Indonesia Expat - issue 254

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cr ip bs su ISSUE NO. 254 | 29 JANUARY – 11 FEBRUARY 2020

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Opposites Attract: Mixed Couple Share Their Insights on Love and Diversity Finding True Relationships on Online Dating Apps And many more...

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

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Contents

The air in Jakarta seems fresher lately, is it maybe because love is in the air? Some of us don’t care about Valentine’s Day anymore. Yet, this non-public holiday indeed sparks enthusiasm, especially with innocent children proclaiming to their parents that they have a crush on so and so hence they’d like to make a special card or give a present to them – it’s too adorable!

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Valentine’s Day falls on Friday this year. A few ideas come in mind for the grown-ups. Go old school by grabbing chocolate packages and some bottles of fancy wine while you and your lover binge watch new seasons of your favourite series on Netflix – before this beloved streaming platform gets blocked by the Ministry of Communications and Informatics. Get on a quick getaway to enjoy special Valentine’s Day promotions in hotels and restaurants across the country.

Go out and have some (innocent) fun with your best friends if you’re single around this time.

Basic ideas, sure, but sometimes less is more.

And then there are those with broken hearts. Whatever your relationship status is, we shouldn’t perceive Valentine’s Day as a pressured moment of the year to be with someone. Loving ourselves should be a priority that we often times miss out. “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance,” said playwright Oscar Wilde. It’s okay if you’ve been single for years or recently experiencing heartbreak – everybody takes discrete measures and time to get back on their two feet, exclaiming “I am a wonderful person and no more tears shall come out of my eyes because I’m ready to conquer this world!”

Though heartbreak oftentimes occurs with celebrities and even us nobodies, allow Indonesia Expat to spice up your love life with this special, localised love edition. From songs, gifts, activities, insights, and culture, we’ve got you covered. Stay updated with our Classified and Events sections – perhaps it can provide a date idea.

Last but not least, the Indonesia Expat Mixer is back! New and familiar faces gathered at the first edition of this networking event, with amazing door prizes and great conversations in Liberta Italian Restaurant on Wednesday, January 22, 2020. Stay tuned for more details of the next mixer in February! Make sure to follow updates on Instagram @indonesiaexpat and @indonesiaexpatmixer as well as Facebook on Indonesia Expat.

Happy reading and planning!

06 RELATIONSHIPS Opposites Attract: Mixed Couples Share Their Insights on Love and Diversity

08 VALENTINE GUIDE Eight Places to Spend a Very Unusual Valentine's Day in Bali

09 WHAT'S UP I Love Footpaths

10 SLEEPOVER Explore the Wonders of Banyuwangi

12 TECHNOLOGY Finding a True Relationship on Online Dating Apps: Is It Really Possible?

14 BUSINESS PROFILE Gilles Tressens

16 VALENTINE GUIDE Yours Lovingly

17 MUSIC The Malioboro Guide to Indonesian Love Songs

18 ANNOUNCEMENT

19 CULTURE Traditional Balinese Wedding

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relationships

Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Opposites Attract: Mixed Couples Share Their Insights on Love and Diversity

BY MIRELLA PANDJAITAN

T

wo people from diverse cultural backgrounds uniting in a lifetime partnership isn’t merely a recent trend.

If you think about it, back when Western countries colonised Asia, Africa, North and South America, interracial matrimony was happening – although it was immensely frowned upon. Frankly, interracial couples are unfortunately still not viewed all that favourably to this day. But love is love, and they say love is blind.

In accordance with Indonesian law, a mixed marriage is defined as a marriage between a foreigner and an Indonesian citizen. These couples, however, need to follow perplexing legal procedures to avoid future complications regarding their status – especially in Indonesia with the foreign spouse’s legal status in Indonesia, a place to stay, stay permits such as KITAS or KITAP, and others. Consulting with a professional legal consultant is highly advisable so that mixed marriage couples comply with the Indonesian Law. I contacted several married and unmarried interracial couples to get further insights on tackling societal judgments relating to the foreigner’s decision to choose Indonesia as their home, stereotypes, and tips for interracial couples – regardless of their relationship status and origins.

SEVERIN AND FAMILY

Can you please introduce yourselves and tell me how you both met?

Couple Number One: My name is Cedric (C), I’m French, and I’ve already been living in Indonesia for over ten years. My Indonesian wife Ratih and I are the owners of Java Lagoon, a small hotel and guesthouse near Pangandaran, West Java.

Born and raised in Bandung, West Java, Ratih worked in Bali for several years in some luxury beach resorts before heading back to Bandung. We met in 2009 during her beach holiday in the Pangandaran area, while I was still building the hotel.

Couple Number Two: I’m Emily (E), from Indonesia and my husband is Marc, from the Netherlands. I met Marc back in 1994 when I was working in Surabaya. Marc was a raw material supplier to the company I worked for, and we have been together since then. Ultimately, we got married in November 1995, so we have been together for over 25 years now with two children, aged 22 and 18, who are both studying in the UK. We have also been working together in our textile company.

Couple Number Three: My name is Severin Huerlimann (SH) and I come from Switzerland. I am presently working in Jakarta with my beautiful Indonesian wife and daughter.

We’re currently expecting another baby. My wife and I met in Bali because our friends introduced us. At that time, I was on a business trip to Bali and was supposed to meet my friend to have dinner; however she couldn’t make it, so she asked her college friend (now my wife) to meet me instead at a restaurant in Seminyak. Long story short, that dinner became our first date. We continuously met up every night until I had to go back to the Maldives for work.

Has time spent together created friction between your different cultural backgrounds? If so, how do you deal with that?

Couple Number One: (C) We eventually got married in October 2011. We did have some friction in the beginning, mostly due to our different cultural backgrounds and ways of thinking. But things have turned out better now that we understand each other better. As an expatriate, it is not always easy to understand all the complexities and, generally speaking, the mentality in Indonesia. You need a lot of patience and to realise that everything here is very different. The way of life in Indonesia is pretty slow compared to western countries, especially in the rural areas such as where we live.

Couple Number Two: (E) Marc has lived in Indonesia for nearly 30 years now so he has a vast knowledge about this country, and he has even seen more parts of Indonesia than I have. Being in a mixed marriage naturally exposes me to people from different countries. Learning how foreigners value Indonesia has made me appreciate my country more; from its beauty, the rich soil, and the smiley people too. One big difference I noticed though is the mentality of Indonesians compared to Europeans, in general. In the west, people tend to speak their minds and ask questions, or even let you know when something is deemed not right. Indonesians on the other hand, tend to not show their real opinion – perhaps to avoid confrontation.

Couple Number Four: My name is Fanni Lauren (FL), an Indonesian and my husband is Valerio Tocci (VT), an Italian. How we met is actually a funny story. I met Valerio through my youngest sister. We met for lunch at a warteg, a local warung makan, in Jalan Petititenget in Seminyak. It was Valerio’s first stay in Bali.

Couple Number Five: We are a European-Asian couple. I grew up in Southern Europe and have been living in Jakarta for the past six years. Meanwhile, my partner grew up in Sumatra and moved to Jakarta ten years ago. We met in Jakarta and have been together for three years..

EMILY AND MARC

Couple Number Three: (SH) We’ve been together since 2013. We were in a long distance relationship for a couple of months then immediately decided to get married. Coming from two different countries, different cultures, different religions, and different personalities has obviously created some friction, especially at the beginning of our marriage.

However, we learned to respect each other’s differences and also adapt to the different cultural backgrounds. I believe that made our relationship stronger. Fortunately, our family is also very supportive. We became a very big family, despite the long distance and the occasional language barrier between families.

Couple Number Four: (FL) It wasn’t easy because we’re both from different cultural backgrounds. Slowly, my husband started to understand that our distinct characters get in each other’s way too. For example, I told him that he needed to seek permission from my parents before we got married. He was confused about this. Then we had to do seserahan, in which the soon-to-be groom is expected to buy presents of items deemed to be useful for the soon-to-be bride and her daily life. He asked permission from my parents and implemented the seserahan as according to the Javanese culture; however we threw a wedding reception in the European style so we involved both cultures in our wedding.

Couple Number Five: There is certainly a considerable difference in cultural backgrounds. Belief systems, priorities, and values of societies have evolved very differently on opposite sides of the globe. This creates friction as much as it makes the relationship interesting. We keep learning new things from each other's backgrounds; some are easier to relate to than others. It requires a good amount of flexibility and willingness to discuss different points of view. Many times, this is easier said than done. Naturally, discussions on fundamental stuff come up and can last for a while until they are settled.

Sometimes, a compromise cannot be found. Tolerance and acceptance of each other's opinions are required at those points. This makes the relationship special in the only way that we know it will work, if sometimes we let the wrong be right and the right be wrong. One keeps adjusting in a positive way. It is hard work but it’s absolutely worth it.

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Couple Number Two: (E) About the idea of Asian women being more nurturing, I actually disagree. I know many western women who are very nurturing too and many Indonesians who are not. The issue here is that western women treat their partners as equals, as adults, while the Asians often come with a belief that the men are more important than themselves, therefore the latter is expected to serve and obey the former.

RATIH AND CEDRIC

To the foreigners in these relationships, when and why did you move to Indonesia instead of staying in your home country?

Couple Number One: (C) I travelled around Indonesia to spend my holidays surfing and exploring some remote areas, where I’ve met many locals from different islands with distinctive cultures, and learned a bit of Bahasa Indonesia with them. I simply fell in love with this country! Finally in 2008, with the help of a few local friends from Pangandaran, I got the opportunity to buy a nice piece of land in a small, quiet, rural village near the ocean to create a small hotel and guesthouse – with the hope of earning enough money to happily live in Indonesia. Since then, I got married and welcomed two beautiful daughters who were born in Bandung but hold both French and Indonesian nationalities. Our hotel is running well with Indonesian and some foreign guests staying. We have a very pleasant, simple life here, however I don’t want to compare it with living in France because I think both livelihoods are very different.

Do not get married too quickly; take your time and try to get to know each other as well as the family – the parents in particular – better first.

Don’t forget to be openminded and tolerant of each other’s cultures.

Lastly, accept the fact that you may have a different religion though both religions need to be respected, otherwise it will not work.

Couple Number Five: I moved to Indonesia on a work assignment. Coming here was a result of a coincidence at my workplace and it turned out to be for a longer time than initially planned. It was a lucky coincidence in this case.

There's a stereotype circulating that Asian women in general are more nurturing towards their partner.

Is this true?

Couple Number One: (C) Sorry for all the Asian women and in particular Indonesians, but to be honest, I think it is just a stereotype. From my own experience, I don’t think it’s true. In Indonesia, there are plenty of married couples who get divorces, even quite regularly less than a year after getting married. I mean, after living in a rural area and experiencing the “real Indonesian village life” for many years, and from what I see in many villages across the country, I wouldn’t say Indonesian women in general are nurturing from the heart towards their partner; in fact more lean to being money orientated.

