extraordinary natural beauty.
Suite Sojourn: Is there an experience guests tend to skip—but later say they wish they hadn’t? Something underrated or unexpected?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Sometimes guests don’t prebook their helicopter excursions, and that’s perfectly fine. Often, during a relaxed discussion at dinner, we’ll guide them through the key activities and encourage them to experience the must-do adventures at least once.
It’s common for guests who initially prioritize relaxation to gradually become more active as their stay progresses. By the latter part of their holiday, they often realize just how much there is to explore — both on the property and in the surrounding areas — and are excited to dive into these immersive experiences.
Suite Sojourn: You offer heli-excursions to the mainland—what are some of the most jaw-dropping places you’ve flown guests to?
Damian, GM of Miavana: While Ankarana is an excellent choice, with its diverse landscapes and striking Tsingy formations, I believe Daraina is the standout option for wildlife enthusiasts. Daraina is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is particularly famous for the golden-crowned sifaka, one of Madagascar’s most iconic lemur species.
The area offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, with lemurs often visible throughout the day, along with a variety of birdlife and endemic flora. The surrounding landscapes are a mix of forested areas and rolling hills, providing breathtaking scenery at every turn. Guests can enjoy immersive walks, guided wildlife encounters, and truly memorable photographic opportunities.
For those seeking both adventure and close encounters with Madagascar’s unique wildlife, Daraina delivers a combination of accessibility, high-quality viewing, and an unforgettable sense of place.
Suite Sojourn: Miavana also has a strong community presence. How do you work with local villages and support the surrounding region?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Miavana takes its role in the local community very seriously and strives to create meaningful, sustainable impact. We work closely with surrounding villages to provide employment opportunities, skills training, and support for local businesses. Many of our staff are recruited from nearby communities, and we prioritize developing their professional and personal growth through structured training programs.
Additionally, we collaborate with the Time and Tide Foundation (TTF) to enhance the experiences we offer our guests while supporting the region. Through TTF, guests can participate in curated excursions and activities that connect them with local culture, wildlife, and conservation efforts, all while generating positive impact for the communities they visit.
By fostering these strong, collaborative relationships, we aim to create a model of responsible luxury tourism that benefits both our guests and the local community, helping to preserve the culture and environment that make Madagascar so unique.
Suite Sojourn: What’s the best time of year to visit Miavana—and how does the guest experience shift with the seasons?
Damian, GM of Miavana: The best time to visit Miavana is generally during the dry season, from May to November. This period is perfect for kite surfing and downwinders on surf skis, making Miavana one of the world’s premier destinations for these experiences.
The wet season, from December to April, brings warmer temperatures and occasional tropical showers. During this time, the ocean is ideal for fishing and other marine activities, and the island becomes lush and vibrant, with flourishing flora and active wildlife, offering a deeply immersive experience.
Whether visiting in the dry or wet season, Miavana provides unique and unforgettable opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connection with Madagascar’s extraordinary natural environment.
Suite Sojourn: Some guests probably arrive post-safari and are ready to fully unwind, while others may want to stay active. How do you tailor the stay to each traveler’s pace?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Some guests arrive at Miavana looking to fully unwind after a safari, while others are eager to remain active and explore. We cater to every individual preference by offering personalized and immersive experiences that are tailor-made for each guest.
Whether it’s adventure-filled days with excursions and water sports, or tranquil moments by the pool and indulgent spa treatments, our team works closely with guests to craft a stay that matches their pace and desires. Every itinerary is flexible, ensuring that each guest can experience the island in a way that feels authentic, luxurious, and uniquely their own.
Suite Sojourn: With so many activities included, how do guests usually spend their days? And what’s a typical “perfect day” at Miavana?
Damian, GM of Miavana: With so many activities available, every guest’s day at Miavana can be completely unique, tailored to their preferences. Some may start with a sunrise yoga session or a refreshing swim, followed by an excursion to spot lemurs or explore the vibrant reefs. Others may choose to unwind with a leisurely breakfast on their villa terrace before enjoying water sports, kite surfing, or a guided island adventure.
A “perfect day” often combines immersive experiences and moments of relaxation: perhaps a morning spent exploring the island by helicopter or surf ski, a leisurely lunch at the Crabshack or Fort Bar, an afternoon of snorkeling or spa treatments, and an evening sundowner as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Every element is crafted to ensure guests feel both deeply connected to the natural surroundings and completely pampered, creating memories that are uniquely their own.
Suite Sojourn: Is Miavana ideal for couples and honeymooners only—or do you also welcome families, solo travelers, and multi-gen groups?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Miavana is far more than just a destination for couples or honeymooners. While it’s ideal for romantic escapes, we also warmly welcome families, solo travelers, and multi-generational groups.
Each stay is designed to be personalized and immersive, ensuring that whether guests are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, every individual’s needs are met. Families can enjoy curated experiences that captivate all ages, solo travelers can immerse themselves in tranquility and exploration, and multi-gen groups can find activities and private moments that suit everyone.
