Tith Samnang AKA Lucky – Adventure Butler, Shinta Mani Wild
In this interview, Tith Samnang aka Lucky, shares insight into what it’s like being an Adventure Butler at Shinta Mani Wild.
What do you do?
I’m an adventure butler at Shinta Mani Wild. I make sure guests have a great time by taking care of their needs, organizing fun activities, and making sure they’re happy during their stay, wherever they are.
How did you get into the industry?
I’ve always loved helping people and working in hospitality. After studying at Shinta Mani Hospitality School, I started as a trainee at Shinta Mani Wild. Luckily, after three months, I got hired full-time and have been here ever since, learning and making guests happy.
Share with us a story from behind the scenes.
We threw a surprise birthday party for a guest. We worked with the kitchen to make a special cake according to guests’ preferences and set up a private dinner spot by the river. When the guest walked in and saw it, their face lit up with joy. It felt amazing to make their day special.
What food memory from your childhood or travels stands out?
Eating traditional Khmer food with my family back home in Cambodia is something I’ll always remember. The flavours and smells of the dishes and the warmth of sharing a meal with loved ones are memories I cherish.
What’s the best/worst part of your job?
The best part is meeting people from all over the world and creating awesome memories for them. The worst part is when unexpected problems pop up, but solving them and seeing guests happy makes it worth it, and the saddest part is seeing them leave…
What’s one of your favourite food and beverage pairings?
I love a juicy steak with Kampot Pepper sauce and a glass of red wine. It’s a match made in heaven!
What’s one of the wildest things you’ve seen behind the scenes?
Once, we had to relocate a four-meter-long python that tried to eat one of our ducks on the farm. It was intense, but we got it sorted with teamwork.
The perfect day off would be…
Exploring the wilderness around Shinta Mani Wild, maybe spotting some cool reptiles or butterflies. Then, relaxing by the river with friends and a good meal that we cooked together at the staff village.
A day in the life of Adventure Butler Tith Samnang is …
Full of different tasks, from helping guests and solving problems to making sure everyone has a great time. It’s busy but rewarding.
What does Tith Samnang do for fun?
I love exploring nature, learning about wildlife, and hanging out with friends and family. I’m also into photography, capturing moments and memories wherever I go.
What’s something you’d like guests to know about Shinta Mani Wild Hotel?
I want guests to know that Shinta Mani Wild isn’t just a hotel – it’s an adventure. You’ll connect with nature, have amazing experiences, and make a positive impact on the environment.
How have you grown in your profession?
Since starting as an adventure butler, I’ve learned a lot. Attention to detail, communication, and going the extra mile for guests is key. I’ve also discovered a passion for guiding guests through the wilderness and sharing insights about our surroundings.
What’s something you’d like people to know about being a butler?
Being an adventure butler is more than just a job – it’s a lifestyle. It’s about making guests feel special and creating unforgettable experiences for them.
What’s your view on the hospitality scene in the city you work in?
Since we’re in a remote area, hospitality here is all about nature and adventure. It’s a different vibe from city hotels but special in its own way.
What practices do you currently implement or hope to implement to work towards social responsibility and sustainability in the future?
We’re big on sustainability and conservation at Shinta Mani Wild. I want to do even more, like having experts teach us more about the surrounding animals and their habitats. I believe this will not only enhance our understanding of the ecosystem but also allow us to provide richer and more educational experiences for our guests.
What can guests look forward to in the upcoming months?
As the monsoon season starts, nature around us will come alive. We’ll have more hiking trails, wild orchid walks, and new menus inspired by seasonal ingredients. It’s going to be an exciting time, and I can’t wait to share it with our guests!
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