Couple Number Two: (E) As much as Marc likes Indonesian food, one thing he cannot get used to is eating cold food like Indonesians do at home, or in a Padang-food restaurant; to most of them, food served on the table must be eaten hot – and with the TV turned off.

When I asked my wife about this stereotype, she only said that: “I think origin or nationality doesn’t really define the level of women being more nurturing towards their partner. It’s more of the willingness to give the best to your partner and family so that we can always maintain the appreciation and love that we have for each other.”

Couple Number Four: (VT) Different cultures mean different mentalities. And yes, western men are dubbed almost “perfect” but they can sometimes get possessive too. In the end, it’s normal and understandable. My wife thinks that true Asian women are calmer and caring, softer as well as sweeter, but it all comes true from the heart.

Couple Number Five: Asia is a vast continent with thousands of different cultures. Having only interacted with a couple of those, my experience does not qualify me to make general statements about "Asian women." As anywhere in the world, each person, male or female, is different. As far as Indonesian cultures are concerned, women seem to be traditionally expected to play the role of a housewife. This puts the priority on taking care of children and partner. Modern western cultures have seen a drift away from the classic oldschool husband-wife rules in recent decades. Whether this makes any difference on the individual level of nurturing each other in a relationship is something that depends more on the personality rather than on the genetics of each one, I would say.

My partner agrees. Each person has different personalities, mind-set, and culture. But it's not only an Asian woman who nurtures their partner, every woman will do the same if they love and respect their partner.

Do you have any tips for mixed couples, regardless if they’re still dating or already married?

Couple Number One: (C) Do not get married too quickly; take your time and try to get to know each other as well as the family – the parents in particular – better first. Don’t forget to be open-minded and tolerant of each other’s cultures. Lastly, accept the fact that you may have a different religion though both religions need to be respected, otherwise it will not work.

Couple Number Two: (E) People in a relationship must take time to talk to each other every day; sharing their daily lives through good communication so that you both will not be estranged from one another. Whether it is done during dinner or a short walk, this is best done with the phones or other gadgets out of sight.

Couple Number Three: (SH) I moved to Indonesia in 2014. I didn’t move to Indonesia solely because my wife is Indonesian, but also because I think of this as a beautiful country with a wide spectrum of cultural diversity. The people are also very friendly and I happen to be able to build my career here. Of course, there are also pollution and traffic issues in the big cities like Jakarta, which I didn’t face in my own country. I guess that’s what makes life here more interesting.

Couple Number Four: (VT) In 2011, I came to Indonesia for the first time to follow a project in Canggu, Bali for my Italian client. I had initially planned to move to Miami, the USA. Then, I fell in love with the amazing island that Bali is when I got here. It’s been almost nine years now. I found my love, my partner, my best friend, my wife, and also ten months ago we welcomed our amazing baby boy, Ludovico Maria.

Couple Number Three: (SH) Before we got married, my wife couldn’t cook at all, and that’s why at the beginning of our marriage, I’m the one that had to cook. As time went by, she learned how to cook my favourite Swiss dishes because she knows that I sometimes miss food from Switzerland. She has even become a better home chef than me! Simple things like this mean a lot to me and make me appreciate her even more.

Couple Number Three: (SH) Keep being open-minded to adjust and adapt to each other’s cultures and to always have an honest communication that explains why each person might behave differently. Be patient too, it’s not just a union of two different “heads” in a marriage, but its two different “heads” from different countries and cultures uniting. So stay strong and I’m sure you’ll be fine!

Couple Number Four: (VT) Always be yourself and enjoy the life in Indonesia – you’ll never get to experience anything like this anywhere else in the world.

FANNI AND VALERIO

Couple Number Five: In every challenge lies opportunity.

The level of happiness during time spent together should serve as an indicator for whether it is worth it.

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valentine guide

Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Eight Places to Spend a Very Unusual Valentine’s Day in Bali Love is all we need, with or without romantic dinners! Where else but Bali would you want to be to have the best Valentine experience in Indonesia? Here is a selection of trendy and unusual places where you could spend the best ever Valentine’s Day with the love of your life.

BY ERIC BUVELOT

Om Ham Tantric Yoga Retreat for Couples This could be the best idea for a Valentine break! Sure, it lasts three days and two nights but who cares when you’re in love? Just take a few days off from your routine to enjoy a yoga retreat centred on the wellness of your relationship. Engaging in yoga sessions with your partner will improve everything in your relationship by strengthening trust, communication, and also your sex life. Why miss out on such an opportunity when you

Glamping or Glamourous Camping in Ubud Never heard of glamping before? This is, in fact, a fresh trend in hospitality. Before, camping was mostly for adventurers but that’s not the case anymore with glamping.

It looks like a normal camping trip, but with all the amenities and comforts of a hotel.

Set in Ubud, Sandat Glamping Tents is actually the right place for couples looking for an opulent getaway on Valentine’s Day. Glamorous relaxation, surrounded by rice

know the stay will bring you lots of fun and better health? The stay at Om Ham Resort, in the lush surroundings of Ubud, is called the “Honeymoon Package.” This Tantra and Kundalini Yoga retreat offers beautiful accommodation, re-energising spa therapies, meditation instructors, meals, and a tour of Ubud.

Address: Jl. Tirta Tawar, Tenggalang Contact: +62 361 9000 352 Website: www.omhamretreat.com

fields in a resort designed to look natural but also luxurious. A romantic candlelight dinner with wine under the stars is, of course, part of the deal during this day for lovers! You’ll have all this and more at Sandat Glamping Tents, not to mention your beautiful luxury tent is equipped with a private pool.

Address: Jl. Subak Sala, Banjar Sala, Ubud Contact: +62 821 4408 1998 Email: sandatglamping@gmail.com

Wedding Proposal in a Helicopter

Strike It Lucky at Finn’s

One step further into debauched luxury is to propose to your loved one in a chopper on Valentine’s Day. Fly the skies of the Island of the Gods – turned Island of Love – while exploring the scenery from above in an Airbus Eurocopter B2, operated by Bali Adventure Sky Tour. Fly above Kintamani Volcano, Uluwatu Temple, Bedugul Lake, Kuta Beach, and Tanah Lot Temple while holding hands with your beloved. Every year, Bali Adventure Sky Tour, a regular operator of helicopters in Bali, organises trips for Valentine’s Day or at any time of the year where couples have romantic, in-f light marriage proposals or wedding flights, as they call it. But be careful, don’t drop the ring from up there!

Let’s come back down to earth now and opt for a more grounded activity like bowling. Go ahead and bowl on your date for Valentine’s Day with a night of fun at Strike Bowling, Finn’s Recreation Club. You won’t need to break the bank and it works for people of all walks of life. Last year, they offered a special Valentine’s package including one hour of bowling, shoe rental, two soft drinks, a heartshaped Margherita pizza, and Valentine’s chocolate cake for two. It’s an ideal date for couples of any age, although those in their 60s might get nostalgic as they enjoy it more and remember their youth in the time of classic rock ‘n roll. With all the hallmarks of a date to remember, you can bet youngsters will enjoy it too, as it’s something so cool and vintage.

Address: Jl. Bypass Pesanggrahan, Denpasar Contact: +62 361 721 480 Email: info@masonadventures.com

Address: Jl. Raya Berawa, Canggu Contact: +62 361 848 3939 Email: info@strikebali.com Website: www.strikebali.com

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Mystic Spa in a Campuhan Cave, Ubud Rafting Brunch at Sthala, Ubud We all know rafting is a fun activity to do when in Bali. We also all know that brunch is a common thing on the menu on this island of party-goers. Inevitably, somebody had the unnatural idea of mixing the two activities in one. Nowadays, there are brunches and lots more brunches. No, brunches are not all the same anymore. Discover this unique brunch experience, surrounded by the lush banks of the Wos River right at Sthala, near Lodtunduh village, where you can set out for an amazing experience of brunching and rafting at the same time. Don’t worry, they won’t take you to the rapids, especially on a Valentine’s Day outing! You’ll safely enjoy the thrill of brunching like no one else in a beautiful f loating raft while indulging in steak sandwiches, fresh prawns, cheese quiches, and their choice of yummy desserts.

When in Bali, you should go mystic at least once in your life. After all, niskala is never far away for those who can look. Bring the love of your life for a treatment in natural settings on Valentine’s Day. Try the magical spa setting of a Campuhan cave, one of the most beautiful secret locations in Ubud, at the Tjampuhan Hotel. The place is positioned at the foot of a valley and made of several semi-open treatment pavilions along with an extraordinary hot and cold spring water jacuzzi, created within an elaborately carved mythical stone grotto. Yes, the spa is dedicated to the healing properties of the water, and has sourced a collection of traditional Balinese healing and beauty treatments. Connect with the benefits of Balinese nature in an intriguing, spectacular cavern!

Duration: Two hours from 11:30am-1:30pm.

Address: Jalan A.A Gede Rai Mawang Kelod, Lodtunduh, Ubud Contact: +62 361 301 8700

Price: Rp960,000 per couple (All facilities of the spa for half a day, including a one-hour body massage, body scrub, yoghurt rub, and flower bath.)

Address: Hotel Tjampuhan Spa, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Ubud Contact: +62 361 975 368

Instagrammable Swing over Buyan Lake, Bedugul

Bali Bhayangkara Valentine Run 2020, Sanur

Millennials, this one’s for you. Try this giant swing over the treetops and water at Puncak Danau Buyan Wanagiri, in the cool and scenic mountain region of Bedugul. Challenge yourself at this huge swing hanging from a massive, sturdy tree that takes you right into the sky over Buyan Lake. If you are light enough, the two of you can go on it. This is the perfect Instagrammable thrill session for you on Valentine’s Day. But if you are feeling less daring, simply chill and capture the moment at this bamboo lookout spot right beside the swing. You’ll also come by a giant Instagrammable bird’s nest just five minutes away, spectacular and ready-made for a fabulous post.

What if for you, the best way to express your mutual love is to do sports together? Perhaps it’s running? The Bali Bhayangkara Valentine Run is more than a race, but is intended “to invoke the feeling of happiness which triggers the brain to release endorphins, the chemicals in the brain that produce the feeling of euphoria and improve the positive mood. This reaction can help to reduce the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression,” states the local Bali police organising this sports event.

Okay, but does it make your love grow bigger at each step? They don’t mention that but call this Valentine event “run with your heart” and sure, you’ll definitely do that!

Entrance Fee: Rp25,000 per person.

