Edition 38 2019

FROM THE EDITOR HOTELIER INDONESIA

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This edition will cover Awei Metta, a chic new business and leisure hotel in Yangon , Q&A With Marcelo Guimaraes Scuba Diver And Marine Biologist At Awei Pila Resort, Mergui Archipelago , Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort , Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas , BLOOMFIELD BALI BOUTIQUE Hotel and Spa ,and many many more

The global hotel sector has undergone a period of sustained growth over re cent years , lets see whats Rachel Grier, Area Vice President, Asia Pacific for IDeaS about it, exclusives for Hotelier Indonesia. Click here to read more from Page 154 .

Read 2018 Bali Guest Review Report, Click here to read more from Page 126 .

Greenhouse, a market entry platform and co-working space that believes in connectivity and environmental sustainability, has proven in 2018 that offline connectivity is as wanted as online now in Indonesia. Click here to Read more

Karma Reef Presents Barefoot Luxury On The Idyllic Island Paradise Of Gili Meno , Read them here

And many more... Stay happy and more to come for you next!

Editor In Chief | Founder Hery Sudrajat

Hotelier Indonesia (No ISSN:2088-4060) and HotelierIndonesia.com consider its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible. However, reporting inaccuracies can occur, consequently readers using this information do so at their own risk.Hotelier Indonesia Magazine and Website are sold with the understanding that the publisher is not rendering legal or financial advice.

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TOP NEXTEVENTS

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CONFERENCE 2019

• An insight on the development of 7 tourism zones with specific tourism products, 46 national tourist areas; 41 national tourist spots; 12 tourist cities and other key tourist spots.

• Exploring the opportunity for over $340 million investment in tourism and infrastructure at the Delta region.

• Outlining the new marketing campaigns for ASEAN tourism in 2018 and beyond.

• Review over the plans & policies implemented to promote tourism in 2017 with an introspect for 2018.

• Understanding of Decree Number 3 in regards to present and future regulations that can transcend the current trends in market. For further details reach us at - mital@bricsaconsulting.com

TOP HOSPITALITY EVENTS

NIGERIA’S HOSPITALITY MARKET TO GROW 5.4% BY 2022 ON HUGE INFRASTRUCTURAL EXPANSION

The hospitality market in Nigeria will experience a com pound annual increase of 5.4 percent in the next five years; supported by investment growth in infrastructural expan sion, the PricewaterhouseCooper (PwC) Hotel Outlook for 2018-2022 has projected. Available hotel rooms across the country has been estimated to rise to 12,600 in 2022, from 9,700 in 2017, a growth ranked the largest expansion of any country in the report.

The outlook, having studied hotel business trend in five African markets including South Africa, Nigeria, Mauri tius, Kenya and Tanzania, projects that hotel room revenue

for the markets will increase at a 7.4 percent compound an nual rate to N1.3 trillion in 2022 from N941 billion in 2017. Considering the improvements in local economy, Nigeria is expected to be on accelerated growth pedestal for the fo recast period, with additional hotels spurring higher patro nage.

According to Pietro Calicchio, hospitality industry leader, PwC Southern Africa, tourism on the African continent has proven to be resilient in the face of economic and politi cal uncertainties, impacts of droughts and other regulatory changes.

Bangkok, Thailand – Centara Ho tels & Resorts, Thailand’s leading hotel operator, has revealed plans to expand its beach club and bistro concept, COAST, bringing laid-back luxury and fresh, creative cuisine to diners in some of the world’s most spectacular seafront destinations.

Exclusive to the upper upscale Cen tara Grand brand, COAST Beach Club and Bistro is a stylish and so cial dining and lounge concept with four absolute beachfront locations

currently operating in the idyllic Thai resorts of Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Pa ttaya and Phuket. This will soon be come five, with the launch of a new COAST at Centara Grand Beach Re sort & Villas Krabi.

COAST combines elegance and so phistication with a chilled-out beach vibe, allowing its clientele to unwind in style, surrounded by nature. Glitz and glamour meet barefoot chic as guests relax on lounge sofas and beanbags during the day,

savouring the panoramic seascapes. Crafted cocktails and casual snacks offer light daytime refreshment, in cluding freshly-baked pizzas, gour met burgers, Thai dishes and other comfort food.

Then as the sun sets, COAST trans forms into a vibrant destination ni ghtspot, perfect for couples’ dinners and family feasts or for whilst the ni ght away drinking cocktails and liste ning to the DJ tunes while the sea laps the shore.

Diners can choose from a series of signature menu items, including contemporary Thai tapas, dramatic seafood towers and premium meats whist our mixologist crafted classic modern cocktail favorite.

While each COAST has its own unique vibe, reflecting the spirit of the destination, all outlets feature a series of zones, including a raw bar serving the freshest local sea food and poke bowls, a seafood grill to cook the “catch of the day”, an authentic Italian pizza oven, and a casual bar area serving Instagrammable cocktails, fine wines, fresh juices and tapas plates.

The inviting ambience of COAST also creates impressi ve settings for group events. Under Centara’s “COAST for Groups” concept, meeting planners can dazzle their delegates with an array of options, including beachfront barbecues, bespoke buffets, team-building activities and private parties.

Families and groups of friends can also arrange their own events, and the “Couples’ Dining” programme creates candlelit dinners, private performances and special me nus – perfect for celebrating life’s most memorable mo ments.

COAST is not only reserved for Centara Grand’s resort guests however; local diners and other holidaymakers can all enjoy the spontaneous seafront vibe. This makes COAST the perfect destination for anybody who’s see king a cool place to dine, to celebrate special occasions or arrange a romantic event.

As COAST expands its presence around the world, guests can look forward to an extended calendar of experien ce-based global events, including themed dinners, creati ve classes, pop-up chef weekends, guest DJ performances

and more!

“Centara Grand resorts command beautiful beachfront locations in some of the world’s most sought-after desti nations. It is our duty to maximise these settings by crea ting the best possible experiences for all, including our guests, local residents and other visitors. Whether guests are seeking a casual daytime chill-out spot, a memora ble evening meal, or somewhere to celebrate life’s major milestones, COAST is the perfect choice,” commented Winfried Hancke, Centara’s Group Director of F&B Ope rations.

Every COAST Beach Club and Bistro, operating now and in the future, is focused on preserving its pristine envi ronment and showcasing the authentic flavours of its destination. Chefs strive to source their produce locally from sustainable sources, including fresh seafood pur chased directly from fishermen. To reduce its impact on the planet, COAST also undertakes a series of measures, including eliminating single-use plastics and reducing food waste.

With Centara’s worldwide portfolio of hotels and resorts on track to double by 2022, including several new Centa ra Grand resorts, COAST will bring its laid-back style and creative cuisine to even more stunning seafront destina tions in the years to come.

For more information about Centara Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.centarahotelsresorts.com. Alternatively, to learn about COAST Beach Club and Bistro, please visit www.coast-beach-club.com.

LUXURY RESORT OPEN IN Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago

YANGON, Myanmar — Awei Pila, an exclusive resort set on a remote tropical island in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipe lago, open its doors to guests on December 15.

Owned by the Yangon-based Memories Group, the newly constructed property on the secluded island of Pila will fea ture 24 air-conditioned tented villas fronting a white-sand beach, an open-air restaurant, and spa. A two-hour spee dboat ride from the mainland, Pila is nestled among a lab yrinth of some 800 islands, atolls and coral reefs, which were until recently a haven only to wayward mariners, pi rates and a handful of indigenous Moken or “sea gypsy” fishing families.

The island has a single source of fresh water, 10 as yet unex plored sandy beaches, a host of birds including hornbills, and coves alive with fish, dugongs and turtles. The local vi llage boasts a rickety wooden pier, a Buddhist temple, and a single beach-shack bar with a pool table.

General Manager Jon Bourbaud describes the resort as “barefoot luxury at its finest,” and says it is his team’s pri mary aim to create minimum impact on this idyllic envi ronment. Awei Pila will be open seasonally (closed June to September every year). All-inclusive packages start at US$750 per day for a villa for two persons.

The Memories Group is a destination management com pany which owns and operates several resorts and acti vities in Myanmar, including hot-air balloon adventures, sailing tours and boutique lodges in the rainforest. For bookings or inquiries: Memories Travel DMC, Swiss Bu siness Office Center / No. (36-38) A, 1st floor, Myay Nu street, Sanchaung Township, Yangon, Myanmar.

Email: myanmar@memories-travel.com; site: www.memories-travel.com.

For all media inquiries, contact: chinshelwood@balconymediagroup.com

24-villa Awei Pila launch on Pila Island in December 2018

Q&A WITH BRENDA JIAYING HO, DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING, MEMORIES GROUP

Who founded the resort?

Memories Group is in collaboration with a local partner, Ms Sanda Hlaing, to develop Pila Island.

What does Awei Pila mean?

Awei means sharing or giving and that’s exactly what we wish to achieve, sharing the spirit of discovery with travellers and explorers while giving back to the local community. And Pila is the name of this virgin island.

What's the biggest challenge opening this resort in such a unique area?

The greatest challenge is making sure we have the smallest environmental footprint possible, and to work with and around nature, rather than arro gantly clearing areas. We’ve been fortunate to have a talented team who believe in a non-negotiable approach. Where we haven’t been able to build within the confines of the natural habitat, in the back of house areas, for example, we’ve managed a painstaking replanting program that’s been very successful. We’ve installed solar panels on all available rooftops at the back of house to reduce or even eradicate consumption.

Waste management is our other key issue. We want to minimize what we bring to the island in the first place. We won’t bring any single use plastics (water bottles, packaging). We’ll leave all of that on the mainland. Glass will be pulverized into sand, solid waste is returned to the mainland and recycled at a centre in Ranong where possible. The minimal organic waste we have now is composted.

Why was Pila Island in particular chosen as the location of the resort? Why was the Mergui Archipelago chosen as the location of the resort? Why is this area only now opening up to tourism? The Mergui Archipelago has been virtually inaccessible to tourists until recently. What are you doing to ensure that the area stays pristine and untouched? Or, would you encourage other resorts to open in the area? Would you like this to become 'the next Maldi ves'?

Awei beachPila

Awei Pila Pool

beach bum

Hlala Bay sunset

The Mergui Archipelago is a sparsely populated region with more than 800 islands of varying sizes. Home to the native Moken people, aka “sea gypsies”, these indigenous people lead a semi-nomadic lifes tyle and are trained from young to dive for seafood.

The Archipelago remains one of Earth’s most unspoilt regions and steps are being taken by the government as well as private tourism operators to ensure that sustainable and ecotourism practices are maintained. Its rich marine life and biodiversity also presents an opportunity to see endangered marine species such as the whale sha rk and dugong amongst untouched coral reefs.

Besides offering positive travel experiences that benefit customers, communities and the company, Awei Pila has a responsibility to pro tect the environment and benefit the communities it works with.

Additionally, sustainable efforts are based on international standards, peer benchmarking against companies with similar operations, media analysis, internal responses and management awareness, major indi ces from external rating agencies, as well as international standards environmental assessment and policy reports.

Other sustainable initiatives include:

• Customer satisfaction

• Engaging local community and supporting local community projects

• Reducing impact of operations on environment and eliminating single-use plastics

• Choice of responsible suppliers

• Experiential and authentic travel for our customers

• Introducing and increasing recycling efforts

• Habitat protection /restoration

• Diversity of workforce and inclusivity

• Greenhouse gas emissions reduction

• Child labour, human rights

• Food waste mitigation

• Water conservation

• Sustainability education for guests

While there are many similarities between the Mergui Archipelago and the Maldives, they are also very different. Maldives is a mature desti nation while the Mergui is relatively untouched and unexplored. The Mergui Archipelago only opened to foreigners in late 1990s, some than 200 years after its discovery by Thomas Forrester in 1792.

It is inevitable we will see more resorts opening over the next few years but as long as all stake holders, from operators to suppliers are commi tted to preserving the habitat, and to reducing the use of plastics by not introducing them into the islands, this destination will retain its char ms and endure as an exemplar of sustainable development. It’s a fantastic opportunity to lead sustainable development on a scale as massive as this.

I believe you have an in-house marine biolo gist. What will their role be and why is a marine biologist important for your resort? How are you keeping the local flora and fauna safe? How are you building the resort with minimal impact?

While Marcelo Guimaraes is our marine bio logist and has been instrumental in developing water sports activities that offer the best guest experience and best practices, he is also invol ved with overland activities that engage local communities, reduce impact on the environ ment and protect and restore habitat. However, Marcelo alone is not able to achieve our overall sustainable goals. Other team members are also actively involved in the efforts from operations to marketing teams.

The general manager, Jon Bourbaud, is an expert in sustainable development and a creator of oneof-a-kind experiences. He will play a key role in realising our sustainable goals. Having successfully established the first Green Globe-certified resort in Vietnam, he aims to replicate his successes at Awei Pila by engaging and educating employees, part ners, guests and suppliers in promoting the Mergui. He also hopes this initiative will have a ripple effect and that guests will become more aware and em brace sustainability in all their travels worldwide.

is local?

We have different aspects of “local community” – we’re working with the Moken and other mi norities on the island with a slow integration The most important thing to respect and recognize is their willingness to learn new languages and skills. They can make a good living from fishing in par ticular, and we would like to see this relationship grow and to teach them aspects of permaculture that can be sustainable to both themselves and our resort development. Rather than try to change who they are, we’re also establishing programs to see what traditional skills they have that can be expen ded, and that can be incorporated into our resort. Interaction with our guests needs to be one that is done respectfully and with cultural respect, rather than viewing them as being an attraction. We will work together on ensuring this is a sustainable and harmonious relationship.

We are building a school for the children of the

How do you involve the local community in what you do? How much of your staff

community. This will be an area that’s off limits for our guests. People are welcome to make donations or offer support but we have no interest in using the school as a setting for any kind of “authentic” encounter between our guests and local residents.

We intend to employ and train a minimum of 70% of our staff from the mainland in Kawthaung and would like to see this number grow year on year to 90% by 2020.

How do you think tourism will affect the local community?

Tourism can have a positive impact on the local community if we engage them and develop the area together right from the start, and that’s what we have done. We involve them, we ask them how we can work together to make their lives better. We do not make decisions for them. If they wish to learn specific hotel skills, we will teach them as we believe in diversity of workforce and inclusivity.

You have several CSR projects. Tell us about the one that you're most proud of.

We have been working with the Myeik University and local authorities on a project to develop and ensure sustainable tourism in the Archipelago and Tanintharyi region outside of our own developments. This is a major project of long term significance to ensure that future developments in the region are able to move ahead with strong guidelines and structured assessments and controls to ensure the fragile ecosystems in the area remain to be as protected and unda maged as possible.

