Asia Dreams / July-August 2016

FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN The best places In Asia to stay, eat, play & shop with the kids this summer

Kids Summer Fashion From M&Co

INSPIRATION

IDR 50,000 SGD 9 RM 25 USD 6 HKD 60 AUD 7 ISSN 2089-872X

IRMA DAMAYANTI Alexander Poindl DARIO ORSINI JEAN-CHARLES LE COZ

Š2015 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Luxury Collection and its logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.

THE LAGUNA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA Situated in a secluded part of the resort’s tropical gardens and with an air of tranquility, the villa experience is a truly unsurpassed experience in paradise. Indulge in an unforgettable stay at our one or two-bedroom Villas, designed with sophistication and exuding a rich Balinese residential feel both indoors and out.

The generous outdoor terrace opens to an inviting space where a private pool and Bale Bengong gazebo await your arrival. Villa residents also enjoy a private check-in and an on-call buggy service throughout their stay to reach their private beach area and reserved sun beds. Enhance your villa experience with the signature Luxury Collection Concierge Service, 24-hour Butler Service and complimentary Wi-Fi access.

EXPLORE THE DESTINATION AT WWW.THELAGUNABALI.COM/VILLA-EXPERIENCE

THE LAGUNA KAWASAN PARIWISATA NUSA DUA LOT N2 PO BOX 77, BALI 80363, INDONESIA T. +62 361 771327 THELAGUNABALI.COM

At Conrad, luxury isn’t just about feeling pampered, it’s about feeling understood.

It’s about a style you connect with and service that’s attuned to your every need.

Enjoy 25% Off* when you book direct.

Jalan Pratama 168, Tanjung Benoa, Bali 80363 Indonesia, For reservations call +62 361 778 788 or Toll Free 0800-140-1147 Reservations@ConradBali.com or visit ConradBali.com

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#STAYINSPIRED

A taste of tropical luxury on the magical island of Bali

Boasting magnificent views of the shimmering sea, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort’s spacious rooms and suites offer sophisticated style and exquisite comfort.

Revel in a world of rejuvenation with a savant mix of world-class facilities, French cosmetology and tranquil surrounds. Discover all our magnifique addresses in over 40 countries on www.sofitel.com

BTDC Complex lot N5, Bali 80363 | +62 361 849 2888 | H9078@sofitel.com | www.sofitel.com

Turn your dreams for a picturesque tropical beach wedding into reality at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel With the iconic Balinese Gate synonymous with the Balinese culture as the backdrop your special day will be a blessed one. For an absolutely stunning effect the event can be held at sunset as the sun sets through the gate. Let our wedding team transform your vision of this day as a classic white wedding, a Balinese traditional wedding or a dedication ceremony. We will make your dreams become a reality in true Balinese harmony.

Contact us today at reservation@discoverykartikaplaza.com

Managed by Discovery Hotels & Resorts Jl. Kartika Plaza, South Kuta Beach 80361, P.O. Box 1012, Bali, Indonesia Tel: +62 361 751067 | Fax: +62 361 754585 reservation@discoverykartikaplaza.com www.discoverykartikaplaza.com

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON BALI, KUTA Jalan Benesari, Banjar Pengabetan, Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia T: +62 361 849 6606 F: +62 361 849 6607

FOURPOINTSBALIKUTA.COM facebook.com/FourPointsBaliKuta

@FourPointsBali

FourPointsBali

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Welcome to the very first Four Points by Sheraton in Indonesia – a place where you want to be in Kuta, Bali.

Family friendly facilities plus great beds, large Kids Club, three inviting swimming pools and a Jacuzzi – yes, all extras you’ll love.

Whether you’re here for work or fun, you’re in for a great stay.

©2011–2015 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Four Points and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates. For full terms and conditions, visit fourpointsbalikuta.com.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A Summer Of Fun N

ow that the summer has officially arrived, there's nothing we love more than planning a fabulous sun-soaked getaway with the family. Living in Asia, we are absolutely spoilt for choice when it comes to holidaying with the little ones, from the luxurious family-friendly hotels and resorts with award-winning kids’ clubs, to the smorgasbord of thrilling attractions, gourmet restaurants with scrumptious kids’ menus and adorable children's stores for mini fashionistas. Quite simply, Asia is a dream destination for the whole family.

And now that the school holidays are in full swing, there's no better moment to bring back our annual family edition. To help you keep the kids entertained the whole summer through, we've travelled across the region to bring you the very best places in Asia to stay, eat, play and shop till you drop. Whether it's an action-packed city getaway to Jakarta, Singapore or Hong Kong, or a relaxing beachside break on the Island of the Gods, consider your family holiday plans all wrapped up.

Of course, summer holidays aren't just for children, so we've also gone ahead and reviewed a selection of the finest five-star getaways for couples and friends too, from the beachfront, barefoot beauty of Sadara Boutique Resort in Bali, to the big city sights at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore. We even set sail on the cruise of a lifetime with Pulau Luxury Charters, before we escape Asia for a moment to explore the golden dunes of Morocco's Sahara Desert.

No summer holiday would be complete without a stunning new wardrobe, so this edition is also packed full with plenty of fashion, beauty and fragrances. For the children, international family brand M&Co is keeping things cool this summer with its latest collection, while Hermes has launched a selection of gorgeous shoes and bags to fancy up your suitcase.

The glamour doesn't stop there. We also take a sneak peek into the lives of the rich and famous at some of Asia's most exclusive events. Christian Dior launched its latest collection at the Alila Seminyak Penthouse, Bang & Olufsen wowed tech and fashion enthusiasts at the Grand Opening of its first Bali showroom, and Alaya Resort Ubud treated cheese and wine connoisseurs to hand-carried delights from France. All this in our regular Society section.

We then meet with some of Bali and Jakarta's most successful hospitality players to learn the secrets of the industry, before we also talk to Indonesian celebrity chef, Petty Elliott, as part of our Culinary Journey highlight.

It's no secret that we here at Exquisite Media are foodies at heart, so we also wine and dine at some of the region's finest gourmet destinations to give you a taste of Asia's world-class culinary scene.

With so much to digest, we hope that this edition not only keeps you and the kids entertained over the summer months, but also helps you plan your perfect getaway in utmost style.

We wish you all a wonderful summer, and we'll see you soon for another exciting edition in September!

Lenny Marlina Tanu PUBLISHER lenny@exquisite-media.co.id

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Lu x u r y I n H a rm ony On the prime stretch of Seminyak Beach’s golden sand near Bali’s chicest shops and most stylish nightlife, The Legian Bali is an iconic sanctuary of modern architecture and stunning sunsets. Sixty-seven suites are calm and understated, while those seeking the most privacy can look to the 11 intimate, butler-attended pool villas at The Club at The Legian

Bali Office Jakarta Office

The Club At The Legian Bali Jalan Kayu Aya, Seminyak Beach Bali 80361 - Indonesia T +62-361730622 F +62-361730623 Sovereign Plaza 11th Floor Jalan TB Simatupang Kav 36Jakarta 12430 - Indonesia T +62-2129400121 F +62-2129400119

info@lhm-hotels.com www.LHM-hotels.com

JULY - AUGUST 2016

PUBLISHER Lenny Marlina Tanu MANAGING EDITORS Refa Koetin Louise Newsham EDITORIAL TEAM / CONTRIBUTORS Jake Fredericks Amanda Luxford Christian Galbraith Michael J. Harriet

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Dely Waty Cameron Smith SALES & MARKETING MANAGERS Putri Desianti Heidy Zainuddin GRAPHIC DESIGNER Aulia Karya Nugraha CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER Evy Mariana Tanu

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES BALI : (+62) 361 759 180, 759 184 JAKARTA : (+62) 21 9653 8988, 9653 9299,

5793 9423 Hotline : (+62) 851 0515 6622

PERSONAL ASSISTANT Triana Dewi Hardita EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marleen Gloria PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTRIBUTORS Tata Sumanta Riman Saputra CIRCULATION Fairuz Zahrah Ketut Sri Dono Iswandi

BALI: Ruko Sunset Indah I Jalan Sunset Road No. 89 Kav.8 Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361 Tel: (+62) 361 759 180, 759 184, 767 617 (+62) 851 0515 6622

Advertising ENQUIRIES sales@exquisite-media.co.id EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@exquisite-media.co.id DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES circulation@exquisite-media.co.id Front Cover Courtesy of M&Co.

JAKARTA: Le Green Office, Unit 2.6 & 2.7 Jalan Penjernihan II No. 10 Bendungan Hilir, Jakarta Pusat 10210 Tel: (+62) 21 9653 8988, 9653 9299, 5793 9423

SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@exquisite-media.co.id

www.exquisite-media.co.id www.asiadreams.com www.beautiful-bali.com www.exquisite-taste-magazine.com www.celebrate-jakarta.com www.exquisite-mobile.com

FOLLOW US ON www.facebook.com/Exquisite Publishing @Xquisite_Media exquisitemedia_bali_jakarta

ASIA DREAMS Magazine is published under license for EXQUISITE MEDIA. Opinions and information expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. EXQUISITE MEDIA takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the statements from our advertisers in any section of the magazine. The publishers and the printers accept no responsibility for the contents herein. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission of the publishers. EXQUISITE MEDIA reserves the right to modify or develop additional or revised statements to our disclaimer at any time as deemed necessary to better serve our demographic.

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OUR DINNER SELECTION Inspired by one of Kyoto’s legendary eateries, Kuu specializes in authentic Japanese cuisine and a selection of fine sakes.

Offering a wide selection of Sushi, the freshest Sashimi, California Rolls, Ebiten Maki, Karaage Maki and more.

Known currently as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Bali, Chef Nishida serves only authentic cuisine.

OPEN FROM 7.00 AM - 10.00 PM (ample parking space available and free Wi-Fi)

Maya Sanur Resort & Spa Jl. Danau Tamblingan, Sanur, Bali 80228, Indonesia T. +62.361.849.7800 | www.mayaresorts.com Kuu Bali

@kuubali

Kuu Bali

CONTENTS

28 16|

Society Bang & Olufsen NEWS

Keeping you up-to-date with the latest goings-on in the region, from glamorous Sundays at the new grazing brunch at Alila Seminyak in Bali, to the lavish unveiling of The Macallan Edition No.1 in Jakarta, before a fashionable girl's night out in Melbourne with Klara Cosmetics.

36|

Calendar

A roundup of the hottest upcoming events in Asia, including special celebrations in Jakarta for the holy month of Ramadhan, a fabulous four-hands dinner at The Legian Bali to commemorate its 20 year anniversary, and the highly anticipated annual Ubud Jazz Festival.

47|

Scents

Feel radiant this summer with these sultry scents for Him and for Her from RancĂŠ 1795, Aigner and Montblanc.

40

16 ASIADREAMS III

FASTLANE A SPeedy Advantage

JULY - AUGUST 2016

28 24|

Calendar Four-Hands Dinner at The Legian Bali

Society

Get a sneak peek into the lives of the rich and famous at some of Asia's most exclusive recent events. Christian Dior launches its latest collection at the Alila Seminyak Penthouse, Bang & Olufsen wow tech and fashion enthusiasts at the Grand Opening of the Bali showroom, Permata Bank hosts its holistic wealth conference and Alaya Ubud treats cheese and wine connoisseurs to hand-carried delights from France.

40|

Fastlane

For those who revel in the satisfying pursuit of challenge and reward, Aston Martin reveals its latest sports car with power, precision and striking design.

48|

Fashion

Warm weather, cool kids. International family brand M&Co are keeping the kids cool this summer with its latest collection of adorable children's fashion.

CONTENTS

84

Shangri-la's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa

57|

Family Fun in the Sun!

We’ve stayed at the best family-friendly hotels and resorts in the region, dined on Asia's yummiest kiddie nibbles, played at awardwinning kids clubs and shopped till we dropped at the hottest children’s fashion outlets to bring you the best places in Asia to stay, eat, play and shop with the kids this summer.

115|

Culinary Journey

We talk to Indonesian celebrity chef, Petty Elliott about her television debut on BBC Masterchef, the ins and outs of her latest book, and how one day she hopes Indonesian cuisine will rule the world...

124|

Destination

Because summer holidays aren't just for children, we've reviewed a selection of the finest five-star getaways in Asia, from beachfront, barefoot beauty at Sadara Boutique Resort in Bali, to the big city sights at Four Seasons Singapore, before we finally set sail on the cruise of a lifetime with Pulau Luxury Charters.

128 18 ASIADREAMS IV

JULY - AUGUST 2016

Overflowing Serenity

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Inspiration

We meet some of Bali and Jakarta's most successful hospitality players. We talk business decisions with Irma Damayanti, Managing Director of LHM; the importance of teamwork with Sheraton Kuta Bali Resort's GM Dario Orsini; we meet Alexandra Poindl, GM of Hotel Pullman Jakarta to learn about the importance of delegation; before strolling along the path to success with Grand Nikko Bali GM, Jean-Charles Le Coz.

118|

Gourmet

We wine and dine at the region's finest gourmet destinations to give you a taste of Asia's world-class culinary scene. We sample modern Euro-Asian cuisine at Monty's, feast on comfort food and sup superb cocktails at CHAMBER Food and Spirits, and dine in style on a lavish and utterly extravagant Champagne and wine-paired dinner at Kayuputi.

138|

Escaping Asia

We take a trip away from the sights, sounds and smells of Asia to explore the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert on the back of a trusty camel. Welcome to Morocco.

138

A Truly Magical Moment on the Saharan Dunes

NEWS

Glamorous Gourmet Sundays Bring the whole family to Alila Seminyak and graze your way poolside through delectable hand-crafted treats.

Named Sunday Graze Brunch, handcreated appetisers, freshly baked breads and enchanting pastries abound every weekend. Feast amid the gorgeous scenery of Alila Seminyak’s beachfront location.

Lounge in between three sparkling infinity pools with a full view of the sands and sea of the famed Seminyak Beach.

Known for their gourmand delights, the culinary staff of Alila Seminyak work tirelessly to produce an awe-inspiring banquet each week. Fill your plate, selecting food from a wide assortment of international dishes, but make sure you save room for indulgent desserts and wonderful treats. As no brunch is ever complete without fine champagne, never let your glass empty and enjoy free-flow drinks throughout the afternoon.

After you decide that you simply cannot eat another pastry, cool off in the pool and enjoy the sun and sea breeze for a relaxing end to your weekend. Live DJs will provide the soundtrack to your brief holiday in this tropical oasis on Bali’s coveted coast.

For parents of young children, the resort’s wonderful kids’ club will watch your little ones while you catch your breath poolside. Kids will be eager to return next week after they play with others their age. The kids’ club encourages painting, sculpting, make-believe and more, creating a wonderland for children and a peaceful afternoon for parents. www.alilahotels.com/seminyak 20 ASIADREAMS

“Never trust someone who doesn’t like pasta” - Robert Marchetti

Double-Six Luxury Hotel, Seminyak, MEZZANINE LEVEL, No. 66 Double Six Beach, Bali | +62 361 734 300 www.seminyak-italian.com

NEWS

Chef Prambudiyono, Chef Sean Macdougall, Chef Ray Adriansyah and Chef Petty Elliot

Modern Indonesian Culinary Experience The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place presented its exceptional yearly gastronomical event on 3rd May 2016 to support fundraising for Yayasan Wisma Cheshire and to give opportunities to people with disabilities.

Four renowned chefs from across Indonesia joined their creative talents for charity to present an exclusive menu inspired by unique ingredients from the archipelago.

They were Chef Petty Elliott, a renowned journalist and gourmet, Chef Ray Adriansyah from Locavore, Bali, chef of one of the Top 25 Best Restaurants in the World, and Chef Sean Macdougall together with Chef Prambudiyono, the hotel’s very own executive chef and pastry chef.

Taking place at Pacific Restaurant & Lounge on the sixth floor of The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, this beautiful event was held in support of Yayasan Wisma Cheshire.

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Petty Elliott, Samir Messaoudi and Young Voices members from Wisma Cheshire

Yayasan Wisma Cheshire is a residential and vocational training centre for adult men and women with disabilities. Combining the culinary arts and the art of giving, this charity dinner was the perfect way to give back to the community.

The delightful dinner saw the guests entertained by two Young Voices members from Wisma Cheshire. Christian, who is 19 years old and blind, is blessed with the talent to play the piano by memorising each musical score, was accompanied by Rifky, also aged 19 and blind, who played the violin. The five-course dinner, inclusive

of cocktails and wine pairing, was available for IDR1.8 million net per person. The dishes include sliced lamb with seaweed Lombok, fennel and goat cheese as a starter, agnolotti duo duck betutu with sambal hijau teri and duck jus, crayfish with chervil and bamboo foam and last, but not least, was the 12-hour beef cheeks with black nut, chilli, lemon grass and pumpkin puree.