Address: Along the road to Gobleg, near Pancasari Opening hours: 7am-7pm

Three categories: 5K, 10K, and 14K. Address: Pantai Mertasari, Sanur, Denpasar Website: www.bhayangkarabali.com

I Love Footpaths

BY RICK BAIN

For many, Jakarta is a city of kampung, and in the kampung, roads quickly become winding, one-lane tracks, with a top speed of ten kmh. The road is effectively a shared footpath.

There are much-loved footpaths in neighbourhoods like Sudirman and Kemang, but over 90 percent of neighbourhoods do not have them.

And outside the kampung, roads are not shared. They are ruled by cars and scooters. There is no place for pedestrians.

Here are 30 things you could do if there were more footpaths in Jakarta: 1. Go for a walk, hand-in-hand 2. Flirt 3. Ride a skateboard 4. Explore a neighbourhood 5. Escape from air-conditioning 6. Read menus, peer in windows and choose a restaurant 7. Escape from your co-workers 8. Go on a pub crawl with your friends 9. Listen to a busker 10. Start a revolution 11. Take your dog for a walk 12. Wander randomly from one shop to another 13. Pick someone’s pocket 14. Eat from a food cart 15. Bump into people you know and have a chat 16. Play hop-scotch 17. Smell good things and bad things 18. Eat a dripping ice-cream cone 19. Get drunk and fall over 20. Look at the sky 21. Sell flowers from a bucket 22. Buy a flower for your lover 23. Go for a walk by yourself 24. Sing out loud 25. Beg from passersby 26. Ride a bike 27. Sleep 28. Find a street café and watch the passing parade 29. Smoke a cigarette 30. Nothing Of course, if you really want to, you can do many of these things at your local mall.

But that is just saying swimming in a hotel pool is like swimming in the Indian Ocean.

This bule is on a mission to discover Jakarta’s best footpaths: please send your nominations to Instagram @indonesiaexpat or Facebook on Indonesia Expat for the best recommendations!

We all know it is not the same thing at all.

sleepover

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Explore the Wonders of Banyuwangi

BY MIRELLA PANDJAITAN

T

“Subtle precision and simplicity are the core values for Dialoog in achieving simple sophistication, yet detailed for our young travellers. Generally, Dialoog’s design is contemporary, sleek and uncomplicated.

Our rooms are designed in an open concept allowing the air to flow through the space beginning from the entrance until the spacious balcony,” Sena added.

he city of Banyuwangi, according to a traditional folk tale, got its name from an example of noble and sacred love; from the murder of Sri Tanjung Sidopekso. She was a beautiful woman whom King Sulahkromo desired. Her husband, Patih R.Sidopekso, was instructed by the king to go on a mission and to leave his wife unattended.

The king used this chance to seduce her, but failed terribly. Instead, he flipped the story and slandered Sri Tanjung for betraying her husband. To Sidopekso’s disbelief, even after confronting his wife he declared his intention to kill her at the riverbank. She expressed once again that she was innocent and as proof, her dead body wouldn’t reek once it was thrown into the river. Indeed, the water had a pleasing fragrance once her corpse was floating in it, ultimately deriving the name Banyuwangi, or fragrant water.

Be aware whenever you open the sliding door though, the air conditioning automatically turns off. Once opened, you’re in paradise: sea breezes blow over a balcony with a sofa, wooden chair, and coffee table. I’m suggested to watch the sunrise from my bed or balcony, but I failed to do so – I peacefully sleep in and feel unbothered to wake up at 5am.

For the next three days, Dialoog Banyuwangi introduces its “simple living” whilst I rest from exploring Banyuwangi. The General Manager of Dialoog Hotel, I Putu Agus Susenayasa, shares that experiences are introduced to cater to different travelling needs and desires. Some guests like to be adventurous, meanwhile some prefer staying in. Well, perfect! I’m a guest who prefers both.

I start my expedition by roaming the weekly Sunday traditional market at Desa Kemiren Osing. Pak Jami sells authentic Osing dishes, and one particularly catches my eye: sego cawuk. It consists of sweet and spicy fish, beef, eggs, gecok (grated young coconut mixed with small anchovies), pindang gravy (heated sugar mixed with laos and wadung spices), and sambal. “I make the gecok differently. I use grated raw coconut instead of roasting it first because I believe it tastes richer this way,” explains Pak Jami.

Dialoog is a beach resort of 116 rooms that offers guests the chance to wake up with a clear view of the ocean or the garden. Guests can choose from three different types of rooms: deluxe garden, deluxe ocean, and suite.

“Dialoog is young with the vision to create affordable luxury travel and experiences that elevate our guests out of their everyday routines, and have a taste of lifestyle that is normally out of reach at an affordable price, such as enjoying nature, the sunrise in the morning, and breathing fresh air. These are hard to come by, eventually becoming a luxurious way of life. We hope this sustainable living allows more people to come and relish it,” points out the Balinese hotelier who prefers to be called Sena.

I meet a lovely elderly Osing woman who I call mbah, for grandmother. We sit on her front porch where she shows me a wooden container that’s filled with herbs. Mbah expertly grinds betel leaf, areca nut, lime, gambier, and tobacco, and then starts chewing the mixture.

“Munching on this herbal mixture once to three times a day is good to avoid brittle teeth and to pucker up your lips. But I started too late so now, at 74, I can barely chew these herbs anymore,” she says.

Three white rectangular-shaped buildings, each reaching up to the fifth floor, comprise the rooms, spa, and fitness centre. Since the pathway between buildings is openair, umbrellas are provided in case it rains.

Surrounding these buildings are luscious green areas – getting you to be one with nature. And if you slowly pass by the lobby, you'll see that there’s a brown building that has intricate wooden carvings to facilitate MICE events.

She offers me a non-ground pack without tobacco, fearing it might’ve been too strong for my taste-buds. I start chewing and chewing. I taste spiciness but the overall flavour is like a typical jamu. I got tired from chewing and my mouth was already red anyways, so I spit out the residue, leaving mbah laughing.

Along Jalan Yos Sudarso in Banyuwangi is a narrow driveway that’s surrounded by palm trees. It’s indeed a gloomy Sunday morning but a little ray of sunshine welcomes me as I arrive at Dialoog’s front yard. As you walk towards the open-air lobby, you’re greeted with an impeccable view of bright green grass, palm trees, an infinity pool, and outlines of west Bali. I’m in awe and a little too distracted to check in.

Entering my suite, I see a separate bathroom plus bathtub, rain shower, and two wash basins. At 56 sqm, the suite is minimalistically designed with hints of local essence from again, wooden carvings as well as batik fabric, offering the luxury of a larger space and privacy.

The TV that’s hanging on a wooden wall, separating the bathroom and the lounge area, faces straight towards the sofa. The bed itself faces directly to the balcony, not the TV. Fear not, the TV is stretchable and can bend towards the bed direction. Excitingly, I have the options of watching movies or immersing myself in the day and night views from the balcony.

We want our guests to feel at home whilst staying in Dialoog, at the same time being true to themselves in every interaction and every moment spent with us during their holiday.

My stomach starts growling so I head downwards and walk along a path that leads me to the Casabanyu Restaurant and Bar; serving authentic Indonesian and contemporary international cuisine, accompanied by alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshers. I choose a seat that eventually becomes my self-proclaimed spot throughout my stay, simply because the chair I sit on has the best angle to see the pool, the beach, and west Bali – definitely the perfect place to dine and unwind.

I order pecel pitik, a Banyuwangi delicacy that’s only available in this city. Eager to have dessert, but confused about making a choice from the many options on the menu, the waiter mentions that the Banyuwangi Regent loves to order the pisang goreng whenever he dines here. Taking a whole bite of a rounded banana fritter with caramelised, cinnamon candied nuts assures me why the regent loves this so much – it has the basic goodness of the typical pisang goreng but with a twist of extra sweetness and crunchiness. “I’ll save the rest to munch on my balcony,” I told myself.

But the cool breeze and the stunning view is too soothing.

The glassed-wall fitness centre, nearby the MICE rooms, is full of the necessary equipment you need to get a full body workout such as the row machine, a treadmill, a static bicycle, a cable machine with leg press and lat pull down functions, free-weights, yoga mats, and medicine balls. Water and towels are available too.

I decide to test out some of those equipment; fairly new and easy to use, even if you’ve never tried them before. Guests can also adjust the temperature inside! Someone who left minutes after I entered made the room as hot as a sauna so I adjusted the temperature to my liking. Be careful to work out after sunset, especially if you’re not used to it, since the lighting here is rather dim – noticeably a theme throughout the hotel. “Banyuwangi also known as the sunrise of Java, which tells the first glimpse of the sunrise, starts early too. Hence we start and retire early in this part of the world,” Sena gushes.

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

“Please, let there be sunshine tomorrow,” I pray as I shut my eyes to sleep. The bright sun woke me up from a half-blinded window.

I head over to Bangsring Underwater that focuses on Banyuwangi’s wonderful underwater tourism and also acts as a conservation centre for injured species.

“A fresh juice by the pool sounds splendid,” I thought to myself as I arrive back at Dialoog.

I sip on a fresh dragon fruit juice while stretching out my legs on a day bed and soon dip into the infinity pool, while glimpsing the sight of strong currents hitting the black-sand beach, by the edge of the pool.

Sukirno, the Chairman of the Association Podaris Tourism Banyuwangi, guides me around today. He tells me that the local government’s courage to promote Banyuwangi and the locals will to build their own tourism has set Banyuwangi’s sweet name widely heard today. “Actually, the locals acted first then the local government gave support. Bangsring, for example, was established by sailors and farmers. How much do they make in a day? They might as well open underwater tourism which they can economically benefit from by becoming a guide and selling food,” Sukirno says.

I open the tap to fill up the suite’s bathtub, since the bathroom’s view overlooks Dialoog’s garden and ocean, which is too pretty to miss in the daylight. For about 30 minutes, my body relaxes after all of today’s water activities.

Sena mentions that Dialoog works with locals to conduct these experiences because, “as an hotelier, we play a part in promoting the destination, community-based businesses should be facilitated in order to give our guests an authentic experience and improve the economic gains for the locals.”

Tabuhan Island is a small island, about 20 minutes boat ride, with white sands – different to Banyuwangi’s black-coloured sand beaches – and many seashells. Two shops normally serve pisang goreng, indomie, and coffee on the weekends. But on the weekdays, like today, it’s dead quiet – rather tranquil though. I snorkel for a good hour; totally amazed at the crystal clear waters, giving me visions of various gorgeous and colourful underwater life. “You think this is amazing?

Wait until you get to Rumah Apung,” says my enthusiastic guide. Injured sharks and sea turtles are nurtured back to health for at least six months and then released back to the open sea after they are brought to Rumah Apung by fishermen who accidentally capture them in their nets.

“We want our guests to feel at home whilst staying in Dialoog, at the same time being true to themselves in every interaction and every moment spent with us during their holiday. We aim to create genuine and positive footprints to our guests' staying experience,” says Sena.