It’s worth noting that the Archipelago has been on the ten tative list for UNESCO status since 2014.

You have several eco-initiatives. Tell us about the one you're most proud of.

We are proud of all our CSR, eco and sustainable initiatives as they all point to the concept of educating guests on sus tainable tourism and development. We’re planting a small seed that we hope will have a great impact on the immedia te environment and the world.

Let's talk about the amazing visual style of Awei Pila. It looks magical! How has the local culture influenced the design, style, and vibe? What were your other visual in fluences?

To understand the visual concept, we have to visit our brand promise and personality. An ethical tourism ope rator, Awei Pila, is a private island resort. We are an inno vator that’s bringing the virgin destination to experiential travellers and explorers wishing to discover themselves and the world through their travels. The barefoot luxury traveller is seeking for ways to disconnect, so as to recon nect with their senses and the world. In short, Awei Pila is barefoot luxury at its finest.

As an ethical tourism operator, the design is seamless

ly merged with the natural environment. We work around the flora and fauna. We also make efforts to nurture similar plants and species around the resort. The Moken sea gypsies stay on land only during the monsoon seasons, thus their abodes are light and infrastructu re transient since they may not return to the same location every monsoon season. Awei Pila structure emulates that with a lightweight fabric tented structure that relates to the spirit of the Moken. The colour concept closely replicates the surrounding flora and fauna. If one is loo king to the island from an aerial view, the resort is all but invisible. We want to keep the resort incognito.

This underlying design concept is carried throu ghout the resort: open structure restaurant, use of woods, bio- and eco- friendly toiletries and amenities, to protect both guests and marine wildlife.

Tell us about a completely singular

experience that you can have at Awei Pila that you cannot have anywhere else. What is your emotive USP?

The island has more than 40 minor and 10 major beaches, many of which can be reached by trekking through virgin rainforest. Some are accessible only by boat. You can feel the sense of explo ration, an opportunity to be in areas where you might be the first person to have stepped in ages. Add a bottle of champagne and a picnic lunch with butler service to this kind of adventure and you have something truly unique.

What's

Awei Pila, private island resort, is barefoot luxury at its finest.

the one thing you want everyone to know about you?

NEW MEMORIES GROUP HOTEL AIMS ‘TO PUT MAWLAMYAING ON THE MAP’

MAWLAMYAING, Myanmar — Designed by US ar chitect Daniel West, the 72-key Hotel Suggati celebrate its grand opening on December 15 in Mawlamyaing, the capital of Myanmar’s Mon State.

Commanding a panoramic vista over the Thanlwin [Salween] River, the waterfront property brings a new vitality in business hotel options to the country’s fourth largest city.The five-story Suggati is owned by the Me mories Group, and provides conference rooms, wor king spaces with hi-speed Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a restaurant specializing in both Burmese and Western cuisines, as well as French pastries, which will be open to the local public.

Recently appointed general manager Leila Nortier from France takes the reins at the landmark hotel after three years at another Memories resort in nearby Hpa-an. Nortier brings to the table a decade of experience in F&B, including stints at the Four Seasons in Geneva, the St. Regis Singapore, and working under a 2-Miche lin-star chef at the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai.

“We want to put Mawlamyaing on the map,” Nortier says of the port city that lies 300 km southeast of Yan gon. “The Suggati is a three-star hotel, but we are ai ming to offer five-star service.”

Suites at Hotel Suggati start at $120 per night from December 15 through to May 2019.

The Memories Group is a destination management company which owns and operates several resorts and activities in Myanmar, including hot-air ba lloon adventures, sailing tours and boutique lod ges in the rainforest. For bookings or inquiries: Me mories Travel DMC, Swiss Business Office Center / No. (36-38) A, 1st floor, Myay Nu street, Sanchaung Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Email:  myanmar@me mories-travel.com; Site: www.memories-travel.com.  For all media inquiries, contact: chinshelwood@balcon ymediagroup.com

Suggati offers business travelers, weekenders from Yangon, and tour groups a unique new choice

YANGON BUSINESS HOTEL OPEN

46-key

Awei Metta overlooks top Myanmar golf course

YANGON, Myanmar — Awei Metta, a chic new business and leisure hotel in Yangon, has announced its grand ope ning for December 15.

Located in the leafy western suburbs of Myanmar’s for mer capital, close to the city’s international airport, this modern 46-key resort features a restaurant overseen by an experienced French chef, a lobby lounge and bar, a sophisticated cigar room, swimming pool, fitness center, spa, tennis courts, and a conference room seating up to 200 guests.

Owned by the Memories Group, Awei Metta shares the property with the Gary Player-designed Pun Hlaing Golf Course, which has hosted the Asian Tour Myanmar Open for the past two years.

The higher floors of the five-storey Awei Metta overlook the palm tree-lined fairways of the course. The hotel’s 46 wood-panelled suites, which range in size from 46m² to 95m², each come with private balcony, office space and wide-screen TV.

French-born Eric Laurent is the recently appointed gene ral manager of this new hotel. An experienced sommelier and the son of a three-star Michelin chef, Laurent was previously GM with JA Resorts & Hotels in Dubai and several luxury resorts across Myanmar.

Suites at Awei Metta start from US$190 per night.

The Memories Group is a destination management com pany which owns and operates several resorts and acti vities in Myanmar, including hot-air balloon adventu res, sailing tours and boutique lodges in the rainforest.

For bookings or inquiries: Memories Travel DMC, Swiss Business Office Center / No. (36-38) A, 1st floor, Myay Nu street, Sanchaung Township, Yangon, Myanmar.

Email: myanmar@memories-travel.com; site: www. memories-travel.com. For all media inquiries, contact: chinshelwood@balconymediagroup.com

Q&A WITH MARCELO GUIMARAES

SCUBA DIVER AND MARINE BIOLOGIST AT AWEI PILA RESORT, MERGUI ARCHIPELAGO

Q1: How and when did you first become fascina ted with the ocean and marine biology?

It was in Rio de Janeiro when I was 14 years old, I started snorkeling off the beach and got hooked by all those fish and especially the underwater noises from all those creatures that you could not see. When I was 16, I signed up for my first scuba certification. By the time I was 18, I had become a scuba instructor.

Q2: You've worked in beautiful locations around the world such as your home country Brazil, the Caribbean, Mexico, Egypt and the Maldives. What inspired you to come to Myanmar?

I have been travelling since I was 8 years old, first with my parents and later on by myself. I can count 78 countries so far. I believe that travelling is the best way to gain knowledge about the world and better understand different cultures, ecosystems and people.

Coming to Myanmar it is an opportunity to discover a new diving region, a new country, a new culture, to dive unspoiled reefs and to help established sustainable tourism activities which will help the country during this transition period into becoming Asia’s newest and best tourist destination.

Q3: How does scuba diving in the Mergui Archipelago compare to all the previous places you've been?

I think what impacts the diver the most is the archi pelago’s biodiversity and the amount of UW life, huge schools of fish, wide coral tables and the fact that no one dives or fishes in the Archipelago during the off-season (June to September), allowing the chance for the ecosystem to recover from human impact.

Q4: What are the highlights of diving in the Ar chipelago (sharks, dugongs, coral, etc)?

The Mergui Archipelago has it all and this is why it is so unique, in one dive you can look up and search for Manta Rays and Whale Sharks and at the same time nose down into the creeks to spot seahorses, nudibran chs, Mantis Shrimps and two or three different species of clown fish.

Q5: One of the roles you have adopted at Awei Pila is to engage local communities, reduce the impact on the environment, and protect and restore habitat on the island. Can you tell us about that?

We are working with local fisherman from the nearby village and have requested they sell us some of their daily catch. We aim to use the resources from the island and reduce our carbon footprint.

Plastic is another major concern for us. The resort will reduce to a minimum the use of plastics, banning bott les, bags and straws from the island. When plastic goes into the ocean, it puts marine life at risk, such as the Green Turtles, which are an indigenous species here. Another goal is to help some coral species such as Acropora digitifera re-grow and spread out by replan ting some broken coral branches in our house reef. We will do the same in the mangroves by replanting Rizophora Sp. and making sure that the [IUCN Red List of Endangered Species] Sonneratia griffithii stays untouched in our mangroves.

Add of course, we will only use moorings or drift di ving techniques to avoid further coral damage.

Q6: What do you think Awei Pila offers that no other resort in the world has?

The Mergui Archipelago has approximately 800 is lands, pristine reefs and untouched beaches. And it has only a handful of resorts, so coming to Awei Pila is a chance to encounter nature as it was meant to be, a chance to scuba, paddle or relax away from any big city nuisances. To indulge and immerse yourself in a natural environment, experiencing the best that Myanmar has to offer, and visit a region that was, until 2008, “off-limits” to all visitors.

Q7: You have had many wonderful experiences in your life. You produced TV programs on shi pwreck diving in Egypt and cycling around Rio de Janeiro. Tell us more - what has been your ultimate adventure?

I am a Marine Biologist and Scuba Diving instructor so environmental/ocean related adventures are my first choice when looking for an adventure/project. I think my ultimate trip so far have been a project which I helped to organize called DIVE 48 in the Maldives. We had a team of 16 divers on a relay during 48 hours underwater at a world-renowned dive site in the South Male Atoll. We were filming and broadcasting live non-stop on YouTube, and at the same time we were accompanied by IUCN biologists and the Maldives Environmental Agency, which was identifying and me asuring different forms of marine life and coral species.

The goal was to raise awareness worldwide on the risks of global warming and coral bleaching in the Maldives. With global warming, corals tend to lose their zooxan thella (responsible for their food/energy) and bleach, which is the first step before dying. When corals die, the fishes lose their habitat and tend to move away. With less fish, less divers plan to dive there, and the country loses an important source of revenue without mentioning the impact on our environment by distur bing nature and the natural food chain.

With the two editions of DIVE 48, we visually proved that the amount of fish life declined from one year to the next due to the bleaching of coral at this famous dive site.

The Opposite House collaborates with Spanish street artist gerGA

Presenting an abstract urban art piece

Beijing, – The Opposite House is excited to collaborate with Spanish street artist, gerGA, to present a dis tinct urban art piece at the property. Through a 20-meter mural, gerGA shows the emotional conflict and inspiration which Beijing brought to him.

“I was born with the first generation of freedom in Spain. I grew up in a sunny paradise, which became a tou rist city – concrete and without soul. During my time in Madrid and Bar celona, I learned to become inspired by my surroundings, before spending time in the creative and colourful streets of Berlin. Now, in Beijing, I challenge myself to create pocket ci ties, balancing between different aes thetics and the spontaneous energy of the city, creating design without any preconceived goal,“ said gerGA.

As an architect and designer, gerGA is fascinated by urban situations, high density spaces, large metropo litan areas and super crowded places and tries to combine these elements into an aggressive minimal represen tation of an abstract urban area.

Parallel to his architectural work on large-scale projects in China, he has been developing an art concept inspi red on urban densities, and exploring how to represent them in real spaces creating large scale mural paintings. His work for The Opposite House is a spray-painted creation inspired by the multiple situations that can be experienced on a daily basis in a metropolis like Beijing. For more in formation, please contact guestexpe rience@theoppsitehouse.com

About The Opposite House

The Opposite House is located in Taikoo Li Sanlitun — a vibrant new open-plan shopping, dining and en tertainment destination developed by Swire Properties. The hotel’s 99 guest studios include nine spacious suites and a penthouse duplex with a 240-sq m roof terrace. More than half of all the studios are over 70 sq m and all are strikingly simple with natural wooden floors and subtle touches of Chinese décor.

Kengo Kuma

A prominent architect and interior designer, Kengo Kuma is one of Ja pan’s most celebrated art and design geniuses. His design vision is what gave The Opposite House its unique sense of style. Kengo Kuma was born in Kanagawa, Japan. He graduated from The University of Tokyo, school of engineering, and continued his studies at Columbia University, New York. He is the founder of two design studios: “Spatial Design” and “Kengo Kuma & Associates”. Amongst many of his visionary projects are LVMH Group Japan headquarters, Great (Bamboo) Wall House and Suntory’s Tokyo office building.

Art Installation

The Atrium of The Opposite House presents itself as a contemporary ga llery. The Opposite House curates all art installations on a quarterly basis, presenting its guests with a world of contemporary arts steeped in fresh cultural insights. A well-regarded sculpture collection, inspired by the textile-clad façade of the architectu re, represents 10 of the best Chinese artists at the moment from Beijing, Hong Kong, Australia and London.

Restaurants and Bars

Village Café: Enjoy international favourites in a spacious, cos mopolitan setting with a family-friendly vibe. Whether you’re in for a quick pick-me-up or looking for a spot to meet, Village Café offers a little something for everyone. Jing Yaa Tang: Dine on classic dishes cooked to perfection by our team of first-class chefs. The award-wining Jing Yaa Tang presents a selection of internationally recognised dishes inspired by the famous Beijing roast duck, as well as a wide range of regional favourites across China. Using the finest ingredients and expertly execu ted, savour authentic Chinese cuisine at its best.

Mesh: With an extensive menu of original cocktails and wine, our contemporary lounge is the place to see and be seen.

About Swire Hotels and Swire Restaurants Swire Hotels has been created to manage soulfully individual hotels in Hong Kong, Mainland China and the USA, provi ding a characterful experience for well-travelled individually minded travellers who seek originality, style and personalised service. We create distinctive hotels with a sense of place that break with convention. The company’s first hotel, The Opposi te House in Beijing, opened in 2008 and was followed by The Upper House, Hong Kong, and then by EAST, Hong Kong, EAST, Beijing, The Temple House, Chengdu and EAST, Mia mi. The Middle House in Shanghai, our latest addition, opened in April 2018.

A restaurant division was set up in 2013 to manage the com pany’s stand-alone restaurant operations. Our first restaurant, Plat du Jour opened in November 2013 followed by Public and Ground Public in Quarry Bay. The Continental in Pacific Place opened in October 2014 and Mr & Mrs Fox in 2015, followed by the second Plat du Jour that opened in Pacific Place in 2016. Our latest addition, Republic, a sub-brand of Public opened in Taikoo Place in December 2017.

About Taikoo Li Sanlitun Taikoo Li Sanlitun, located at the centre of Sanlitun, Chaoyang District in Beijing, comprises two sites, Taikoo Li Sanlitun South and North, with a total floor area of over 136,000 sq m (approximately 1.47 million sq ft)* spreading over 19 creative and stylish buildings, including an award-winning urban ho tel, The Opposite House.