Dessert was presented in a beautiful minigarden and consisted of several local sweets that were absolutely delightful. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/indonesia/ jakarta-pacific-place

NEWS

Celebrity Chef Margarita Fores wows diners at Uma Cucina

Chef Margarita Fores

As part of this year's beloved Ubud Food Festival, Uma Cucina, the rustic Italianinspired restaurant and lounge bar at Uma

by COMO, Ubud, invited Filipina chef and restaurateur Margarita Fores to wow its diners during a one-off, exceptional threecourse dinner on 28th May. Voted Best Female Chef in Asia at the San Pellegrino Fine Dining Awards 2015 and known for her passion for organic ingredients and healthy eating, Margarita worked alongside the fabulous kitchen team at Uma Cucina to create an exciting three-course menu using ingredients from both land and sea.

Highlights included a Prawn and Crab Raviolo and a Millefoglie with Smoked Kesong Puti and Candied Tomatoes.

The sensational evening was hosted on the open-air terrace and within the comfort of the cosy restaurant, and also presented contemporary cocktails that incorporated classic Italian influences and local Balinese flavours, perfectly in line with the theme of this year's Ubud Food Festival: “Go Local.” www.comohotels.com/umaubud/ dining/uma-cucina

Macallan Unveiling Edition No.1 Unveiling its finest brew yet, The Macallan presents a new annual limited edition expression: The Macallan Edition No.1, which is drawn from eight European and American oak cask styles selected by the brand’s Master Whisky Maker. During the launch held by Edrington (the owning group) on 15th April 2016 in Jakarta, brand advocate Randall Tan joined Indonesian celebrities like Mike Lewis and Marissa Nasution at The Cloud Lounge & Dining for the celebration.

With only 1,000 bottles nationwide and exclusively available in selected restaurants, bars and lounges around Jakarta, The Macallan defines its unique art of whisky making through an unusual spectrum of selected casks for Edition No. 1 by the master himself. From the provenance of the oak to the expert crafting of the cask, the seasoning and the size, these intricate components play an immense role that ultimately shape the final whisky. Whisky lovers can lavish in the taste of nettles under an oak canopy. The Macallan Edition No.1 exudes a fuller, richer flavour with a natural colour of honey, empowering a nose lead of orange, dried fruit and apple, sitting within a unique Macallan orchard, filled with vibrancy and richness. www.themacallan.com 24 ASIADREAMS

Randall Tan

NEWS

Where Every Day Feels Like a Sunday New to the pristine coastline of Bali's southern peninsula, The Ungasan Clifftop Resort and Sundays Beach Club have opened their magnificent doors to rave reviews.

Located on one of the world's most inspiring clifftop and beachfront locations, The Ungasan Clifftop Resort is the latest luxury hideaway to open on Bali's magnificent southernmost peninsula. An unparalleled destination for leisure travel, weddings and private events, in just its first few months of opening The Ungasan Clifftop Resort has secured itself a position as a number one spot for celebrations, relaxation and unmatched luxury on Bali.

Complete with panoramic ocean vistas, authentic Balinese hospitality, five-star amenities and an intimate collection of sumptuous villas with full-time butlers and drivers, the opulent resort was designed with the discerning globetrotter in mind, offering thoughtfully appointed spaces for all, including honeymooners, families, friends and corporate retreats. As the jewel in its crown, the resort is also home to the stunning Sundays Beach Club. Inspired by

A Blossoming Holiday

everyone’s favourite day of rest, Sundays Beach Club brings the island’s best selection of ocean and beach activities to the dazzling coastline, as well as an exciting lineup of evening events including cosy bonfires with marshmallows at dusk, live music and scrumptious dinners beside the sea. www.theungasan.com www.sundaysbeachclub.com

Just 45 minutes away from the centre of Jakarta, Royal Tulip Gunung Geulis Resort & Golf offers a quiet escape from the bustling city. Located at a famously picturesque 36hole golf course, the first Royal Tulip hotel in Indonesia is a unique property that offers the luxury and comfort of 173 guest rooms with a choice of four room styles.

Expect the highest standard of luxury and comfort throughout your stay, in addition to spectacular views of the beautiful grounds and expansive golf course.

Enjoy beautiful Bogor from the all-new, five-star Royal Tulip Gunung Geulis.

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Dine in style at Royal Tulip Gunung Geulis’s two restaurants and socialize at the classy bar lounge. Parents and children are sure to love the special Kids Club, while those travelling for business will find the hotel’s large ballroom and many meeting rooms more than accommodating. www.royaltulipgununggeulis.com

SOCIETY

Glamour Girl’s Night A night of fashion, make-up, selfies and free-flowing champagne – Klara Cosmetics’ 27th May event was one to remember.

With cooperation from Henri Le Blanc, the evening began with a moving gif selfie station immortalizing the event and its many smiles. Guests then visited glamorous Hollywood-lit mirrors and began styling their own smokey eyes with the highest quality cosmetics. Meanwhile, cocktails and cupcakes made their way through the crowd, spreading joy and sweet frosting throughout the night. At the end of the evening everyone left with new make-up, new style skills and an amazing bag of top products from Klara Cosmetics, as well as from Henri Le Blanc, C-Lab and Co Coffee Scrub, Lindt Lindor Chocolates and so much more. www.klaracosmetics.com 28 ASIADREAMS

Suz Ace, Nanc N, Valentina Mencevski, Klara Sabotkoski, Billie Atanasova, Kalopa Pandolfo, Julie Banskoliev & Lenny Marlina Tanu

Jimmy Gunawan & William Wongso

Du Pain, Du Vin, Du Fromage On 27th and 28th May, the stunning Alaya Resort Ubud laid out a fabulous wine and cheese paired dinner at Petani, hand-carried from France by award-winning French cheesemaster, Bernard Antony.

For two nights only, on 27th and 28th May, cheese and wine enthusiasts in Bali were treated to a very rare and very exclusive occasion at Alaya Resort Ubud's shimmering restaurant, Petani. Aptly named, “Du Pain, Du Vin, Du Fromage”, the gastronomic event presented 18 artisanal French cheeses matched with different wines and breads, hand-carried from France by award-winning French affineur, Bernard Antony, who handcrafts and supplies cheeses worldwide to more than 19 three-Michelin star restaurants.

The event was also hosted by legendary Indonesian culinary expert, William Wongso, recipient in 2001 of the Chevalier de l'Ordre National du Merite from France’s Ministry of Agriculture for his role in promoting French gastronomy. William presented each cheese and wine to the intimate gathering, with highlights of the evening being the Chevre Rove, a creamy, full-bodied goat's milk cheese atop a firm rye bread, the Bleu de Sassenage, a cow's milk blue cheese with an almost velvety sweetness, and the fine L’Epoisses AOP with floral aromas and a shiny, ivory rind.

Keep your eyes peeled for future gastronomic events at Alaya Resort Ubud because the resort's latest gourmet destination, Manisan, is soon to be unveiled in July, also in collaboration with William Wongso. www.alayahotels.com ASIADREAMS 29

SOCIETY

Silparat Watthanakasety

LUCARIS Brilliance at Vinexpo 2016 Hong Kong Sponsored by LUCARIS, Asia’s first luxury crystal wineware manufacturer, Vinexpo 2016 Hong Kong was one of the region’s most prestigious wine events of the year.

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From 24th to 26th May, 16,700 trade visitors and countless thousands of guests, wine enthusiasts and industry experts flocked to Hong Kong where, for three days only, wines from Argentina to the USA were gathered in one place at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre. As the one and only trade-only wine and spirits exhibition in the Asia-Pacific market, the exhibition is a place where international decision makers, winemakers and merchants rub shoulders and revel in the social experience.

Vinexpo 2016 Hong Kong was made possible by the sponsorship of luxury crystal wineware brand LUCARIS. As a luxury subsidiary brand of longstanding Ocean Glass PCL Thailand, LUCARIS caters to Asia’s upscale market need for premium crystal ware, mainly wine glasses and decanters. In terms of their commitment to the trade, the deputy managing director

of Ocean Glass PCL Thailand, Silparat Watthanakasetr, remarked that the, “highest importance is our desire to deliver a worldclass wine drinking experience through our unrivalled luxury lead-free and barium-free crystal glass, utilising the latest technology and innovation of wine glasses with Eastern expertise meeting Western know-how.”

None of LUCARIS’ glasses use lead or barium and are the product of a one-of-a-kind crystal glass composition exclusively codeveloped with Tokyo-Sasaki Glass Japan.

As sole sponsor of Vinexpo 2016 Hong Kong, LUCARIS’ brilliantly built and designed premium products provided any and all glasses and decanters in hundreds of international booths and master classes throughout the duration of the exhibition, ensuring what can only be described as the region’s most spectacular wine event of the year.

Nelson Chow

Sam Chong, named the Best Sommelier in Greater China in 2010, and Nelson Chow, chairman of the Hong Kong Sommelier Association (Greater China), hosted a seminar of great importance, particularly for wine enthusiasts, who are starting to comprehend the elevated experience offered by using the right wine glasses.

In this LUCARIS Master Class featuring the “Desire Collection” with Aerlumer – the Signature of Wine Glass Innovation, Mr. Chong and Mr. Chow took the audience by the hand and exemplified by practice each function of the different wine glasses within the Desire Collection. By the end of the class, the audience was convinced beyond doubt that the science of wine glasses bears merit, having experienced a wine tasting like no other, accompanied by fine glasses from LUCARIS’ Desire Collection.

In the words of Chow, “Wine needs proper delivery. The right glasses will certainly

Sam Chong

boost your wine drinking experience to heights like you’ve never experienced before. What we’ve demonstrated today has been tested and proven hundreds of times.”

The Desire Collection itself was introduced in March 2015 as a line created in collaboration with the Hong Kong Sommelier Association (Greater China).

Designed and developed all the way down to the tiniest details by seasoned connoisseurs like Mr. Chow and Mr. Chong, this collection represents cutting-edge innovation paired with strong aesthetics to set a new standard of sophistication that enhances your wine-drinking experience.

During the course of development, Mr. Chow and his associates were highly involved from start to finish, ensuring the creation of a product that truly understands the needs of today’s advanced wine enthusiasts. Regarding the Elegant Red

glass in the collection, which he personally oversaw, Mr. Chow explained that the glass: “perfectly amplifies the characteristics of matured and elegant fine wine with its oversized, flat-shaped bowl and short nose.

You will instantly feel a sense of opulence and elegance simply upon taking the glass in your hand”.

The Desire Collection consists of six distinctly beautiful glasses, each with their own special properties that enhance a particular type of wine. Selected pieces in the collection were also crafted with Aerlumer®, LUCARIS’ latest technological advancement for premium wine glasses.

Aerlumer® defines the subtle swirly pattern masterfully etched into the base of the glass, which encourages micro-oxidation and improves interaction between wine and air, allowing users to experience the wine’s potential to its fullest. www.lucariscrystal.com ASIADREAMS 31

SOCIETY

Where Sound Meets Style The world's best innovators of audio-visual technology, Bang & Olufsen, teamed up with Exquisite Media for the Grand Opening of its first-ever showroom in Bali.

Celebrating the launch of its first-ever showroom in Bali and its second location in Indonesia, Bang & Olufsen, together with Exquisite Media, celebrated in style on 20 th May during a lavish whitethemed grand opening soirée. The evening began with glistening glasses of fine Moët & Chandon Champagne and sumptuous canapés from Bvlgari Resort Bali, whilst the island's most discerning tech enthusiasts and style-savvy socialites flocked to the showroom on Sunset Road.

As the drinks flowed, guests were invited to browse the chic showroom to discover the latest Bang & Olufsen technologies. The store has managed to capture an atmosphere that is both luxurious and welcoming, designed to captivate curiosity and awe, where discerning consumers can hear, see and feel the magic of Bang & Olufsen products, like the rotating and curved HD TVs, high-performance loudspeakers and in-built, futuristic sound systems.

To mark the grand opening, Bang & Olufsen also presented the BeoPlay A9 Special Edition – the brand's iconic sound system, now with a batik twist.

Dedicated to the Bang & Olufsen Bali showroom, the special edition speaker is the result of a collaboration with world-famous batik maestro, Iwan Tirta.

Iconic in shape, elegant in appearance and gorgeous in sound, the speaker, exclusively in Bali, is covered with the very best Indonesian textiles.

Sari Nila, Josephine Milka, Maggy Nataatmadja, Era Soekamto, Eunike Santosa, Dicky Hutajulu, Kemal, Gregorius Gelson & Dhey

The evening came to a glamorous close with Smirnoff cocktails, Parisian macarons and locally sourced chocolates, while guests enjoyed exclusive retail therapy as the first customers of the Bang & Olufsen Bali Showroom. www.bang-olufsen.com/bali Kicky Alexander, Mirah Marhahendra, Lenny Marlina Tanu, Imuthia Yanindra, Novaria Irianti, DesySetiawati, Adhiyanto Wongso, Prhativi Dyah, Soren Kokholm, Ricky Utomo, Vanya Ratulangi & Arief Soenaji

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Ade Kemal & Era Soekamto

Soetikno Soedarjo, Lana Jong & Benny Tan

Era Soekamto, Soetikno Soedarjo, Putri Soedarjo, Soren Kokholm & Sari Nila

Mr. Anak Agung Gde Masputra, Mr. & Mrs. Anak Agung Gde Pratista

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SOCIETY

Cicilia King

Glamour on the Horizon

Mirah Marhaendra, Wulan Citra, Siska Jeghier, Karina Vina, Ita Humaidy & Anastasia Christy

Christian Dior launches its Spring/Summer 2016 Collection during a stunning sunset soiree in the Penthouse of Alila Seminyak On 11th May, an exclusive and lavish event drew Asia's savviest fashionistas to the top floor of Alila Seminyak for the official launch of Dior's latest Spring/Summer Collection 2016. Lit by the candy-coloured hues of an iconic Bali sunset and paired with glittering flutes of MoĂŤt & Chandon Champagne, the stunning new collection of bags, shoes and ladieswear was exclusively revealed overlooking the beachfront horizon in the palatial, whitewashed Penthouse.

Tommy Indrardji & Thiya Indrardji

Jais & Magali Darga

The collection, aptly named Horizon, is described as a clean and clear naturalistic line of beauty, looking from the past into the expanse of the future. It has stripped away extraneous elements to concentrate on the purity of line, precision and technique.

At once sensual and disciplined, feminine and masculine, classicism and contemporary designs come together to form a new, softer ideal of futurism in the collection. From vibrant colours on the classic Dior clutches, to chic sunglasses and dramatic short-fronted dresses with longer trails, the collection is testimony to the brand's world-class status, much to the delight of the launch's VIP guests. www.dior.com Karista Krishna, Fransiska Kansil & Bella krishna

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Tee Lie Ing

Lineda Benamor, Marcella Voyance & Gerard Reynaud

Dayu Raja

Lutheresia Cha

Wendy Joni

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SOCIETY

Bianto Surodjo

Understanding The Essence Of Wealth On 11th and 12th May, PermataBank hosted what was described as the largest wholistic wealth conference in Indonesia in the ballrooms of The Ritz-Carlton, Pacific Place Jakarta. Bringing together multiple successful public figures and key financially savvy individuals, this conference was meant to give pearls of financial and life wisdom to families in Indonesia so they can better comprehend the true meaning of life and the essence of wealth. Wealth Wisdom was designed to share not only about financial wellness, but also other non-financial aspects such as, relationship, health, social giving, travel and positive life experience and finding one’s purpose.The conference held thirteen classes over the span of two days, with prominent financial and wellness experts such as Elizabeth Dunn, author of Happy Money and a professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, Tony Prasentiatono, an independent commissary with PT Bank Permata, social enterpreneur and author Muhamad Assad, founder of Master Boot Camp Carlo Tamba, famous travel blogger Marischka Prudence and SIP Institute founder Ary M. Wibowo. With some of the classes carrying interesting and engaging themes such as “Can money buy happiness?”, “Your health leads to wealth” and “Investing in leisure: creating unforgettable heartprints”, this wholistic wealth conference was PermataBank’s way of commiting to helping “inspire wisdom for better comprehension of wealth and improve the happiness level of millions of families”, according to Bianto Surodjo, PermataBank’s retail banking director. www.permatabank.com 36 ASIADREAMS

Carlo Tamba, Muhammad Assad, Elizabeth Dunn, Bianto Surodjo, Tony Prasetiantono, Ary Wibowo & Marischka Prudence

Elizabeth Dunn, Bianto Surodjo & Tony Prasetiantono

Participating guests

The sponsors of The Essence of Wealth

Olivia Marzuki

Bianto Surodjo & Ivon

Tony Prasetiantono

ASIADREAMS 37

HSBC ADVERTORIAL

Journey

Risk—proof your …

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Indeed, travelling is a compelling idea for most successful individuals today and they will tell you that globetrotting with complete peace of mind is bliss.