I decide to head to the beach to do some work on my last day. Seriously, who would ever work on a transcription whilst lying on the beach?

At 11am, I go to the spa for a 90-minute treatment that is supposedly to really tackle tensions, not the usual lightly pressured massages. I happen to meet my masseuse in front of the spa, where she’s demonstrating a new scrub product that the spa has included from Sensatia Botanicals. Batik fabric covers my body, lights are off, and a hint of sunshine from the edges of a big wooden door in front of me peaks through; I lose myself in deep slumber within 30 minutes of the treatment.

Don’t ever judge a book by its cover because my tiny, warmhearted masseuse was as strong as a stallion! She definitely took out all the tensions from yesterday’s underwater adventure and life’s inconveniences in Jakarta.

Sadly, it’s almost time for my flight. I still manage to eat Casabanyu’s parrot fish curry and even order the churros to take-away to munch on during my flight. It’s time to say good-bye to my dining spot. I say my farewells to the lovely staff. And I finally say see you again to the simple life.

technology

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Finding a True Relationship on Online Dating Apps: Is It Really Possible?

BY DINI PUTRI SARASWATI

O

nline dating applications have been catching the attention of people who are looking to find the future father or mother of their children, or a bit of fun. According to the research of the online dating application called Badoo, millennials spend around ten hours per week across several online dating applications, where men tend to spend more time online – approximately 85 minutes a day – than women who spend 79 minutes a day.

According to CNBC, as of 2019, Tinder is the most downloaded dating application with 5.2 million subscribers as of the second quarter of 2018. YouGov research reveals that as many as 34 percent of Indonesians contribute to this trend. Not only Tinder, but a few other online dating applications, such as Badoo, BeeTalk, and OkCupid are also popular in Indonesia.

Savira, 26, is one of the many loyal users of online dating applications, particularly Tinder. She has been using Tinder since 2016, when she left her hometown to pursue her career. At first, she was aiming to find new friends because being far away from home made her feel lonely, but then she met her then boyfriend in 2017.

Unfortunately, their relationship did not last long since they had different religious beliefs.

“It was such a tough situation, but I finally managed to find a new partner in 2018 after a careful search on Tinder,” Savira said in an interview with me. Finding a lover is not an easy task on online dating applications, according to Savira. She admitted that she has been through many challenges during the process of finding Mr. Right. She even had few terrible experiences of going on a date for the first time with men from Tinder.

However, these experiences do not make her shy away from using Tinder. “The most important thing is doing a background check before you decide to date them,” Savira suggested. Limited personal information and few mutual friends make it even more difficult to get to know a person. Therefore, engaging in a deep conversation is the key to revealing the real identity of the person.

“Persona” Makes an Essential First Impression In order to respond to the blooming trend of finding a match on online dating applications, I interviewed a clinical psychologist, Vanda Yustiarani, S.Psi. According

others to identify you easily. After that, fill in the profile with true information about yourself, for example, your date of birth, location, gender, as well as hobbies and interests. Lastly, be clear about what you are looking for to sort out the types of person you want to match with.

Failing to follow these steps will cause others to misjudge you and possibly lead to your meeting the wrong person. to Vanda, social media or online dating applications can be a strategic media in finding a soul mate and it is totally normal to rely on to them, especially for people who are busy or live in a homogeneous environment. However, she asserted that we need to be extra careful with these online dating sites because other users might not reveal their true selves online. “Many people might show themselves as how they want others to see them as, and that is the challenging part of using online dating applications,” said Vanda.

Vanda added that there is a psychological term called persona or personality that most people will not publicly show initially, only when they are sure that they are on the right surroundings to show it, for instance in front of close friends and family. This persona, constructed

by Vanda, is like the layers of an onion where each layer contains different personalities to be shown to others. The daunting part of persona often leads to disappointment when it does not match the real characteristics of the person – a point to be well aware of when using online dating applications.

VANDA YUSTIARANI

Consequently, before we start to make friends on online dating applications, make sure to be true to yourself.

Know what you need and what you’re aiming for to keep you away from any attempt at making a “false persona”.

Choose an accurate and recent profile picture to allow

In order to avoid coming across the wrong person, Vanda recommends to always be skeptical about a person on online dating applications. “Many people regret that they easily believed people they hadn’t met before just because they interacted online for a long time, but that is not how you get to know someone,” Vanda explained. She argues that it is very important to meet in person and discuss the principle of things to understand their perspectives towards any particular issue. “By meeting them in person, not only is there a connection in real communication between both individuals to find out about what is going in each other’s heads, but also building chemistry,” said Vanda.

When it’s Time to give Up the Online Love: How to Let Go, Without Guilt In terms of getting out of a toxic relationship after meeting the wrong person online, Vanda highlighted that we have to firstly admit that the relationship must be ended as soon as possible and let go of the past. She also added that although it might cause a trauma to start to use online dating applications again, it can be healed. She encourages people to seek help immediately once they experience severe heartbreak. Be open to your closest circle about the heartbreak to ease the pain. If the trauma keeps coming within five to six months, then it’s time to seek professional help, such as seeing a therapist.

Although it seems more convenient and helpful, online dating applications should be used only after thorough consideration to prevent ourselves from meeting dishonest people or even getting caught in scams. Thus, make sure you meet the person face-to-face to minimise the disadvantages of online dating applications. If you still doubt the authenticity of the person, ask your relatives to accompany you on your first date. In addition, choose a public, open space as a meeting point where there are a lot of people around you. Lastly, be aware of any suspicious gesture that might threaten your well-being – it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

business profile

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Gilles Tressens Cherish the mornings with birds chirping and breathe in fresh air just like Gilles Tressens, the General Manager of Pullman Ciawi Vimala Hills Resort Spa & Convention.

Does the hotel provide transportation to these places you’ve mentioned?

No, we don’t have a shuttle service to drive our guests around to the places I previously mentioned, but we can arrange transportation for them. There is a shuttle service available during the day from 8am–6pm within the compound that guests can visit, for example, the deer park or the flower garden.

I

magine a vast land that’s been slightly touched by developers, but only to be turned into a green oasis where people can stay for meetings or sweetly escape Jakarta’s hustle and bustle. Within an hour or so, you can be waking up to rice paddies from a hotel or villa room, similar to resorts in Ubud, Bali. This is reality at Pullman Ciawi Vimala Hills Resort Spa & Convention.

Indonesia Expat spoke with its General Manager, Gilles Tressens, about Puncak’s first five-star property that embraces its guests to be one with nature, while getting business and quality time fixed.

Can you please explain the concept and aim of Pullman Ciawi Vimala Hills Resort Spa & Convention?

Pullman Ciawi Vimala Hills Resort Spa & Convention opened on May 21, 2019. This fairly new property is located in Ciawi and is the first Pullman resort. Guests are already accustomed to the Pullman brand because there are already two hotels in Jakarta, but they lean towards the concept of business hotels, while this property has been labelled as a resort. This means that it’s slightly different in terms of approach and concept; aiming to target two types of customers that are categorised as leisure visitors during the weekends and school holidays, as well as companies wanting to find a different location and product for their MICE activities. It takes around an hour or so from Jakarta, which is fairly convenient for an escape for the weekend or a quick business trip. In fact, I personally think travelling around Jakarta, say from the north to the south, can be more hazardous than visiting Ciawi.

What’s the speciality at Pullman Ciawi Vimala Hills Resort Spa & Convention?

Primarily, the location itself is special.

Within 100 hectares, this property is roughly 12 hectares that includes 208 hotel rooms, 21 villas, and vast greenery such as paddy fields, as well as lots of varieties of trees and plants. The idea of allowing people to get back to nature for a peaceful weekend or event is the main focus.

Puncak, nowadays, is correlated with heavy congestion. Meanwhile, this property, in my opinion, is similar to the atmosphere of Puncak from 40-50 years ago. People want to escape Jakarta and its pollution, so I think this area of Puncak is a great location to meet their desire of having a few days of nothing but peacefulness.

It’s been less than a year since operations started here, though it’s still under construction. What are the challenges you’ve faced so far?

The launching and operation of the hotel was and is in process. There have been some difficulties because we started to operate the property despite not being fully done, yet we still have to deliver 100 percent for the guests. We aim to be a fivestar property, which is rather new in this area. It was challenging to deliver proper coordination so people can enjoy their stay amidst the construction. In terms of project, we are working on assuring delivery of proper service for the leisure market, which is mostly families. Everyone can find something they’re keen to do here. There are activities for children, teens, and parents to do, making this an all-in-one destination

Picking up the local language is part of living in a different country to your home.

Speaking the language indicates the first step to having a better understanding of the culture and the people. to keep everyone occupied and happy. A lot of activities can be done by staying in this compound without having to face Puncak’s heavy congestion. The fresh air and serene quality should also be highlighted.

Pretty much everything is provided within this compound, do you suggest other places worthwhile for guests to explore around Puncak?

Guests usually stay for a maximum of two to three days. This property is quite convenient and reachable for guests to explore Kebon Teh, Taman Safari, the city of Bogor, and even to pay a visit to Sentul. Located on Jalan Puncak Raya, there’s a back route we can directly access from Pasar Ciawi. There’s access for anyone coming and leaving here on the weekends when the traffic is changed to one-way flow.

What are your top three favourite qualities of Indonesia?

I’ve been in Indonesia for over 15 years now.

My first favourite quality is definitely the people because they’re very kind, especially their warm smiles – a natural and sincere form of communication. Then the culture comprises of different traditions. Indonesia is a very interesting country to learn and travel around – it’s totally different. A lot of expatriates only talk about Bali but I think that’s a pity considering the range of cultures here. And my third favourite quality is the food in general. Back in the day, I worked as an executive chef; food is pivotal, plus I’m French so it’s part of my culture. I indulge in street food wherever I am, even eating at a warung, such as bubur ayam (chicken porridge), lontong sayur (rice cakes with vegetable stew), masakan padang, and an array of sambal. Yes, I can handle spicy food but I can’t handle sambal terasi and durian because of the smells.

France has cheese – I’d rather eat cheese than durian.

You know your Bahasa Indonesia quite well. Was it hard for you to pick it up?

No it wasn’t. Although I wouldn’t say it came naturally, but I do think it’s quite easy to pick up if you’re willing to be motivated. Picking up the local language is part of living in a different country to your home, so you need to ensure that you can communicate well with people. Speaking the language indicates the first step to having a better understanding of the culture and the people.

Before I sat down talking to you, I hopped on a buggy car to the convention centre. I noticed that the compound is a green oasis!

When you have this kind of area to call your workplace and resting space, what do you do to unwind?

The hotel business is busy and doesn’t operate on regular nine-to-five office hours, so you need to enjoy it. We are currently at 600 metres altitude; I smell fresh air when I wake up with the birds chirping. I very much appreciate it – I’ve been living in Jakarta for at least ten years where I couldn’t get fresh air and a quality of life like here. It’s extremely relaxing, making you not want to go back to Jakarta!