Ultimately, Miavana adapts to each guest, offering tailored experiences that create unforgettable memories for every type of traveler.
Suite Sojourn: With limited heli luggage capacity, what advice do you give guests who travel heavy—or want to bring more than the allowance allows?
Damian, GM of Miavana: While we understand that many guests are on extended itineraries, extra luggage can be securely stored with our teams at the respective airports. This allows guests to pack a smaller, more convenient bag for the helicopter transfer.
Depending on the arrangements, additional luggage may sometimes be accommodated at a seat rate, which allows for extra weight to be included. All of these details can be discussed and finalized with the Travel Designer during the booking phase, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience from start to finish.
Suite Sojourn: Any insider tips to make the most of a Miavana stay—like ideal length, special promos, or suggested pairings with safari destinations?
Damian, GM of Miavana: To truly make the most of a Miavana stay, we recommend allowing at least 4–5 nights to fully experience the island, both on and off the property. This gives guests time to relax, explore, and immerse themselves in the personalized experiences we offer.
For those combining Miavana with a safari itinerary, a post-safari stay is ideal — it provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect after the excitement of wildlife encounters. Guests can tailor their time to their energy levels, choosing from adventure activities, marine excursions, or tranquil days of relaxation.
We also suggest coordinating with our Travel Designer early on, as they can advise on current promotions, bespoke packages, and curated pairings with Madagascar’s iconic safari destinations, ensuring every element of the journey is seamless, immersive, and unforgettable.
Suite Sojourn: Miavana sits in the same price tier as Laucala, North Island, and Soneva Secret. What do you tell travelers about the value? What are they really investing in?
Damian, GM of Miavana: Miavana sits within the same ultra-luxury tier as Laucala, North Island, and Soneva Jani, and what guests are really investing in goes far beyond exceptional accommodations. They’re investing in a completely personalized and immersive experience — one that blends barefoot luxury with the untamed beauty of Madagascar.
Guests gain access to pristine, remote landscapes, curated wildlife encounters, helicopter excursions, and tailor-made adventures that can’t be replicated anywhere else. The service is deeply intuitive, with a dedicated team anticipating every need, ensuring each stay is effortless and transformative.
In essence, the value lies in the combination of exclusivity, connection, adventure, and unparalleled natural beauty. It’s not just a stay; it’s a journey that leaves a lasting impact, creating memories that are truly once-in-a-lifetime.
Suite Sojourn: What’s something no brochure, Instagram post, or website can ever capture about Miavana? Something that can only be felt?
Damian, GM of Miavana: What no brochure, Instagram post, or website can truly capture is the feeling of being completely present in such a rare and untouched place. It’s the quiet awe of waking up to the gentle sounds of the ocean and the forest, the sense of solitude while still feeling deeply connected to nature, and the unspoken care and attention from a team that anticipates every need before it’s voiced.
It’s the intimacy of moments shared with wildlife, the exhilaration of exploring landscapes few will ever see, and the profound stillness that allows guests to reconnect with themselves. That feeling — of total immersion, wonder, and peace — is something that can only be experienced in person at Miavana.
Suite Sojourn: And finally… after a long day managing paradise, where do you go on the island to feel inspired or grounded again?
Damian, GM of Miavana: For me, running a successful operation starts with health and wellness, so I like to begin my day in the gym. We are currently refurbishing it with new equipment, which is due to arrive later this year. My early morning workouts allow me to watch the sunrise and reflect on the gratitude of being in such a remarkable place — and believe me, there is a lot to be grateful for.
In the afternoons, before dinner, I often take a walk to the Crabshack to watch the sunset and soak in the beauty of the property, sometimes spotting lemurs as they settle in for the evening. If I’m not working that night, I’ll enjoy a cold beer with colleagues — maintaining connection with the team, which I consider vital for the success of the operation.
On top of that, I’ve been learning to kite surf with our instructor Johnson. He’s fantastic, though my skills are still very much a work in progress — but it’s all part of embracing the adventure and lifestyle Miavana offers.
As our conversation with Damian comes to a close, one truth becomes unmistakably clear: Miavana is far more than an island. It is a living, breathing expression of purpose — a place where luxury is measured not only in beauty and comfort, but in connection, care, and the rare gift of presence.
Through Damian’s leadership and the team’s unwavering passion, Miavana continues to define what the future of high-end travel can be: meaningful, intimate, and rooted in a profound respect for nature and community.
For travelers seeking a destination that slows the world down while expanding it in all the right ways, Miavana offers an experience that lingers long after you’ve left its white shores.
From all of us at Suite Sojourn, thank you for joining us in this edition of In Conversation With. Until next time, may your journeys be intentional, your discoveries immersive, and your escapes nothing short of extraordinary.
Images © Damian, Miavana, Oliver Fly, Time + Tide.
