Originally Posted by
bhrubin
I think the before "remote Zen-like retreat" ambience of Aman is what has changed. The after new urban retreat model just doesn't execute the Zen-like service despite the Zen-like hard product. And everything has flowed from there.
I agree with your entire post, but this in particular calls out to me. During our time at Amanjiwo and Amankila over the past couple of weeks, I couldn’t help but think about how technology has dramatically changed the original vision of these properties. It is clearly quite intentional to not install a TV in any guest rooms (aligning with your “zen-like retreat” comment). With cell phones, laptops, mobile broadband, etc., that intended exclusion becomes moot. I’m not saying I don’t use my phone at Aman properties, but I can acknowledge that the prevalence of technology has likely changed the “zen-like” feel.