Thank you for your time and good luck with finishing up the property!

valentine guide

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Yours Lovingly

BY DANIEL POPE

I

n the past, in an age of corner shops and pubs, it was enough to give your loved one a box of chocolates or a bunch of flowers on Valentine’s Day. These days, in the age of Amazon and cocktail bars, chocolates and roses might seem old-fashioned. A more exotic token of your affection may be required.

Or even a dramatic stunt, like dressing up as Sir Galahad and sweeping your loved one up onto the back of a galloping white horse.

Failing that (it could get you arrested for kidnapping), here’s a short list of Indonesiarelated gift possibilities.

For simplicity, I’ll be referring only to the two traditional genders, male and female, a.k.a mum and dad, and avoiding the multiple genders available to Facebook users. However, if you do identify as, say, “pangender” and you have a “gender non-forthcoming” partner, this list is still for you.

His and Hers Wayang Puppets If your shared lives lack drama, set up your own wayang theatre and invite the neighbours over for a fictionalised account of your relationship rendered by the shadows cast by wayang puppets. It’s even better if years of living under the scorching tropical sun has made you resemble the typical puppet, with its leathery skin and gargoyle-like face.

Wayang celebrates Indonesian culture, and a single show, with hypnotic gamelan music playing in the background, can go on from midnight to dawn. Should wayang theatre be too long and wearying, you could try a Punch and Judy show instead. This violent staple of the British seaside resort is better suited to the more boisterous relationships.

Cruise Tickets for Two Greet one another each morning with the words “Hello, Sailor” on the deck of a cruise ship. Indonesia’s archipelago is 3,200 miles long and made up of over 13,000 islands.

That’s a lot of coastline, which is ideal for a romantic tropical cruise. Many companies, including legendary P&O, offer cruise packages that include Indonesia stop-offs, especially Bali, with its mystical Hindu culture. Another popular stop-off is the Komodo islands, where you can pretend to save your loved one from a dragon (the world’s largest lizard) as knights like Saint George once did in the chivalrous days of yore.

A Pair of Sarongs A sarong will make you look like a stylish Asian Tarzan and your girlfriend like, well, an Asian Tarzan’s girlfriend. The sarong is not just a loose, comfortable garment suitable for both men and women. This amazingly versatile length of cloth has many uses. It can double as a bedsheet for you both to snuggle

up under. It can be a curtain, a windsock, a holdall, and a light-duty towel. It could even be hoisted as a sail if your cruise ship (see above) sinks and you find yourself adrift at sea on a small raft. You’ll never be short of solutions to any practical problem if you wear a sarong.

Kopi Luwak If your loved one enjoys a cup of coffee at Starbucks, he or she is bound to swoon with pleasure at this gift of coffee beans that have been pooped out of a small animal’s anus.

The animal in question is the Asian palm civet, and the price in question, I’m sure your bank manager will want to know, is between US$35 (Rp477,700) and US$80 (Rp1.01 million). The elephant in the room – or in the café in this case – is the ethical question of keeping wild animals captive. Can your love abide this cruelty? As a footnote, Kopi Luwak is the ultimate treat for people who are both coprophiliacs and coffee lovers.

A Romantic Weekend Break at a Bali Beach Resort Why Bali? In most of conservative, Islamic Java, where the nature of a romantic relationship is everyone’s business – from the families to neighbourhood officials – unmarried couples sharing a hotel room is frowned upon at best. Hotels are occasionally raided, and unmarried young couples are pulled apart, frogmarched outside, and paraded before the press. Expect especially harsh treatment if you’re a gay couple. There are banners strung outside some schools and other institutions in Indonesia that read Wujudkan Lingkungan Dari LGBT dan Narkoba (Keep the Environment free from LGBT and Drugs). That sums up the country’s current attitude toward LGBT.

A Shared Bottle of Wine If you want to get rid of someone, give them a wad of cash and instructions to go off and buy a bottle of wine in Jakarta. They won’t return for a very long time, if ever. They might even have to be collected from the hospital, having fainted over the price of the wine at a bottle shop hidden away in an upscale supermarket. Diamonds, Rolex watches, Russian caviar, and wine are only for the well-off in Indonesia. You might find some bargains online, of course. A box of decent plonk can be delivered to your door for as low as Rp450,000. You and your sweetheart can then sit by the Ciliwung River and imagine you’re on the banks of the Seine in Paris, as long as you have completed the task of hunting down good cheese and baguettes in the city (and have clothes pegs clamping your nostrils shut).

Share a Cheap Bottle of Beer Instead In Jakarta, be sure to ask for your bottle of Bintang dingin sekali (very cold), or you might be served a tepid one. In fact, many Indonesians prefer to drink their beer with ice – a sort of Bintang on the rocks – which I guess has a beneficial hydrating effect, like being attached to a saline drip while you consume your alcohol. While beer may not be as romantic as wine – being associated with German tankard-swirlers and British lager louts – there are people online who take it seriously which one might even say soberly. One website describes Bintang as having “a very slight bitter grassy note from the hops, slightly woody aftertaste.” Few Bintang drinkers I know would recognise this highbrow description: “Goes down a treat, but slightly vomity aftertaste when swigged after a belch,” would be more their thing.

Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

music

The Malioboro Guide to Indonesian Love Songs

BY JOANNE RUSHTON

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The Best Old School Love Song “Angin Malam” – Broery Marantika I’m assured that Broery was the Elvis of his time, known for his intimate relationship with his audience and ballads that will bring a tear to your eye. Broery was a choirboy in his youth and the choral influence is evident in this song, and an understanding of how to capture the ear of the listener.

There’s poetry to the lyrics, with natural metaphors as Broery is missing a woman who’s no longer by his side. The twinkle of the guitar in the background, as well as the gentle power in his voice, is reminiscent of Elvis’ Now or Never.

“Angin Malam” is an oldie; it came up in conversation when I asked a 30-year-old what would be his parent’s favourite love song. If you’re looking to impress a date with your cultural knowledge and hipster prowess this Valentine’s, have this song on your playlist.

W

ho better to ask about the best Indonesian love songs than the musicians of Malioboro Street in Yogyakarta? They spend their evenings entertaining throngs of tourists as they eat the pecel lele and ayam goreng plied by the street vendors. These guys know what works; what’s popular, what gets people tapping their feet and singing along, what gets the Rp5,000 notes landing in hats, baskets, and bowls.

Yes, love songs very much exist in Western music, but the idea seems to be all-pervading in Asian music. Indeed, one of the first phrases I learned in Bahasa Melayu when I moved to Malaysia nine years ago was “saya sayang awak” after an evening in a karaoke bar with workmates. It was in every song, whether it was the twenty-something girls I was partying with or the gruff 40-somethings in their bandanas and tattoos getting up to sing their rock songs. Then in Indonesia, I learned “saya cinta kamu” as I roam around Yogyakarta.

Got a date with an Indonesian on Valentine’s Day? Whether they’re hipster, achingly cool, mad for pop culture, or stuck in their teeny-bopper phase, you’ll have something to talk to them about.

The Best Modern Classic Love Song “Ada Yang Hilang” – Ipang Lazuardi Although only released this past decade, “Ada Yang Hilang”, or “Something is Missing”, has become a classic song of heartbreak. Indonesian singer Ipang Lazuardi sings of a love lost, someone who has walked away after giving her his everything.

The song follows a tried and tested form for music for the heartbroken. Opening with piano riffs, slow strings rise up in the background as the pain in Ipang’s voice comes through.

The guitars kick in, chords at first and then take the melody before elevating into a decent solo before the bridge.

With so many love songs in Indonesian music, it’s not so easy to choose some of the best. What makes a good love song anyway?

Is it about how many people remember it? The soaring lyrics?

The musicianship that crafts the riff and melody?

Musically, it wouldn’t be out of place on a modern rock album anywhere else in the world. The feeling is something like Queen’s “Love of My Life”; the pain and the longing, the craving for someone to come back to his side.

A good love song is indeed a subjective idea, but after hours of consultation with a group of successful street musicians at Malioboro, here’s what I’ve pieced together. This collection comes after hours of animated debate, plenty of halfremembered lyrics and riffs-gone-wrong, and more than a few confused people getting harangued into our discussion.

If you’re looking to sound credible when talking about Indonesian love songs, you can’t go far wrong with Ipang. He’s had a long career in music, having been in Plastik Band in the 90s and still working with BIP, too. When your intended Valentine stomps all over your heart the week before the romantic evening you had planned, spend a night with “Ada Yang Hilang” and all will be well.

Best Cheesy Love Song “Dia” – Anji As I first listen to this song, I’m reminded of Elvis Costello’s “She”. It’s not just the title that is similar, there’s a simple tune with acoustic guitars and gentle strings. Anji’s lyrics lack the poetry and big ideas that Costello gives; he sticks to simple thoughts like “I love her, I miss her, and I want her.”

As a way to illustrate to me how popular this song is, one of the guys helping me decided to do a musical vox pop. As we sat on Malioboro, he called out to random people passing by and sang a line from “Dia” and without exception, the four people we surveyed all replied with the next line, as if by instinct mixed with mild confusion.

To cement the judgement of cheesy, Anji has trodden a path well-known to pop fans in the West. Failed contestant on popular talent show? Check. Joins a band, gets famous as band’s front man, and then leaves in acrimony to go solo.

Check, check, and check. When your date is a follower of all things pop culture, this is the song you need to be learning for your late-night serenade.

Best Boyband Love Song “I Heart You” – SM*SH If your misspent youth had Backstreet Boys, N*SYNC, and Take That as its soundtrack, you’re going to feel right at home with this slice of cutesy pop-tastic tuneage. Their manufactured pop credentials are strong, having gone through a bootcamp with their management before being launched onto the Indonesian music scene ten years ago.

The lyrics are most definitely cringeworthy, as the chorus – sang in English – trills “Girl, I need you / Girl, I love you / Girl, I heart you…” The production of the music as well as the video sit somewhere on the border of: well done and just a little too much. The dance routine feels very Kpop sensation, BTS whilst the slow close-ups with puppy eyes are right out of a Westlife promo.

For a Valentine’s date who has a strong appreciation of irony, or left their music taste in the teen-hood, get learning how to throw SM*SH style shapes and learn the rap breakdown from this song.

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

JAKARTA

Welcome in the Year of the Metal Rat with Holiday Inn Jakarta Kemayoran JAKARTA

Chinese New Year Prosperity Buffet at Aston Priority Simatupang Hotel and Conference Centre Presenting the diversity of authentic cuisine from China, Aston Priority Simatupang Hotel and Conference Centre prepares a Chinese New Year lunch buffet with a variety of delectable dishes such as wok fried vegetables with hokio mushrooms and fried Hokkien noodles with green mussels. At Rp250,000 nett per person, visitors can also relish Turkish, Himalayan, and Indian dishes along with an irresistibly sweet dessert at the Canary Coffee Shop.