Taikoo Li Sanlitun was Swire Properties’ first commercial pro perty to open for business in Mainland China in 2008, blen ding fashion and trends, art and culture, and shopping and dining. As the iconic fashion destination in Beijing, Taikoo Li Sanlitun offers more than 200 shops, combining the most creative young talents and globally renowned fashion brands, including I.T Beijing Market’s global flagship store, Miu Miu’s flagship store in Asia, Alexander Wang’s flagship store in Asia,

Alexander McQueen’s first store in China, Paul Smith’s flagship store in Beijing, Christian Louboutin’s boutique store in Bei jing, Balenciaga’s flagship store in Beijing, Balmain’s flagship store in China, Kenzo’s flagship store, Gentle Monster’s flags hip store in China, Hollister’s boutique store in Beijing, COS’s flagship store in Beijing, Kurt Geiger’s first store in Beijing, Jo Malone’s boutique store in Beijing, Diptyque + 1010 Apothe cary’s boutique store in Beijing, M.A.C’s boutique store in Chi na, Page One’s flagship store in Beijing, Adidas’ first brand cen tre in Asia-Pacific and Apple’s first store in China, as well as a unique cultural entertainment space, The Orange, and parking for more than 880 cars. The retail portions of Taikoo Li Sanli tun and The Opposite House are both wholly owned by Swire Properties.

Visit Taikoo Li Sanlitun’s website at www.taikoolisanlitun.com.

* Gross floor area excludes car park areas.

Future Commerce Indonesia 2019: Shaping the Future of Commerce to boost Indonesia’s digital economy

The two-days Exhibition and Conference connects digital players or companies to shifting into the digital economy and discovering the tools and strategies for the future to stay ahead in the business

JAKARTA - InternetRetailing Expo (IRX) Indonesia, the largest digital event in Indonesia returns once again and is now rebranded as Future Commerce Indonesia 2019, on January 29-30, 2019 at Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta, In donesia.

With the theme “Shaping the Future of Commerce”, Fu ture Commerce Indonesia is bringing together leading brands and retailers from cross-industry, cross-technolo gy, with innovative tech enablers and start-ups to disrupt and shape the future of commerce in the current digital economy.

Organized by Clarion Events, one of the oldest inde pendent event organizers in the UK since 1974, Future Commerce Indonesia 2019 will present 100+ technology breakthrough from local and global brands and startups such as Accenture, Gilkor, Brava, SiCepat, and many more to share knowledge through the inspirational topics, led renowned speakers and innovative exhibition, showca sing the latest digital technologies to reflect the new eco nomy in Indonesia. A variety of topics will be covered du ring the conference, including Digital, Mobile, Payment technologies, eLogistic, Cyber Security, Analytics, Big Data, Cloud, Advertising, and Marketing in sectors such as Media, Finance, Retail, and eCommerce, Travel & Hos pitality, Education, Fashion & Beauty, Food & Beverage and many more.

Event Director of Clarion Events, Julia Kwan says: “We are proud to inspire people in Indonesia through Future Commerce Indonesia 2019. This event is a place to ex change ideas, thoughts, and innovations with the presen ce of leading brands from local and global enterprises. We believe that through a series of conferences and exhibi tions, the event can be a reference for digital entrepreneu rs to step up the game to the next level.”

“Indonesia has become one of the largest markets in digi tal innovation and we are delighted to present FCI 2019 as part of our support for Indonesia’s digital economy to grow bigger and also be recognized internationally,” ad ded Julia Kwan.

Future Commerce Indonesia 2019 has gained full support from KADIN Indonesia (Indonesian Chamber of Com merce and Industry), Indonesia R&D International, Indo nesian Logistic Association (ALI), Association of Cloud Computing Indonesia (ACCI) , Association of Big Data and AI Indonesia (ABDI), Indonesian Retail Merchants Association (APRINDO) and many more.

Future Commerce Indonesia 2019 will also launch the Future Commerce Awards, the newest platform for re cognizing excellence in the industry from players with the best digital, retail, and technology campaigns.

For further information, please visit www.futurecommerceindo.com.

GONZALO MACEDA

AN EXCLUSIVES INTERVIEW

VICE PRESIDENT DEVELOPMENT ASIA PACIFIC MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL

Nationality: Spanish

Date of Birth: January 12th 1976

Having studied and worked in England, France, Spain, Thailand, Indonesia and China, I have an international perspective and fluency in Engli sh, French and Spanish, along with intermediate knowledge on Chinese, Bahasa Indonesia and Thai. My degree in European Ma nagement and Marketing is complemented with professional experience in Accounts, Finance, International Marketing and Hotel Manage ment, Operations and Development. More than 12 years working experience in the hospitality industry have helped me understand the actual situation and needs of the industry, being able to focus on the issues generating more added value to the organizations. I also believe myself to be an outgoing person, naturally inclined toward leadership in work si tuations and at ease in an international environ ment.

Most of my best moments as a hotelier are linked to the teams I’ve worked with, and CSR activities implemented by Melia in Indonesia.

I specially remember our relief work during the 2006 Jogjakarta earthquake, which greatly affected the area including our staff in Melia Purosani. Luckily our col leagues in the Community Involvement in Spain made a sizeable contribution and we managed to rebuild 100 houses before the start of that year’s rainy season.

Hotel openings are always a very interesting experience too, building the team, organizing the whole training, pre-opening preparations and finally opening the proper ty and see it flourish through the years. Since I joined the Development Department we have increased our portfo lio from 7 to 52 properties, and it’s the greatest feeling to see most of those properties been built, operated success fully, and meet the teams on those properties.

2. What are your plan for future challanges specifically in staff and recruitment?

Growing to more than 50 properties is such an important move to a family-controlled company such as Melia Ho tels International (currently operating around 375 hotels worldwide). Staff recruitment, training and development are crucial and without a doubt one of our most import ant challenges when growing at this pace.

Luckily our hotel development plans have been careful ly planned and executed according to our Strategic Plan 2016-2018, and we have a very good talent pipeline for General Managers and Heads of Department. At the same time, we have boosted our training plans and col laborations with local hospitality schools, to make sure that the new properties have all the necessary talent at their disposal. It is also a very important point to high light that almost 90% of the vacancies in our company are covered through internal promotions.

3. As we living in dynamic world and technology, we may using most robotic system since reservations to check out, does this will also effecting on your future plan?

Technology has definitely had an amazing influence in the hotel industry over the last 20 years or so. Melia was one of the first hotel companies worldwide to implement online reservations (we launched our first online reserva tions system in 1997), and several years ago online reser vations surpassed offline.

We see a big opportunity in implementing more and more technology to improve the experience of in-house guests, but it’s true that in Asia our guests really appre ciate human interaction and some of the initiatives in the industry such as auto-checkin or robots have not had the expected impact. Of course technology is part of our daily lives now, and slowly all tech-related improvements will be a standard of our industry. There is also a big op portunity in the Artificial Intelligence area, where we now have the tools to successfully anticipate guest’s needs be fore their arrival to our properties and during their stay.

4. You are fluent in English, French and Spanish, along with intermediate knowledge on Chinese, Bahasa Indonesia and Thai, would you share the methods that you are using to easily learn foreign languages?

I was a late starter in the language arena, as I learnt my first foreign language during my university days in Mar seille. I have always a natural way of learning languages, and luckily I have lived in all those countries. Not only it’s a sign of respect to be able to speak the language of the people you are surrounded with every day, but also it helps understanding them and helps reduce the culture shock we sometimes experience when moving from Eu rope to this side of the world. I guess one of the secrets of language learning is keep your ears open the whole time, don’t be shy to practice at any opportunity you find, and try to detect the similarities between languages to make connections and reduce the difficulty of learning vocabu lary and grammar.

5. As Vice President Development Asia Pacific, and was taking care of 6 new properties in Indonesia, do you find any major obstacles that we as a hotelier need to aware and what is your suggestions for our governments in order to speed the projects developments

1. Please tells us your best moments stories as a hotelier in your life?

There are several difficulties that we find in some Asian countries such as Indonesia, and that luckily the Govern ment is working hard on reducing: access to the destina tions and infrastructure, training and development, clarity on the rules for foreign investment, sustainable planning and destination management. It is a hard job but I think in the case of Indonesia we are in the right pace and we’ll see clear results in the coming years. We have for example seen quite a lot of progress following the Tourism Min istry program to promote the “10 New Bali”: Lake Toba, Wakatobi, Mandalika (Lombok), Tanjung Lesung, Labuan Bajo…

6. You are having a strong Finance background since starting your career in Hotel Business. Please share to us, whats the most major obstacles ever that you were facing in the past and how you solve the problem.

A Hotel consists not only of rooms but several points of sale, and a considerable amount of supporting back of house. Being a Director of Finance one of the greatest challenges is how to make sure the system is efficient, with enough measures of control that at the same time don’t interfere with the smooth operation of the property. A dif ficult balance to achieve!

7. Tell me , the best City that you ever visit for hotel busi ness in Indonesia, Thailand and China. or I may say the most potential growing city among them

There are great destinations in Asia Pacific, including of course in Indonesia, which are amazing are still under served by airlines and hotels. In Indonesia I could men tion several of them which I have had the chance to visit and I hope develop in the coming years according to their potential: Labuan Bajo / Komodo, different areas of Lom bok, Pulau Seribu, Pulau Weh in Aceh or Pulau Nias are good examples.

8. Who are your role models and why do you admire these individuals?

I’ve always had big respect for hospitality leaders who helped changed the hotel industry such as Adrian Zecha or Gabriel Escarrer. At the same time, I managed to work along with very good leaders whose teachings I always

try to follow, specially several of my GMs and Directors. A Hotel works as a family, in the sense that there’s a big number of collaborators spending many hours of the day together, as the most important strength of a leader is ex actly that: be leader and make all collaborators towards a common goal.

9. What keeps you motivated?

Melia Hotels International is a family-controlled compa ny, that works really like a family. Most of my colleagues in the Corporate Office and several of our GMs and hotel collaborators have been working together for more that 10-15 years. It’s for us a great satisfaction to see the com pany grow in a sustainable way, with products and service levels that are exactly what we want for each one of our brands. We have been able to surpass the 50 hotels in the Asia Pacific region, and my personal objective is to reach at least three times that number!

Apart from that, two of the most beautiful feelings are when I collaborate with the hotel teams in their local CSR activities on the ground, or when you follow the progres sion of collaborators rising through the ranks sometimes from a Rank & File position to a Head of Department of General Manager position.

10. What are your weakness and how you solve it

I guess one of my weaknesses has always been time man agement. The energy and passion to be involved in as many projects as possible at the same time sometimes creates an unbalance in the way our are able to plan your work schedule. Luckily I have learnt through the years to prioritize and know my own limits, which helps organiza tion efficiency and time management.

11. When the size of the pipeline is a real and a strong argument for potential investors and present partners are in debatable situations , how confidence you to fix the system and the investors back in track and making all shaking hands happily

When defining the growth strategy of the company, it is very important to define the locations where we want to be present and the brands to implement on those locations.

We grow through a proactive strategy, not reactive (we go out to the market to find the type of products we are looking for, not waiting for the opportunities to knock on our door). When this strategy is properly defined, you can avoid properties located in the same destination compet ing with each other.

A great example that we could share is our properties in Bali, where we currently have 4 hotels running: Meliá Bali in Nusa Dua, Sol Beach House Benoa, Sol House Bali Le gian, and our newest Sol House Bali Kuta. Although they are all under MHI, each of them has their own identity and therefore their own market, so they don’t interfere one with other.

This is why MHI always committed to exercise a detailed and extensive planning when we are developing new properties. Our growth strategy in very sustainable, in the sense that we prefer to let an opportunity go whenever there’s a potential conflict with an existing property. We prefer to focus on long term partnerships, relationships that in some cases last for generations, better than using an approach focused on volume.

12. When publishing a detailed pipeline of Melia, I believe will attracts competitors to learn your strategy. How you managed that to keep the investors happy while you keeping your hotels runs with the systems 5 years ahead

MHI has been present in the Indonesia market for 32 years, and that has given us not only a good first hand knowledge of the market but many long terms relationships. It is our number one priority to ensure the satisfaction of existing and new owners, as in fact they are our main source of new business. We work with several investors that like to open more than one hotel with us, and often recommend MHI to their own contacts.

In regards to publishing our pipeline, we are very trans parent about the locations where we will be opening new properties (or taking over existing properties) in the coming years. We are now working on our new Strategic Plan 2020-2022, defining our new target destinations and brands, and the resources we will deploy in order to be there. I am very confident that we will keep reinforcing our leadership in the resort operations in the Asia Pacific area, and grow in some of the new up and coming urban destination in Indonesia where we are not present yet.

There are several new destinations that are booming and have great potential to be booming in the coming years, such as Bintan or Labuan Bajo in Indonesia, Phu Quoc, Halong Bay and Danang in Vietnam, or Phuket in Thai land. In general terms, we expect to greatly increase our hotel pipeline in Vietnam, China and Thailand, while In donesia hospitality investment market slowly recovers.

We have seen an amazing growth in our portfolio over the last 5 years, with 36 hotels signed by our Development team. We are very confident that we can keep that pace or even increase it during period 2019-2023.

I think we’ve been quite accurate when planning our de velopment in Asia Pacific, and not many mistakes were made. If I could talk to my younger self though, I would probably advise him to take things slower, keeping focus on the bigger picture and not rushing decisions.

15. Share to us the design trends in 5 years ahead

Very difficult to be right about this one, but I would bet on:

• a bigger focus on hotel in-house technology

• increasing importance of sustainable design

• importance of public areas as connecting points for hotel residents and local residents

• new business models such as the luxury all-inclusive model (similar to our Paradisus by Melia brand)

We thank you for your kind answering the Interview. Wishing you , your team and family ,all best

13. Would you share your opinion of 2019 development out look and the trends that will be booming in Asia?

14. Strong development over the last 5 years, whats makes you feel great and confident for the next 5 years, and if you can turn the time back, Whats should not and whats should to do it more , that you are want to share to young hotelier

PLATARAN INDONESIA HOSTS DASA JUANG PLATARAN INDONESIA CELEBRATIONS

Bali - Plataran Indonesia hosted an evening of celebration at Plataran Canggu Resort & Spa. This annual event usua lly provides an opportunity for travel partners to gather together, and for Plataran to show their appreciation. This year, the celebrations were doubly significant, as Plataran marks a decade of service in Indonesia with the grand opening of Plataran at Canggu, showcasing the unique cuisine, culture and architecture of the archipelago.

