About Us
At Zen Luxury Retreats, we’re all about creating unforgettable vacation experiences that nourish the mind, body, and soul. Whether you’re a health-conscious business traveler, a corporate family, or an adventurous tourist, we’ve got everything you need to feel pampered and rejuvenated.
Our luxurious Zen Homes are thoughtfully designed to provide a toxic-free, eco-friendly living environment, with all the guest essentials you need for a stress-free stay. From spacious accommodations to top-notch amenities, we’ve thought of everything to ensure that your stay with us is comfortable, convenient, and unforgettable.
But we’re not just focused on providing a luxurious vacation experience – we’re also committed to sustainability, with eco-friendly consumables and hotel-grade linens that minimize our environmental impact.
At Zen Luxury Retreats, we believe that your vacation should be a Home Away from Home, with all the comfort and convenience you need to truly unwind and relax. With our flexible, family-friendly stays, we’re here to help you make the most of every moment.
If you’re looking for a truly indulgent vacation experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul, look no further than Zen Luxury Retreats. Ask us a question in our Contact section, and we’ll be happy to help you plan your next unforgettable vacation. Namaste!
Benji & The Zen Team
Meet Our Team
Benji Christie
Founder & Managing Director
Benji is the Founder and Managing Director of Zen Luxury Retreats, a premier provider of upscale short-stay accommodations in Darwin.
With over a decade of experience spanning health promotion, project management, and community service, Benji brings a wealth of expertise to the luxury accommodation industry. Armed with a Bachelor of Health Science in Health Promotion and Health Services Management from Charles Darwin University, his academic and professional background shapes his business philosophy, prioritizing quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
Before founding Zen Luxury Retreats, Benji made significant contributions to public health and community engagement at esteemed institutions such as the Menzies School of Health Research, Royal Darwin Hospital, and the Council for Aboriginal Alcohol Program Services. His dedication to addressing public health issues seamlessly translated into the realm of local travel.
Under Benji's leadership, Zen Luxury Retreats has emerged as a symbol of excellence in luxury travel, offering exclusive accommodation options tailored for travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and sophistication. His strategic business acumen, coupled with a deep understanding of customer needs, has elevated the company to new heights, setting the standard for luxury stays in Darwin and making Zen Luxury Retreats the preferred choice for discerning travelers.
Aruni Senanyake
Accommodation Manager
Aruni is an accomplished professional with 18 years of experience in the Tourism & Hospitality industry across five countries. Currently serving as the Accommodation Manager at Zen Luxury Retreats in Darwin, Australia since 2021, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and management skills.
Prior to her current role, Aruni held various positions in prestigious establishments, including four years as an Inhouse Sales Manager at a luxurious 5-star hotel in Melbourne, Australia. Her international experience includes roles in Singapore, Dubai, and Qatar, where she contributed significantly to revenue growth and customer satisfaction.
With a strong educational background, Aruni completed her Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality Management in Australia in 2019, complemented by a Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management from Singapore in 2016.
Aruni's dedication and expertise have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the title of Best Accommodation Manager of the year 2024 in NT Australia and the Territory Champion of February 2024, bestowed by Tourism Top End, NT Australia. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to every role, consistently delivering exceptional results in the dynamic Tourism & Hospitality industry.
Therese Nicole Cruz
Virtual Vacation Rental Manager
Nikki brings nine years of experience in the call center industry, primarily with healthcare leaders in the US. Throughout her career, she has thrived in various roles, from Team Facilitator to billing specialist, adeptly managing escalated issues and ensuring operational excellence. Transitioning to remote work, Nikki has supervised E-Commerce and Property Management teams, addressing critical concerns and delivering exceptional guest experiences in the short-term rentals sector.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Nikki is a devoted wife and mother of two wonderful boys. She finds joy in singing, painting, and doodling architectural plans, reflecting her passion for creativity nurtured during her three-year study of architecture in college. Nikki also enjoys cooking and baking, delighting in preparing delicious meals for her loved ones.
With a proven track record across industries and a diverse skill set, Nikki is poised to contribute effectively to any team. Leveraging her customer service acumen, remote management skills, administrative proficiency, and maternal aptitude, she is committed to driving organizational success.
Chris Christie
Operations Manager
Chris is the Operations Manager at Zen Luxury Retreats, overseeing all aspects of property maintenance and management to ensure the highest standards of quality and service. With a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, Chris brings a strategic approach to his role, ensuring seamless operations across all properties.
Prior to joining Zen Luxury Retreats, Chris held key positions in property management and operations, where he honed his skills in project management, facilities maintenance, and team leadership. His dedication to excellence and attention to detail make him an invaluable asset to the team.