The General Manager of Aston Priority Simatupang Hotel and Conference Centre, S. Aulia Masjhoerdin, said, “we hope that this New Year will be filled with prosperity and happiness for everyone to celebrate and be happy with their family and friends.”

To enjoy these dishes, contact 021 7883 8777 or email simatupanginfo@ astonhotelsinternational.com for reservations. Follow on Instagram @ astonsimatupang or visit the Facebook Fan Page at Aston Priority Simatupang Hotel and Conference Centre for updates and promotions.

JAKARTA

Jakarta Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Club Discusses Environmentally Friendly Business

Walk into the Holiday Inn Jakarta Kemayoran that’s decorated with accents of the Mei Hua tree and angpao, towards the Botany Restaurant for marvellous traditional Chinese delicacies in this year of the metal rat. Located at the lobby level, Botany Restaurant is a natural and contemporary dining concept to offer a new atmosphere for culinary seekers surrounding the capital’s district, available for up to 150 people.

On January 24, 2020, from 7pm to 9.30pm, catch a glimpse of a special Yu Sheng ceremony to begin the evening’s dinner and then be mesmerised with a Barongsai performance as the feast begins. Savour Chinese roast pork belly, char siu pork, Hainan chicken, and peking duck with Hainan chicken rice, yong tau foo, chilled sliced pork belly, wok fried glutinous rice with lapzhong, and many more! Sweeten your taste buds with traditional Chinese desserts from red bean cream soup with dumplings, fried sesame balls, guilingao, to mochi. All of these can be enjoyed at Rp428,000++ per person.

Meanwhile on January 25, Botany Restaurant will also present Yu Sheng, a symbol and ritual of prosperity to toss the mixed ingredients high in the air with a meaning to move upwards. Enjoy brunch consisting of favourite Chinese New Year dishes at Rp328,000++ per person from 12pm to 3pm.

Win a stay voucher at Holiday Inn Jakarta Kemayoran and lunch buffet at Botany Restaurant voucher during the celebration.

Contact 021-2956 8800 or WhatsApp +6281808922488 and visit our website at www.jakartakemayoran.holidayinn.com for more information and reservation.

Lots of organisations are beginning to acknowledge their duty towards combatting climate change, with leadership coming from the Governor of Jakarta, Anies Baswedan’s initiative to ban disposable plastic bags in the capital by the middle of the year. Wyndham Hotel and Resort strives to continue implementing an environmentally friendly tourism business.

"We call this a sustainability concept. There are three aspects, namely business, environment, and social.

We wish to make profit from the business point of view. But we also need to take care of and preserve the environment. A greater impact needs to be generated for the social, common interest,” said General Manager of Wyndham Casablanca Jakarta, Paolo Randone.

Paolo expressed his commitment at the Jakarta Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Club, in Wyndham Casablanca Jakarta on Wednesday January 15, 2020.

This community has been initiated by marketing experts as well as founder and chairman of MarkPlus, Inc. Hermawan Kartajaya, containing the company's executives from marketing director to the CEO of various industries and sectors.

"If a guest believes the hotel isn’t environmentally conscious, he or she will most probably leave the hotel and look for another one. So there is a business aspect that drives us to be more conscious,” Paolo added.

Wyndham prohibits the use of balloons for any purpose due to the process of making the balloons and blowing them up with helium, a rare resource. In addition, no more plastic bottled drinks have been given to hotel guests since midlast year. As for leftover food, Paolo claimed to feed it to the property’s catfish farm hence no food is wasted.

The chairman of the Indonesian Hospitality industry Joint Chair (GYI), Didin Junaedi, praised this educational talk among the hospitality industry, and realises that it’s still difficult to practice as not everyone is conscious enough.

"Hopefully, other industries will follow the efforts made by the hospitality industry. There are already green hotel concepts in Indonesia but they’re normally not fully maximised yet,” Didin commented.

At least according to Paolo, sustainable tourism won’t harm the business and profit aspects of hospitality. In fact, it’s one step further for tourism and hospitality to build long term business.

Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

culture

Traditional Balinese Wedding

BY VARJA DIJKSTERHUIS

A

ll around the world, weddings are celebrated grandly and merrily. A marriage is an unforgettable day; it is the moment that you and your fiancé make a promise to love and cherish each other for the rest of your lives. But for Balinese people, this commitment goes one step further.

In Bali, a wedding is celebrated exuberantly, taking up to three full days. During a traditional, Balinese-Hindu wedding, three ceremonies are performed. This means that Balinese weddings are held with various sacred ceremonies and processions. In their eyes, a wedding is beyond vital. When two Balinese people marry, they don’t only marry each other, they also make a relationship with the whole extended family. This is especially important for the bride; she will move in to her husband’s family after they marry, according to a saying in Balinese which means: “once you marry your partner, you’ve married his family as well.”

I was invited to the wedding of I Made Langgeng Jayana and Ni Made Putri Cahyani, both 25-years-old. It’s common for Balinese people to marry in their early twenties. They believe that the sooner they marry, the better it is. The wedding I visited took place in Jasri Amlapura, a small village in the east of Bali.

The first ceremony took place in the house of the Cahyani family, the family of the bride.

Cahyani looks absolutely stunning in her colourful traditional Balinese attire, golden headgear, and glamourous make up. “We grew up in the same village and went to the same junior high school, so we’ve already known each other since we were kids. Eventually, we fell in love and got into a relationship,” she tells me with enthusiasm.

Their wedding attire is filled with colours and gold, which are symbols for happiness and celebration. The golden headgear on Putri is part of the Payas Agung, which means “the greatest”. Payas Agung is luxury clothing which was originally worn by nobility and the royal family, but nowadays, it’s worn at weddings by people who can afford it. In the middle of her costume, at the height of her waist, there is a small triangle. This triangle is the symbol for the sexual part of the bride, her vulva. The groom wears a sword on his back, which is a symbol for his penis. The groom can cut the triangle with his sword after the wedding, which is a symbol for sexual interaction. Of course he won’t use the sword for real; it is just a symbol for having sex with his physical sword. The sword is also a symbol of protection and loyalty towards the woman.

The ceremony on the first day started with the groom’s family visiting the bride’s family, to seek their permission for marriage. This ceremony is called ngidih, meaning “to ask” in English. It is not only a proposal from the groom, but from his whole family. Obviously, the families have met before and have already been discussed that the family of the bride will give permission, but it is an important

When two Balinese people marry, they don’t only marry each other, they also make a relationship with the whole extended family. This is especially important for the bride; she will move in to her husband’s family after they marry. ritual of the wedding. On this day, the bride and groom put on their engagement rings, and the bride is welcomed in the house of the groom, and by the temple of his family.

The second day was the biggest day when the Mentanjung Sambuk ceremony took place.

The families asked permission of marriage to the spirits and Gods. This implies several traditions. At the wedding of Putri and Langgeng, both families walked to the house of the bride and carried sacrificial trays on their heads, to give to the family of the bride.

This is called meserah. The trays are filled with f lowers, banana leaves, cakes, fruits, vegetables, chicken, and chips. On arrival, all the trays are placed at the family temple and the ceremony is led by the Hindu priest, called the Pemangku. The priest sprinkles the almost-married couple with holy water while praying to the spirits. This ritual is necessary for the purification of the body and soul and to welcome good spirits.

The bride has officially left her house, family, and family temple, and she has moved into the groom’s family house after the wedding. However, she will still go to her family temple to pray as a farewell. This is the third ceremony. The bride has no further responsibilities towards her family anymore, and she doesn’t have to take part in any traditional or religious rituals with her family. This is why this is usually the most emotional moment for the bride, as her life will drastically change after marriage. Putri feels lucky though, her family lives close to the family of her partner. “By this way, I can always come by and see my family as much as I like,” she says.

The third day of this extravagant wedding is all about celebrations – no more ceremonies need to be conducted. Music was played and everybody living in the village was invited to come to dance, drink, and eat loads of food to commemorate this special chapter of Putri and Langgeng.

19

events

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

JAKARTA Exhibition

ASTINDO Travel Fair 2020 21-23 February 2020

Astindo Fair is one of the biggest tourist destination forums and expos in Indonesia – an event where the travel and tourism industry can meet directly with consumers to gain information and access about travelling to various tourist destinations in Indonesia and overseas. Plan your trip and visit ASTINDO Travel Fair 2020. Visit www. astindofair.com for further inquiries.

included Bullet for My Valentine, Lamb of God, As I Lay Dying, and many others. In preparation for their 2020 event on March 27–28 at Carnaval Beach Ancol, they have announced that legendary American heavy metal band Slipknot will be part of the festival. Other headliners will be announced in the future.

For more information, visit www.hammersonic.com.

20 April 2020

Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2020 28 February – 1 March 2020

29 February 2020

A flower cannot blossom without sunshine, and people cannot live without love. Come and join in the Romantic Valentine Music Concert. Tell your love stories with romantic songs from Ronan Keating, Bunga Citra Lestari, and Christian Bautista. The event will be held on 29 February 2020 at The Grand Ballroom, Pullman Hotel Central Park, Jakarta. For further information, visit www. fullcolor-entertainment.com

Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival (JJF) is one of the largest jazz festivals in the world and arguably the biggest in the southern hemisphere.

In 2020, the festival will be held at JIExpo, Kemayoran.

Several confirmed acts for the event include The Jacksons, Omar Apollo, Tony Monaco and Friends, Gerald Situmorang, Marcell, Brass Against, and others. Tickets are on sale now.

Head to javajazzfestival.com for more information.

Khalid – Free Spirit Asia Tour 2020 – Live in Jakarta 28 March 2020

Did you miss Khalid’s concert in Jakarta last November?

Well, be prepared to welcome

Savior Valentine Package

IndoBuildTech Expo 2020

14 February 2020

1-5 April 2020

SAV/OR will begin taking reservations for its 14 February Valentine’s dinner, exclusively via email, phone, or Instagram direct message. Check out the special Valentine’s Couples or Group set menu: couple set menu at Rp499,000++ per couple at 6-7:30pm and the group set menu at Rp199,000++ per pax with a minimum pax of three at 8-9:30p. Both packages can be enjoyed with an additional Rp149,000 nett per pax for two glasses of house wine or beer. Visit the official website for further details www. saviorpakubuwono.com

IndoBuildTech Expo 2020 introduces a breakthrough idea for presenting innovative and disruptive technology trends in the building & infrastructure industry, namely “Transforming into Digital Cities: Through Infrastructure and Community A d v a n c e m e n t .” I n d o n e s i a n and overseas exhibitors are presenting their latest series of products, each with comparative advantages in terms of product quality, design, and even special pricing at IndoBuildTech that altogether will provide the visitors with more benefits. More importantly, visitors will be able to get the solution in need of building and finishing materials with specif ic requirements in type, measure, models, materials, design, quality and even pricing for building or housing construction projects.