Known as a “True Indonesian Icon,” Plataran Indonesia has spent the last ten years proudly showcasing the diverse natural and cultural heritage of the archipelago for the be nefit of Indonesia and Indonesians.

In celebration of this achievement, the event in Bali was attended by an eclectic cast of travel partners, online tra vel agents, wedding or event organizers and various media professionals, who have supported the group and played a key role in its success throughout the past decade. To epitomize the nostalgic ethos of the evening’s celebrations, the dress code and theme of the event was ‘vintage.’

The centrepiece of the evening was a gala dinner, at which guests sampled the delicious signature cuisine of Plataran at Canggu. The event also featured live entertainment, along with speeches, awards and prizes for those in atten dance.

Mr. Yozua Makes and Mrs. Dewi Makes, the founders of Plataran Indonesia, were in attendance, in order to show their personal appreciation for all those who have helped to make the group a success during the last ten years. Spea king at the event, Yozua Makes commented that “Business is about passion and a willingness to continue learning, regardless of one’s previous educational background.”

The continuation of Plataran’s learning and growth is em bodied in their new #hospitalitywithimpact campaign,

geared towards enhancing the positive impacts of tourism and preserving the unique qualities of Indonesia for fu ture generations. The new program, officially announced during the event, has been launched simultaneously and in accord with Plataran’s ROSE (Return On Social Effect) campaign, designed to empower local communities throu gh tourism and sustainable engagement.

About the venue

Plataran at Canggu is the latest Venue & Dining offering from Plataran Indonesia, featuring timeless Indonesian architecture in a chic and comforting setting. Located at Plataran Canggu Resort and Spa, the venue is tucked away in a leafy corner of Bali, where traditional villages and lush green paddy fields form an idyllic backdrop. The property has been designed to act as a labyrinth, allowing guests to wander off and explore the many tranquil corners of this tropical oasis. Visitors can also enjoy a journey throu gh the rich heritage and history of Indonesia; from the 250-year-old Joglo structure at reception to the traditional alang-alang-roofed villas with antique carved doorways, the rich architecture of the archipelago is fully evident. This historic and artistic backdrop was the perfect setting in which to mark Plataran’s ten-year journey, where mem bers of the group and their industry associates could look towards the future together.

About Plataran Indonesia Plataran Indonesia was founded in 2009 as an exotic In donesian company that encompasses various facets of tou rism, including hotels, resorts, cruises, spas, restaurants, event venues and nature development areas. Plataran pro perties are dotted throughout many heavenly locations all over the Indonesian archipelago; the word "Plataran" itself means "God's most favourite courtyard". The underpin ning concept of Plataran is summarized with the Three Xs: eXoticism, eXperience and eXcellence, with a commit ment to being a True Indonesian Icon.

Botanical Garden in Wisteria, Japan, Golden Week

Moscow - Winter Pushkin Monument

From royal birthdays to ancient religious festivals tied to the phases of the moon, participating in a unique celebration is one of the most enjoyable ways to learn more about another culture. Considering that near ly a third (31%) of global travelers plan to take a trip this year to experience an event specific to a region,1 country or religion, Booking.com has rounded up a full calendar of cultural festivities to inspire your wander lust in 2019. With stately parades, bombastic firework displays, scrumptious traditional delicacies and people dancing in the streets in practically every corner of the globe, there’s a festive reason to travel for every month of the year.

January – Australia Day, Australia

Celebrated annually on January 26 across the country, Australia Day marks the anniversary of the arrival of the first British ships to the continent in 1788. Today it is a public holiday that celebrates the history, diver sity and people of Australia, full of festive activities, parades, traditional performances, music events, and stunning firework displays. To experience Australia’s National Day to the most, spend the day in Sydney where celebrations start in the morning and include water shows and live concerts throughout the day. If you are traveling with kids, the Children's Festival at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour promises fun for the whole family.

Where to stay: For a truly unique experience with stun ning views of the Sydney skyline and a beautiful infinity pool, stay at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour. The hotel’s rooftop bar is an ideal spot to watch fireworks fill the sky on Australia Day.

February – Chinese New Year, China

The most important holiday in China and to Chinese people all over the world, the celebration of the new lunar year lasts over two weeks and is often also refe rred to as the Spring Festival (??). Festivities in honor of the Year of the Pig begin on February 5 and include brilliant firework displays, ceremonial offerings to the ancestors and lots of dumplings to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. There are numerous tra ditions associated with Chinese New Year, including a dedicated day in advance for sweeping bad luck out of the house to make way for the good luck the new year will bring.

Where to stay: If you are looking for a unique experien ce in Beijing, then Simple Family hostel is the place to be. Just a quick walk from Guijie Street (Ghost Street), a foodie paradise for late-night snacking, the proper ty also features beautiful indoor tents, including your choice of mattress . If you prefer to dine in, you can prepare your very own New Year’s feast in the hostel’s shared kitchen.

March – St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland

Observed every year on March 17 in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick’s day is a religious and cultu ral festival celebrated by the Irish community in every corner of the globe. If you want to immerse yourself in the festivities, then head to the city of Kilkenny, where St Patrick’s Day becomes St Patrick’s Week, when the five-day ‘Tradfest’ takes over the town. The festival fo cuses on traditional Irish music and culture, while si multaneously encouraging visitors to invent a few new traditions of their own. There is plenty of live music, and you can even join a variety of workshops on tradi tional Irish folk dancing or how to play the accordion or fiddle.

Where to stay: A historic Georgian manor in the heart of the city, Butler House was once the dower house of Kilkenny castle and home to the Dukes of Ormonde. The expansive restored gardens to the rear of the estate have a private entrance to the grounds of Kilkenny cast le and from the front door, you’re only a short walk to the river and medieval center of the city.

April – King’s Day, Netherlands

Every April, the people of Netherlands throw a big bir thday party for the country’s monarch. Now celebrated on April 27 - the actual birthday of current reigning monarch, King Willem-Alexander - Koningsdag (lite rally ‘King’s Day’) was first celebrated in August of 1885 to celebrate the birthday of then Princess Wilhelmina who would later become queen. The day is marked by a nationwide vrijmarkt (literally free market) where peo ple sell their second-hand goods on the street (the only day you’re permitted to do so in the Netherlands wi thout a permit or charging the obligatory sales tax) and public celebrations throughout the country, including concerts, parties and lots and lots of orange (the Dutch national color), most notably in Amsterdam.

Kings Day, Amsterdam

Where to stay: With the biggest party for King’s Day ta king place in and around the famous canals of Amster dam, it’s the most iconic and vibrant place to experien ce this uniquely Dutch holiday. The Former Rembrandt workshop two bedroom apartment is a lovely getaway in the heart of the Jordaan neighborhood, where the most boisterous and authentic public celebrations take place.

May – Golden Week, Japan

In honor of a cluster of important national holidays in Japan that take place at the beginning of May, including the former Emperor’s birthday and Constitution Me morial Day, many Japanese take time off during Golden Week (starting on April 29) to rest, travel and celebrate the change in weather.

Where to stay: Located near the Imperial Palace, HOS HINOYA Tokyo is a beautiful ryokan with modern details. Guests can relax at the property’s indoor hot spring and revitalize their body and soul before hea ding out to sample some of the amazing cuisine that the city has to offer.

June – Festa Junina Brazil

The annual Brazilian festivities of Festa Junina (also known as the festa de São João) celebrate the birth of St. John the Baptist and have their roots in Midsummer festivities imported by the Portuguese in the 16th cen tury. The celebrations occur throughout the month of June and have an important agrarian connection, i.e. to give thanks for the rainy period that is just coming to an end. Although primarily a rural festival, Festa Junina has also become very popular in urban areas of Brazil and is the second most popular holiday after Carnival. If you travel to Brazil during the festivities, you’ll have the opportunity to taste delicious pastries made from corn, as June is usually when the corn crop is harvested.

Where to stay: Featuring a rooftop pool, fitness area and sauna, the apartments and suites at the George V Residence Casa Branca are just steps away from the fabulous shopping on Sao Paulo’s Oscar Freire Street. Guests can kick off the festivities with contemporary gourmet dishes and exotic cocktails at one of the tasty restaurants on nearby Barão de Capanema Street.

July – Independence Day, USA

Independence Day in the United States, commonly re ferred to as the 4th of July, commemorates the day in 1776 that the 13 American colonies adopted the Decla ration of Independence and separated from the British crown. The nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. is a his toric place to experience the 4th of July, offering plenty of pomp and ceremony. The day is filled with military drills and ceremonies, live music, parades, locals min gling around the Washington Monument with picnics, and food trucks lining the Mall. There is also a firewor ks finale, filling the sky over the US Capitol West Lawn after a free concert from the National Symphony Or chestra.

Where to stay: For a stay that’s infamously connected to a more recent chapter in U.S. history, the Watergate Hotel Georgetown offers luxurious rooms with private balconies and views of the Potomac River.You can grab a drink and enjoy the fireworks from The Top of the Gate, the hotel’s rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Georgetown waterfront and the Washington Monu ment.

August – Dormition of Virgin Mary, Greece

One of the most significant holidays in the Greek Or thodox calendar is the Dormition of Virgin Mary. Ce lebrated on August 15, the festival commemorates the moment when Mary literally “fell asleep” and ascended to heaven. Every part of the country has a feast (known as panigiri) and visiting during this period is a great opportunity to experience a unique aspect of Greek culture, as most churches around the country hold a religious ceremony in the morning followed by local festivities. The most popular spot in Greece to partici pate in this annual celebration is the Church of Panagia Evangelistria on the island of Tinos. Pilgrims gather from all around the country gather to pray before a fa mous icon of the Virgin Mary, consequently the most beloved and important in all of Greece.

Where to stay: Aeolis Tinos Suites make for a spacious and relaxing getaway on the beautiful island of Tinos. You can relax at the outdoor pool overlooking the Aegean Sea before heading to the Church of Panagia Evangelistria to view the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Tinos for yourself.

September – Chuseok Festival, South Korea

In South Korea, the Harvest Moon Festival, or Chu seok, falls on the full moon which occurs on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar year. Ko reans celebrate this special day by making special rice cakes (songpyeon) tined in yellow, pink or green, pla ying games and dancing. This festival is often compared to the American Thanksgiving, as families also gather together and give gifts to show their appreciation and gratefulness for each other.

Where to stay: Located in the Jongno-Gu district in northern Seoul, Hanok 24 Guesthouse Gyeongbok gung offers cosy, traditional rooms just a short walk away from Gyeongbokgung Palace, a former royal resi dence of the Joseon dynasty built in 1395.

October – Diwali, India

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in Hinduism and signifies the vic tory of good (light) over evil (dark). During the festival, small lamps are placed in front of temples and houses. If you travel to India during Diwali, you can savor a va riety of local foods and sweets, including mithai (Indian sweets made of sugar and chickpea flour) and samosas (fried pastries filled with vegetables, meat or lentils).

Where to stay: Built over 175 years ago within the city of Jaipur as a royal family manor, Samode Haveli still reflects that original style and attention to detail. Each of the elegantly decorated rooms feature antique cou ches, rich mosaics and painted arches.

November – Day of the Dead, Mexico

Day of the Dead (or Día de Muertos), is a Mexican ho liday where family and friends celebrate deceased lo ved ones. A surprisingly uplifting and happy tradition celebrated on November 2 with painted faces, decora ted skulls, butterflies and vivid flowers, this special day emphasizes the continuity of life. While the Mexican capital now celebrates the day with a colorful parade, many locals visit the graves of their loved ones to leave candles, flowers, food and beverages.

Where to stay: Set in the Polanco district, a cultural, business and shopping area of the city, the Interconti nental Presidente Mexico City boasts stunning views of Chapultepec Park, which you can enjoy before heading out to find the perfect spot to watch the parade.

December - Russian Winter Festival, Moscow

Running between mid-December and mid-January, the Russian Winter Festival is celebrated with great excite ment in different cities around the country, with Mos cow being the best place to enjoy it in all its glory. Fes tive activities and events can be enjoyed throughout the city, including performances of traditional songs and dances in Revolution Square, ice skating in Gorky Park and ice sculptures on Red Square.

Where to stay: Sputnik Hostel & Personal Space is a modern hostel in central Moscow, just a short walk away from the Kremlin and Red Square, ideal for taking in all of special events during the festival.

1 Based on the percentage of travelers that thinks it is “likely” or “ very likely” that in 2019, they will go on a “cultural event trip (ex. A trip to experience a event specific to a region, country or religion)”. Research commissioned by Booking.com and independent ly conducted among a sample of 53,492 respondents across 31 markets (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Cana da, China, Colombia, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Fran ce, Hong Kong, Croatia, Indonesia, Israel, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, Sweden, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States of America and Vietnam). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have travelled at least once in the past 12 months and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place between October 16th and November 12th, 2018.

Contents Executive summary

Nusa Dua area seems to have the highest Guest Satisfaction (ORM score) than others in the region of Bali. This solidi fies the claim that lodging units in Nusa Dua are more than often meeting or exceeding guest expectations. However, there are large disparities that exist between the top and the lowest performers in each and every area, proving the analysis needs to be even more precise or particular rather than area level.

Location and cleanliness tend to reach the highest ratings in the Bali region whereas breakfast quality and value for money seem to attract the most negative ratings. Three-star budget hotels more often than not get down voted for value for money.

There are also large inconsistencies in the response rate of the hotel management when it comes to online reviews. The report has found out that five-star premium hotels tend to be much more responsive to online reviews than their three or four-star counterparts. However, there is still room for improvement as the hotels slowly learning the importance of attending to online reviews as soon as possi ble. In the Bali region, the Villas have recorded a significant increase in their ORM score too with particular emphasis on responding to negative reviews.

Executive summary

The report also shows that English is the most preferred language for guests to write reviews due to the high influx of English speaking international tourists. German and French have bagged the second and the third position res pectively. The report further indicates that Chinese is the fastest growing medium of reviews in the region with a re corded year on year growth of 35%.

Introduction Methodology

The data we processed and analyzed in our research was extracted from Repup reputation platform and compiled by industry analysts. Repup is a B2B ORM platform that provides customer experience management tools for ho tels and hospitality businesses. It is also an authorized re view collection partner of TripAdvisor, currently operating across 15+ countries with 2000 + brands.

The data is based on reviews from 142 Online Travel Agen cies (OTAs) , review sites and social channels. We analyzed data within the time period of Dec 2017 - Nov 2018. The data covers all 3, 4 and 5-star hotels, resorts and Villas, lo cated across 10 major areas in Bali, Indonesia. We aggre gated and analyzed the data within each hotel category to compare between areas in Bali. Accordingly, each area profile is made up of four charts. These charts indicate the respective key figure and show the changes from the last year. We show the results for all hotels and villas in an area and then break it down further to show the 3-, 4- and 5-star hotel categories.