38 ASIADREAMS

Thankfully, caring for your Personal Economy, including ensuring that your travels are risk-free and thoroughly enjoyable, is part of HSBC Premier’s impeccable service to its treasured customers. Under the third pillar, “anytime, anywhere”, HSBC brings its highest level of dedicated service to you wherever you go and at any given time.

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providing protection in your own way while your loved ones are away. HSBC Premier customers can enjoy Global Transfers that provide the opportunity to make instant fund transfers between named accounts in more than one country.

You are granted HSBC Premier status no matter where you go in all countries where you bank with HSBC, giving you full access to HSBC Premier International

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Centres that provide priority services at your beck and call. These can easily be located using the branch locator found on HSBC’s official website. With one of the biggest banking networks in the world, this means total security and unbarred service wherever your travels take you.

Even the best plans cannot entirely prevent unforeseen circumstances from happening, but with the HSBC Premier international service feature, these incidents won’t hinder your travel adventures. HSBC Premier stands ready to offer emergency card replacement within two business days after any incident that might incur. When cash is the only answer, the service also offers a sum of emergency cash at your disposal, available for withdrawal at any HSBC branch worldwide. Gone are the days when such unwanted incidents ruined your whole trip.

And, of course, HSBC’s extensive and convenient online banking features stand constantly ready to give you access to all of your HSBC accounts globally. Available exclusively to HSBC Premier and HSBC Advance customers, the unique Global View feature lets you monitor the balances of your HSBC accounts held in other countries and territories with a click of a mouse or a swipe of a screen. All you have

Enjoy & feel protected wherever and whenever you are with HSBC Premier services.

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Join HSBC Premier now to get up to IDR3 million in cash back and 2 return tickets to Singapore!

to do is log in once to see balances of accounts that you wish to review and access other features, such as launching another Personal Internet Banking for accounts in countries to which you’ve linked.

HSBC is dedicated to always be there for its customers wherever they may be. If you are looking to expand your horizons

and create wondrous memories in that distant place you’ve always dreamed of, be sure to cover all your risks. With HSBC Premier, your Personal Economy travels with you, giving you the freedom you need to completely unwind and create a heartprint to last a lifetime! www.hsbcpremier.co.id

ASIADREAMS 39

CALENDAR: JAKARTA

Ramadhan Kareem Hotel Borobudur Jakarta

Biryani, seekh kebab and Tandoori chop, and Chef Kemal Ozcan who will enliven the taste buds with Turkish sweet delicacies and traditional baklavas.

The Baharat buffet at the hotel’s ballroom foyer will be available daily for the month of Ramadhan from 5.30 – 8PM starting from IDR320,000++ per person (weekdays) and IDR298,000++ (weekends) inclusive of a welcome drink. www.ritzcarlton.com/Jakarta/Pacificplace

InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan To greet the holy month of Ramadhan this year, The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan presents a breakthrough by boldly offering only Indonesian delicacies throughout its wide buffet spread during Ramadhan. Asia Restaurant, from June 6th to July 5th, provides a break-fasting experience with an atmosphere and food that are distinctly Indonesian. Experience breakfasting with all-Indonesian cuisine starting from IDR338,000++ per person. www.ritzcarlton.com/Jakarta/Megakuningan

Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta

Celebrate this auspicious moment in Bogor Cafe.

Executive Chef Patrick Maurin leads his team to prepare a variety of uniquely authentic and delicious Arabian food starting from Lebanese to a touch of North African only for you.

IDR388,000++ per person.

Have a memorable Ramadhan evening at Miyama! To celebrate the arrival of the holy month, Chef Tomohiko Omori offers extraordinary set menu items for you. Embrace the Ramadhan spirit with delightful Japanese meals at Miyama starting from IDR458,000++ per person. www.hotelborobudur.com

This year, Rasa restaurant presents The Spirit of Ramadhan promotion to welcome the holy month. Break the fast at Rasa for a more colourful fasting experience. From live cooking stations to interactive food stalls, guests can choose from a vast selection of Indonesian dishes and a special Arabic corner, while being accompanied by marawis musical performance. This Ramadhan dining experience is valued at IDR350,000++ per person from 13th - 30th June 2016. Pay only IDR325,000++ per person from 6th - 12th June and 1st - 6th July. www.intercontinental.com/Jakarta

Pullman Hotels and Resorts

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place

After the majestic opening last year and its success throughout Ramadhan month, Baharat is now ready to open its doors from 6th June – 3rd July, at 4th floor Ballroom Foyer. This year, the hotel is proud to welcome Chef Mauluddin and Chef Hidayatulla, two well-trained and highly skilled chefs carrying rich experiences specialized in North-West Frontier cuisines such as Awadhi Dum

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Welcoming the holy month of Ramadhan, Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta offers guests an extravagant Iftar feast and a range of sophisticated Ramadhan hampers to share the bliss of the holy month.

SATOO, the hotel’s international buffet restaurant, will bring delightful around-the-world cuisine with extensive Indonesian culinary creations that will take guests on a sumptuous spice journey through the Ramadhan Iftar feast, available at IDR380,000++ per person for dinner during Ramadhan month. www.shangri-la.com/jakarta/shangrila

The Hilal Iftar Gathering menu includes a tantalising array of special Arabic appetizers, soups and signature dishes such as lamb kafsa, shawarma, shish taouk, Egyptian omelette, as well as various Indonesian satay of the day, meat and seafood dishes, desserts (baklava, umali, fresh fruits, Indonesian traditional desserts), ta’jil, and drinks (Moroccan mint tea, Turkish coffee) served on a daily basis. For Shisha fans, a Shisha lounge and special drinks are also available. This exclusive program is available daily for IDR250,000++ per person starting from 6th June to 5th July, from 5PM to 10PM. An additional charge applies for Shisha and traditional drinks. www.pullmanhotels.com

The Dharmawangsa Jakarta Appreciating the richness of Indonesia’s cuisine, Jakarta Restaurant and Courtyard will showcase a widespread flavourful buffet with “Pesisir” (coastal regions of Indonesia). The dishes include Manadonese and Balinese delicacies in cuisine rotation, Kambing Guling (roasted marinated lamb), as well as international dishes, live cooking and a carving station, a medley of sweet desserts and assorted premium dates. This Iftar buffet with a casual yet stylish atmosphere is available from 6th June to 3rd July at IDR585,000++ per person (adult) and IDR455,000++ per person (child). www.the-dharmawangsa.com

CALENDAR: BALI

Four-Hands Dinner at The Legian Bali: 5th August 2016

On Friday 5th August, The Legian Bali is celebrating its 20th Anniversary with an exceptional and exclusive gourmet event at its signature dining destination, The Restaurant. The glamorous and gastronomic evening will see a collaborative four-hands, wine-paired dinner

by Master Chef Chris Salans, chef-owner of the acclaimed Mozaic Restaurant, and The Legian's own executive chef, Luke Macleod.

Sharing a penchant for premium quality ingredients obtained from ethical sources, the two chefs will dish up an extravagant sevencourse dinner with canapés and pre-dessert, each course matched with a specially selected premium wine.

The evening begins at 6.30PM. To book your seat email reservation@thelegianbali.com. www.lhm-hotels.com

The Ubud Village Jazz Festival: 12th & 13th August 2016 Founded by Yuri Mahatma and Anom Darsana, the Ubud Village Jazz Festival is a banquet of contemporary and traditional jazz attracting an impressive array of international artists, as well as the crème de la crème of Indonesia’s blooming musical talent.

Scheduled for the 12th and 13th August on the grounds of the fantastic ARMA Museum in Ubud, tickets for this, the fourth festival,

can be purchased via their website. This year’s performers include the legendary Reuben Rogers and Peter Bernstein, Margie Segers, The Daunas, the East-West European Jazz Orchestra featuring Gregory Gaynair, Mia Samira, Bali Gypsy Fire, the Joyfe Jazz quintet, the Ian Scionti trio, Oele Pattiselano, Salamander Big Band and the Youn Woo Park Trio, plus Ben Van Den Dungen who will showcase his latest project, LOUIS! www.ubudvillagejazzfestival.com

Sanur Kite Festival: late June through August 2016 Attracting huge local, national and international attention, kite festivals are one of Bali’s major annual highlights and, aside from being great family fun, they present a window into the island’s unique village life. The festival is actually a series of competitions taking place from late June until late August over most weekends – winds permitting – mainly at Padang Galak, just north of Sanur. Expect tens of thousands of flag-waving supporters to join the larger events and a total carnival atmosphere as village groups roar their support, accompanied by the unique sound of gamelan orchestras, from early morning until dusk.

ASIADREAMS 41

MUSIC

B EATS

VIBES

Music is humanity's universal language. See the latest updates on upcoming albums and concert dates around the region.

Good Charlotte "Youth Authority"

DJ SHADOW "The Mountain will Fall"

THE TEMPER TRAP "Thick As Thieves"

Way back in 2011, many fans of the Maryland rockers Good Charlotte wept when, after six successful albums and a heap of accolades for their fiery pop-rock live shows, the band announced they were taking a hiatus. Widely seen as an unofficial split, the tears of anguish turned to tears of joy in November of last year when for fans something magical happened and the members of Good Charlotte announced their reunion. Soon after, they announced a one-off gig at Los Angeles' famed Troubadour and fans from around the globe jetted in, unsure if it would be the last time the band would play live.

But it was just to test the waters, it seems, and the band soon signed up to join All Time Low's massive UK tour before heading into the studio.

Youth Authority is the band’s first album in more than six years and thanks to the early release of the track “Makeshift Love”, it’s clear the Madden twins have not lost their punch. Good Charlotte's comeback album will be available from 15th July.

Joshua Paul Davis, aka DJ Shadow, a prominent figure in the development of instrumental hip hop, first gained notice with the release of his highly acclaimed debut album Endtroducing.

Apart from its commercial success Endtroducing entered the Guinness World Records book as the First Completely Sampled Album back in 2001.

The only equipment Shadow used to produce the album were the AKAI MPC60 12-bit sampling drum machine and a pair of turntables. DJ Shadow’s upcoming album, The Mountain Will Fall will be released on Mass Appeal Records and features “Nobody Speak”, a collaboration with Run The Jewels produced by DJ Shadow, which he pre-released on YouTube. Of the collaboration "Occasionally, I make a beat that demands a specific vocal treatment and attitude. In the case of 'Nobody Speak', I wasn't going to settle for anyone other than Run The Jewels; in my mind, it was them or no one.” Global release of The Mountain Will Fall will be on the 24th June.

Formed in 2005 by Indonesian Dougy Mandagi, The Temper Trap started to gain recognition in 2011 when the group was nominated for a BRIT Award in the Best International Breakthrough Artist category. The following year saw them perform in the UK, North America and Europe.

M a k e s u r e yo u d o n ’ t m i s s these upc ming events!

2012 was a good year and their second album, The Temper Trap, won the Best Rock Album award and the Best Group award at the 2012 ARIA Awards.

Their third studio album, Thick As Thieves, produced by Pascal Gabriel, has been long coming and, as a taster, the band released the single, “Fall Together” on YouTube in April. The full album is set to hit the shops on 10th June and is available on limited edition white vinyl.

Check out who’s in town!

JA K A R TA

SINGAPORE

H O N G KO N G

23rd July 2016, Selena Gomez ICE, BSD City, Jakarta 1st July 2016, Lykke Buddha FABLE, Jakarta 8th July 2016, Lykke Buddha BLOWFISH, Jakarta 13th and 14th July 2016, We, The Fest 2016; featuring The Temper Trap, Mark Ronson, TakKu, NAIF, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis plus many more – Senayan, Jakarta

27th July 2016, Selena Gomez Singapore Indoor Stadium 6th August 2016, Kenny Rogers The Star Theatre 15th August 2016, WEEZER Suntec City Auditorium

Various Dates in July, The Freemasons at Hidden Agenda and Brown Sugar Jar Various dates in July, Paula Tsui Hong Kong Coliseum 22nd July 2016, DJ SERAFIN Secrets, Hong Kong 12th August, Disclosure Asia World Expo Centre 23rd August 2016, Bjorn-Meertens venue TBA

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MOVIES

M OV I E TI M E The Legend of Tarzan | Ice Age Collision Course | Ghostbusters 3 | Pete’s Dragon

The Legend of Tarzan | Release date: July 1st 2016 July is a mega month for blockbuster movie releases, kicking off with The Legend of Tarzan. Directed by David Yates, produced principally by Village Roadshow Pictures and co-written by Adam Cozad and Craig Brewer, this eagerly awaited movie takes its inspiration from the fictional character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs in his novel Tarzan of the Apes, first published in 1912.

Burrough’s epic tale tells the story of a feral

child raised in the African jungles by the Mangani great apes. The Legend of Tarzan is set many years later when Tarzan, played

by Alexander Skarsgård, having left Africa behind, returns to the Congo to serve as a trade emissary, unaware that he is actually a pawn in a Belgian captain's deadly plot. www.legendoftarzan.com

Ice Age Collision Course | Release date: July 22nd 2016 Set after the hilarious events of Continental Drift (Ice Age 4), Scrat's epic pursuit of the elusive acorn now sees him catapulted out into an unsuspecting universe where he unwittingly sets off a series of events that transform and threaten the world as the herd knows it.

To save themselves from impending doom, Manny, (Ray Romano) Sid, (John Leguizamo) Diego, (Denis Leary) and the rest of the herd embark on a quest full of

thrills and spills, highs and lows, laughter and adventure while traveling to exotic new lands and encountering a host of colourful new characters. Also featuring the voices of Jennifer Lopez, Queen Latifah, Keke Palmer and astrophysicist, cosmologist and author Neil deGrasse Tyson as Neil deBuck Weasal, Ice Age 5 is another sure winner with kids of all ages. www.iceagemovies.com

Ghostbusters 3 | Release date: July 15th 2016 Is it really more than 30 years since Ghostbusters took the world by storm? Well in July the much beloved franchise makes its long-awaited return with a movie that sees executive producer Dan Aykroyd and director Paul Feig reshape and revitalize the classic 1984 supernatural comedy with four extremely funny women in the lead roles.

The plot sees Erin Gilbert (Kristen Wiig) and Abby Yates (Melissa McCarthy), a pair of unheralded authors, write a book positing that ghosts are for real, but a few years later, after Gilbert lands a prestigious teaching position at Columbia University, her book

resurfaces and she is laughed out of academia.

When ghosts invade Manhattan, Gilbert reunites with Yates, teaming up with a nuclear engineer, Jillian Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon), and a subway worker, Patty Tolan (Leslie Jones), to save the world from a mysterious evil and powerful demon known as Rowan (Neil Casey) who can exercise control over humans.

With Chris Hemsworth as Kevin – the Ghostbusters' receptionist – and cameos

by Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Sigorny Weaver and Ozzy Osbourne, the movie is being heralded as one of the years must-see flicks. www.ghostbusters.com

Pete’s Dragon | Release date: August 12th 2016 Mr. Meacham (Robert Redford), a woodcarver, delights local children with stories of a mysterious dragon that lives deep in the woods of the Pacific Northwest.

His daughter Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard) believes these are just fairy tales until, that is, she meets Pete (Oakes Fegley), a 10-year-old orphan who tells her he lives in the forest with a giant, friendly dragon.

With help from a young girl named Natalie (Oona Laurence), Grace sets out to investigate if this fantastic claim can be true.

Based on the 1977 animated movie of the same name and the short story by Field and Miller, this could be another David Lowery and Disney classic. www.disney.id

ASIADREAMS 43

FASTLANE

A Speedy Advantage

Created for those who revel in the satisfying pursuit of challenge and reward, Aston Martin’s V12 Vantage S is a driver’s car in the truest sense of the word.

T

his charismatic sports car

by Aston Martin thrives on understated commitment, yet crucially not demanding it, and offers high aesthetic values without compromising the thrilling driving experience of a powerful rear-wheel-drive sports car.