IndoBuildTech Expo 2020 will be held at Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) BSD. Visit www.indobuildtech.com.

Indoindians Holi Color Run

For first time in Indonesia, Indonesia Color Run and Indoindians have joined hands with a 5K colour run with the theme “The Festival of Colours”, to spread happiness and love in Jakarta. Holi is a popular Indian festival that signifies the victory of good over evil – celebrating new life and energy with much enthusiasm and gaiety. The festival aims to foster a friendship between India and Indonesia. The venue will be in Parkir Timur, Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Senayan which starts at 6am. For further information, visit www. indoindianindoindians.com

Art & Culture

Valentine's Day Promo

YOGYAKARTA Music Fall In Love Again with The Dharmawangsa Jakarta 14-16 February 2020

14 February 2020

27 – 28 March 2020

Hammersonic is a metal and rock music festival, held annually since 2012. They regularly invite huge bands around the world to perform live in Jakarta. Several bands that have performed in the festival

After releasing his first single titled Just Hold On in 2016, British pop sensation, Louis Tomlinson is set for his first solo concert in Indonesia at Tennis Indoor Senayan, Jakarta on 20 April 2020. Make sure you are a part of this unforgettable night by singing along to his chart-topping songs, including Back To You, Just Hold On, Two of Us, and many more.Save the date and take some of your friends to show him some love!

Don’t miss the chance to have the time of your life with Louis Tomlinson by purchasing tickets via Traveloka.

Darren Porter at Colosseum Club, Jakarta

Hammersonic 2020 – Rise of The Empire

Sports

8 March 2020

Louis Tomlinson Live Concert in Jakarta

Music

Romantic Valentine Concert with Ronan Keating

back singer and songwriter Khalid to Jakarta. As part of his Free Spirit Asia Tour 2020, Khalid will come back to Jakarta and entertain his fans with his live performance. The singer of “Location”, “Talk”, and “Better” is holding his concert at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, on March 28, 2020. The presale period started on December 19, 2019 via www. tiket.com. For more information, visit www.khalidjakarta2020. com

Have you planned on where to spend your Valentine’s Day yet? A nightlife party may be a good option. Come and join Nightlife Patry with Darren Porter. The event will be held at Colosseum Club, Jakarta on Friday 14th February 2020.

You are guaranteed to have a fantastic and enjoyable night.

To get more information, visit the website : https://colosseum. id/events/darren-porter/

The Dharmawangsa Jakarta is celebrating the season of love w ith Valentine’s Day experiences that promisea an opulent overnight program, memorable dining experiences, and ultimate relaxation. The luxury of The Dharmawangsa has curated an array of special offerings with heart, body, and soul in mind, including romantic room getaway, romantic cabana by the pool, Valentine dinner at Sriwijaya Restaurant, romance and relaxation at Bimasena Spa, love is in the air sSpa experience, and Dewa Dewi.

For reservations, please contact Bimasena Spa at (021) 725 8668 ext. 8300 or visit website www. the-dharmawangsa.com to see the details.

Leonardo Opera Omnia 30 January-29 February 2020

Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most iconic figures of the Italian renaissance, and 2019 marks the 500th anniversary of the death of the great maestro with widespread celebrations in Italy and around the globe. The Italian cultural centre in Jakarta is rolling out the celebration to mark his 500th anniversary through exhibition entitled “Leonardo Opera Omnia”, produced by RAI Com and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Find out more about the event here iicjakarta.esteri.it/iic_ jakarta/ it/gli_eventi

Jogjarockarta International Rock Music Festival 2020 1 March 2020 JogjaROCKarta International Rock Music Festival was held again on March 1, 2020 at the Kridosono stadium, Yogyakarta.

After successfully bringing Extreme and Power Trip in 2019, JogjaROCKarta International Rock Music Festival have again brought the legendary rock band Scorpions and Whitesnake. To get more information, contact +6282226664343.

Finding Nature in Bali Bali offers a great lifestyle with ideal weather, readily blending modern living with the intrigue and mystique of Balinese culture. It has bountiful beaches, endless rice fields and nature walks, and also waterfalls in stunning locations. At the same time, there are top notch schools, medical care, and shopping as well as beautiful restaurants and bars. Many people dream of living in Bali, but how does one actually make the move and become part of a village or another community?

Do you want to experience Bali at its best and experience some peace and quiet, but still be close to all the amenities? Moving to Bali for long term and buying property? Or maybe a rental investment? If so, do consider Villa Damee in Ubud; an exquisite, three-bedroom villa with a pool, located in a quiet village, and conveniently only 4.5 km from Ubud.

This stunning tropical Balinese style private villa is listed for sale for the first time by its expat Australian/New Zealand owners. Surrounded by lusciously landscaped gardens set in the rice fields, it overlooks the jungle and is located in the traditional village of Pejeng. Just a three-minute walk out the door and you will find yourself at the beautiful World Heritage listed Pakerisan River.

The strong relationship the owners of the villa have built with the village during their eleven years stay will ease your way into the community as the next custodian of this property. The name “Damee� is Sanskrit and means peace and harmony.

With the privacy of 2,300 sq metres of land around you, this is indeed a great find and has excellent business income potential too.

Price: US$335,000 Land Size: 2,300 sq metres, Leasehold 19 years + 10 year extension, three-bedroom air-conditioned villa set in nature with large pool with spring-fed water and ioniser eco- filter (low chlorine).

Enquiries to Mr. Gusti at Red Lotus Bali Property www.redlotusbaliproperty.com/vs-395

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Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Expat Advertiser JAKARTA Jobs Available

Indonesia Expat is looking for a highly motivated

PR/Sales Representative to join its Sales and Marketing Team.

The ideal candidate must have a strong interest in media sales, eager to learn, and be able to represent the company well. The future PR/Sales Representative will have the opportunity to work in a small team and learn directly from experienced employees. The candidate wi ll also get to at tend networking events and daily meetings with clients or potential advertisers in order to meet and exceed revenue targets. Fresh graduates who are looking to start their career in a local English-basis publication are more than welcome.

Indonesian moving company with more than 20 year experiences Call us: +62-021-7884-8814/15 Fax: +62-21-7884-7056 Email: tuti@retransinternational.com retrans@indo.net.id

Serviced Office • Virtual Office • Meeting Facilities • Company Incorporation Located in Kuningan Business District, integrated with shopping mall and residential enable you for a more convenient and easier way of doing business in Jakarta. With flexible lease terms, ready to use office suites, immediate office setup, daily receptionist and maintenance services, 88 Service Office leaves you free to run your businenss without the day to day hassles of managing a conventional office space. "At 88 Service Office, we enable you to focus on your core business with friendly professionalism and affordability flexibility."

Jl. Raya Casablanca Kav88 | Phone: 021-29631688 Email: sales@88office.co.id | Web: www.88office.co.id

Skills Required: • An excellent command of written and spoken English (native) with very good communications skills • Very good Bahasa communications skills • Excellent organisation skills • The ability to sell and gain new clients • The ability to present and pitch advertising opportunities • The ability to organise events • A good understanding of sales techniques • A good understanding of social media • Hardworking, outgoing and positive Job Description: • Build and develop relationships with existing or potential clients • Attend networking events • Liaise with sales and editorial team • Plan, develop and implement sales and PR strategies • Reach sales target If you believe this is the job for you, please send a cover letter and CV to info@ indonesiaexpat.biz. Due to the high demand of applicants, only candidates who will reach interview stage will be contacted.

English First Kailmalang, Duren Sawit, East Jakarta is now actively recruiting Local, Indonesian English teachers for the upcoming 2020 school year.

Requirements include, but are not limited to, excellent spoken and written English, a BA or equivalent in an educationrelated field, ability to motivate students and execute the EF curriculum, experience with very young and young learners as well as teens and pre-teens.

All training is provided, and we offer outstanding teacher support throughout the entire teaching process. I am even

willing to train the right person who does not have an education background but has the desire to teach and mentor young people the EF way. Please submit your CV and any relevant documents to bill.benedict@ef.com Looking for a few local Indonesian ATs for early childhood. Pluit and Serpong Send your CV to dorothydeerose0610@gmail. com English Private Tu t o r (Professional Business English) Location: Kuningan, South Ja ka r t a . Frequenc y: once a week (on weekends).

Requirements: candidate should be very good at english, has experience in teaching english for adult / business, has good attitude, and willingness to work with our agency. Contact: Exito Course – +6283874488125 (WA) Automotive

Selling: Low mileage Hyundai Tucson ; registered February 2013. Beautifully kept metallic grey Hyundai Tucson 2012 model . It has very low mileage (currently at 21,000 km), single owner and registered in February 2013. Plate expires in 21 February 2023. Price : Rp150 million o.n.o. Contact : srida +6281385223593 or WhatsApp at +6281290661932.

Services

Cer tif ied Personal Fitness Trainer South Jakarta: if you'd like to lose weight, get in shape, and improve your fitness levels as quickly, safely, and enjoyable as possible – and if you live around South Jakarta, then I can help you achieve it right from your home or apartment gym. My name is Andri, I'm an NASM International Certified Personal Trainer with over 7 years of experience training men and women with various ages, backgrounds and fitness level.

I'm also certified in coaching T R X , Muay t ha i Box i ng, Kettlebells, and many more. Let me bring a first class customized workout to your home and achieve your fitness goals in a fun, safe, and efficient manner.

Sign up for free workout session here:www.jakartafitnesscoach. com Math & Science tutoring for International Students! We offer both Math and Science

tutoring for students from international schools in Jakarta, we are specialized in JIS / BSJ / AIS curriculum but welcome students from other schools.

For this semester, we still have a few spots available for both Private and Semi-private lessons. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Specialized IB and AP lessons are also available, please contact for more information! Tel/WA: +62819831203. Email: info@ aforeffort.org Highly recommended bahasa Indonesia Teacher – Learn bahasa Indonesia with Rini!

Are you new to Jakarta and would like to start learning bahasa Indonesia? Then I have just the right person for you!

I can highly recommend my bahasa indonesia teacher Rini.

Rini is a great teacher as she structures her classes well and gives you plenty of opportunities to talk and learn. I feel that I've improved so much with her just within a few weeks!

The fee includes teaching fee, transport fee and materials.

All materials provided. At your office or at your own home.

She prefers around Kemang, Bintaro, Tangsel, Cilandak, Sudirman, Mega Kuningan, Pejaten, Antasari, and Pondok Indah area. Please contact her at +628121861919 (WA) or email sibarani1104@yahoo.com or sibarani1104@gmail.com Property For sale: Rumah GTA 88.

