MEET THE HOST

“Maybe my soul didn’t find this place by chance—maybe it remembered its way home”.

Finding home in an unexpected place

Estonia was never a country I imagined myself living in.
As a child in Indonesia, I dreamt of Europe – the classic details, timeless charm, and sense of order I saw in books and films. Those images stayed with me for years, tucked away in my mind.

And now, here I am, living on a small island in the Baltic Sea.

A pause that became a beginning

I arrived in early 2020, just days before the pandemic closed Europe’s borders. Life paused, the world grew quiet, and there was nowhere to rush. In that stillness, I decided to learn Estonian. Over time, that choice became a bridge to feeling truly at home.

The quiet warmth of Estonians

If I could describe Estonians, I’d say they are like coconuts. They can seem tough on the outside, quiet and reserved. But once you open that shell, you find warmth, generosity and depth. They rarely make the first move, yet when they do, it is genuine.

Somehow, that suits me perfectly. Silence feels natural here, even comforting.

A life shaped by this land

Life in Estonia has given me many gifts. I’ve worked at one of Tallinn’s most loved restaurants, Rataskaevu 16, known for its warmth and care. I’ve stood on the grand stage of the Song Festival, surrounded by thousands singing in one voice. That sound carried the soul of the nation.

Now I live on Muhu Island, a mythical place of stillness, nature and community. Here, people truly know one another.

East and North, woven together

When the idea for Dharma Resort emerged, I felt clear about what I could offer. I had more than fifteen years of hospitality experience in Indonesia, and several more in Estonia. Through that, I learned to see both worlds: the heartfelt generosity of the East and the quiet grace of the North.

Dharma Resort became my way to weave them together – simplicity, sincerity and presence.

What Dharma Resort adds

The nature here already gives so much: forests, calm seas, birdsong, and the silence between them. Dharma Resort adds a gentle layer. We create thoughtful spaces, serve nourishing food, and offer experiences that invite reflection, rest and quiet rediscovery.

Hosting with intention

It is an honor to welcome guests into this rhythm of life. My wish is to create moments where they can pause, be present, and reconnect with what truly matters.

I am not here to teach or show the way. I am here to host with intention, to witness, and to hold space for each person’s journey.

Raymond Dharma
Host of Dharma Resort