In an exclusive interview with Travellers World, Shariq Sheriff, Director Area 83 & Aura , shared his inspiring journey and vision for reshaping India’s luxury adventure landscape. Drawing from a life-changing bungee jumping experience in New Zealand, Shariq identified a significant gap in India’s market for thrilling adventure activities, which led to the conceptualization of Area 83.
- What inspired you to create Area 83, and how do you envision it reshaping India’s luxury adventure landscape?
The idea behind Area 83 was formulated after a transformative bungee jumping experience in New Zealand which highlighted the gap in the market for such exciting new adventure activities in the Indian market. My vision for Area 83 was an escape that offers exceptional experiences amid striking scenery by fusing luxury and exploration.
My mission was to transform India’s adventure scene by fusing innovation, astute business acumen, and a profound reverence for the natural world. Area 83 is about creating life-changing experiences that transform our perceptions of luxury and adventure in India. It is not just about providing heart-pounding thrills.
- Can you share some insights into the design philosophy behind Area 83, particularly in blending luxury with extreme sports and ensuring sustainable adventure experiences?
For us at Area 83, the outdoors and new experiences are the foundation of our design philosophy. We believe that to provide an unparalleled experience, the luxury environment and extreme sports should coexist harmoniously.
With careful attention to detail, we have a resort that honours and preserves the natural world while providing luxury and excitement. Our entire business is centered around sustainability, which guarantees that every adventure experience is both exhilarating and ecologically conscious. As we remain steadfastly committed to sustainability, the goal is to offer guests the best possible balance between luxury and adventure.
- The concept of luxury adventure travel is gaining popularity. What, in your opinion, defines an “extreme” experience as luxurious, and how do you ensure guest safety while providing exhilarating thrills?
In my opinion, the perfect storm of thrilling activities, first-rate amenities, and attentive service perfectly captures the essence of an opulent extreme experience. By providing exclusive access to exhilarating experiences in opulent settings, I aim to redefine luxury adventure at Area 83. My top priority is safety, which is why I make sure it is upheld at all times.
We take every precaution to keep our guests safe, from our highly trained staff to our cutting-edge equipment and strict safety procedures. It all comes down to designing experiences that push boundaries so that my guests can completely lose themselves in the thrill of the voyage.
- How do you see the luxury adventure traveller evolving, and what key factors influence their choice of destinations or experiences?
As luxury adventure travel develops, I have noticed that tourists are looking for immersive experiences that balance comfort and excitement. These days, opportunities for personal development, sustainability, and authenticity influence their destination choices. They crave unique experiences that benefit both the environment and local communities.
I want to cater to these changing tastes in Area 83 by providing luxurious, environmentally friendly experiences in the heart of stunning scenery. Every visitor’s journey is designed to be both thrilling and enlightening, guaranteeing a happy and unforgettable experience.
What future trends do you foresee in the luxury adventure travel sector, and how do you plan to innovate and stay ahead of the curve with Area 83?
I see people gaining awareness of the details and precautions taken while formulating adventure activities. There is immense detail and risk involved in ensuring that our patrons get their value for money as well as their safety at our resort, which leads to them gaining insight into the value of Area 83.
Our research team behind Area 83 is very strong in terms of the new and innovative activities available in the city and country. To stay ahead of the curve, I plan on ensuring that Area 83 remains the blueprint for such exciting and new adventure activities.
