Meet Richard Kyle, a 35-year-old accomplished businessman, actor, model, presenter, and social media personality who has made a name for himself in Indonesia. Starting this month, fans will get to see the Australian hunk as the Bachelor in HBO Asia’s original series, “The Bachelor Indonesia”.
Throughout the 10 episodes, viewers will get to see the handsome heartthrob on his quest to find love among 19 charismatic and talented women, as they compete to win his affection. “I can tell you (that in) the first episode, I met all 19 women so that was a very long day. I was able to choose one of them that gave a great first impression. From that, I was able to ask them on first date and it was very adventurous, fun and unforgettable date,” he was quoted as saying.
In addition to the romantic dates, fans will also get to enjoy exotic destinations across the island of Bali, Indonesia, including Nusa Penida, Suwat Waterfall, Puri Tresna Temple and Manta Bay. More on Richard Kyle and his experience here:
Q: Was there anything interesting that you have learnt about yourself through the course of being on “The Bachelor Indonesia”?
A: Definitely. I feel like the interesting thing that I have learnt is that through this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet and connect with women from various inspiring backgrounds, I have a newfound respect for the strength and values that different women bring to the table. This would have been something that I would probably never be exposed to and hence not realise, if not for “The Bachelor Indonesia”.
Q: What would you say is the biggest challenge you face as the Bachelor on the show?
A: The biggest challenge for me was having to connect, maintaining that connection with each participant, ensuring that every single one of them had a comfortable and memorable experience and then having to make the right decision during the Rose ceremony. Different participants have different needs, viewpoints, and personalities, it was then up to me, having had the opportunity to meet and spend time with each of them, to decide who was most compatible.
Q: How has being on the show changed your view of love, or the way you look for love?
A: To be honest, my views on love haven’t changed. I still believe that love is a strong connection between two people. An intense connection is something that we can’t even describe… it usually just feels right. So yes, my views on love are still the same.
In my quest to look for love, being on “The Bachelor Indonesia” has been an absolutely memorable experience where I was introduced to so many talented and amazing women, and I had the chance to get to know them better through different situations and events throughout the series.
Q: What was the most important trait you were actually looking for in a partner through “The Bachelor Indonesia”?
A: I don’t necessarily have a “type” that I actively look for. During my time on “The Bachelor Indonesia”, I tried my best in being open-minded in terms of the connections I make when it comes to love. Obviously, chemistry and common interests are important, but I guess the priority for me was to look for someone who is genuine and authentic, someone who can just be themselves.
Also, as I get older and wiser, I am also much more connected with my family and appreciate quality time with my parents and relatives. So, I do hope my life partner is someone who is family-oriented and will appreciate the deep bonds I have with my loved ones as well.
Q: Do you see yourself more as an idealist when it comes to romance and love, or are you more of a practical person?
A: I am usually more of a practical person in the romance department. I make decisions based on logic most of the time. However, being part of “The Bachelor Indonesia” has definitely inspired me to explore the emotional side of Richard Kyle a lot more.
Q: What would you say is the secret to a healthy and successful relationship?
A: As cliché as it is, I don’t think it is a big secret: The ingredients needed for a healthy and successful relationship include communication and honesty. Having been on “The Bachelor Indonesia”, my biggest learning point is that the deciding factor of whether a relationship can work depends on how well we are able to compromise with each other, and in understanding each other’s differences.
I am a strong believer of the fact that opposites attract. My parents came from two different races, two different cultures, and they found love. To this day, they are still very, very much passionately in love, so for me, they are a true example of how true love can be successful with compromise and understanding, coupled with good communication and honesty.
Q: What is the best advice you would give your younger self?
A: Wow, that’s a good question. I would say that I am very fortunate to have been raised in a loving family who have always advised and guided me through life. The best advice I would give to my younger self would be to be fearless in trying new things… to work my hardest, and of course, to always be humble.
Q: Finally, how do you think the viewers will be inspired by “The Bachelor Indonesia”?
A: “The Bachelor Indonesia” sends the message about not giving up hope on finding true love. It’s important that we hold on to the hope that there is always someone out there for you. The show is also about seizing opportunities, not pushing aside the idea of being in a relationship just because you don’t have the time. Have an open mind when it comes to love. These elements inspired my personal journey in finding that special someone in my life.
I was grateful for this experience and also for the opportunity to be at some of the most amazing locations in Bali where this series was filmed and extremely thankful to have met all these strong and remarkable women in “The Bachelor Indonesia”.
Catch “The Bachelor Indonesia” exclusively on HBO (Astro Ch 411 HD) and HBO GO, with new episodes every Friday.
Images credit: HBO GO.