44 ASIADREAMS

A thoroughbred sports car with a racer’s edge, the V12 Vantage S demands respect.

In return it delivers unmatched satisfaction.

On the road this means huge reserves of performance, high levels of mechanical grip and the reassurance of finely tuned multi-stage traction, stability and anti-lock systems to maintain a high yet non-intrusive safety margin.

An advanced engineering story told by monumental numbers, the Vantage S is 15 kg lighter than the V12 Vantage and packs 563 bhp of power and 620 Nm peak torque.

Under the hood, the new-generation AM28 engine pushes the V12 Vantage S to a top speed of 205 mph. Although the V12 Vantage S packs a powerful punch

and focuses on driving thrills, it does not compromise on driver comfort. As is characteristic of Aston Martin, this translates into an interior boasting impeccable quality, style and craftsmanship of the highest order.

Striking Details Retaining the classic Vantage shape fused with unique new materials and striking new styling features, the V12 Vantage S maintains the iconic beauty of the Aston Martin Vantage, but adds more aesthetic elements, such as a bold new carbon-fibre front grille, available with a painted option. The grille is honed to optimise the car’s aerodynamic balance and increase cooling airflow to the engine. Additionally, all exterior brightwork can be specified in a purposeful black finish

Power Unleashed The V12 engine, seven-speed Sportshift III automated manual transmission fuses the poise, precision and control of a modern racer with the visceral rush and unfiltered tactility of a classic driver’s car. Powered by this beast, the V12 Vantage S reaches a top speed of 329 km/h, making it one of the fastest series production models in the brand’s 100-year history. The key to this sensational uplift in performance is the unique combination of its cuttingedge 6.0-litre V12 engine and seven-speed Sportshift III automated manual transmission.

When coupled with the immediacy and perfectly spaced ratios of the paddleshift gearbox, the V12 Vantage S results in explosive acceleration – zero to 60 mph takes just 3.7 seconds (zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) – and an intoxicating sense of boundless power.

Every element of the V12 Vantage S has been carefully matched to ensure it is the ultimate in performance and capability. Likewise, the agility and directness of its precisely honed steering and suspension has been complimented by traction, stability control and ABS systems that are perfectly in tune with the car’s heightened responses.

As you would expect, there is a raft of advanced technology to provide an invisible safety net, but the uprated DSC and ABS systems operate discreetly – their intervention thresholds are precisely calibrated to remain very much in the background until their help is required. This approach acknowledges that it is you and not the car that has control, leaving you free to enjoy a uniquely organic, tactile driving experience that places you at the epicentre of the action. www.jakarta.astonmartindealers.com

to complement the carbon-fibre exterior detailing.

Optional lightweight alloy wheels are available in silver or satin black, reducing unsprung weight at each corner and further sharpening the looks, while striking paint and graphic options emphasize its extreme character and racing roots, making the V12 Vantage S a dramatic statement of intent.

Balancing its exterior, the V12 Vantage S boasts an interior studded with discreet, distinguishing details. There are two styles of seat – sport and lightweight – and a choice of Luxmill leather or Alcantara and a dramatic range of panel, stitch and stripe designs for the seats and door panels to accentuate its dynamic character.

ASIADREAMS 45

INNOVATION

Unl

ck

The Potential The last few years have truly seen monumental advances in both quality and style within the sound and vision marketplace. The Pro Retina from Apple has redefined digital imagery and a plethora of new music applications are taking advantage of the huge potential of the smartphone and dedicated pocket-sized music players. The high-end accessory market has, naturally, been close to follow. Here we take a look at a couple of the latest innovations to hit the shelves.

Henge Metal Docking Station Apple MacBook Pro Retina Established in 2009, Henge Docks designs and manufactures high-end accessories for the Apple ecosystem, including arguably the market's best docking solutions for MacBook computers. The smart new Vertical Docking Station for MacBook Pro with Retina Display

by Henge Docks allows users to get the very best features of a laptop, desktop and media centre PC all from one computer. The sturdy metal construction lends stability to the dock and pre-installed extension cables allow for quick, easy set-up.

The company adheres to the design philosophy of "Simplicity with Potential", ensuring each product is both beautiful and effective and provides users with a seamlessly enhanced Apple experience. www.hengedocks.com

Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear There's no escaping the fact that if you want to unlock the power of your smartphone or music player, you just have to use a good set of headphones. Those usually included with today's most popular devices just can't cope with the layered musical intricacies and, let’s be honest, wearing a pair of bulky Hifi or Beats cans might deliver the sound, but is not always the best option.

Enter the stylish Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear, comfortable and fully featured, these powerful in-ear headphones offer stellar sound with inline controls, a microphone bolster and tangle-free flat cables. This latest offering from Sennheiser rewrites mid-price standards and if you're upgrading from a normal set of in-ear headphones, then be prepared for some impressive full-on sound quality with easy fingertip control. www.sennheiser.com 46 ASIADREAMS

LUXURY

A Timeless Collection A stylish assembly of the finest watches from the world’s most well-known craftsmen.

Lo Scienziato - Luminor 1950 Tourbillon GMT Titanio The ultimate timekeeping device, this watch is a complex technological beauty. The entire titanium construction has been skeletonised to reduce weight and has been constructed using the latest technology enabling it to be hollowed out internally, forming an extremely complex geometrical cavity. Called by experts “direct metal laser sintering”, this innovative process includes constructing a three dimensional object layer by layer with the use of a fiber optic laser and powdered titanium. Each only 0.02 mm thick, the layers are forged together to create the intricate inner workings of the Lo Scienziato, a watch that is simply a cut above the rest. www.panerai.com

Quai de l’Île The Quai de l’Île collection introduces an all new stainless steel model that provides a modern embodiment of the honoured watchmaking heritage of Maison Vacheron Constantin. This model sports a 41 mm case, enhanced by a subtle array of elaborate, ornate finishes. The dial is notable for its multi-level construction interpreted in two versions – silver-toned or black – with a lustrous opaline finish. The synthesis of three separate parts, this display features unparalleled depth that guarantees extraordinary legibility due to its hourmarkers and Arabic numerals, exclusively of luminescent material. www.vacheron-constantin.com

Jazzmaster Open Heart Lady The open faces of this timepiece’s intricately dainty design offers enthralling views from both sides, defining the Jazzmaster Open Heart Lady’s unique construction.

Incomparable mother-of-pearl workmanship forms an elevated, lustrous mother-of-pearl lotus. The soft and rounded curves of the Jazzmaster Open Heart Lady are further accentuated by a satin-brushed case and open dial beset with a diamond-cut bevel edge. As a final touch, silver hour indexes complete the irresistible allure of its delicate construction. www.hamiltonwatch.com ASIADREAMS 47

STYLE

Salli Paradisio The latest Spring/Summer 2016 collection of Hermès has got the chicest set of bags, shoes and accessories this season. Here are some of our favourites for ladies out to make a statement this summer.

Bracelets in enamel Thanks to a hinge system activated by a saddle tack, a simple click is all it takes to adorn your wrist with these elegant bracelets. This summer they take on a very graphic interpretation, a signature of any Gianpaolo Pagni design. www.hermes.com

Octogone 23 bag in Epsom calfskin With an emphasis on personality and style, this bag celebrates an entirely new structure. Crafted for everyday use, it comes in two sizes and three versions to be worn and carried in different ways. www.hermes.com

Sandal in calfskin Wide straps made of full grain leather with straight cut-out edges form a giant chaîne d’ancre on the top of the foot. www.hermes.com

Ballet pump in Modernisme tropical Designed by Filipe Jardim, printed scarf silk is braided to give this ballet pump a light touch and a dash of colour. A beautiful array of tropical colours ensures eye-catchiness and style that will never go out of date. www.hermes.com 48 ASIADREAMS

Dress Like A

Celeb

The Farah Khan Spring/Summer 2016 Collection Top 5 Editor’s Picks

Known for dressing the coolest girls on the planet, FARAH KHAN’s expertly-made dresses advocate fuss-free dressing, while adding fun and glamour to the modern woman’s wardrobe. The label adorns simple silhouettes with exquisite embellishments to produce beautifully made ready-to-wear pieces.

Since its debut in Paris in 2007, the label has been rapidly gathering a celebrity following, including style personalities like Kimora Lee Simmons, Paris Hilton, Selena Gomez, Ashanti, Nina Dobrev, and many more.

FARAH KHAN’s signature embellishments

are hand-sewn, bead-by-bead, by Southeast Asian artisans, employing techniques handed down over centuries to ensure that each piece is an iconic limited edition.

Modern and stylish designs and patterns are created to capture a playful, individualistic spirit. Sleek silhouettes, clean cuts and graphic embellishments constantly take inspiration from art, music, architecture and the modern woman who is constantly on the move, captured beautifully in FARAH KHAN’s latest Spring/Summer 2016 Collection. www.farahkhan.com

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BEAUTY

Limited Edition

Deep Contrasting

Collection

by Kanebo

Kanebo Lunasol offers a refined, high-quality selection of make-up and skincare items based on the “Japanese Make-up� approach, a ritual of applying makeup in careful steps.

Kanebo Lunasol Stain Color Lips EX05

The popularity and success of Kanebo Cosmetics is built around superb Japanese craftsmanship, with its devotion to innovation. Since 1887 the company has been involved in creating high quality skincare and beauty products that today are sold in more than 50 countries.

The unique beauty methods, a trademark of Kanebo, reflect decades of experience as a pioneer of aesthetic research. Fusing 50 ASIADREAMS

Kanebo Lunasol Coloring Cheek (Glow) EX01

advanced skin science and time-proven beauty traditions, Kanebo beauty methods translate into enhanced product effects for satisfied customers. The company offers refined, fashionable colour collections, innovative products and pleasant textures.

Kanebo Lunasol is renowned for its multicolour eye shadow palettes in different gradations, clear colours and succulent textures that lend themselves to easy layering with nuanced effects.

Kanebo Lunasol Deep Contrasting Eyes EX01

One of their latest offerings, The Limited Edition Deep Contrasting Collection, delivers deep hues and delicate shimmers ideally suited to the party scene or where a dramatic look is required. Choose from Pink Bordeaux, Gold Brown or Cool Navy eye shadows, Soft Rose Pink cheek colour for a natural fresh complexion and Vivid Red or Soft Bordeaux Lip colour crafted to maintain lip texture for a stunning look. www. kanebo.com

SCENTS

Of Life Hortense and Héroïque Aiming to capture life’s sparkling energy, RANCÉ 1795’s latest fragrances in the Collection Impériale line, Hortense for ladies and Héroïque for gentlemen, are meant to be perfumes which are able to portray a whole universe, taking all senses and reaching the status of artworks. Hortense begins with spicy notes of cardamom, pepper and bergamot, which leads to Ceylon cinnamon, Lebanon cedar and Bulgarian rose at the heart, topped off with a warm base of wood, incense and vanilla. Héroïque starts off lively with bergamot and blackcurrant, followed by Moroccan jasmine and patchouli, Madagascar vanilla and teak. The closing scents come from musk and amber-scented notes representing gentlemanly heroes who enthusiastically build their own success. www.rance1795.com

NO1 Platinum One of the most highly coveted metals on Earth, Platinum’s silverywhite charm exudes strength and purity. Capturing the essence of this valuable compound, NO1 Platinum from AIGNER for men symbolises success, performance and power for well-accomplished individuals with determination and drive. Within the eye-catchingly powerful design flows a strong and masculine fragrance with a metallic and cold affect thanks to hints of bergamot, ozonic and mint leaves, further amplified in depth by spicy, woody undertones and cardamom, coriander and black pepper at the heart. The fragrance closes with a smooth base accord of crystal amber, cashmeran, exotic woods and musk. www.etienneaigner.com

Lady Emblem Presenting Lady Emblem as a feminine version of the Emblem fragrance launched earlier this spring, Montblanc announced this fragrance as a sophisticated and feminine scent of floral, fruity and woody character. The composition begins with redcurrant jam, pink rose and peach. The heart is intense and woody, including accords of sandalwood, patchouli and rosewood. In the end, the composition exudes intense tones of musk and raspberry. The bottle design is inspired by diamond, a lady’s favoured companion, and colored in soft pink. The fragrance is available as 30, 50 and 75 ml Eau de Parfum. www.montblanc.com ASIADREAMS 51

FASHION

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WarmWeather, C l K ds W

ith the warm summer days on the way, international family brand M&Co is keeping kids cool with its Summer 2016 children's collection. Featuring exclusive, high-quality designs and classic styling for newborns and kids up to 12 years old, these holiday essentials are perfect for packing a new-season suitcase.

Natural fibres and textiles with delicate detailing ensure babies and kids are dressed in only the best. Think fun prints on collared tees, embroidered dresses and jazzy jumpsuits. Hit the beach in a Frozen swimsuit and match with adorable gladiator sandals, jelly shoes and on-trend sun hats.

Happy holidays! www.mandco.com

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“FAMILY FUN IN THE SUN!”

STAY, EAT, PLAY & SHOP

The summer holidays are now in full swing and that calls for just one thing: a fun family getaway to the sunshine!

Whether it's an extended city break to the bright lights of Jakarta, Singapore or Hong Kong, or a sun-soaked beach holiday to the Island of the Gods, we’ve stayed at the best family hotels and resorts in the region, dined on Asia's yummiest kiddie nibbles, played at awardwinning kids clubs and shopped till we dropped at the hottest children’s fashion outlets to bring you our definitive round-up of the best places in Asia to stay, eat, play and shop with the kids this summer. Happy holidays!

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Where T

Stay: Jakarta

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON JAKARTA - DIPONEGORO Where the little things mean everything.

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he swish and trendy DoubleTree

by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro is located away from heaviest of Jakarta’s traffic, yet within easy reach of the CBD, the Golden Triangle of Jakarta, shopping malls, entertainment centres and some of the city’s best restaurants.

With a range of family-friendly rooms, a fully equipped kids club and a beautiful lagoon pool and spa, plus exciting dining options, it’s a great place for a family city getaway and, for guests who need to mix business with pleasure, DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro has eleven meeting and event spaces.

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There are seven room choices, from the Guest Room to suites, such as the King Deluxe Suites overlooking the pool. For your convenience the suites include Executive Lounge access, complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails and private check-in and check-out. For those who really want to push the boat out, take a look at the 170 sq.m. King Presidential Suite, which is located on the hotel's top floor.

Great family food is a specialty at DoubleTree

by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro; start your day with an excellent international buffet breakfast at OPEN} Restaurant, the hotel’s chic relaxed all-day dining venue, open from 6AM. For informal drinks throughout the day, the lobby's T Lounge is an excellent option. This classy lounge is a casual venue ideal for meetings and indulgent afternoon teas during the day, but it transforms into a vibrant café bar after dark, offering a tempting interactive menu, communal tables and a variety of gourmet coffees, cocktails and champagnes. Located on the

third floor, Sea Grain Restaurant & Bar offers guests an exquisite Mediterranean-inspired menu with the option of indoor or outdoor eating and a casual before or after dinner drinks area with views over the Jakarta skyline.

The dedicated kids pool and exciting funfilled Kids Club are bound to be a hit with the younger children, as is KREM Pool Bar, the colourful island bar found in the centre of the swimming pool that offers a range of dazzling drinks, ice cream, fresh fruit and snacks. DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta Diponegoro is an excellent mid-sized family hotel in the heart of the city.

DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta Diponegoro Jalan Pegangsaan Timur No. 17 Cikini, Jakarta 10310, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 3190 4433 E: JakartaDiponegoro.info@hilton.com www.JakartaDiponegoro.DoubleTree.com

Where T

Stay: Jakarta

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta The multi-award-winning Hotel Borobudur Jakarta is a true five-star oasis set in the urban jungle of Jakarta and the perfect place for a family getaway.

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ith 695 rooms, an extensive range of recreational facilities and seven dining options set within 23 acres of delightfully landscaped tropical gardens, the awardwinning Hotel Borobudur Jakarta – a five-star diamond hotel owned and managed by Discovery Hotels and Resorts – is a true oasis in the urban jungle of Jakarta.

Situated in the middle of the city, the luxurious hotel is convenient for the business districts, government offices and many of

its premium shopping malls, landmarks and museums and, with extensive meeting facilities, it’s both a perfect business venue and an outstanding family getaway hotel.

The choice of accommodations ranges from the Superior Room to the expansive Presidential and Borobudur Suites, where guests can enjoy the same luxurious surroundings and excellent service as the rich and famous, like Stevie Wonder, Princess Diana, Margaret Thatcher and, more recently, Beyonce.

