Ben Thiele

General Manager of Alila Marea

Ben Thiele, General Manager of Alila Marea

What is the “Alila Experience”?

The hallmark of Alila is the combination of innovative design and crafted luxury in unique locations, set apart by an unprecedented level of personalized hospitality, private spaces and bespoke journeys. Alila Marea Beach Resort is all of this and more.

What can guests expect from a stay here?

Whether riding the consistent ocean waves, biking along the scenic coastline, swimming and bodysurfing, practicing yoga, or simply relaxing and reflecting with a glass of wine, Alila Marea offers an escape that can be as laidback or as active as you choose.

If you had to pick one unique amenity you offer, what would that be?

Simply the access to the ocean. A rare opportunity to sleep to the sound of the waves in understated luxury.

What made you choose Encinitas and such a special location atop a coastal bluff?

Encinitas is a special place. Casual vibes wrapped in warm, elevated comfort create a beautiful balance for our guests.

VAGA, the hotel's restaurant, explores San Diego’s vibrant combination of cultures through the art of native chef Claudette Zepeda: what are the most popular and unique dishes in the menu?

The menu is a love letter to San Diego, often described as internationally fluid. Chef Claudette Zepeda takes her inspiration from the many destinations she’s had the opportunity to visit.

The SPA is a key features of your brand and property: what makes it so special?

One of the many unique features of the spa is the way we tie the southern California locale to the treatments we provide with indigenous touches to treatments and products to connect guests deeper on their journey.

Your beds are dressed with our linen blend, 65% cotton/35% tencel: what made you select this special and innovative product?

When you are welcoming guests into your home, you want every touch to be as comfortable as possible. This product allows guests to feel a bed experience that rivals any linen in the world.

Natural stone, warm woods, clean lines, ocean views: can you talk about the inspiration and design process to create your resort?

Alila Hotels blend seamlessly into its environment, not looking to change the landscape, but to blend and become one.

Marea is the brand’s third US property (first new built) and the 16th worldwide: where do you see Alila in a few years?

Alila will continue to grow throughout the Americas as guests look for unique experiences that leave them with the opportunity to indulge, invigorate, and be inspired.