Angelica Espiritu and Savina Briggs are making history in Bali with their hotel, Hotel Sages. It’s the first Black-owned hotel on the island and much more than a beautiful getaway. This peaceful property is a bold statement about culture, wellness, and building wealth for generations to come.
The pair, both experienced businesswomen, turned a dream vacation into a life-changing opportunity. Their vision for Hotel Sages blends luxury with deep, soulful care, welcoming guests from around the world into a sanctuary where beauty, peace, and purpose meet.
How a Vacation Sparked a Vision for Something Greater
Savina Briggs and Angelica Espiritu first visited Bali for rest and reflection. They quickly felt a powerful connection to the island’s peaceful energy and rich culture. What began as a trip to unwind became a spark for something bigger.
“We found alignment here,” Savina shared. “Bali reminded us to dream freely, and we started asking ourselves, ‘What would it look like to invest here? To build a place that celebrates our culture while creating generational wealth?’”
From a Villa Search to Owning a Boutique Hotel
Their original plan was simple — find a small villa to enjoy during visits. But a surprise listing for Hotel Sages changed everything. Rather than dismissing the idea, they saw it as an exciting, meaningful opportunity.
“We realized it was possible,” Angelica explained. “We had the real estate experience. Buying in Bali wasn’t so different from back home. That moment turned our casual search into a bold leap toward a bigger dream.”
Creating a Luxury Experience with Purpose
Hotel Sages isn’t just about stunning arches, earthy designs, and beautiful suites. The heart of the hotel is its intention — to be a peaceful space where people can reconnect with themselves. Guests are treated to locally sourced breakfasts, sound bath rituals, spa services, and healing retreats.
“It’s about creating a feeling, not just a stay,” Briggs said. “We want guests to feel cared for, seen, and at home, wherever they’ve traveled from.”
Honoring Balinese Culture Through Every Detail
Respect for Bali’s spiritual traditions is woven into the hotel’s experience. Guests are welcomed with a traditional canang sari offering ceremony, setting intentions for their stay. Local incense fills the air each morning, and the spa begins with a sacred foot bath ritual.
“We’re grateful to live here and it’s important to honor that,” said Espiritu. “We’ve partnered with local families and artisans for our offerings. Our entire staff is Balinese — they’re the soul of this place.”
The Story Behind the Hotel’s Creative Roots
Before it became a hotel, the property was a ceramics studio and the private workspace of Riz Riz Rizz, a celebrated Indonesian artist. His influence lives on in every corner of Hotel Sages, where his paintings, sculptures, and ceramics fill the rooms and public spaces.
“That creative spirit is still here,” Briggs noted. “You feel it the moment you step in. It adds a soulfulness you won’t find anywhere else.”
Signature Retreats That Go Beyond the Usual Wellness Getaway
Hotel Sages’ retreats focus on rest, reflection, and connection. Each retreat is built around a theme, blending guided meditations, local adventures, healing workshops, and nourishing meals made with fresh, local ingredients.
“These aren’t one-size-fits-all retreats,” Savina said. “We create each one with care, making sure people leave feeling restored and inspired.”
Unique Experiences You Can Only Find at Hotel Sages
One of the hotel’s most popular offerings is the floating sound bath — the first of its kind at a boutique hotel in Bali. Guests can also hike Mount Batur at sunrise, make traditional Balinese offerings, or enjoy ATV rides through rice fields and villages.
“There’s something for every kind of traveler,” Espiritu shared. “Whether you want peace, adventure, or both, you’ll find it here.”
A Partnership Built on Trust, Strength, and Shared Vision
Espiritu and Briggs balance each other perfectly. Savina’s calm, grounded leadership keeps operations smooth, while Angelica’s background in finance and storytelling drives growth and brand identity. Their friendship and mutual respect power the business.
“We don’t always agree — and that’s the beauty of it,” Angelica said. “We challenge and support each other. That’s why it works.”
Advice for Entrepreneurs Dreaming of Global Ventures
The duo encourages others to dream boldly but prepare carefully. “Know your why,” Espiritu advised. “Be ready to learn new ways of doing business, and find a trusted local team.”
They also stress the importance of building community and being patient with different processes. “It won’t look like what you’re used to,” Briggs added, “but that’s part of the magic.”
Plans for Growth and a Lasting Legacy
Hotel Sages is just the beginning. The founders plan to expand to other culturally rich destinations, building sanctuaries where luxury meets intention and representation. Each new property will honor local traditions while creating opportunities for minority ownership and leadership.
“We’re not just building hotels,” Briggs said. “We’re building a movement, creating spaces where people can rest, heal, and see themselves reflected in luxury.”
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