In his role, Chris is responsible for coordinating property maintenance schedules, overseeing renovations and upgrades, and managing vendor relationships to ensure timely and cost-effective solutions. He works closely with the housekeeping and maintenance teams to address any issues promptly and efficiently, ensuring that guests enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay.
With his proven track record of success and commitment to excellence, Chris plays a crucial role in maintaining Zen Luxury Retreats' reputation as a leader in luxury accommodation in Darwin.
Rohit Kansra
Accounts & Administration
Rohit is the Team Leader at Zen Luxury Retreats, where he oversees the accounts and administration functions of the business. With a background in accounting and extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Rohit plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of the company.
Since the inception of Zen Luxury Retreats, Rohit has been an integral part of the team, leveraging his expertise in finance and administration to support the company's growth and success. His attention to detail and strong organizational skills make him well-suited for managing the financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
In addition to his accounting responsibilities, Rohit also oversees the administrative functions of the company, including payroll, human resources, and office management. He works closely with the team to streamline processes and implement best practices, ensuring that operations run efficiently and effectively.
Rohit's dedication to excellence and commitment to the company's goals make him a valued leader at Zen Luxury Retreats. His ability to balance financial stewardship with operational efficiency contributes to the company's continued success and growth in the competitive hospitality industry.
Sahan Sudeepa
IT Business Analyst
Sahan is an accomplished IT Business Analyst known for his technical expertise and business acumen. Holding a Masters of Information Technology with a major in Business Analytics from Deakin University, Australia, and a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and Management (Special) from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, Sahan brings a unique blend of skills to his role.
With a background in web development, social media management, and digital marketing, Sahan has proven his ability to leverage technology to drive business growth and innovation. He has excelled in implementing automation solutions to streamline operational processes and enhance the guest experience in the Tourism and Hospitality industry.
Sahan's proficiency in analytics tools allows him to track guest feedback and reviews, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring guest satisfaction. His experience in IT project management enables him to successfully plan, execute, and evaluate technology initiatives to support business objectives.
Passionate about internet, social media, and technology integrations, Sahan is committed to driving innovation and elevating the Tourism and Hospitality industry through his expertise and forward-thinking approach.
Lilet Francisco
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist
Lilet is the Guest Relations Specialist at Zen Luxury Retreats, bringing unparalleled expertise in guest satisfaction and administrative support. With extensive experience since the inception of the company, Lilet plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless guest experiences and supporting operational functions.
Her dedication to guest relations is evident in her meticulous attention to detail and proactive approach to resolving guest inquiries and concerns. Lilet's strong organizational skills and ability to manage schedules effectively contribute to the smooth operation of the business.
As a key member of the team, Lilet is committed to upholding the highest standards of hospitality and ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable stay. Her passion for providing exceptional service and her proficiency in administrative functions make her an invaluable asset to Zen Luxury Retreats.
Maricel Pantoja
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist
Maricel is a dedicated Guest Relations Specialist at Zen Luxury Retreats, specializing in delivering exceptional guest experiences and providing vital support in scheduling property maintenance tasks. Although she recently joined the company, Maricel has quickly proven herself as a valuable asset with her keen attention to detail and proactive approach to guest relations.
Her role encompasses managing guest inquiries, ensuring guest satisfaction, and coordinating property maintenance schedules to uphold the highest standards of hospitality. Maricel's commitment to excellence and strong organizational skills make her an integral part of the team, contributing to the smooth operation of Zen Luxury Retreats.
Joy Anne Gorospe
Virtual Guest Relations Specialist
Joy is a versatile member of the Zen Luxury Retreats team, serving as a Guest Relations Specialist and Media Marketing Assistant. With a passion for providing exceptional guest experiences and a flair for creative marketing, Joy plays a crucial role in ensuring guest satisfaction and promoting the company's brand image.
In her capacity as a Guest Relations Specialist, Joy excels in managing guest inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring that every guest enjoys a memorable stay. Her warm and friendly demeanor, combined with her excellent communication skills, make her a valuable asset in building strong relationships with guests.
Additionally, Joy brings her creative talents to the table as a Media Marketing Assistant, where she assists in developing marketing strategies, creating engaging content, and managing social media platforms. Her innovative ideas and attention to detail contribute to the success of Zen Luxury Retreats' marketing initiatives, helping to attract new guests and enhance the company's online presence.
With her dedication, enthusiasm, and multitasking abilities, Joy plays an essential role in delivering exceptional guest experiences and promoting Zen Luxury Retreats as a premier destination for luxury accommodation in Darwin.