All of the options are excellent, but extended-stay guests may prefer the added convenience that the spacious Garden Wing Suites offers.

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta just opened the new Klub & Spa Borobudur, a luxurious wellness facility with personalised service that features 10 Private treatment rooms, executive lounge, state-of-the-art gym equipment, wide selections of spa treatments, as well as the lavish helipad at 4th floor; Rooftop. There are also sports

and recreational facilities, such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a separate children’s pool, 700-metre jogging track, a mini soccer pitch, all-weather basketball and badminton courts, six outdoor and two covered tennis courts.

The hotel also offers a range of extended children's activities over the weekend through its Weekend Specials programme.

From 11.30AM, kids can watch magic shows, join face painting, baking or cooking classes and even enjoy a tour of the kitchen.

Located on Jalan Lapangan Banteng Selatan, it’s convenient for the international airport and just a short distance to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, like the National Monument (Monas), the Jakarta Cathedral and Istiqlal Mosque.

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta Jalan Lapangan Banteng Selatan No. 1 Kota Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 380 5555 / (+62) 21 383 5000 E: welcome@hotelborobudur.com www.hotelborobudur.com ASIADREAMS 63

Where T

Stay: Jakarta

Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta The Shangri-La Kids Zone, because happy kids mean happy parents.

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he Shangri-La Hotel in Jakarta has a firm belief that happy kids means happy parents and, at weekends, that philosophy is pushed to the max with some outstanding weekend packages and activities.

Catering specifically to the unique needs of urban families with children, the five-star diamond hotel located in the heart of the city provides a range of fully supervised outdoor activities designed to burn up excess energy and be fun, in a safe environment. Specially crafted for a weekend stay, or for those joining the delicious Sunday dining experience, Shangri-La Jakarta offers a dedicated kid’s activity program for children aged between 3 and 12 years old at the Sunday Kids Zone. For the most energetic, there’s a bouncy castle, pony rides, mini bikes and paddle cars to whiz around the hotel’s lush gardens, or for those who want a

more relaxed Sunday, there’s face painting, temporary tattoos and nail art fun. The Kids Zone facilities can be enjoyed by staying hotel guests or families enjoying two of Jakarta’s best Sunday brunches at the hotel’s SATOO and Rosso restaurants.

Shangri-La Hotel, Jakarta Kota BNI Jalan Jenderal Sudirman Kav. 1 Jakarta 10220, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2922 9999 E: reservations.slj@shangri-la.com www.shangri-la.com/jakarta/shangrila/

during every Sunday brunch and children's activities like book colouring, beading, handicraft making and hand or face painting. To keep the children occupied during their stay, they can also enjoy kids' TV Channels, playing cards and crayons.

Pullman Jakarta Indonesia Jalan M.H. Thamrin 59 Jakarta, 10350, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 3192 1111 E: H8491@accor.com www.pullmanjakartaindonesia.com

Pullman Jakarta Indonesia While focused on business and leisure travellers, Pullman Jakarta Indonesia also has a lot of love to share with the little guests.

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or a popular business hotel with one of the best strategic locations in Jakarta, that guests can enjoy the perks of free drinks, high-speed internet access and the latest technology in the facilities is a given. However, Pullman Jakarta Indonesia doesn’t stop there. From teddy bears to kids’ corner activities during its popular Sunday brunch at Sana Sini Restaurant, more tailor-made and efficient services, along with a kid-friendly touch, are designed to ensure that the whole family has a memorable stay. Several activities for children in the past include scavenger hunts and Easter egg hunts, as well as routine activities like a kids’ corner equipped with a bounce house 64 ASIADREAMS

Where T

Eat: Jakarta

Nanny’s Pavillon Carrying irresistible comfort food amidst inviting and fun décor, plan your next family meal at Nanny’s Pavillion Le Cirque to ensure enjoyment for all.

Ynez's Blueberry Cheese Roll Pancake

Shirayuki Desserts & Bistro

Elise's Lasagna

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anny’s Pavillon Le Cirque at Mall Kelapa Gading 3 is the familyfriendly restaurant's 19th branch and the first to open in North Jakarta. Hoisting the concept of open-air dining à la Le Cirque, or circus, this particular Nanny’s Pavillon adds a tad of extra cheerfulness to its ambience. With festive decorative elements such as popcorn wheel cards, trapeze lightings, colourful posters of circus characters and animal attractions, the entire atmosphere is filled with the spirit of fun and festivity. Amidst shades of red, white, blue and brown, Nanny’s Pavillon’s favourite dishes, such as Elise’s Lasagna and Ynez’s Blueberry Cheese Roll Pancake, never looked so tempting. More family-friendly than ever, Nanny’s Pavillion is the perfect eatery to take your beloved family for a fun night out. www.nannyspavillon.com

Maneki Neko Kakigoori (Lucky Cat Shaved Ice)

At the family-friendly, Japanese eatery Shirayuki Desserts & Bistro, you can find mouthwatering sweets and desserts to die for as you and your loved ones enjoy a healthy togetherness within its welcoming décor.

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s is the Japanese way, Shirayuki Desserts & Bistro strives to achieve perfection in balancing taste and visual aesthetics by creating high quality desserts and foods with utmost attention to detailed plating and impeccable creation techniques.

Offering more than just desserts, Shirayuki Desserts & Bistro also offers a selection of Euro-Japanese dishes that include a handful of original recipes that fuse

Indonesian, Japanese and other cuisines together with a unique twist. Some of the most popular signature desserts include the Watanoki Matsuri, Shirayuki’s rendition of cotton candy shaped as a tree served with handmade mochi and soft-serve ice cream, as well as the Yukiraduma Matsuri, a signature snowman made from shaved

ice and accompanied by a collection of assorted mochis and a variety of jellies.

Shirayuki Desserts & Bistro Ruko Emerald No. 10, Jalan Pantai Indah Barat, Pantai Indah Kapuk, Penjaringan Jakarta Barat, Indonesia T: (+62) 852 14907332 ASIADREAMS 65

Where T

Play: Jakarta

Kidzania

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ince opening back in late 2007, KidZania has proved to be hugely popular and a provider of a unique blend of education and entertainment for kids. Located at Pacific Place in Central Jakarta, KidZania is a mini city, with shops, a transportation system, banks and even work. When kids first enter they are given a cheque for 50 Kidzos (the official currency of KidZania), a map and a security bracelet. The learning starts straight away as they have to head over to the bank and cash the cheque. They can spend the cash on whatever they want and once it’s gone they can earn more working in more than 70 different professions: as dentists, firefighters, police, or even sandwich makers, to name just a few. Open to children from 2 years old to 16, the security bracelet issued on entry ensures parents can find their kids at any time and it can only be removed upon return to Jakarta. KidZania is not just a safe and fun place for kids, it helps teach important life lessons and lets them experience the realities of the adult working environment.

KidZania Jakarta Pacific Place Mall L-6-601 Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) Jalan Jendral Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Jakarta Selatan 12190, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5154 888 www.kidzania.co.id

Miniapolis A place full of fun and adventure, Miniapolis provides excitement for your beloved little angels while enhancing their natural aptitudes and development.

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s the brand’s flagship and first-ever venue, Miniapolis at Plaza Indonesia, hoists a Carlo Carousel concept in a Venetian atmosphere invoking true Italian charm and festiveness. Aside from the Venetian mini city, Miniapolis at Plaza Indonesia also has rail-less train ride Mr. Crick Train Express, which laps the whole playground and nearby kids’ shops, and Hideout, a two story tree-house concept playground with a stage in the middle for children's performances.

The activity in the Hideout stimulates motoric and sensory senses, and also build children’s confidence.

Especially welcoming of families with kids from zero to 12 years old, Miniapolis is designed based on any child’s fantasy and imagination to encourage creativity. The family-friendly facilities offered include stroller parking, changing and nursery rooms, kids' toilets, first aid stations, full CCTV coverage and a waiting area for sitters. www.myminiapolis.com

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Where T

Play: Jakarta

Lippo Cinemaxx Junior

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inemaxx Junior is a fabulously fun and innovative new idea from Cinemaxx combining some of the latest movies with play in a relaxed and comfortable kid-based setting.

Even before the movie starts, children can play on the bridge, flying fox, giant trampoline, ball pit, climbing trees or mini hammocks. Each session lasts about twoand-a-half hours, with doors opening an hour before showtime to give the kids the maximum time to enjoy the activities in the cinema. As the start time approaches, the children and parents are invited to choose from a variety of chill-out seating options, such as beanbags, loungers, cinema seats, or sofa beds for two. With three showings per day, all movies screened at Cinemaxx Junior are specially chosen to be exciting and educational for the whole family. Cinemaxx Junior caters to children between the ages of 3 and 10 years and everything is geared towards them from the choice of movie to the Junior Meals menu that features many perennial favourites, such as fish and chips and softserve ice cream. The first Cinemaxx Junior theatre can be found at Lippo Karawaci Mall, Tangerang. www.cinemaxxtheater.com

Bounce Street Asia In addition to straight-up fun and entertainment, Bounce Street Asia also promotes healthy living and the strengthening of family bonds while having fun.

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ounce Street Asia is a premium indoor trampoline park in Jakarta that creates a combination of fun, cool and colourful ambience.

As the very first establishment of its kind, the main goal of Bounce Street Asia is to inspire kids, teenagers, young adults and adults to lead healthy lifestyles through a myriad of activities in the ambience of a fun and safe environment. Built on 2,500 sq.m. of land with an arena near to 1,500 sq.m. in size, the Bounce Street brand has been crafted by families for families.

Bounce Street Asia believes that having

fun is not just a concept, but a wholesome experience combined with entertaining activities and beneficial exercises. Open for all ages, one of the most exciting regular events is Trampoline Night, when people can sweat while enjoying the beat in a whole new experience supported by

musical entertainment and an elaborate lighting system. The list of facilities and activities at Bounce Street Asia includes a main court, a kid’s court, a basket court, a high-performance arena, a dodge court and a foam pit. www.bouncestreetasia.com ASIADREAMS 67

Where T

Play: Jakarta

Lego Shop As the very first official LEGO store in the country, LEGO Shop at Cilandak Town Square is a haven for LEGO enthusiasts around town.

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t’s no secret that the world-famous LEGO has been part of the lives of many generations of bright children, helping them develop their creativity and logic along the way. Aside from enhancing a child’s sensory and motoric capabilities, LEGO helps them think creatively as they build their own creations one brick at a time.

The official LEGO shop at Cilandak Town Square offers a myriad of collections from various associated franchises, such as Star Wars, DC Comic’s superheroes, Disney

and its latest Nexo Knights. LEGO’s latest addition to the Nexo Knights series is Jestro, the twisted jester villain bent on turning laughter into tears. It is up to the noble knights to stop his malicious deeds once and for all!

LEGO can also be found in numerous mega-department stores and retail shops in Jakarta, Bogor, Bandung, Malang, Semarang and other major cities in Indonesia. www.bricksindonesia.com

Kidz Station For a fun shopping time with the family, take your little angels to Kidz Station, one of the most prominent providers of highquality toys in the country.

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rom LEGO’s latest Nexo Knights mini-figure series to Rarity’s latest fashion wardrobe collection from the popular My Little Pony show, your little ones will find whatever toys they love at Kidz Station.

As part of the PT Mitra Adi Perkasa corporation, there are more than 45 Kidz Station toys and children’s apparels outlets in major malls and department stores across Indonesia. More than just a store that offers famous toys, Kidz Station also carries international labels such as Disney, Barbie, OshKosh B’Gosh, Russ, Wild Planet,

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Thomas & Friends, Road Rippers and Toy State.

As a one-stop destination for any child’s entertainment and clothing needs, a trip to Kidz Station fulfils whatever your little

ones may need, be it shoes, shirts, outdoor outfits, high technology electronic toys, major international brand toys, or educative and intuitive playthings. www.map.co.id

Where T

Stay: Bali

beachfront, this fun and colourful facility is dedicated to the resort's little guests and offers a multitude of features such as an outdoor kids’ pool, a reading room and also a sleeping room where they can relax and recharge before getting involved with the fun and games once again.

pick and choose to their heart's content at the Kwee Zeen market-style restaurant, complete with different cuisine from all over the world and a dessert room that even Willy Wonka would be proud of, as well as CCC's offering of Italian pizzas and pastas alongside a seafood and meat grill.

Not only a five-star, world-class destination in the heart of the luxury Nusa Dua neighbourhood, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is also home to a whole host of spectacular kiddie facilities to keep children on their toes throughout a Bali summer getaway.

Cheeky Monkeys understands how important it is to enrich young minds and, for that, the club puts on engaging and stimulating daily activities from indoor storytelling, reading sessions and video games, to outdoor gardening, cooking classes, yoga for kids, fun in the outdoor kids’ pool and beach games on the sand, to name but a few.

With such a wealth of indulgent facilities throughout the resort, parents can thoroughly kick back and relax knowing that their kids are safe, sound and having plenty of fun.

In particular, the Sofitel Kids Club, managed by Cheeky Monkeys, is a piece of heaven on Earth for children. Located just footsteps from the resort’s stunning

Then when it comes to that all-important family time, the dining destinations at the resort are second to none. Fussy eaters can

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort A world of fun right on the beachfront

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort Kawasan Parawisata BTDC, Lot N5 Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 8492 888 E: H9078@SOFITEL.com www.sofitel-bali-nusadua.com ASIADREAMS 69

Where T

Stay: Bali

The St. Regis Bali Resort Both posh and child friendly, The St. Regis Bali Resort is paradise for families.

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nown for the beauty of its oceanfront location, the impeccable quality of its guest services and the serene holidays it affords to its guests, this resort is as luxurious as they come. Despite this you don’t have to leave your children behind on your next trip to Bali as The St. Regis Bali Resort welcomes guests of all ages with open arms. Kids will love the refined Balinese ambiance, quickly discovering that Gourmand Deli is the best

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place for delightful sweets and confections.

Being top enthusiasts of sun and fun, children will build sandcastles on the pristine beach while parents watch from under a comfortable umbrella, a cooling drink in hand.

In addition, the resort’s Family Traditions programme is bursting with fun activities.

During Christmas, for example, families are encouraged to get into the holiday spirit by attending a very special choir performance by children from the orphanage, decorating gingerbread cookies, and sitting on Santa's lap.

The resort's many options create unforgettable memories and can be completely customized for your unique children. One of these exciting adventures lets both kids and parents become pirates

for the day at The Pirates Bay, Nusa Dua. Outfitted with iconic pirate costumes, the whole family will be led in exciting activities like kite building, fishing and treasure hunting.

Also a part of the Family Traditions programme, professional educators are on staff to lead your children in a day of exploration and learning at the Children’s Learning Centre can actively participate in cooking classes, Balinese dance, Balinese music, creative arts and crafts, fun recycling activities and much more.

The St. Regis Bali Resort Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot S6, Nusa Dua, Badung, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 847 8111 E: stregis.bali@stregis.com www.stregisbali.com

Where T

Stay: Bali

©Image by Kim Perry

Four Points

by Sheraton Bali, Kuta Four Points Kuta has established itself as one of the most exciting hotels for families in one of Bali’s most popular destinations.

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ptimized to make your family holiday as sunny and enjoyable as possible, stay just a short walk away from the exciting kaleidoscope of Kuta and even closer to fun-filled features that children will love. The hotel centres around a spectacular lagoon pool featuring a Jacuzzi and overhanging

plants where older kids can go on their own snorkelling adventure. Families with younger children will find their heavensent holiday in what is almost a separate wing of the hotel. There, separated from the larger pool, the sliding, double locked glass door of your spacious family room will open directly to a junior pool, perfect for carefree splashing and family swim practice.

Not far from the pool, children under 12 will play pretend in Four Points’ newest Kids Club addition. This village themed wonderland is complete with a miniature marketplace, tree houses, and make believe river. Kids can build Lego masterpieces, play house with dolls, or slide down from the tree village overhead into a pool of balls. To catch a break, they can join the excitement camp area, complete with miniature picnic tables, LED projector, LED TV and the latest child friendly video games. Parents can watch

from the nearby pool lounge while the older kids challenge each other at the pool table.

After they have the time of their lives in the Kids Club, bring the young ones up to the Rooftop Pool and enjoy the sunset with a panoramic view of the surrounding skyline. The swimming pool has an adult section that cascades into an adjacent kid’s section that is only 40 cm deep so parents and children can swim side by side. And to satisfy the appetite, peruse the newly updated kids’ menu that is as delicious as it is adorable, offering all-time favorites fortified with vitamins and fibre and prepared with kids' taste buds in mind.

Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta Jalan Benesari, Banjar Pengabetan Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 849 6606 E: fourpoints.balikuta@fourpoints.com www.fourpointsbalikuta.com ASIADREAMS 71

Where T

Stay: Bali

Grand Nikko Bali A Playground in Paradise.

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ocated in Nusa Dua, the plush Grand Nikko Bali has two accommodation options designed and situated specifically for families near the family-friendly facilities on the second and third floors of the Cliff Tower. The resort has gone to great lengths to fulfil the needs of holidaymakers travelling with little ones

Bali Dynasty Resort Look forward to award-winning fun at this family-focused resort.

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onsistently rated as one of the best family resorts on the island, Bali Dynasty Resort offers sun-drenched fun for the whole

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and, as such, offers its Family Suites and the recently upgraded Family Rooms.

The Family Rooms come with a choice of exciting new bunk beds for children while parents get to enjoy the luxury of a king-sized bed, or alternatively, two queen-sized beds.

Both have been designed to comfortably accommodate a maximum of two adults and two children with the option of connecting doors to create a large Family Suite.

Grand Nikko Bali has some great family dining options too and offers a range of flexible Family Packages, Aside from the stretch of stunning beach, the resort is crammed with

family. With its own private beach club and a pool perfect for every member of the family, your holiday is certain to be filled with days of tropical fun. The property includes a huge range of family facilities and programmes, including six restaurants, each with its own fun theme and live entertainment. Bali Dynasty also includes a delightful playground area, a kiddie salon, a kids' club and a teens' club, plus an on-site high-flying trapeze

family-fun activities including lagoon-style pools, a sweeping waterslide and pool for kids, a climbing wall and the unique Jungle Camp Kids Club, which is open from 8AM until 10PM and offers a supervised fun-filled schedule from fish and camel feeding, Balinese dressmaking and sandcastle contests, to swimming lessons and pool fun, plus of course free play in the treehouse area.

Grand Nikko Bali Jalan Nusa Dua Selatan, Nusa Dua, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 773 377 www.grandnikkobali.com

school with a circus workshop and bungee trampoline. With so many fun and exciting options, your children will have a difficult time deciding what to do next.

Bali Dynasty Resort Kartika Plaza, Tuban, South Kuta Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 752 403 E: reservations@bdr.pphotels.com www.balidynasty.com

Where T

Stay: Bali

Anapuri Villas Where little Princes and Princesses can live like Kings and Queens.

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napuri is Bali's luxury, boutique villa estate perched mere footsteps from the black glittering sands of Pabean Beach, just 15 minutes from the familyfriendly town of Sanur. Not only neatly nestled on this tranquil strip with the Indian Ocean on its doorstep, this stunning castle-like complex just so happens to be one of the most fabulous places for a family getaway on the Island of the Gods.

Comprising four impressive and totally private villas, Anapuri is a glamorous playground for both kids and adults, with gorgeous sweeping grounds, grand architecture and an elite team of hospitality professionals on hand at all hours of the day.

Proving that five-star opulence isn't just for adults, Puri Salila is Anapuri's six-suite grand ocean-view villa that can only be described as the ultimate family residence. Adorned with wonderfully exciting facilities and high-end playthings, the villa features a dedicated children's room with three bunkbeds and a fold-out bed (meaning plenty of late night sleepovers), as well as a games room that's stocked with a full-sized pool table, darts, Wii game station, Sony Playstation, a ping pong

table and toys for all ages, not to mention an adjoining and humungous home theatre with a 130-inch screen. And while the children are well and truly occupied, parents can wholly relax knowing their little ones are in safe hands thanks to baby monitors, pool fences and playpens on hand, as well as the option of professional nannies and babysitters.

That leaves plenty of time for mums and dads to soak up the multi-level infinity pool, the Anapuri Spa and the gorgeous cuisine whipped up by Anapuri's in-villa chefs.

Anapuri Villas Banjar Pabean, Ketewel, Sukawati Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia.

T: (+62) 361 471 3050 E: info@anapurivillas.com www.anapurivillas.com ASIADREAMS 73

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Stay: Bali

Padma Resort Legian Serene, yet family-friendly, this resort is a favourite of travelling parents.

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five-star boutique art resort, Padma Resort Legian is as beautiful as it is luxurious, situated near the traditional and tourist markets of Legian. Bursting with fun activities and having a quiet, child-friendly environment, the resort is also a fantastic destination for families.

Kids under 12 can now stay for free at Padma Legian and spend their carefree holiday enjoying this spectacular resort.

Little ones splash in the shallow, safe children’s pool guarded by a colossal statue of Hanuman, the mythic Balinese protector. The Wolly Kids Club & Games Centre provides endless activities for

young ones, including T-shirt painting, mask making, face painting and cooking lessons. Children will excitedly return to the Games Centre, equipped with the latest video game consoles, an air hockey table, a billiard table and more.

Padma Resort Legian Jalan Padma No. 1, Legian Kuta, Badung, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 752 111 E: reservation.legian@padmahotels.com www.padmaresortlegian.com

Padma Resort Ubud Guests of all ages will always remember their time at this prestigious address in Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart.

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estled into the dense hillsides of Ubud, Padma Resort Ubud boasts incredible views of a lush river valley from every room and suite. It is also a wonderful place for children to explore the unforgettable culture of Ubud and experience the holiday of a lifetime.

As a parent, you can recline poolside with a full view of the picturesque rainforest as your child splashes in the sun. Young guests can choose a healthy meal from the specially constructed kids' menu and then hurry off to the resort’s kids club for a fun and interactive afternoon. There they can play games with other children, fold their own origami creations and even learn how to create traditional Balinese offerings.

Padma Resort Ubud Padma Resort Ubud Banjar Carik Desa, Puhu, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 301 1111 E: reservation.ubud@padmahotels.com www.padmaresortubud.com 74 ASIADREAMS

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Stay: Bali

Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana Well located and superbly appointed, the Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana is an excellent family hotel in the very heart of Bali’s tourism hub.

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bout a 20-minute drive from Bali’s international airport, the five-star luxury Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana boasts 351 rooms and suites, a rooftop infinity pool, a bar and eatery offering gorgeous farreaching ocean views, the delightful Tjakra 7 Spa, two lagoon pools and a modern fitness centre, plus more restaurants and a host of family-friendly facilities.

Whether ocean- or garden-facing, each spacious guest room benefits from its own private balcony. All rooms feature large flat-screen internet TVs, have separate showers and bath areas and high speed WiFi. For larger families the two-bedroom suites offer extra beds and space, making them an excellent choice.

For children aged 4-10 years old, the kids' club is open every day between 9AM and 5PM: supervised, airy and fitted out in bright welcoming colours, there are daily activities such as face painting, Balinese costume play and Indonesia language lessons offered, as well as a host of electronic and traditional games for the youngsters to enjoy.

A variety of local, Asian and European dishes are served throughout the day.

The Deli Restaurant at the Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana has an excellent kids' menu packed with local favourite dishes like nasi goreng, as well as a range of pasta and burgers and a selection of gelatos and ice popsicles for dessert.

Ideally situated, just off Bali’s most famous stretch of beach and close to the boutiques of Legian and the famous Beachwalk shopping mall with its array of shops, family restaurants and a cinema, the Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana is an elegant tropical haven that is perfectly suited for family holidays.

The kids’ pool is conveniently situated adjacent to the pool restaurant and is a favourite hangout for parents who can supervise their children while relaxing with a drink or on the sun loungers.

Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana Jalan Melasti No. 1, Legian Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 765466 E: h6556@accor.com www.pullmanhotels.com ASIADREAMS 75

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Stay: Bali

The Stones Hotel Legian Bali, A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel It's a family thing!

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rimely positioned on the beachfront of Bali's most popular tourist neighbourhood, The Stones Hotel – Legian Bali is not only a stunning resort with a sought-after address, but also perfect for family vacations. Overlooking the beach, just minutes from the Beachwalk shopping mall and all of Kuta's biggest attractions, like the Waterbom waterpark, the resort is ideal for families with a sense of adventure yet who are looking to minimise the stress of having to travel far. To further avoid any holiday hiccups and to ensure mums and dads can relax too, the resort offers babysitting services, a family-friendly swimming pool, spa treatments for kids and free entrance to its Jasper Kids Club for two children. If that wasn't enough, throughout July and August the resort is also offering a very special family package that includes 20% off the second room for children, together with a daily buffet for two adults and two kids, daily dinners for kids up to 12 years old and a pick-up or drop-off service to or from the airport – just use the promo code MAJ when booking via the website.

The Stones Hotel - Legian Bali, A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel Jalan Raya Pantai Kuta, Legian, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 300 5888 E: reservations@stoneshotelbali.com www.stoneshotelbali.com 76 ASIADREAMS

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Stay: Bali

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Where guests of all ages can see for themselves the warm hospitality that has made Bali so famous.

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ithin walking distance of malls, diverse restaurants and exciting family attractions, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel is located in the vibrant tourist hub of Kuta. The hotel provides many wonderful advantages to parents on holiday with children, including 15 family suite rooms and connecting rooms to accommodate even the largest band of travellers. In the Family Suite, parents can relax on the private terrace of the master bedroom while only a door away children have their own area to play or stay up watching kid-friendly TV channels.

During the sunlight hours, the kids club at Discovery Kartika Plaza is a wonderland

for young travellers every day of the week.

There they can learn more about Balinese culture with Indonesian lessons, sarong-tying activities, fruit carving and temple tours.

Meet your children in the afternoon and they will tell you all about their exciting day of squirrel or fish feeding, coconut bowling and water polo – a perfect day in paradise.

Discovery kartika Plaza Hotel Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta Badung, Bali 8036, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 751 067 E: reservation@discoverykartikaplaza.com www.discoverykartikaplaza.com ASIADREAMS 77

Where T

Eat: Bali

PREGO FAMILY BRUNCH A hands-on, food-filled family day out.

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utting the fun back into Italian dining, Prego is the upbeat family-style restaurant at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali that not only serves family-friendly authentic Italian cuisine throughout the week, but on a Sunday hosts its fabulous Prego Family Brunch. Packed to the brim with Italian specialties, barbecued treats, colourful desserts, an outdoor play area and lively

activities and entertainment, the brunch is a fun and wholesome day out for the whole family.

Pippo the Squirrel, and end the brunch with a splash in the resort’s premium wing swimming pools.

Young budding connoisseurs will also love Prego's SuperChefs programme, where little cooks can build their own pizzas and decorate their own cupcakes complete with their own chef’s hat and apron. And don’t forget to say hello to Prego's mascot,

Prego The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, BTDC Lot N-3, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 771906 E: fb.relation@westin.com www.westinnusaduabali.com

alongside bubbling flutes of Duval Leroy Brut Champagne and fine wines. To ensure everyone is taken care of from start to finish, there's also a kid's corner for very young ones, complete with experienced childminders, and you can even bring the family dog too, who'll be looked after with food and water throughout – meaning no one has to miss out on the weekend excursions!

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort Jalan Pantai Kuta, Kuta Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 846 5555 E: res.sheratonkuta@staystarwood.com www.sheratonbalikuta.com

Sunday Market Brunch at Feast Sip, savour and shop at this colourful family feast.

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ot only home to one of Bali's most adventurous kids' clubs, every weekend Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort hosts its famed Sunday Market Brunch at the colourful oceanfront restaurant, Feast. For children, the brunch is a culinary dream come true, jam-packed with family-friendly bites and sweet treats like velvety chocolate fountains, a fluffy candy floss machine and a vibrant ice cream and gelato stand.

While the little ones are well and truly entertained, mums and dads can make the most of the “Sip, Savour and Shop” theme, where an open-air market of delicious fare and handmade crafts from local farmers, artisans and vendors are showcased

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Eat: Bali

Sunday Roast Beef

Bistro. C Join in the old fashioned family fun each Sunday evening at Bistro. C.

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ach week, Canggu Club members and visitors alike join in the fabulous, laid-back family atmosphere of Bistro. C’s family Sunday roast. The al fresco ambiance of Bistro. C lends itself well to the occasion, allowing parents to sip cool cocktails as the sun sets above a green lawn where kids will no doubt make new friends during a carefree game

Indian Food

of football or tag, well within sight.

If they have been lucky enough to have spent the entire day at the Canggu Club, perhaps on the exciting waterslides of Splash Water Park, or in the air at Bounce Trampoline Centre, then your kids will have worked up quite the appetite. Choose from a succulent selection of roast beef, chicken, pork and excellent vegetarian options – when the time comes to eat, every eye in the family will widen as their personal roast approaches. This hearty, traditional family meal includes succulent meat balanced by sides of roasted potatoes, pumpkin and healthy vegetables.

After everyone has cleared their plates,

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feel free to order another glass of wine as your children rush off, joining their newly made friends for a family movie on the big screen. As they enjoy a supervised, air-conditioned special screening complete with comfortable beanbag chairs, you can enjoy a stress free ending to a wonderful weekend.

Bistro. C Jalan Canggu Club, Canggu Bali, Indonesia T: +62 (361) 848 3939 E: bistroc@cangguclub.com www.bistrocbali.com ASIADREAMS 79

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Eat: Bali

Gelato Secrets Because no family holiday would be complete without gelato!

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t's no secret that kids love ice cream, so what better way to treat the little ones to their favourite sweet goodies than to take them to Gelato Secrets – a gelato bar that was actually inspired by the childhood memories of its founders And, with a concept that honours 100% natural, fresh and premium ingredients, you can rest assured the kids are getting a little bit of goodness, too. The signature favourites at Gelato Secrets range from the rich and indulgent Chocolate Valrhona, Salted Butter Caramel and Chocolate Chilli, to the lighter, fruity flavours of Coconut Pandan, Guava Strawberry and Passion Fruit – all of which are free from artificial flavourings, colourings and preservatives. A total of six locations are scattered across the island, and for that extra bit of fun, a Gelato Secrets vintage VW combi is parked beachside in Seminyak, serving up the signature sweet cones right on the oceanfront for post-sandcastlemaking treats.

Strawberry Sorbetto

Mango Sorbetto

Gelato Secrets T: (+62) 361 8989630 E: info@gelatosecrets.com www.gelatosecrets.com

Biku High Tea Gather your mini Mad Hatters for an Alice in Wonderlandesque tea party.

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iku has long been renowned as a Seminyak staple for families in Bali, best loved for its quaint tea lounge that also sells dainty homewares and unique books to keep the kids entertained over breakfast or brunch.

Yet it is Biku's high tea that is the main draw here, served within the homey surrounds of the 150-year-old teak joglo.

The high tea is undoubtedly and authentically English, complete with a tea list comprising over 50 varieties selected by Biku’s own tea master, Tjok Gde Kerthyasa.

For children, the tea is served up in a red and white polka dot teapot, reminiscent of 80 ASIADREAMS

Alice in Wonderland, whilst the towering high tea display is stacked with gorgeous cakes, pastries and sandwiches to tuck into. Think multicoloured fairy cakes, iced cupcakes with a rainbow frosting and scones loaded with lashings of jam and thick whipped cream. Complete the long and lazy

afternoon with the kids with Biku's board games and colouring books.

Biku Jalan Raya Petitenget 888 Bali 80361, Indonesia Tel: (+62) 85100 570 888 www.bikubali.com

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Play: Bali

Elephant Safari Park Lodge Make memories that will last a lifetime – children will never forget the day they met these gentle giants.

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ourney into the jungles that surround Ubud for a close encounter with the shockingly intelligent and always friendly Sumatran elephants who have found a home at the Elephant Safari Park Lodge. Fill your family photo album with images of you and your children riding atop these magnificent creatures in a controlled and perfectly safe environment.

Housing elephants of all sizes, the Elephant Safari Park Lodge even lets kids approach a baby elephant and pat the orange hair atop its head – something that wouldn’t be possible at practically any other wildlife preserve. After some exploring, treat the whole family to a delicious lunch and witness the humongous elephants perform spectacular feats and paint masterpieces before a captive audience.