For each individual area in Bali, we analyzedRepUp ORM score   (Online Reputation Management Sco re) per area per star category Department scores covering quantitative ratings

Methodology

Details of review languages

We analyzed 10 most common review languages in each city. The results provide the total number of reviews per language and the year on year growth in their volume. The results indicate not only the most common review lan guages but also allow us to assume the origin of the visi tors. Our accumulated data have also covered the fastest growing languages in each city. This helps us identify from where the influx of new tourists are coming.

Response rate

The review response rate indicates what percentage of re views have been responded by the management. Total re view response rate is consequently composed of the avera ge of the positive, neutral and negative response rates. The results help us identify the response rate in total, negati ve and positive reviews and the changes in response rates from previous year.

Expert Articles

5 Steps to increase your hotel’s departmental Score

Hotel departmental scores are a necessity as it largely defi nes how your guests, both existing and potential, view your property. Low departmental scores often lead to lower boo kings, lower ratings and less revenue. Here in this article, we will be trying to provide some pointers about how to increase your hotel’s individual departmental scores.

1. Adapting technological change

Most of the hoteliers still depend on face to face interac tion with guests to personalize the guest experience. Al though this is a tried and tested practice but it is also very inefficient. When it comes to guest satisfaction in the 21st century, the right thing to do is to invest in a proper set of technology tools for managing the entire guest experience. A tool such as this can help you manage guest feedback and reviews, making it easier to keep track of what guests say. In the case of a negative feedback alert, preventive actions can be taken instantaneously.

2. Keeping your staff updated.

If your staff knows exactly what is happening at your ho tel at all times, it will become significantly easier for them to do their jobs in an effortless manner and deliver better experience to your guests. It is imperative that you keep your workforce updated at 5 Steps to increase your hotel’s departmental Score

4. Invest in training incentivize your staff. In order to deliver the perfect guest experience, you must provide regular training to the staff.  It would help your sta ff greatly if they know the correlation between their perfor mances and your hotel’s department scores. It is imperative that you get your staff up to date with the specific roles they will be playing. Everyone should know who to report to and to who to direct guests with pressing questions. Set goals for staff during training and incentivize them when they achieve them. Incentive can be as small as a pat on their back by facilitating them in monthly meetings.

5. Regularly analyze reports and find trends. It is imperative that you evaluate and analyze reports tho roughly to get a general perspective about the operational efficiencies of different hotel departments. This way it will be much easier to understand which departments are lac king and then proceed with constructive implementations that will help them perform better.

It is always best to look at your monthly performance com pared to your previous 6 months performance. This will show a trend and give you a clear picture of the direction you are going in.

A comprehensive guide to online reputation management

For a hotelier, there is hardly anything more important than guest satisfaction in this era, when hotels are facing

high competition in terms of quality and pricing. It works as the single most crucial aspect of your business, driving revenue, improving ratings and keeping your property ahead of the competition. However, due to conflicting in terests, it is not always easy to keep guest satisfaction at the center of business.

Here are five ways to improve guest satisfaction for your hotel:

User-friendly website: The first impression plays a pivotal role behind any kind of impression building. The hotel business is not an excep tion to this rule at all. Make sure the website is properly optimized, easy to load and user-friendly. The website must also have visual appeal and social proof of the experience the guests will enjoy at your hotel. You must incorporate valuable content at every page while adding “Book Now” buttons wherever possible for the ease of direct booking. The underlying aim should be – whenever a potential guest connects with you online, he/she should immediately de velop a positive opinion about your brand. You should also include review widgets for showcasing positive reviews about your brand.

A comprehensive guide to online reputation management Collecting guest feedback:

The hotel must provide guests ample opportunities to pro vide feedback about the property and then work accor dingly to fix any shortcomings. Using guest feedback and relevant data to guide future decisions at your property is an effective way to show your past, future and present guests that you genuinely care about their experience. Co llecting feedback and implementing solutions is a potent strategy to increase guest satisfaction levels by a significant margin.

Handling negative reviews for better guest satisfaction: A crucial part of guest satisfaction is how you respond to reviews, especially to the negative ones. No matter how irrational or biased may the negative review look, it is cru cial to resist the urge to defend your hotel. The hotel autho rities must respond in a timely manner as ignoring, dela ying or deflecting blame will only make the matter worse. Make sure to apologize and offer solutions, and don’t forget to thank the guest for the kind feedback.

How guest reviews impact your hotel’s reputation?

We do not need anyone to tell us just how competitive the hotel industry is. We are probably all too aware of that fact. Of course, the exact nature of the competition you face depends on factors such as your location and the markets you are in. But given the current scenario, a single poor review can have a damaging effect on your business.

A recent TripAdvisor survey emphasized : More than half of respondents (53%) will not book a hotel that does not have reviews.

1 in 5 (20%) travelers read over 11 reviews before making a travelling decision.

How it all started?

The hotel industry as we know it today started at the be ginning of the 15th century when the french law required that hotel managers keep a register. English law quickly followed suit, and more than 500 inns began to crop up in the two countries. The true transformation of the hotel industry began during the industrial revolution.

Recovery: amending the hotel’s reputation when it goes bad through  service recovery and apology to reverse the negative and achieve a good reputation.

As a hotelier, it is precious to obtain positive feedback from satisfied guests.  On the other hand, there should be an attempt to diminish negative reviews and also use ne gative comments to improve  the quality of the product or service.

However, the main challenge for hoteliers is tracking all the negative reviews written by guests online and addres sing their issues one by one. It is important to constantly monitor recent developments while interacting with the guests. It is easy to get sucked into the operational vortex of the hotel’s day to day affairs while your hotel’s online reviews get neglected. Good reputation management can open new revenue channels for your hotels.

The impact of guest reviews on your hotel’s reputation According to a study, reviews given online have a signi ficant impact on the consumers’ buying decisions.  The study states that-67.7% of consumers’ purchasing decisions are influenced by the reviews that they read online. Ranking and response.

SEMINYAK

UBUD CANGGU KUTA

SANUR JIMBARAN ULUWATU NUSA LEMBONGAN LEGIAN NUSA DUA BALI

Appendix A Appendix B

Appendix A : Glossary RepUP ORM score (Online Reputation Management Sco re)

The RepUp ORM score  is an online reputation score for an individual hotel, group of hotels or chain based on re view data collected from 142 online travel agencies (OTAs) and review sites in more than 40+ languages. ORM score is the average of the quantitative score available on online review sites, OTAs, Social Media and the qualitative score generated from RepUp’s Sentiment Analysis Engine. The RepUp ORM score, which is available exclusively to Re pUp clients, is a benchmark for hoteliers for reputation management and to set business objectives as well as opti mize pricing compared to their competitors.

Appendix B : Full city ranking

Repup is a guest experience management company hel ping thousands of hotels upsell to guest, communicate with guest, increase online reviews, improve guest satis faction and NPS, improve marketing efficiency by aggre gating guest data and automating processes from a single CRM.

Repup works with 2100+ hotels around the globe. Repup.co

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   

   

    

    

Questions Indonesian hoteliers must ask when supply is hurting rate growth

Written by: Rachel Grier, Area Vice President, Asia Pacific for IDeaS

The global hotel sector has undergone a period of sus tained growth over recent years. Markets like Singapore have benefited from higher levels of demand (9.3 per cent yearly growth*), which has led to increased rates of occupancy (5.5 per cent yearly increase*) and ultimately supported the revenue hotels have been able to generate per available room (7.2 per cent yearly rise.*) However, while many hotel centres are growing profits as a result of increased levels of business and consumer travel, other destinations in Indonesia have not been so fortunate.

The high-profile market of Bali remains a popular tourist and honeymoon destination, but the destination only re cently attained an operating environment where foreign visitor numbers were growing at an annualised rate of 23.5 per cent. However, the Indonesian Hotel and Restau rant Association (PHRI) has called for a halt in new deve lopment construction to help increase the occupancy rate of existing property and limit the impact of oversupply.

Increased supply, especially in a high-occupancy mar ket, poses an interesting problem for revenue managers. If rates are generally stagnant, and your hotel is already operating at a high occupancy, revenue managers are challenged to figure out how to drive RevPAR. In times when supply is impacting a hotel's ability to increase room rates, Indonesian-based hoteliers should consider the following questions:

This unique situation, where enhanced numbers of po tential guests are visiting a destination and yet occupan cies actually decrease, is a direct result of new develop ments coming onto the market, leading to an oversupply of hotel rooms.

We all know hoteliers live and die by their forecasts. A de tailed forecast of demand influences marketing and ope rations and drives the way in which a hotel operates. In markets faced with oversupply issues, forecasting by day, and by segment, and outside a normal booking window will present hoteliers with insights into the total available demand with price sensitivity in mind. From there, hotels can put the proper controls in place to ensure they’re ac cepting the most profitable demand mix.

Are your groups displacing higher rated transient demand on busy nights?

Hoteliers facing challenges of oversupply should pay ca reful attention to the group mix in their properties. Hotel managers need to better understand that the displace ment of transient demand over the requested group da tes is key in helping make the right decision to accept or reject a group.

“I THINK WE NEED A MORATORIUM. SE VERAL REGIONS LIKE BALI, YOGYAKAR TA AND BANDUNG, ALREADY HAVE TOO MANY HOTELS,” SAID PHRI CHAIRMAN HARIYADI SUKAMDANI.**

Are you anticipating your peak demand early enough to close out discounts and yieldable, fixed-rate business?

Hoteliers should also factor total group profitability in cluding ancillary spend. If groups are weighing down a hotel’s ADR, the revenue manager needs to be empowe red with accurate and detailed information to ensure their total revenue is making up for any ADR losses.

demand periods?

Developing an understanding of a hotel’s demand by arrival date and length of stay allows for proper mana gement of a property’s peak days and the surrounding shoulder nights. This goes back to anticipating a hotel’s peak demand days well in advance so as to have the time and strategy in hand to be able to actively drive the LOS within the occupancy mix across the property’s shoulder nights.

Local hoteliers need to think differently about their onli ne reputation and start utilising it beyond operations and marketing; they need to use online reputation for compe titive pricing and to drive better rate outcomes.

Are you overbooking effectively?

In a situation where a hotel is operating in a market in fluenced by oversupply, revenue managers need to take advantage of every opportunity they can; meaning there is no excuse for empty rooms, or forced free upgrades, on busy nights. All hoteliers need to develop a solid unders tanding of their cancellation and no-show rates to ensure optimal overbooking of not just the hotel, but by room category as well. They need to make sure to balance their overbooking decision with the opportunity cost of wal king a guest.

While some hotel markets are able to increase their room rates in line with greater levels of demand and occupancy, hoteliers in Indonesia (and other markets experiencing oversupply issues) will have to find more sophisticated and advanced ways to take advantage of revenue oppor tunities if they want to remain ahead of the market.

A hotel’s online reputation relative to their competitors’ can certainly be a factor in pricing power. Hoteliers in In donesia should compare their online reputation to their competition and explore these opportunities to drive ra tes. If they don’t currently undertake this practice, hotel management should enlist the help of their operations team to get them there.

References:

*https://www.htrends.com/trends-detail-sid-100727.html

**http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2017/11/14/government-as ked-to-stop-issuing-licenses-for-hotel-construction.html

Do you have an appropriate strategy in place that favours shoulder-night business during peak

Does your online reputation afford you the ability to command a few extra dollars over your competition?

DEAN

18 BEDROOM BOUTIQUES HOTEL IN UMALAS

REF# : HUMS101

Title : Hotel Location : Umalas Land Area : 1500 sqm Building/Floor Area : 1000 sqm Price List : Rp 34.950.000.000

Bedrooms : 18 Bathrooms : 18 Garages : 4 OtherFeatures :

Built-In Wardrobes,Close To Schools,Close To Shops,Close To Transport,Fireplace(S)

The land approximately 1500 sqm, was built this beautiful hotel in 1998 with the very passion that it is operated with today.

The reason owner selling, it’s time think about retirement.

This 18-bedroom hotel for sale located on Banjar Umalas - Kerobokan, on the outskirt of the busy Kuta beach.

This hotel accommodation with a “Private Resi dential” its build on the concept of harmoniously blends of the oriental Javanese - Chinese culture with uniquely mystical beauty of Bali.

This hotel consists of various buildings, each with 2 floors. A total of 18 bedrooms are offered.

The bedrooms are spacious and in the upper floors, they are having a high ceiling. Each be droom is having its own en-suite bathroom, equi pped with hot water.

Elegant rooms come with warm lighting and a private balcony. All well-appointed rooms are fi tted with a flat-screen TV, minibar and sofa. En suite bathrooms have a bathtub.

Facilities • 18 Bedrooms • Swimming pool • Res taurant • Receptions • Staff area • Permit 2 IMB and Pondok Wisata • Title : Freehold / Hak milik • Land : 1500 m2 • Building approx : 1000m2

Further information available upon request, plea se contact us below for more details.

Lia Hariani Call : +62 813-9700-8888 Email : lia@anniedeanproperties.com

PHI PHI ISLAND VILLAGE BEACH RESORT SHOWCASES THE WONDERS OF THE ANDAMAN SEA WITH SUSTAINABLE ISLAND ADVENTURES

Idyllic beachfront resort, which features its own Ma rine Discovery Centre, unveils a range of excursions to tropical islands and dive spots all across the archi pelago

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand: Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, the upscale oasis on southern Thailand’s Phi Phi Island, is inviting guests to explore the Andaman Sea with a series of eco-sensitive excursions to remo te beaches, idyllic islets and dramatic dive spots all across this exotic archipelago.

With its tropical climate, dramatic geology and di verse marine life, Thailand’s Andaman Sea is a brea th-taking environment that houses many of Asia’s most iconic coastal attractions. These include Maya Bay, the turquoise lagoon at Koh Phi Phi Leh which was made famous by the Leonardo diCaprio movie, The Beach. Maya Bay was closed last year to preserve its pristine environment - a conscientious move that brought the important issues of responsible tourism and conservation in Thailand to global attention.

Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, which operates a dedicated Marine Discovery Centre, welcomed this decision and is now inviting visitors to discover more remote parts of this spectacular seascape, away from the tourist crowds.

