Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a “best kept secret”?
When you book a romantic getaway in Vanuatu, you’re usually looking for two things: total seclusion and someone to handle the details so you don’t have to. At Papaya Villa, we take that second part very personally! We aren’t a massive resort where you’re just a room number. Nope… we are a true beachfront bed and breakfast in Vanuatu, and that means when you stay with us, you’re staying with us.
Running a 1.6-kilometer stretch of pristine oceanfront plantation, private beaches, and coral reefs isn’t a solo job. It takes a tiny, dedicated “A-Team” to keep the gardens lush, the suites sparkling, and the wood-fired oven roaring.
Want to meet the people (and one very brave dog) who make the magic happen?
Your Hosts: Marcus and Shoran (aka Stoney)
First up, there’s us! I’m Marcus, and alongside Shoran: who most people know as Stoney: we are your hosts, chefs, and chief sunset-watchers.
We’ve been in the hospitality game pretty much our entire lives. We didn’t just stumble into this; we chose it because we love the art of the “personal touch.” When you arrive, it’s Shoran and I who will be there to welcome you to our little slice of heaven.
I’m usually found in the kitchen (my favorite place!). I take a lot of pride in our personalized dining. Whether it’s the scent of fresh saffron or the crunch of flaky salt on a locally caught fish, I want every meal to be a highlight of your stay. Shoran is the glue that keeps everything running smoothly, ensuring your secluded accommodation in Vanuatu feels like a home away from home… only much, much better.
Rotha: The “Housgal” with the Best Laugh
Meet Rotha, our wonderful “housgal.” If your suite feels impossibly fresh and tidy, you have Rotha to thank!
Rotha comes to us from the local village of Eton. She isn’t just someone who helps out; she’s a pro with formal training in housekeeping. She has this incredible eye for detail that makes everything look effortless. But the best part about having Rotha around? Her laugh. It’s infectious!
When things get busy in the kitchen, Rotha jumps in to help me out. And if you want to get on her good side? Chocolate cake. It is her absolute favorite! We feel so lucky to have her as part of the family.
Amos: The Man with the Green Thumb (and a Love for Fire!)
You know those 1.6 kilometers of lush tropical gardens I mentioned? That’s Amos’s domain.
Amos originally started with us as a casual painter, but we quickly realized he had a hidden talent… the man is an awesome gardener. He treats every plant and palm with such care. If you see a perfectly manicured path leading to your private beach, that’s Amos’s handiwork.
He’s one of those guys where nothing is ever a problem. “Yep, can do!” is his unofficial motto. He also happens to be a master at stoking up our wood-fired oven. Who doesn’t like something hot and fresh out of a wood-fired oven? Amos makes sure it’s ready to go whenever we need that perfect smoky flavor for dinner.
Dora: The “Little Security” (Chihuahua Extraordinaire)
And finally, the most important member of the team. Guests usually mention her before they even mention Shoran or me!
Meet Dora, our resident Chihuahua.
Don’t let her size fool you: Dora actually thinks she is a bear. She is our “Little Security” and takes her job as a watchdog very seriously. She absolutely loves it when guests come to visit. She’ll give you a tiny bark of greeting and then settle in to make sure you’re enjoying the reef. She’s a huge part of the Papaya Villa experience!