Elephant Safari Park Lodge Jalan Elephant Park Taro, Taro Village, Tegallalang, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 898 8888 E: info@elephantsafariparklodge.com www.elephantsafariparklodge.com ASIADREAMS 81

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Play: Bali

Bali Safari and Marine Park

The park is always a huge hit with adults and kids who can interact with a wide variety of animals, many of which, such as the Sumatran tiger and the orangutan, are on the endangered species list.

animals in a natural environment. The park is located near Gianyar and is easily accessible by tour or private car as well as via the park's own shuttle bus service. The basic package, the Jungle Hopper, includes a return shuttle bus from Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Sanur, Ubud, or Nusa Dua, departing at 9.15AM and 9.30AM and returning at 3PM or 5.30PM.

top family day out, the Bali Safari and Marine Park concept fuses a Balinese cultural experience with education, conservation and animal welfare, plus, of course, a chance to see some awesome wild and domestic

After arrival, the Jungle Hoppers take the bus safari, a guided trip through the park to see the animals at home, and then have access to the fabulous Fresh Water Aquarium area, Funzone, Waterpark and animal shows, plus entrance into the mid-afternoon’s cultural extravaganza, the Bali Agung Show.

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Waterbom Bali

A major draw is the Night Safari, when guests can take a trip into darkest Africa and join the park’s nocturnal feeders on a thrilling African adventure. The tour operates from 6PM and includes time to feed the elephants, the Chapman zebra and, of course, the tigers and the park’s famous Tsavo lions from your specially designed caged vehicle – a truly memorable experience!

Bali Safari Marine Park Jl. Profesor Ida Bagus Mantra km 19.8 Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 751300 E: reservation@balisafarimarinepark.com www.balisafarimarinepark.com

The exciting slides of Waterbom Bali will thrill both children and adults, making it the top spot in Bali for families to keep cool and have a blast.

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fficially recognized as the number one waterpark in Asia and the third best in the world, Waterbom Bali is filled with attractions for all ages. Older kids will immediately run to one of the park's many humongous slides, like the 25.9-metre vertical drop of the Smash Down 2.0 that will leave them eager for more. Younger children need not be left behind as there are ample kid-safe activities and attractions to suit them as well.

The park includes an immersive play structure bursting with water cannon, small slides and a shallow play area to delight even the youngest guests and keep parents at ease.

Waterbom Bali Jalan Kartika Plaza P.O. Box 1055, Tuban, Kuta, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 755 676 E: marketing@waterbom-bali.com www.waterbom-bali.com 82 ASIADREAMS

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Play: Bali

Canggu Club Splash, strike and bounce at Bali’s premier entertainment and sporting venue.

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s the only multi-venue entertainment and sporting destination on the island, Canggu Club has long been renowned as the epicentre for family fun in Bali, with not one, not two, but three huge family-focussed venues within its palatial grounds – and that’s not including the award-winning Cubby House Kids Club, the sports field and the scrumptious dining destinations, too.

Make the unmistakeable Splash Waterpark, with its technicolour waterslides towering above the club, the first stop to get the kids’ adrenaline pumping. With six huge slides, from the five-storey high, 90-metre long Giant Racer for bigger children, to the Speed Racer for the littler ones in the fully appointed Splash Playground, there are slides for everyone, from toddlers to teens and for mums and dads, too.

For fun away from the sun, Canggu Club also hosts the Bounce Trampoline Centre and Strike Bowling. Located across the street from Splash next to the club’s tennis courts, the trampolines – which are specially designed with a spring-loaded frame to ensure maximum bounce – can be paired with several other activities, such as basketball, gymnastics and soft foam blocks to flip over and fly through.

You can then finish the action-packed day with good old-fashioned family entertainment at Strike Bowling, which has six top-of-the-line bowling lanes and a rainbow of delicious candy-coloured bowling balls to choose from. For the kids, the staff can engage rails on each side of the lanes, helping to keep the ball on track, and in between swings, humongous family-sized cheese pizzas can be delivered fresh from the oven.

Canggu CLub Jalan Canggu CLub, Canggu Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 848 3939 E: info@cangguclub.com www.cangguclub.com ASIADREAMS 83

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Play: Bali

Bali Zoo Bring the whole family and discover diverse wildlife up close.

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efore the zoo opens in the cool morning, prepare for a day of exploring with a banquet for the whole family at the Orangutan Breakfast. Before eating, take some pictures of your children with an outgoing gibbon on their backs, some friendly cockatoos on their shoulders, or with one of the Asian elephants all within sight of your table. After the meal, the zookeepers

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arrive leading in the stars of the show: four young, playful orangutans. A great way to introduce young ones to nature, this special breakfast is just one way that Bali Zoo allows guests an up-close encounter with wildlife.

Thrill your children with an unforgettable ride atop one of Asia’s most colossal creatures. The zoo’s friendly and intelligent elephants will happily offer them the ride of their lives and afterwards would appreciate being hand-fed a basket of fruits and vegetables in return. Children will gleefully roam the Bali zoo meeting each animal around the way.

Captivate your family with the sight of majestic elephants and a deliciously prepared meal. Enjoy an open-air view of the elephant trail and a lush garden full of dazzling tropical birds. It is the perfect place to take a rest and get ready for an afternoon of exploration and excitement.

They will love to pet sociable deer while offering them leafy greens, or seeing Jacky, the Bali Zoo’s famous adult orangutan with an equally famous personality. Many tiny infant animals and critically endangered species can be found throughout the zoo and their stories will touch your family’s hearts. For more excitement, join in an interactive animal show and watch soaring eagles, ambling porcupines and amiable

otters perform for a live audience, with plenty of opportunities for audience participation.

Bali Zoo Jalan Raya Singapadu, Sukawati Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 294 357 E: info@bali-zoo.com www.bali-zoo.com ASIADREAMS 85

Where T

Shop: Bali

Kidsagogo A petite boutique label with zesty, pinch-me-cute designs and hand-embroidered details.

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idsagogo is the beloved international kids brand that serves up zesty, pinch-me-cute designs that both mamas and their little ones will love. With an impeccable taste for fabrics, precision stitching and handembroidered details, Kidsagogo is the go-to store for trendsetting designs for children aged 0 to 8.

This petite boutique label, available at two locations on the Oberoi shopping strip in Seminyak, carries a range of casual to dressy children’s wear: from fluttery folksy dresses and bold printed tees to lace dresses and button-up shirts. You’ll also find a lovely load of accessories, shoes, soft toys and home dÊcor items to keep you and your mini fashionistas buzzing for hours.

Kidsagogo Jl. Kayu Aya No. 29, Seminyak Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 736 651 E: info@kidsagogo.com www.kidsagogo.com

Coco and Ginger Tropically inspired girl's fashion made to swing and twirl.

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oco and Ginger is the brainchild of Bali-based founder Saffron PughBlaby, who started this tropically inspired girl's brand when friends asked what her own daughters, Coco and Ginger, were wearing.

Shunning mass-produced, factory-made pieces to instead use skilled artisans, seamstresses and tailors across the island, each unique hand-embroidered, handprinted piece is personally tried and tested to make sure each creation falls, swings and twirls just as it should.

The last collection, Flower Child, was designed to capture the spirit of a magical childhood spent amid seashells, dream catchers, daisy chains and feathers, whilst the current collection, Petit Fleur, was inspired by a simple

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Greek blouse that conjured up thoughts of Ancient Greek myths and the folk stories children are told. The collection features fresh takes on Coco & Ginger's signature floral prints as well as tropical and muted hues in bold blocks, softened by hand-embroidery, crochet and broderie Anglais.

Coco & Ginger Jalan Batubelig, Kerobokan Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 8499627 / (+62) 851 03020841 www.cocoandginger.com

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Shop: Bali

Indigo Kids Designed in Australia, made with love in Bali.

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ndigo Kids is the iconic children's wear brand in Bali and Australia that's been decking out babies, little boys and little girls in on-trend styles and designs for more than 20 years.

Featuring playful prints and timeless detailing, Indigo Kids specialises in fine handcrafted embroidery and beading with unique and original fabrics designed for children aged 3 months to 12 years. No matter the style, all of Indigo Kids' pieces keep comfort, fun and play in mind, making sure that little ones feel just as good as they look when wearing this adorable label.

The latest collection, Island Breeze, embodies a tropical and colourful way of living with easy to wear floaty skirts for girls, printed tees for boys and cute one-pieces for babies and toddlers. You can find this new collection at the four Bali boutiques across Seminyak and Kuta, as well as at other select retailers and online. www.indigowithlove.com ASIADREAMS 87

Where T

Stay: Singapore

Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa As the only beachfront resort in Singapore, located at one of Asia’s leading leisure destinations, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa is a slice of tropical paradise for families.

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ontinually voted the best family hotel in Singapore, Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa is a number one choice for a summer holiday getaway to Asia's little red dot.

Firstly, the resort is located on the famed Sentosa Island; a leisure destination unlike any other in the region. World-famous attractions like Universal Studios and the S.E.A Aquarium are located nearby, with dining destinations abound for any little fussy eater.

Despite these fabulous conveniences right at the resort's fingertips, Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa hasn't relied on outside entertainment to keep the family amused. Instead, the resort is host to a

staggering array of family-focussed facilities and activities for utmost fun in the sun, beginning with the award-winning kid's club, Cool Zone. The Cool Zone is one of Singapore’s largest kid’s clubs and features various activity centres, including the Toots Club, Mini Toots Club and the Craft Zone.

The Toots Club is for children aged 5 to 12, whilst the Mini Toots Club is for the little ones under 5 years old, featuring a mini jungle gym, wooden toys and storybooks.

A resounding highlight of the Toots Club is the massive tree-house slide that winds all the way down from the resort’s third level into a colourful ball pit on level one.

It's a fully supervised and fun environment inclusive of lunch and dinner as part of full

day programmes, of which the Toots Club holds approximately 10 different activities each day to keep the kids well and truly occupied. Think sandcastle building, pool games, treasure hunts and even a spot of gardening in the resort's own nursery.

If that wasn't enough, outside of the kid's club and its activities, the resort is home to even more exciting, adventurous and downright impressive leisure destinations.

The resort's focal point is the stunning lagoon-style swimming pool with a separate children's pool and water slides with canopied sun protection, plus a splash pad – all supplied with water in a natural, pristine state, as well as The Flying Trapeze on Siloso Beach where kids and adults can fly through

Going Green Honouring its luscious surroundings, Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa has a respectable outlook on the environment that benefits the family, too, including an in-house garden where kids can grow their own plants, to the minimal use of chemicals in the pool for young sensitive skin.

the air like an acrobat – the first attraction of its kind in Singapore.

serve up fine and gourmet cuisine to enjoy the whole holiday through.

Rounding off the entire experience, the resort is everything you'd expect from a five-star destination. The rooms are bright, spacious and airy, all with fabulous views across the resort or beachfront, whilst the dining destinations, including the Silver Shell Cafe with its daily children's buffet, each

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa, Singapore 101 Siloso Road, Sentosa Singapore 098970 T: (+65) 6275 0100 E: sen@shangri-la.com www.shangri-la.com ASIADREAMS 89

Where T

Stay: Singapore

The Ritz-Carlton, MilLenia Singapore Luxury holiday living for all ages.

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hildren will be overcome with awe upon arriving at The RitzCarlton, Millenia Singapore.

Upon arrival, they will be greeted with a Ritz Kids Welcome Pack, which includes an activity book with colouring pages, stickers and crayons, as well an ice-cream pass that entitles them to a complimentary scoop of ice cream daily from The Patisserie in Colony.

On weekends, they will get to enjoy Ritz Kids activities by the pool. With the new Ritz Kids Night Safari room package, kids can embark on an in-room camping adventure where a sleeping tent will be pitched in the room, complete with a night lamp and a plush Ritz-Carlton lion beanie. Bring this spirit of adventure to the great outdoors with a complimentary visit to the Singapore Zoo or Night Safari as part of your stay package experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore 7 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039799 T: (+65) 6434 5111 E: rc.sinrz.reservations@ritzcarlton.com www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/singapore

Swissôtel Merchant Court, Singapore Enjoy easy access to the vibrant colours, flavours and sounds of Singapore’s Chinatown, as well as first class accommodations and special attention for young travellers.

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hildren are always VIP guests at Swissôtel Merchant Court, Singapore. In the hotel’s unique Kids Room, visitors of all ages will feel right at home with all the toys, books, games and specially designed amenities they could hope for. For toddlers, a baby bathtub and bath toys will be provided. Kids can get to work crafting holiday journals at their individual writing desks, or turn to the room’s other fantastic child-friendly options, including Xbox, Wii and DVDs for a little electronic entertainment. For outdoor activities, watch your children sprint for the 90 ASIADREAMS

water slides and have a blast in the kiddie pool. When it’s almost time to turn out the lights, little ones can choose from the hotel’s colourful options of flavoured toothpaste before curling up in adorable themed bed sets prepared just for them.

Swissôtel Merchant Court, Singapore 20 Merchant Road, Singapore 058281 T: (+65) 6337 9993 E: reservations.merchantcourt@swissotel.com www.swissotel.com/hotels/singaporemerchant-court

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Stay: Singapore

Festive Hotel Families rejoice! Festive Hotel is whimsical, well-appointed and designed with kids in mind.

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ocated amidst a myriad of kidfriendly attractions and dining options at Resorts World Sentosa, this hotel has been a parent favourite since it opened its doors years ago. Festive Hotel’s playful architecture and colourful dÊcor are a welcome sight to those with imaginative and

adventurous children and make it more than simply standard accommodations.

For instance, while the adults handle the check-in procedures, kids can get to work, playing at the hands-on building tables at the Lego store located near the front desk. Afterwards, a friendly staff member will assist with luggage as you lead your children down brightly decorated hallways towards the Deluxe Family King Room. This room exemplifies the hotel’s balance of sophistication and appeal to young ones with its artistic lamps and architecture alongside a large lofted bed for children.

At every turn Festive Hotel ignites the

imagination and excitement of children and is the perfect home base from which to explore Sentosa Island. Plan daytrips to Universal Studios Singapore, explore fantastic eateries all within walking distance, view a spectacular night-time show at Resorts World Sentosa, or simply spend the afternoon relaxing poolside while the kids have the time of their lives.

Festive Hotel 8 Sentosa Gateway Singapore 098269 T: (+65) 6577 8888 E: enquiries@rwsentosa.com www.rwsentosa.com ASIADREAMS 91

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Stay: Singapore

Marina Bay Sands Singapore’s most famous landmark is also one of the premier places to stay for a family of world travellers.

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nstantly recognizable towering hundreds of metres above the streets, kids will eagerly point out of the window as you approach Marina Bay Sands.

Once inside, an entire world of possibilities opens and children are free to explore. The unforgettable holiday in Singapore begins in the Family Room that offers ample space

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for even large families, as well as a furnished balcony, perfect for open-air dining amidst lush garden views. This remarkable setting is surpassed only by the beauty of Marina Bay as seen from the wonderful SkyPark oasis on top of the structure, a place that will surely become a favourite for kids and adults alike.

After witnessing the countless famed attractions that are all within walking distance of the hotel, introduce your children to Broadway with tickets to an extravagant musical playing at The MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands.

Get a front row seat for critically acclaimed family favourites like Shrek The Musical and Annie that will have kids singing along for days after.

For a hands-on learning experience, visit the ArtScience Museum that is filled with captivating and interactive exhibits perfect for young minds. There, children can get a glimpse of the future at the museum’s newest exhibition that features spectacular art installations designed by Japanese art collective TeamLAB. Watch the wonder in your children’s eyes as the future unfolds before them, evolving in real time and changing because of their presence and participation.

Marina Bay Sands 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956 T: (+65) 6688 8868 room.reservations@marinabaysands.com www.marinabaysands.com

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Eat: Singapore

Barnacles by the Sea The Sunday spot to fill up on family fun and fabulous food.

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reat the whole family to a delightful Sunday buffet overlooking the South China Sea and the peaceful gardens of Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa. Each week, the resort presents a spectacular Sunday Brunch at Barnacles by the Sea that allows guests to indulge in an extravagant selection of seafood, including king crab legs, scallops and more, before visiting the caviar bar, or sampling a carved roast. With such a wide range of choices, including pastas and desserts, guests will be making repeated trips to the buffet. While the adults indulge, the little ones can enjoy a host of entertaining activities ranging from magic shows to balloon sculpting. Additionally, families can enjoy the resort's swimming pool, childrens’ slides and splash pad for the rest of the day.

Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa, Singapore 101 Siloso Road, Sentosa Singapore 098970 T: (+65) 6275 0100 www.shangri-la.com/singapore/ rasasentosaresort

One-Ninety: Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood Join Four Seasons Singapore for Sunday fun and a kiddie buffet fit to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Fired Steaks & Seafood Buffet

Sunday Brunch

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t the grown-up’s table, take your pick from a wide selection of elevated entrées and delicious desserts. Select choice cuts and view the day’s succulent specials like juicy Wagyu and freshly shaved truffles.