Under the resort’s “Island Explorations”, guests can embark on private boat trips to the most exquisite parts of the Andaman archipelago, including island jewels like Koh Pai, Koh Yung, Koh Poda, Koh Kai and Koh Mor. Pristine beaches and coral reefs await, with plenty of opportunities for barefoot relaxation, snorkelling excursions and beachfront picnics. Kaya king trips also allow guests to access remote coves, and couples can enjoy a “Romantic Rendezvous” that concludes with chilled Champagne at sunset. The “Diving Programs” meanwhile, enable guests to explore the Andaman’s vibrant underwater world with professional instructors from Phi Phi Island Dive Village, the resort’s PADI-certified dive centre. Sharks, rays, eels, turtles and a spectacular array of colourful fish await beneath the glistening ocean wa ves.

Led by a resident marine biologist, the Marine Dis covery Centre is at the heart of Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort’s on-going efforts to preserve the Anda man Sea. With indoor and outdoor exhibition areas, displays of the area’s sea life, a video room and a mini aquarium, this innovative and interactive facility provi des a fascinating window into the undersea world. Guests can now learn all about the Andaman Sea at the Marine Discovery Centre before heading out on their own journey of discovery, safe in the knowledge that their trip will have a limited impact on the marine environment. Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort has also created a series of special accommodation packa ges that allow families, couples and local residents to discover the wonders of the Andaman Sea.

Whether you want to dive or snorkel in crystal clear wa ters, unwind with a picnic on powder-soft sandy bea ches, or simply soak up the spectacular seascapes with your loved one, Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort’s eco-sensitive marine excursions will create memories that last a lifetime, while leaving no lasting trace on the environment. visit www.phiphiislandvillage.com.

About Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort

Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort enjoys a secluded, pristine tropical island location overlooking Loh Ba Gao Bay on Koh Phi Don. The resort boasts an impres sive, exclusive 800-metre beachfront and offers guests a supremely comfortable back-to-nature experience with 201 rooms comprising 189 contemporary Thai style bungalows and 12 private Hillside Pool Villas across 70 acres of lush tropical gardens surrounding a custom-design lagoon-shaped pool and a long and elegant beachfront infinity pool. The resort offers four restaurants and three bars providing a diverse choice of cuisines set against a backdrop of exquisite views, while Wana Spa offers jungle cottages ideal for couples' spa treatments. The resort offers assured privacy and intimacy in the shade of swaying coconut palms with fragrant gardens that open onto the sparkling blue wa ters of the Andaman Sea. With the stunning flora and fauna of the Nopparattra National Park on their doors tep, the owners and employees at Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort are committed to preserving the stunning natural surroundings and have implemented a number of ongoing sustainable initiatives to reduce the resort's ecological footprint.

GREENHOUSE EXPANDS ITS BUSINESS IN INDONESIA

The co-working space is further scaling the number of activities and events they host and organize in three main areas: CSR, Business & Wellness

Jakarta – Greenhouse, a market entry pla tform and co-working space that believes in connectivity and environmental sus tainability, has proven in 2018 that offline connectivity is as wanted as online. Focu sing in three major areas (CSR, Business and Wellness Events), Greenhouse has hosted more than 160 events in their first 10 months, setting the tone for Greenhou se’s operations and future goals.

From the very beginning Greenhouse found it important to provide their clients and members an outstanding experience. Both online and offline. Regardless of the type of service they offer, their ‘member first’ - approach is manifested in provi ding a world class event experience for companies of all sizes. The beautiful ve nue speaks for itself why so many com panies have chosen Greenhouse for their events. The space is green, spacious, bri ght and comes with a fantastic unblocked cityview. But Greenhouse took this even further and they carefully trained their staff to get above their clients’ needs and expectations every single day.

Adam Haluska, Head of Marketing at Greenhouse said, "2018 was a ground breaking moment for Greenhouse and in 2019, we are planning to do even more and bring some very cool and interesting events to Jakarta. In the upcoming April, Greenhouse will be hosting Startup Weekend Jakarta 2019, which is a 54-hour weekend event, in which individuals work together to pitch ideas for new startups and develop working prototypes/ demos

and present them to a panel of selected judges. All teams and participants will be guided and receive valuable feedback from local entrepreneurs. Events such as this one has motivated us to continue growing and significantly contribute to the community.”

The variety of events that Greenhouse is able to serve is nearly infinite. Events of all sizes and types have taken place at Greenhouse over the last year. From sma ller gatherings, board meetings, trainings and workshops to lavish 3 days long tech events, hacketons and unicorn birthday parties, Greenhouse has seen it all. Some of Greenhouse’s clients even launched their new, revolutionary products that are already widely used by hundreds of thou sands or not millions around the globe. Giant and most valuable companies such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, AWS, Linke dIn, Line, GoJek, Quora, Visa, H&M, Harley-Davidson, IBM are some that has hosted their events in Greenhouse.

Besides serving a wide variety of com panies, Greenhouse also heavily invests in organizing their own events. In 2018, they co-organised more than 60 events out of the 160 mentioned above. Green house’s efforts were mostly invested into 3 types of events: CSR, Business and We llness Events. Supporting organizations that have a positive environmental or so cial impact is something that Greenhouse have taken seriously.

During the collaboration with the Em bassy of Denmark and Embassy of Swe den, Greenhouse co-organised the World Environment Day in 2018 that is a UN Environment-led global event and is the single largest event raising awareness on

world environment. The event in Green house featured presentations on how to #BeatPlasticPollution by Greenhouse, former Ambassador of Sweden, Mrs. Jo hanna Brismar Skoog, the Ambassador of Denmark, Mr. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Gerakan Indonesia Diet Kan tong Plastik, Waste4Change and Project Semesta on plastic pollution, and an exhi bition: ‘the Patterns of the Biosphere’. Last but not least, besides fun and enga ging community events that are designed for Greenhouse member’s wellness, there are various type of educational works hops, fireside chats with successfully en trepreneurs too.

Greenhouse has also organised 4 globally recognised events: Startup Weekend bac ked by Google and Techstars, Fuckup Ni ghts co-organised with ImpactHub Jakar ta, Creative Mornings in collaboration with Lingkaran and Silicon Drinkabout which is a new concept in Jakarta, brought from Silicon Valley.

Their latest collaboration was with Jakarta Greener.e and The Indonesian Energy & Environmental Institute (IE21) where Greenhouse hosted the Greenhouse Fair that took place on the 19 January 2019. Local environmentally conscious vendors were able to exhibit their products, people were able to get their zero-waste, natural and organic products at the ecofriendly market, recycle their paper/plastic, swap their clothes and books, join their well ness workshops, and attend educational sessions on how to make your business Green. Naina Kapoor, Head of Commu nity of Greenhouse said, “The event was a great success! More than 200 visitors came to check out 21 local vendor’s products and to participate in 7 different works

hops. We will definitely host more events like this as we see it has the potential to make a real difference and to increase the awareness about already available natural and sustainable solutions and practices.”

For more details regarding Greenhouse’s upcoming Startup Weekend Jakarta 2019 event: http://bit.ly/swjakarta2019pr

adam@greenhouse.id

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas Joins IHG®

Sharing its Passion for Wellness, Community and Sustainable Travel

BANGKOK – Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas is burs ting with news: it has become part of the IHG fa mily of brands. (IHG®) (InterContinental Hotels Group) is one of the world’s leading global hotel com panies with a growing number of luxury brands in cluding InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Regent Hotels & Resorts and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.

IHG purchased the award-winning hospitality and wellness company from private equity fund Pegasus Capital Advisors for USD 300 million. The sale in cludes the management of 16 hotels and resorts, 37 spas and sister companies Evason and Raison d’Etre. Following the acquisition Six Senses is now expec ted to grow to 60 hotels within the next 10 years.

“This is an exciting new era for Six Senses,” said Chief Executive Officer Neil Jacobs. “IHG believes in our pur pose to merge the two platforms of wellness and sus tainability to promote personal health, and the heal th of the planet. Joining forces with IHG means we can use a wealth of systems and operational excellence to grow our brand and reach new markets without lo sing our quirky personality and playful touch. It’s been a great pleasure to work with Pegasus over the last six years and we would never have reached this mi lestone without their vision and deep involvement.”

Over the next 12 months, Six Senses will open properties in surprising locations. From the private island of Kra bey in Cambodia, a circuit of five lodges in Bhutan, to a 14th-century-old restored fort in Rajasthan. The dream list also includes a desert hideaway in Israel’s Negev De

sert, the transformation of a series of 19th-century man sions in Istanbul and the group’s first project in North America, a contemporary duo of twisting towers desig ned by Bjarke Ingles located in Manhattan’s West Chel sea neighborhood and along the High Line. Additional projects are currently under way in Austria, Brazil, Main land China, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan and Thailand.

Although Six Senses took its first (barefoot) steps on re mote beaches and tropical hideaways, the people behind the brand have shown that purposeful travel and emo tional hospitality is not formulaic. It can be successfully replicated across a diverse property portfolio, which in cludes a 19th century quinta (wine estate) in the UNES CO heritage-listed Douro Valley in Portugal and two sis ter hotels in Singapore’s Chinatown. The model can be adapted and still retain all the sustainable commitments for which Six Senses has become the industry inspiration.

IHG’s Chief Executive Keith Barr said, “IHG’s growing portfolio of luxury brands is a collection of the very best in the travel industry. Each one offers something unique to our guests, and together they offer an unpa ralleled choice of locations and experiences. We’re in credibly proud to welcome Six Senses in to our family of brands and look forward to opening more stunning hotels, resorts and spas - each one staying true to Six Senses’ world-renowned reputation for wellness and an unwavering commitment to purposeful travel.”

The beating heart of every Six Senses property is a Six Sen ses Spa, working in harmony with each hotel and resort to create a depth of personalized wellness support. Each

spa offers a menu of Six Senses signature treatments and therapies plus locally-inspired specialties, yogic programs and a range of feel-good pamperings. Skilled therapists are drawn from all over and Six Senses’ Visiting Practitio ners bring an extra depth of knowledge to each spa guest. Unique to the hospitality sector, Six Senses has taken we llness out of the spa and integrated it into the entire stay for guests: from the food they eat to the way they sleep.

Sleep With Six Senses, Eat With Six Senses and the latest Grow With Six Senses childrens’ initiative have all been highly successful in helping people (young and young at heart) to learn something new and reconnect with them selves, others and the world around them.

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas includes 16 award-win ning resorts and hotels around the world. The newest addition to the portfolio, Six Senses Krabey Island, opens on March 1, 2019 in Cambodia. The resort fea tures 40 well-appointed villas all with private plunge pools. A variety of exhilarating experiences are avai lable across all 16 hotels and resorts in the Six Senses portfolio. In Oman at Six Senses Zighy Bay, guests can arrive by air and paraglide into the 82 all-villa resort. Click here to download this image in high resolution

Six Senses offers a variety of wellness programs across all 37 spas. Guests can tap into the good vibes, ground brea king sleep standards, vitality-boosting menus and pionee ring wellness integrated into every moment of their stay.

About IHG®

IHG® (InterContinental Hotels Group) is a global organization with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo®, EVEN® Hotels, HUALUXE® Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, voco™, Holiday Inn®, Holiday Inn Express®, Holiday Inn Club Vacations®, Holiday Inn Resort®, avid® hotels, Staybridge Suites® and Candlewood Suites®.

IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns more than 5,500 hotels and approximately 826,000 guest rooms in almost 100 countries, with more than 1,800 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG® Rewards Club, a global loyalty program, which has more than 100 million enrolled members. InterContinental Ho tels Group PLC is the group’s holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. More than 375,000 people work across IHG’s hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit www.ihg.com for hotel information and reserva tions and www.ihgrewardsclub.com for more on IHG Rewards Club. For our latest news, visit: www.ihgplc. com/media and follow IHG on social media at: www. twitter.com/ihg, www.facebook.com/ihg and www.you tube.com/ihgplc.

About Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas operates 16 hotels and resorts, plus 37 spas in 21 countries under the brand names Six Senses, Evason, Six Senses Spas and Raison d’Etre. Resort, hotel and spa projects are under deve lopment in Austria, Bhutan, Brazil, Cambodia, China, India, Israel, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and the United States.

Six Senses properties share a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, wellness and design, infused with a touch of quirkiness. Whether an exquisite island resort, mountain retreat or urban hotel, the enduring purpose is to help people reconnect with themselves, others and the world around them.

Six Senses Spas offers a wide range of holistic wellness, rejuvenation and beauty treatments administered under the guidance of expert therapists in all resorts as well as at 16 additional standalone spas. The high-tech and hi gh-touch approach guides guests on their personal path to well-being, taking them as deep as they want to go.

Six Senses Residences provides the best life has to offer. From beautifully-appointed villas on the beach, rustic chalets in the mountains and spacious urban hideaways, Six Senses features a variety of residential choices in stand-alone buildings or attached to a resort or hotel. No matter the location, the promise remains the same and the commitment to create a community where every day revolves around learning and growing, great food and drink, innovative wellness programming, sustainable living – all mixed in with a lot fun.

Evason follows the Six Senses philosophy of uncompro mised responsibility to sustainability and the commu nity. Its two unique resorts provide a strong value focus, while offering a vast array of personal guest experiences that the whole family will love.

bloomfield

Nestled amongst the sprawling rice terraces of Umalas, Bloomfield Bali is a holistic boutique hideaway where guests can relax and recharge with great service, delicious, healthy food and fabulous cocktails. The beautifully de signed and landscaped gardens spread from the entrance and spill out to the hotel’s two pools, overlooking the rice terraces and distant, looming volcanoes.

The hotel is the realisation of owner Sally Bloomfield’s dream to open a wellness-style, boutique holistic lifestyle hotel in Bali. Formerly the Melbourne Editor for Harper’s Bazaar, Sally and her late husband, Ian Robertson, owned and operated the 85-room hotel, The Albany and Bloom field, in Melbourne, Australia and recently Sally also sta rred in the latest season of The Real Housewives of Mel bourne. Sally had visited and fallen in love with the island and people of Bali, returning many times over three de cades, and in 2012, Sally and her husband settled in Bali, buying a stunning piece of land in Umalas, between Can ggu and Seminyak, on the way to Ubud.

Initially Sally and Ian bought a modern two-bedroom vi lla and over the next few years added rooms for friends and family, before deciding to transform the property into a hotel. They chose Umalas because of its relative peacefulness and serenity, and the refreshing year-round breezes across the rolling rice paddy fields. It is also just minutes from the great shopping and restaurants of Se minyak and the cool cafés and beach culture of Canggu.

bloomfield

Beautiful former private residence provides boutique accommodation and spa to discover physical and spiritual wellbeing in the heart of picturesque Umalas, Bali

BALI BOUTIQUEHotel And Spa bloomfield

BLOOMFIELD BALI BOUTIQUE Hotel And Spa

“It has been a labour of love and often very challen ging, but I have a great team around me who have all made it possible,” said Sally. “Ian never got to see our dream come true, but he would be immensely proud of the hotel and the team that we have created. I had some prior experience in hotel design, so I was able to visualize clearly what I wanted the hotel to be – like walking into a beautiful, relaxed home. I plan ned every tiny detail of the property and enlisted my good friend, Alex Zabotto Bentley of AZB Creative, to help perfect my dream over the last few months.”

