a bright tomorrow
Samong is Balinese for tiger, but sadly they are now extinct from our island. Our name reminds us to be mindful as we set out to bridge culture, communities and conservation.
About Us
Samong Haven is a project of passion and care established through a partnership between Don, who is an architect originally from Jamaica; Ketut, who is from North West Bali and has a background in hospitality; Charlotte, a Norwegian with a background in international relations and corporate social responsibility; and Nicholas, a British artist, writer and curator.
New Connection
We met in Bali in 2015 and became excited when we discovered we shared passions for art, architecture, nature and Bali. Our conversations began to shape a vision of a space for meetings, culture and learning that would have a positive impact on its surroundings, that we all felt should be available to as many people as possible.
The Journey So Far
Our mutual enthusiasm is now taking the form of Samong Haven: a place for culture, community, nature, learning and wellness. It is a project that will offer special experiences - with proceeds used to address humanitarian and environmental problems in NW Bali.
So far we have:
asked many people living in the area, travel enthusiasts, and foundations active in the region, about what they feel is needed.
partnered on two collaborative research projects looking at the relationships between architecture, creativity, community and the travel industry.
relocated a traditional Indonesian limasan building to our site to serve as a multi-function building for classes, gatherings, and events.
established a series of programmes exchanging knowledge between artists, architects and others based in Bali and and around the world.
Encouraging a Healthier Travel Industry
The next stage in our story will begin when we open, and we hope you want to be part of it.
Why Care?
The travel industry is the largest contributor to the economic development of Bali, but it needs careful management and conscientious approaches to ensure sustainable development that is respectful of the island's culture and beneficial for community and environment.
Sumberkima where Samong Haven is located remains one of the most unspoiled, but also poorest parts of the island. At Samong Haven we believe in the friendly, warm people that make up our community and are dedicated to facilitating sustainable prosperity in the region.
Make The Change Happen
Our guests will be key to making a difference. Without income from your stays, our mission to benefit our local community, develop cultural exchange and facilitate sustainable conservation will most likely fail.