Location: Jl Griya Taman Asri N0. 88, Pandowohardjo, Slema n, Indone sia . Nice property in quiet, clean and sa fe neig hbou rhood a nd surroundings in Yogyakarta’s northern suburb of Sleman.

Suitable as primary residence, holiday home or guesthouse.

About max 30’ to JOG airport and about 20’ to Yogyakarta city centre. Land size 1,059m2.

The property – with 2m walls at front (street-side) and both east and west – is shaped in a long rectangle and consists of five sections in a sequence as follows: courtyard after the gated street entrance, staff house and 2 car garage (50m2), entrance to pool (5x12m) and garden area with sitting areas and outdoor shower via a Javanese-style gebiok gate, main house (2 storey) (400m2).

Ground floor: open kitchen with cabinets and fixtures; dining area; living room; office corner; one bedroom with attached bathroom and access to garden and pool area ; guest toilet.

2nd f loor via single staircase: 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The West bedroom has large balcony overlooking the pool and garden, garden path leading to an openair antique pendopo (70m 2) with original kunci tegel. Small garden behind the pendopo with 1m high lava stone wall facing a small river below. Two gazebos: one overlooking the pool and one overlooking the garden and pendopo; landscaping: extensive and well-maintained gardens

with mature trees, bamboos and bushes/ Fixed telephone line and internet-wired. 8800kW electricity. Fully air-conditioned.

Water heaters for bathroom showers. SHM (Freehold Title) and IMB (Building Rights Title) The property is in move-in condition. The house, the gardens, the pool and Pendopo areas are in immaculate c ond it ion a nd wel l-kept and maintained. Contact r.w.wintgens@gmail.com

For sale: Paradise Mansion A p a r t me nt s , Ta ng e r a ng , opposite Lotte Mart Taman Surya. A 3 bedroom new unfurnished apartment of 69m2 on the 12 th f loor (of 15 f loors) facing north, tower 2 also has a swimming pool for the use of residents. The property is about a 15 minutes drive from Soekarno Hatta airport and close to other facilities of toll road, Pasar Laris and schools.

Asking price of Rp1.45 billion, negotiable for serious buyers only. Contact person Andrew Vincent - WA +628127121083.

300 houses big garden pool at Kemang, Cipete, Cilandak, Pe ja t e n Barat, Pondok Indah. 4/5 Bdrs. Call/WA: +628170093366.

Introducing a luxurious apartment called “Casa Domaine Prive”. Developed by PT Griyaceria Nusamekar, an alliance project of three leading property developers namely Lyman Group, Kerry Group, and Salim Group.

Strategically located at the heart of Jakarta’s CBD with direct access to Jalan Sudirman and Jalan KH Mas Mansyur and close to the future integration facilities/ TOD dukuh which formed the largest transit development orientation in Jakarta. Minutes away from lifestyle and financial hubs i.e. short distance to Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia Malls.

Casa Domaine Prive offers 2, 3, and ultra exclusive 4 bedroom units starting from ± 147sqm.

Please contact our marketing team for available units to buy or rent. Units ready to be occupied now.

For further details please contact Monica at +6281314201947.

23

Indonesia Expat Issue 254 | 29 January – 11 February 2020

Next submission

FEBRUARY 5, 2020 Send your classifieds to: info@indonesiaexpat.biz

House for sale in Kebon Jeruk (West Java). 5 minutes access to Jl. Panjang. Close to Permata Hijau and TOL road gate. Walking distance to McDonalds, Holicow, Pizza Hut and The Harvest. The house is a combination of 2 houses put together (86m 2 + 87m 2).

Freehold. Asking price: Rp4.9 billion (negotiable). Contact via WA: +6281290070037 (direct owner).

House for rent by owner, its new renovated. Jaya Mandala, Patra Jasa, South Jakarta. Big house, big land, big swimming pool, 1 main house, 1 granny house, pool, garage 4 cars, carport 2 cars. Close to embassy of Australia, Kuningan and office building and Mall Kokas & Lotte. Access inner ring road toll. Contact: +6285811353237, +62218298402.

Ema i l: bakpiaoke@hotmail.com

Personal classifieds = FREE Property and other commercial classifieds = PAID (50 words = Rp100,000 | 50 words + image = Rp250,000)

BALI Jobs Available

playground; tennis; g y m; function hall; BBQ area; 2 lot reserved parking. Rent Price US$3,000 per month for 2 year contract (Nego). More info: +62816656466.

Personal We are looking for a forever home for Lady a small mixed breed dog. She was born on September 26 in 2018. She is a girl and she has all vaccinations and dewormed. She is neutered in October 2019. Lady is a very enthusiastic girl and she likes to play with people and other dogs. Because her foster has a lot of dogs she can get along with other dogs. She has a lot of energy but she can also be very calm. If you think you can give Lady the home she deserves, please contact: Carin: +6281282345304 or Sophia: ruurdjevp@gmail.com For Sale

Thousands of ads. With our vast selection of Indonesia popular cities and powerful site search tools, you can’t go wrong. Lower price / sweet deals. Most of our ads are posted by the owners.

That 5 percent realtor commission can just stay in your wallet! Visit now: www.sewa-rumah.net w w w.jualr umahjakar ta. com

Thousands of ads. With our vast selection of Indonesia popular cities and powerful site search tools, you can’t go wrong. Lower price/ sweet deals. Most of our ads are posted by the apartments’ owners. That 5 percent realtor commission can just stay in your wallet!

Start your hunt: (English) www.sewa-apartemen.net www.jual-apartemen.com w w w.jakarta-apartment. net

For rent in Pondok Indah Resident Unit Amala (brand new). Full furnished (brand new); Sma r t T V; ex tra refrigerator (2 doors); building: 132.20m 2 ; 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms; 1 master bathroom with bathtub; outdoor pool Olympic size; indoor pool; children pool; children’s

Brand New never used famous Weber Family Q Barbeque (Largest Weber Q) bought in Australia. Opened and assembled our BBQ and found out our apartment does not allow gas bottles in this complex, so unfortunately we cannot use it. Accessories include good quality genuine Weber cover and also bbq plate cleaning brush. Selling for Rp8.5 million (negotiable) which is cheaper than the cost of the medium sized Weber Q 2200 model & cover in Ace Hardware. Please contact me for photo and or specifications. Contact Sue. Email:tele@big pond.net.au WhatsApp +61411050005.

Company for Sale: 100% foreig n-ow ned Indonesian PM A compa ny ava i lable w ith per manent licences for Wholesale and also for Ma na gement C on su lt i ng.

A l l compa ny document s and licenses are up-to-date, including OSS registration, all of which can be verified. Please contact: +6281280223330.

Household Staff Employment opportunity for a part-time maid/cook. Duties include cleaning, laundr y, ironing, cooking and grocery shopping. Should be able to speak and read English, be well-organized and a good cook, and trustworthy. Experience preparing vegetarian and vegan meals is a plus. Competitive salary and benefits for two and a half days work per week Good references required. Contact Teshome Nkrumah at teshome. nkrumah@gmail.com

Looking for personal assistant.

Excellent written and spoken English. Long term career position.

Book keeping/ Accounts. Experience desired.

Immediate start required.

Please send your CV to: pipperlee2019@gmail.com We are one of the largest food packaging company in Indonesia seeking a candidate of Sales Executive Position. With a very strong Company Profile and experience of the business for more than 33 years, we always do breakthrough innovation to provide Best Food Packaging solution to the customers. It is pleasant to work together with the People who really want to show their Maximum Potency.

Below are the requirement for the candidate: experienced in Sales or Marketing for 3 years, preferable comes from FMCG or HORECA background. Male / Female are welcome, Maximum 35 years old. Knowing Bali Area well and Poses Driving Licence.

Hi Discipline, fast learner and highly self motivated. High School Graduate and degrees are welcome. A very interesting income Package offered for suitable candidate. Send your CV by email to: prinslan. mahaputra@gmail.com, cc to : sales@altindo.co.id Property Villa complex Beranda Located Dencarik North Bali BHV 2019. We can now offer a total complex of 15 ares of land complete for sale, with three 2 f loor properties, 2 Villas and a wooden house. Complete Fully modern furnished. The villa in general: surface area 15 ares land. Surface property 1,500 sqm. Built in the year 2015 and 2017 (final). Located aat Dencarik, Banjar, Buleleng North Bali. Less than 5 minutes walking distance to the beach, jl. Lotus Dencarik. The entire complex 15 ares land including 2 completely furnished villas with modern furnishings, 2 large swimming pools, large garden, option with staff can be yours for an attractive low investment price. Bonus you get is the wooden house furnished ! Sale price now Rp3.42 billion. Please contact us : +6285339101479.

Large cozy family villa for sale.

This villa is built on 1800 m2 of land, the building has 2 floors and an extra house, the surface of the buildings has a size of almost 700 m 2. The villa has 6 bedrooms complete with air condition and water heaters, 9 luxury bathrooms, 9 toilets, 2 large kitchens with bar, 2 large living rooms. Outdoor space: swimming pool for adults size 17x5x2 meters there is thought of the children size 5x5x1 meters. For rent and sale.

WA: +6285339101479. Email: bulelenghouses@gmail.com

JAKARTA

Start the New Decade with Fresh Vibes at Expat Mixer at Liberta Jakarta Indonesia Expat kicked off the new decade with the Indonesia Expat Mixer held in Liberta Italian Restaurant in Jakarta, on Wednesday, January 22, 2020.

A joyful night along with enjoyable music welcomed a total of 110 guests, all ready to join in the fun; Indonesians and expats alike, all mingling and chatting.

For two hours, guests had a good time and were refreshed with Konig Ludwig Weissbier and Kaltenberg Beer, as well as wine by Sababay Winery, and sumptuous canapes.

To make the event even more cheerful, Indonesia Expat provided a highly anticipated door prize competition. All guests were given the opportunity to drop their business card into a fishbowl for the chance to win some great prizes. What did we offer? A voucher for one-night stay at Aston Priority Simatupang, two vouchers of one-night stay at Aston Anyer, six skincare travel kits by Laneige and Sulwhasoo from Lotte Duty Free, and gift vouchers worth Rp500,000 from Lotte Duty Free.

Indonesia Expat always opens doors for those who want to spend time together and be accompanied by good food, great music, and entertaining conversations. The Indonesia Expat Mixer aims to help people expand their business and social networks. This event is also perfect when you need to catch a new atmosphere.

Each month, Indonesia Expat brings a new style to the event. The next Indonesia Expat Mixer will be announced soon, so keep your eyes peeled and follow @IndonesiaExpatMixer and @indonesiaexpat on Instagram and Facebook. Prepare to mark your calendar! The demand is high and space is limited!