The elegant resort has been meticulously designed to create a contemporary feel combined with tra ditional Balinese features. The eco-friendly design features beautiful handcrafted bamboo structures with lounge, living and dining spaces that flow from indoor to outdoor. The rooms are airy and spacious, and there is a yoga pavilion, a day spa, two pools and a bale bale (open-air hut) in the rice fields, perfect for meditation, yoga or a sunset cocktail. Bloomfield Bali offers a variety of accommodation options with a room for everybody – whether a spacious honey moon suite or a smaller, simple, stylish pool view room. All rooms offer ensuite bathrooms, Wi-Fi ac cess and air conditioning. The exclusive Villa Sawah is a mini-Bloomfield, located next door to the bou tique accommodation with its own private entrance. The villa has three spacious bedrooms, a private in finity pool and the most coveted views in the hotel. With all the facilities of the hotel, it is perfect for a family retreat, offering privacy and butler service if required.

Sally’s personal touches permeate the hotel with the interiors feeling like an extension of her own home, right down to the family photos hanging in the bar, welcoming guests with a unique and relaxing atmos phere redolent with her own style and understated elegance perfected after a distinguished career in de sign, fashion and interiors. Her fashion eye can also be seen throughout her Boutique, which is destined to become a standalone destination.

Over the years, Sally has been constantly asked about her style so she created an outlet to share bags, acces sories, jewellery and objet d’art she loves with guests. Whether a wedding, family holiday, couples retreat or yoga getaway, each stay is uniquely designed for guests with an array of activities to please everyone, from die-hard adventurers to wellness yoga holiday goers. The hotel offers a range of group and indivi dual activities such as surfing, mountain trekking through rice paddies, white water rafting, yoga, Pi lates and meditation. Hotel Bloomfield has a no kids under 14 policy unless the entire hotel is privately booked.

The hotel employs a “locavore” philosophy with its dining options, meaning that all meals are made from scratch, on site, with ingredients sourced from local artisan suppliers. The ever-changing break fast offerings include seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh juices, house baked seed breads, organic eggs, puddings, smoothie bowls, buckwheat pancakes and granola & nut-milk. Seasonal lunch and dinner me nus include dishes such as spicy prawn laab served in lettuce cups with toasted rice and nuoc cham dres sing or raw nori bowl with matcha tea noodles, sesa me tofu, edamame, asparagus, avocado pickle & soy miring dressing. Shared banquets of BBQ turmeric crusted fish, Moroccan chicken and seafood served with vibrant salads are offered every evening. Chef Fanni Robial describes the Bloomfield menu as glo bally inspired, nutritious and delicious.

Bloomfield Spa is managed by Glo Day Spa and Sa lon, providing guests with an unforgettable spa ex perience. The spa menu offers a collection of treat ments that relieve stress, boost vitality, enchant the senses and restore balance. The talented, intuitive Spa therapists and beautifully appointed treatment rooms allow guests to leave the cares of the world behind and discover an enhanced feeling of wellbe ing. The spa consists of two double deluxe treatment rooms and a mani-pedi lounge. However, guests are encouraged to enjoy treatments in the sanctuary of their own room or in the rice paddy view bale.

YOGA PILATES PACKAGE – SINGLE OCCUPANCY

Single Occupancy – 3 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 490

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 470

Pool Room – USD 450

Bamboo Room – USD 430

Palm Room – USD 410

Inclusions:

• Single Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 1 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 1 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 2 x Pilates classes

Single Occupancy – 5 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 770

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 750

Pool Room – USD 730

Bamboo Room – USD 710

Palm Room – USD 690

Inclusions:

• Single Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 3 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 2 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 3 x Pilates classes

Single Occupancy – 7 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 990

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 970

Pool Room – USD 950

Bamboo Room – USD 930

Palm Room – USD 910

Inclusions:

• Single Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 4 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 3 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 5 x Pilates classes

All prices are inclusive of 21% tax and service charge

YOGA PILATES PACKAGE – DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

Double Occupancy – 3 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 590

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 570

Pool Room – USD 550

Bamboo Room – USD 530 Palm Room – USD 510

Inclusions:

• Double Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 1 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 1 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 2 x Pilates classes

Double Occupancy – 5 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 920

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 900

Pool Room – USD 880

Bamboo Room – USD 860

Palm Room – USD 840

Inclusions:

• Double Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 3 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 2 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 3 x Pilates classes

Double Occupancy – 7 Nights

Pool Suite – USD 1,190

Deluxe Pool Room – USD 1,170

Pool Room – USD 1,150

Bamboo Room – USD 1,130 Palm Room – USD 1,110

Inclusions:

• Double Occupancy

• Cold face towel and refreshing cold drink upon arrival

• Daily breakfast

• 4 x two-course lunch or dinner

• Complimentary internet and WiFi

• Return airport transfers

• 3 x Balinese massage

• Daily Yoga classes

• 5 x Pilates classes

All prices are inclusive of 21% tax and service charge

S Hotels & Resorts Creates Spectacular New Cultural Crossroads in the Maldives

Opening in June 2019, Phase One of CROSSROADS Maldives weaves together the past, pre sent and future of the country by showcasing its rich cultural heritage and engaging with local communities

S Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary Thailand’s Singha Estate PCL, will showcase the cultural charm and diversity of the Maldives as part of its most ambitious development to date and the first phase of the CROSSROADS Maldives integrated leisure and resort destination. Sche duled to open in summer 2019, this spectacular project will encompass three independent islands fringing the Emboodhoo Lagoon in the pristine South Malé Atoll, just 15 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. Upon completion, CROSSROADS will offer two captivating hotels, SAii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, plus a wide range of facilities centred upon The Marina @CROSSROADS, an 11,000 square-metre lifestyle, retail and dining destination.

CROSSROADS Maldives is aptly named and specifically master-planned as a global meeting place where travellers from around the world can experience authentic Maldivian culture from the past to the present. While many resorts focus solely on the country’s famous tropical scenery, CROSSROADS Maldives will also highlight its diverse cultural heritage.

The Maldives enjoys a unique geographical position in an historically significant area of the Indian Ocean. From being a stop-off point for trading ships between Europe, Africa and Asia, to its current status as a global tourism hotspot, the islands of the Maldives have always been a place where different cultures meet. Every nation and civilisation that has touched this isola ted archipelago has left its influence, from Islamic traders to European voyagers. This melting pot, combined with local folklore and a unique, laidback way of life, creates the distinctive DNA of CROSSROADS Maldives and its resorts. “The Maldives is a truly beautiful desti nation - a tropical island paradise where guests can fulfil their vacation dreams. But there is more to this enchanting country than just sun, sea and sand.

The Maldives has a rich history that has been shaped by its unique maritime location at the crossroads of different cultures.

The facilities that make up Phase One of CROSSROADS Maldives will encourage guests to delve deep into the diversity of the destination, whilst also embracing the coun try’s exquisite natural beauty,” commented Dirk de Cuyper, Chief Hospitality Officer, S Hotels & Resorts. The architecture and design of CROSSROADS Maldives will also reflect the country’s historical influences and the develo pers will actively engage with local communi ties to create the win-win combination of au thentic guest experiences and empowerment. Central to this concept will be the Maldives Discovery Centre, a cultural attraction that will showcase Maldivian customs and cultu res through interactive displays, video and hands on experiential adventures. The centre will also display and sell handcrafted products created by local people, women in particular. The overall aim is to create mutual and sustai nable benefits for long-term prosperity of the entire area. Scheduled to open in June 2019, CROSSROADS Maldives will feature an array of world-class attractions. Hard Rock Hotel Maldives will feature 178 rooms, suites and vi llas, plus family-friendly experiences and Hard Rock’s branded concepts, including a Hard Rock Cafe®, Rock Spa® and a Rock Shop® se lling merchandise and showcasing music me morabilia.

Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

In addition, SAii Lagoon Maldives will offer an original and inspiring new resort concept featuring a range of distinctive rooms, beach villas and overwater villas, as well as extensive water sports, cultural activities, wellness and world-class dining. The resort will be part of the eclectic Curio Collection by Hilton®. S Ho tels & Resorts will play a key role in developing local talent in the hospitality sector, particu larly through its two hotels. Overall, CROSS ROADS Maldives will create approximately 1,000 jobs for local islanders, providing genui ne benefits to the destination as a whole.

By showcasing the country’s rich cultural he ritage, engaging with local communities and preserving the pristine environment, CROSS ROADS Maldives is weaving together the past, present and future of the Maldives and ensu ring the sustainability of this captivating des tination for generations to come. To discover more about CROSSROADS Maldives, please visit www.crossroadsmaldives.com.

About S Hotels & Resorts

S Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary of Singha Estate Public Company Limited, is a new era Thai-inspired personalized hospitality brand that caters to upscale travelers with an inde pendent spirit. The group offers guests a por tfolio of 39 properties in 5 countries with a total of 4,647 keys and provides guests with the opportunity to experience the best desti nations from a unique perspective while enjo ying world class facilities and tailored services. S Hotels & Resorts’ properties are located in attractive, unspoiled locales to provide an ex clusive playground built around nature, cul ture, wellness and adventure, with a generous helping of creature comforts and fine cuisine. Each property boasts its own distinctive, des tination sensitive designs and unique signatu res while also providing consistency thanks to a well-defined brand philosophy and a service culture that focuses on exceptional guest expe riences backed up by Thai-inspired hospitality and global quality standards. To learn more visit www.singhaestate.co.th/en/our_business/ hotels/landing.

About CROSSROADS Maldives

CROSSROADS is the first and largest integra ted tourist destination in the Maldives. The development will offer an extensive array of attractions for visitors, including Hard Rock Cafe; Café Del Mar, a 30-berth luxury marina; extensive retail, food and beverage outlets; a Maldives Discovery Centre supporting local arts and crafts, a Marine Discovery Centre, a multi-purpose event venue and a junior beach club. To learn more visit www.crossroadsmal dives.com

Indonesia Dream Wedding Festival (IDWF) 2019

Hakkasan Jakarta promises to wow guests with Hakkasan’s unique ambiance, personal service, sig nature Cantonese cuisine, stunning design and im pressive views from Level 25 at Alila SCBD Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia – With restaurants in 11 interna tional cities, Hakkasan is opening its next outpost and twelfth location in Jakarta on Friday, February 8. Now accepting reservations, Hakkasan Jakarta will be the first of our venues to open in South East Asia. Overlooking the Indonesia Stock Exchange and Pacific Place in the heart of SCBD, Jakarta’s vibrant financial hub, Hakkasan Jakarta occupies a prime po sition above the bustling metropolis on the 25th and 26th floors of the contemporary luxury Alila SCBD Jakarta.

Hakkasan Jakarta is designed by GBRH Interior De sign. Intricately carved latticework and subtle am bient lighting create intimate dining spaces echoing the glamorous interiors of the original Michelin-sta rred London restaurant in both Hanway Place and Mayfair.

At the heart of the restaurant is the kitchen, where skilled wok chefs orchestrate signature dishes such as stir-fry black pepper rib-eye beef with merlot, roasted silver cod with Champagne and honey, and crispy duck salad with pomelo, pine nut and shallot.

The Cantonese menu includes dishes inspired by and created with local produce, designed exclusively for Jakarta such as steamed red grouper with spicy kaffir sambal sauce, Musang king durian puff and braised Mutiara lobster with glass noodles and black pepper corns.

Guests will be able to sample sophisticated signatu re cocktails crafted using Hakkasan's innovative mi xology program such as the Hakkatini, whicblends orange oil washed Ketel One vodka, brandied orange liqueur, Campari, with cloudy apple juice and The Hakka, combining Japanese Nihon shu with Ketel One vodka, lychee liqueur, lime, cream of coconut and passion fruit. Refreshing cocktails exclusive to Hakkasan Jakarta location include Corn & Pepper with Bulleit Bourbon, Brem wine, Szechuan pe ppercorn shrub and aromatic bitters, and the Smoky Fuchow, created with Plantation Dark rum, Ni hon-shu, lapsang sou chong, cranberry, lemon, lime, and aromatic bitters.

Gert F. Kopera, Executive Vice President Restaurants Global, Hakkasan Group, said “This is an extremely exciting time for Hakkasan. Jakarta is a key city and this stunning addition to our portfolio comes at the right time. The excitement will continue with the opening of our rooftop later in 2019. We are deligh ted to welcome guests to experience true Hakkasan hospitality and its award-winning, authentic Canto nese cuisine.”

Hakkasan Jakarta will stun its patrons fur ther with an outdoor rooftop space with banquettes and semi-private VIP booths, offering al-fresco fun and entertainment with sweeping views of the city. Hakka san’s new rooftop experience will be come the go-to venue for memora ble nights accompanied by Jakarta’s top DJs when it opens later in the year.

With a focus on innovative Cantonese cuisine, sophis ticated cocktails and an extensive wine selection, Hakkasan is set to be the best fine dining and rooftop nightlife ex perience in Jakarta. Hakkasan Jakarta now welcomes reserva tions.

Hakkasan Jakarta is located on the 25th floor of the recently opened Alila SCBD Jakarta. SCBD Lot 11 Jl. Jenderal Sudirman Kavling 52-53, RT.5/ RW.3, Senayan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Dae rah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190

Opening hours; Lunch

Monday – Friday: 11.30 am – 03.00 pm Saturday – Sunday: 11.00 am – 03.00 pm Dinner

Monday – Saturday: 05.30 pm – 11.30 pm Sunday: 05.30 pm – 11.00 pm

The Bar Sunday – Saturday: 11.30 pm – late Dress code is smart/elegant.

For general enquiries or to make a reservation, please visit Hakkasan.com, call +62 21 5080 8766 or email reservationjkt@hakkasan.com. More information can be found at https://hakkasan.com/locations/ hakkasan-jakarta/ and via Instagram @hakkasan jakarta.

ABOUT HAKKASAN

Established in 2001 in London, Hakkasan now has 12 restaurants around the world located in the Uni ted States, Middle East, India, Asia and Europe. Both London restaurants hold one Michelin star. Hakkasan offers guests a world-class experience going beyond culinary perfection. The menu is a modern interpre tation of authentic Cantonese cuisine, using the finest ingredients and expert traditional techniques to crea te timeless yet innovative signature dishes.

ABOUT HAKKASAN GROUP

Hakkasan Group is a worldwide hospitality company with establishments across North America, Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa. Its namesake is taken from its Michelin star restaurant that set the high-le vel standard for the group’s collection of diverse brands. Its ‘brand first’ philosophy builds restaurant, nightlife, daylife and soon-to-open hotels, resorts and residences into world-class hospitality brands, all with a focus on service, design, innovation and ex perience. Its restaurant portfolio includes Hakkasan, with 11 locations worldwide, Ling Ling, Yauatcha, Sake no Hana, Herringbone and Searsucker. Under the nightlife umbrella is Hakkasan, OMNIA, JEWEL and 1 OAK Nightclub; and daylife brands include WET REPUBLIC, LIQUID, OMNIA and Bare. For more information, visit www.hakkasangroup.com or connect with us on Facebook Twitter and Instagram @hakkasangroup.

Nestled on a beautiful coral island in the Baa Atoll, a de signated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site, guests of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort experience a tranquil escape with uninterrupted ocean and pristine turquoise lagoon views, perfect for indulging in the resort’s Ultimate Wellness program, designed to recharge the batteries and restore balance in body and mind.

The idyllic resort features Westin’s signature branded spa concept, the Heavenly Spa by Westin™. The design of the Spa area exudes an intimate and serene ambience that allows guests to reflect on their destination, including a spacious treatment suite for two with a Jacuzzi and panoramic ocean views and the latest in beauty treatments. Guests can stay active with the 24-hour WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio sprawled across two levels that features weight machines, free weights, and cardio equipment that faces personal flatscreen televisions; and outdoor pool and recreation ground with tennis, volleyball, basketball options.

“With the Westin brand’s focus on wellness, we trust that every guest will feel exceptionally relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated during and after their stays,” said Brendan Cor coran, General Manager at The Westin Maldives Miriand hoo Resort. “We look forward to welcoming our guests to discover the charm of the Maldives while at the same time enjoy the unparalleled level of service.”

Designed to cater to the way modern families travel, the Westin Family Kids Club® offers reimagined family expe riences that are tied back to the brand’s wellness positioning for young guests between the ages of 4–12 years. Some of the activities includes nature walks, family-style runs and water activities. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is also well-equipped to play host to distinguished ceremonies or vows renewal with its multifunctional event spaces.

Led by award-winning Milan-based architects PEIA Asso ciati, the resort’s design takes inspiration from the ocean with a visionary approach towards environmental sustai nability. All elements of the resort’s design take inspiration from the environment from the use of natural materials, such as unique shells to the movement and flow of marine life including sea turtles and whale sharks, providing guests with a link to the region’s exceptional enchantment. An ae rial view of The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort reveals an outline in the shape of a fish, a distinctive reflection of the beauty of surrounding marine life; while the arrival jetty is structured to resemble clamshells and the oceans’ waves.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort features 70 villas and suites, 41 on island and 29 overwater. Each villa is shaped with an eco-friendly double roofing to create the perfect natural ventilation. Outdoor rainforest showers are a distinctive feature. Poised over the sea on stilts and with an area of almost 200 square meters each, the overwater suites are among the largest a resort has to offer in the Baa Atoll region.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort presents three unique dining experiences. The Pearl is the resort’s specialty restaurant and is ideal for indulging in exquisite Japanese cuisine with exceptional ocean views. The restaurant offers a refined Japanese menu with a focus on seafood and fresh local ingredients. The all-day dining experience at Island Kitchen stays true to the Westin brand’s Eat Well brand pillar through a balanced menu combining Chinese, Indian and Maldivian fare. At Hawker, guests can sample authen tic Asian street food with a live kitchen in a casual bustling atmosphere. Adjacent to the Library and overlooking the azure blue Indian Ocean, Sunset Bar is a relaxed lounge serving tapas and imaginative cocktails.

Directly from the beach, guests can explore the house reef with colorful corals and be surrounded by thousands of tro pical fish. Miriandhoo is a Turtle sanctuary, and guests can easily and often see turtles nesting along the white beaches. Reef sharks, lionfish, manta rays and often whale sharks all reside in the Baa Atoll. The stunning experience of the underwater world can be explored while snorkeling, diving, fishing and parasailing.

Additional on-site facilities of the resort include a PADI dive center and a boutique store.

Ultimate Wellness Rate Details

Includes daily healthy breakfast at Island Kitchen, daily dinner at select restaurants, WiFi, two 60-minute spa treat ments daily at Heavenly Spa, daily water activities - see rate details.

USD1,380 avg/night

Additional Information

• Daily healthy Breakfast at Island Kitchen and Dinner at select restaurants (including select soft beverages)

• Daily one-hour morning Westin Workout Session

• Daily 60-minute spa therapy at Heavenly Spa from select menu or 60-minute Private Yoga session

• High speed Wi-Fi throughout the resort

• Water Sport activities, including daily complimentary use of snorke lling equipment and ocean kayaks (for up to 2 hours)

• Full non-cancellable, non-refun dable, non-amendable payment 14 days prior to arrival

• Extra person charge up to 2.99 years – no charge

• Extra person charge 3 to 11.99 years – USD 61.6 per child per night

• For 12 years and above – USD 246.6 per adult per night

• Destination amenity fee including both ways Seaplane transfers will be charged as –

• Up to 1.99 years – no charge

• 2 – 11.99 years – USD 237.5 per child

• 12 years and above – USD 475 per person

Nyepi Day is one of the days we always look forward to every year and this year falls on 7 March 2019. It’s also known as Silent Day to reect the Balinese New Year calendar. You can be witness to the peace that embraces the island by joining a series of activities while you are at the resort.

Starting on the eve before Nyepi, we create mini ogoh-ogoh (puppet monsters) at the resort as a symbol to scare evil away and then continue with the purification ceremony, also known as Pengrupukan. On Nyepi Day, take part in Bharata Yoga; the slow movement involved makes this a perfect exercise for a relaxing Nyepi morning. You can share the essence of what the Nyepi celebration means to the Hindu Balinese; the event is different from other New Year celebrations as we are advised to meditate and maintain absolute silence throughout the day.

A Day of Silence at Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali.

Package starting from IDR 2,088,000 ++ per room per night in Classic Room

Inclusions:

• Daily buffet breakfast for two

• Welcome drink and cold towel upon arrival

• Complimentary refreshment from Mini Bar upon arrival

• Complimentary Chocolate Hour

• One-time buffet lunch and dinner on 7 March 2019

• Complimentary activities on Nyepi Day, including Nyepi Meditation and Yin Yoga

• Complimentary 4 hour access daily to Meera Kids Club for children from 4 – 12 years old

Others:

• Be entitled to an additional 30 minutes of relaxation with every 60-minute Arkipela Signature treatment booking during 6-8 March 2019 between 9.00 am to 2.00 pm.

Terms & Conditions:

• Minimum stay of two consecutive nights

• The above package is valid for 2 adults and 1 child below 6 years old

• Subject upon availability for early arrival and late departure

• A one-night charge will apply for any late departure after 6.00 pm

• Full night charge will apply for no-show or early departure

• Exclusive for stay on 6 - 8 March 2019 only

• The above price is subject to 21% government tax and service charge

Save 30% off on second room for up to 2 children below 12 years old.

For more information and reservations, please contact

Resort.Bali.Reservations@movenpick.com or call +62 361 472 5777

KARMA REEF PRESENTS BAREFOOT LUXURY ON THE IDYLLIC ISLAND PARADISE OF GILI MENO

KARMA REEF PRESENTS BAREFOOT LUXURY ON THE IDYLLIC ISLAND PARADISE OF GILI MENO

Located on the tiny, traffic-free island paradise of Gili Meno, Karma Reef offers sanctuary – a world away from the noise and demands of everyday life. Guests at the resort enjoy exclusive access to a secret beach, where they indulge in blissful spa treatments, feast on freshly caught seafood, or kick back with a cocktail before strolling barefoot to their beautiful beachfront bungalow or luxurious glamping tent.

An ode to authentic, sustainable architecture that is consciously designed to leave the lightest possible foo tprint on the environment, all of Karma Reef’s beach front lumbung-style bungalows are stylishly appointed with comfort in mind. Perfect for couples and families, each two-storey bungalow features rustic stone and tropical hardwoods, contemporary furnishings, and an upstairs air-conditioned double bedroom with a priva te balcony overlooking clear, turquoise waters. Ten me ters away, guests have the Indian Ocean at their beck and call, inviting them to explore the island’s worldclass coral reef, teeming with colorful tropical fish and curious green sea turtles. Guests can indulge in a leisu rely grazing lunch or romantic dinner at Karma Beach Gili Meno’s Restaurant where Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, wood-fired pizzas and succulent tapas-style di shes as well as seductive signature cocktails, custom de signed by internationally renowned mixologist Grant Collins, complement captivating ocean views. Bicycles and non-motorized water sports are free for guests to enjoy at their leisure.

Each of Karma Reef’s One Bedroom Sea Front Bun galows offer guests a stunning and unique ambience, perfect for an unforgettable holiday on Gili Meno’s less-travelled, white sandy coastline. Elegant sasak motifs, bamboo accents and alang-alang thatched roo fs honor the region’s traditional sense of design in the ample 46m2 interiors.

A soothing, natural sea breeze keeps guests refreshed, whilst lying on a beachfront day bed is an idyllic way to indulge in the tranquil ocean views. On the first level, guests enjoy a cozy and comfortable living room-loun ge area, with a well-stocked minibar, unlimited mineral water and tea or coffee. A flat screen television, cable TV and a DVD player are on offer for in-room en tertainment. A second level master bedroom features vaulted ceilings, a king size bed, silk mosquito netting and a private balcony with views looking out towards Mount Rinjani on Lombok island. Guests can also en joy a taste of barefoot luxury on the beach in one of Karma Reef’s One Bedroom Sea View or Sea Front Tents with spacious 37m2 interiors, enjoying all the benefits of Gili Meno’s stunning natural beauty paired with Karma’s heavenly creature comforts. Guests enjoy beachfront holiday bliss with a plush king-size bed, air conditioning or fan cool, en-suite bathroom with hot water rain shower, wooden floors throughout, private open-air terrace with ocean views, and a unique am biance that is exclusive to Karma Reef.

Karma Beach Gili Meno presents luxurious beachfront dining with a Mediterranean flavour and an emphasis on abundant locally caught seafood. There is a range of Asian dishes available such as the Indonesian favo rites: Tuna Sambal Matah, Bebek Betutu, Ayam Tali wang and Rijstafel food tasting as well as fresh sushi and sashimi sharing plates. Room service breakfast is included in the room rate. Every night, Karma Beach Gili Meno’s beach lounge comes alive, capturing the essence of Karma Beach’s laid-back barefoot elegance. Guests can relax and enjoy theme nights such as live acoustic music, seafood BBQ’s, movie nights under the stars and traditional Indonesian-themed nights. A Tiki Bar on the beach offers a range of cocktails and super healthy juices.

Karma Reef’s breezy Sea Spa offers holistic therapies, massage curatives and personalized experiences to the natural sound of lapping waves. Karma’s spa team of bodyworkers train under the guidance of certified massage experts, health practitioners and healers and deliver deeply therapeutic experiences. Karma’s treat ments are curated from ingredients sourced from ethi cal and sustainable farmers and growers. All treatments are performed slowly to ease guests into a state of deep healing.

Karma Reef redefines off-the-beaten-path, barefoot lu xury travel in Indonesia, located within a convenient fast boat ride from Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands. With a prominent position on one of Indonesia’s most recently discovered holiday destinations, the tiny is land of Gili Meno epitomizes true relaxation and offers direct access to one of Indonesia’s most beautiful co ral reefs. For guests that dream about waking up to the most stunning sunrises imaginable and celebrating each day with one of Indonesia’s famous sunsets, Kar ma Reef will surely fulfil their holiday fantasies. Seve ral boat companies operate from various ports in Bali and provide transfers from hotels to the harbor. Karma can organize transfers from Karma Jimbaran or Karma Kandara as well as fast boat tickets. The journey from Lombok airport to Karma Reef is only 2 hours door to door.

Karma Reef has been undergoing renovations since the earthquake that struck in August 2018 and will reopen before Nyepi, on March 4th 2019 with a brand new Karma Beach restaurant accompanied by Tiki Bar, a beautiful Karma Spa Tent, One bedroom Sea Front and Sea View Tents and One Bedroom Sea Front Bunga lows.

KARMA REEF

Dusun Gilimeno, Desa Gili Indah, Kec. Pemenang, Lombok Utara, NTB 83352 Indonesia T : 0800-1-152762 (Toll Free) / +62 361 848 2202

E: concierge@karmareef.com

Booking link: https://karmagroup.com/find-destination/karma-re treats/karma-reef/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karmareefgilimeno/

BACKGROUND ON KARMA GROUP

Karma Group is an award-winning international travel and lifestyle brand offering extraordinary experiences in the world’s most beautiful locations and is headed by Chairman and Founder, John Spence, former Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and member of the 2013 judging panel for the Ernst & Young World En trepreneur of the Year. John was honoured by the Yale

University School of Architecture by being appointed the Edward P. Bass Distinguished Visiting Architectu re Fellow and has also been awarded a Distinguished Visiting Fellowship at UCLA as well as working with students from the University of Pennsylvania to design a chateau development in Carcassonne. The Karma Group is comprised of Karma Resorts, Karma Retreats, Karma Royal, Karma Estates, Karma Beach, Karma Spa and Karma Boutique. The Group is currently ope rating 30 resorts in more than 10 countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Greece, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and the United Kingdom. There are currently five properties in development and the Group is negotiating three separate acquisitions in Scotland (a golf resort), Cyprus, and Bulgaria. In 2016, Karma group and Sanctum Hotel Group announced a joint venture to develop a series of authentic rock ‘n’ roll styled and orientated hotels in strategic locations around the world, accompanied by an exclusive private membership club, now with over 85,000 members. In 2017, Karma were awarded the contract to manage and develop the golf course on Rottnest Island in Western Australia and in Greece, RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange, selected Karma Group to manage its operations in the Greek market whilst redevelop ment began on Karma Minoan in Crete. Karma Group is a sponsor of the England Rugby 7’s team through the 2017/18 season, the Commonwealth Games and the 2018 Rugby World Cup 7’s in San Francisco as well as the Rosslyn Park HSBC National Schools Sevens, the world's largest school rugby tournament. Karma Group recently invested in its first racehorse with a view to future expansion of its stable.

www.karmagroup.com