Dine with peace of mind, knowing that your children are not only well supervised, but having a super Sunday for themselves.

They can get their faces painted or learn to craft balloon animals while snacking on a banquet of kid-friendly dishes served on a special pint-sized buffet table. Chicken tenders, pizza and chocolates alongside cartoons, fun activities and friends will make the Sunday brunch at One-Ninety a favourite for the whole family.

One-Ninety: Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood 190 Orchard Blvd, Singapore 248646 T: (+65) 6831 7250 E: one-ninety.sin@fourseasons.com www.fourseasons.com/singapore/dining/ restaurants/one_ninety ASIADREAMS 93

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Play: Singapore

S.E.A. Aquarium A rare and exciting glimpse beneath the waves.

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ocated on the resort island of Sentosa, S.E.A. Aquarium allows families to explore the oceans of the world, bringing them up close to 800 different species of aquatic creatures.

A learning experience for the whole family, meet the 100,000 marine animals originating from all around the world that call the aquarium home. Majestic manta rays glide overhead in the spectacular ocean dome while toothsome sharks stalk through the immense and richly inhabited tanks. Kids will shriek with delight as the watery denizens of the aquarium swim by, or when they get the opportunity to touch a brightly coloured sea star in a Discovery Touch Pool.

S.E.A. Aquarium 8 Sentosa Gateway Singapore 098269 T: (+65) 6577 8888 E: enquiries@rwsentosa.com www.rwsentosa.com

Night Safari Exhilarating nighttime discoveries, all before bedtime.

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s the sun sets, the friendly nocturnal animals of Wildlife Reserve Singapore’s Night Safari emerge from their dens – a sight rarely seen in nature. As the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals, Night Safari serves as an ambassador between your family and these creatures that so often avoid the limelight.

Embark on an exhilarating and informative guided tram ride through seven geographical zones and get a candid glimpse of the park’s diverse and wondrous creatures in their natural habitat. Cross paths with colossal Asian elephants, lumbering Indian rhinos, curious Malayan tapirs, majestic tigers and more as kids press their faces to the window and are often the first ones to excitedly identify each animal.

Wildlife Reserves Singapore 80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826 T: (+65) 6269 3411 E: enquiry@wrs.com.sg www.wrs.com.sg

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Play: Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore For a day, kids can go beyond the screen and live their favourite movies.

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ravel back in time to the sands of Ancient Egypt, or even farther to the primordial jungles of Jurassic Park. Walk the streets of New York, Hollywood and even the cities of our distant future. At Universal Studios Singapore, children can explore faraway places along with the familiar fanciful settings of their favourite films with fantastic rides and attractions. Children will be blown away by exhilarating roller coasters and exciting locations that bring their daydreams to life.

Young fans of Puss in Boots, Transformers and even the little Sesame Street enthusiasts will be brimming with joy to meet their favourite characters and explore this engaging and world-renowned park.

Universal Studios Singapore 8 Sentosa Gateway Singapore 098269 T: (+65) 6577 8888 E: enquiries@rwsentosa.com www.rwsentosa.com

Playeum

Enter a new world of imagination, exploration and learning where children discover their limitless potential the fun way.

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ncouraging playful learners, Playeum is more than just a play place for kids. It is a creative space where children can engage in hands-on activities, play with other children and absorb amazing life lessons. Led by enthusiastic facilitators, your little ones can explore nature, get messy with crafts, learn to dance, dig and plant in the garden and so much more. Playeum regularly collaborates with some of the most creative artists in Singapore to offer new and exciting experiences for children aged 1-12. Enrich your holiday and take a break from the busy city with tinkering Sundays, artist-led workshops, holiday camps and new programmes added every week.

Playeum, Children’s Centre for Creativity 47 Malan Rd, Singapore 109444 T: (+65) 6262 0750 E: share@playeum.com www.playeum.com ASIADREAMS 95

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Shop: Singapore

The Elly Store Big styles for your little fashionistas.

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local treasure trove of children’s apparel, Elly is a distinctive clothing label tailor-made for young ones. Both instore and online, parents can browse a colourful collection of clothing, shoes, unique gifts and more for new-borns, toddlers and children alike. With creative seasonal designs like the popular Chinese New Year collection, The Elly Store keeps kids looking their best for any occasion. Its shelves are filled with boutique clothing engineered for comfort, practicality and style. Additionally, the store includes a wide selection of boutique kids’ toys perfect for new-borns and a collection of whimsical art prints to decorate children’s rooms and nurseries.

The Elly Store 02-31/33 501 Bukit Timah Road Cluny Court, Singapore 259760 T: (+65) 6466 8718 www.ellyloves.com

Hamleys Shop your way through this legendary emporium of fantastic toys, games and all things fun.

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amleys is the oldest and largest toy shop in the world – named after William Hamley, it has been captivating the imagination of children since 1760. With roots in London, Hamleys is proud to count royalty and nobility among its customers.

Today, families in Singapore can visit their storefronts in popular malls like the exclusive Marina Bay Sands.

Children will be in awe of the famous selection of toys and games for all ages.

Endless Lego, crafts, dress-up clothes, dolls and games line the shelves in this whimsical children’s utopia. To make leaving less traumatic, your kids may even get the opportunity to bear-hug the shop’s friendly, but furry mascot on the way out.

Hamleys 68 Orchard Road, #01-67, #03-65 to 69 Plaza Singapura, Singapore 238839 T: (+65) 6238 0689 www.hamleys.com

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Where T

Stay: Hong Kong

Cordis, Hong Kong at Langham Place Even your children can experience a supremely luxurious holiday in Hong Kong.

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ordis, Hong Kong is uniquely devoted to its guests’ wellbeing, especially its littlest guests. Already known for its sophistication and prestige, this hotel also makes young VIPs feel special on their holidays. In addition to family-friendly rooms and amenities, Cordis will launch its entirely new Kids Club programme in August 2016. To ensure each child leaves with a smile and unforgettable memories, the hotel, with knowledge of each child’s personal preferences and interests, will customize amenities and arrange unique toys guaranteed to please every girl or boy.

Additionally, the amiable staff will surprise children with treats and can suggest activities suited to match individual interests.

Such programmes could include spa treatments for the little ones, or a specially designed kid’s menu. Parents can also enjoy a hassle-free stay as they can easily request an array of necessities such as strollers, step stools, bed rails and high chairs.

Cordis, Hong Kong at Langham Place 566 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong T: (+852) 3552 3388 E: cdhkg.info@cordishotels.com www.cordishotels.com/en/hong-kong ASIADREAMS 97

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Stay: Hong Kong

Cosmopolitan Hotel

After a first visit, your kids will be cheering to return to Cosmopolitan Hotel the next time you and they visit Hong Kong.

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osmopolitan Hotel, soon to be renamed Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, is widely known as one of the best hotels in Hong Kong for families and for good reason: the hotel has recently undergone extensive renovations and boasts all new facilities including many

family friendly accommodations such as the Ocean Park Family Suite and the thrilling SONY 4K 3D Experience Suite. No matter which you choose, children and teenagers alike will be thrilled to find a room tailored perfectly for them before their arrival.

Special, appropriately sized toothbrushes, bathrobes and slippers are prepared alongside delightful age-appropriate toys and a delicious snack pack for a personal touch. If your child has an active mind, ask for the mobile storybook library and choose the perfect bedtime story from a large

selection of titles written for little ones. For fun the whole family can enjoy, turn on the room’s Nintendo Wii console and spark some friendly competition with a game of virtual bowling, or any game you wish from the hotel’s traveling toy cart that includes many exciting and family-friendly video games.

Cosmopolitan Hotel 387-397 Queen's Rd E, Wan Chai, Hong Kong T: (+852) 3552 1111 E: anitachan@cosmopolitanhotel.com.hk www.cosmopolitanhotel.com.hk

Excelsior Hong Kong Your family’s gateway to a Hong Kong adventure.

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egin the day with a complimentary breakfast buffet at the Café eatery and choose from a selection of international cuisines, featuring live Boston lobsters, fresh oysters, roasted US prime beef, a seafood congee station and double-boiled soup. Children especially will marvel at the wide dessert selection and colossal chocolate fountain. After a scrumptious breakfast, plan an unforgettable outing, choosing from a range of activities near the hotel. Located in the heart of Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island, the hotel is the perfect base for you and your family to explore the bustling city without hassle, allowing more valuable time for parents to bond and have fun with their kids. Just seconds away from two connecting malls, go 98 ASIADREAMS

on a shopping spree with the ability to retreat to the hotel any time for a nap. Alternatively, take a stroll to the nearby urban oasis, Victoria Park, and take full advantage of the famous park’s roller skating rinks, model boat pool, children's playground and swimming pool – a fantastic escape in the city.

Excelsior Hong Kong 281 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong T: (+852) 2894 8888 E: exhkg-reservations@mohg.com www.mandarinoriental.com

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Eat: Hong Kong

Snoopy Waffle

Charlie Brown Coffee

Snoopy Honey Toast with Macaron

Charlie Brown Café Introduce your children to the whole Peanuts cast at this adorable eatery.

Charlie and their friends before helping you find a table surrounded by whimsical décor reminiscent of your own childhood.

Striving to produce quality, nutritious meals for growing children, the café’s kitchen uses no MSG or other harmful additives and serves hand-crafted soups, sandwiches and pastas, perfect for young taste buds.

Hazelnut Mousse, which comes in the shape of Charlie Brown himself. Or perhaps your youngest would prefer the decadent dark chocolate Crunchy Praline Cake, with a chocolate Woodstock perched on the top.

he friendly, smiling faces from your favourite classic cartoon are there to greet you and your family at Charlie Brown Café. The warm staff will help you snap a photo with the larger-than-life models of Snoopy,

Order a specialty Italian coffee bearing Snoopy’s silhouette crafted with cream as your children marvel at the selection of playful cakes that come in all shapes and sizes. The whole family is sure to enjoy the richness of the Charlie Brown Chocolate

Charlie Brown Café 58-60 Cameron Road Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong T: (+852) 2366 6325 E: info@charliebrowncafe.com www.charliebrowncafe.com

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Where T

Eat: Hong Kong

Zuma An upscale Japanese-style brunch that every child can enjoy.

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Almond Tofu

n the heart of Central Hong Kong, located at the prestigious Landmark, Zuma’s Sunday brunch has been the talk of the town since its inception years ago. One of the main reasons for its popularity is Zuma’s dedication to an inclusive and fun culinary experience for all. This means that in this case going to a child-friendly restaurant doesn’t mean you are forced to choose between pizza or chicken nuggets. At Zuma, parents can indulge in fresh, delicately prepared sushi while the children have a large, separate, soft play area to explore. After working up an appetite, they can come back to the table and create a masterpiece with special colouring books and coloured pencils as they wait for their unique kids' meal.

Zuma Landmark, Level 5 & 6, 15 Queen's Road, Central, Hong Kong T: (+62) 852 3657 6388 E: info@zumarestaurant.com.hk www.zumarestaurant.com/zuma-landing/ hong-kong/en/welcome

TREE Café Bespoke décor, superb dishes and the perfect family-friendly atmosphere.

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REE Café, a delightful eatery by Hong Kong’s first eco-chic furniture store, provides a unique respite for shoppers at the famous Horizon

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Plaza. Both children and adults can tire quickly during a day spent hunting for the latest fashions and deals in busy Hong Kong.

TREE Café provides the solution: a trendy respite from ceaseless shopping designed especially for families. The chic atmosphere of the café will certainly appeal to adults, as will the appealing menu of dishes and desserts made with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Kids will receive a free mini-cupcake and babycino with every visit and will love the

special selection of juices and ice cream. Treat your children to a freshly baked cookie, or a cute cupcake, before they rush off to the kids' play area, filled with books and toys and decorated by TREE's sustainable furniture.

TREE Café 28/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing St Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong T: (+852) 2870 1586 E: onlinesales@tree.com.hk www.tree.com.hk

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Play: Hong Kong

Disneyland Hong Kong Enchanted encounters and magical memories await at Disneyland Hong Kong.

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nter a world of wonder and imagination. Here at this fairy-tale theme park for all ages, the young and young at heart can journey through seven themed lands filled with amazing attractions, electrifying rides, colourful parades and wild celebrations.

Make sure children bring their autograph book for when they happen upon their favourite Disney character! Young fans of Frozen will swoon when they meet Elsa and Anna, while boys won’t be able to hide their excitement as they join a Jedi training programme and engage in the ultimate lightsaber duel against villains like Darth Vader and Kylo Ren. For even more excitement, exhilarating rides like the famous Space Mountain and Toy Story Land’s 27-metre toy car, RC Racer, will get the adrenaline pumping. With both highspeed thrills and smaller, toddler-friendly rides that each feature a different magical

movie moment, Disneyland Hong Kong has a myriad of options ideal for every member of the family.

As the sun sets on a magical day, the millions of tiny lights of Disney Paint the Night will transform the entire park with a colourful parade of characters and music. This nighttime spectacular presents stunning constellations of light showcasing famous Disney stories that will warm your heart and make your children gaze in wonder.

Disneyland Hong Kong Lantau Island, Hong Kong T: (+852) 3550 3388 www.hongkongdisneyland.com ASIADREAMS 101

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Play: Hong Kong

Star Ferry Delighting visitors of all ages since 1888, your children will always remember their voyage on this historic ferry.

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he Star Ferry is one of the beloved icons of the city and a lot more than just a means of transportation. Recognized as one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, the Star Ferry is popular with both adults and children and is much more than just a convenient way to get from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon during a day of sightseeing. Snap some photos of the bay to go in the family scrapbook while your kids peek out the antique windows. Always fascinated by boats, children won’t be able to contain their excitement as the ferry traverses the beautiful Victoria Harbour, passing so many memorable landmarks.

The Star Ferry Company, Limited Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

T: (+852) 2367 7065 E: sf@starferry.com.hk www.starferry.com.hk

Ocean Park Hong Kong With so much to do, and so much to see, your family will have the time of their lives.

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his world-class educational theme park is packed with exciting entertainment, exotic animals and unforgettable attractions. First, take a trip through Old Hong Kong and walk the streets of the past reliving the sights and sounds from 50 years ago, or head to Thrill Mountain for exhilarating rides on fast-paced coasters.

Then travel the globe as you and your little ones witness wallabies, southern koalas and kookaburras in one immersive exhibit and

penguins and snowy owls in the next. Join Ocean Park’s “Get Closer to the Animals” programme and your kids will be able to get in the pool with dolphins or learn how to prepare a special meal for a giant panda with the help of expert zookeepers.

Ocean Park Hong Kong Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong Island T: (+852) 3923 2323 E: gr@oceanpark.com www.oceanpark.com.hk

Where T

Shop: Hong Kong

Petit Bazaar Cute clothes, home décor items and boutique-chic toys for the kids – and for Mum, too.

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ith a mission to bring carefully curated items from Europe to the little ones in Hong Kong, Petit Bazaar is the go-to place in the city for a wonderful collection of kids wear, toys, home décor items, furniture and other accessories.

As a one-stop shop for all of your child's needs, Petit Bazaar is a hit among both kids and adults with more than 50 brands represented in-store. Although each adorable piece has been specifically selected for stylish little youngsters, the gorgeously tasteful, refined and unique products often catch the eyes of mums, too, like pretty pillow cases, plush knitted toys and outfits to match the kiddies. With three stores in Wan Chai, Central and Eslite Taikoo Shing, Petit Bazaar also organises a number of children’s events throughout the year for its customers, like kid’s manners and etiquette classes, as well as a children’s fashion show with a mini-runway – both big hits with kids and parents alike! www.petit-bazaar.com ASIADREAMS 103

Where T

Shop: Hong Kong

Ferrari Junior Collection Grown-up looks for little ladies and fine young gentlemen

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or families who like to mix fashion and fast cars, the Ferrari Junior Collection is the first-ever collaboration between Ferrari and international kids-wear brand, nicholas & bears. Available exclusively in Asia, the collection captures both elegance and wearability with Ferrari's signature red colour for infants and children aged up to 14 years old and provides a wide range of flawless designs for both daily wear and special occasions.

For little ladies, the Spring/Summer 2016 collection sees playful ruffles and precious detailing, like mini decorative bows and dainty Ferrari emblems, whilst for young gentlemen, expect wool-blended suits with matching bowties and cool and casual sporty tees to pair with colourful loafers.

Undeniably suave, this exclusive brand has proved to be a huge hit for both dads and their little racers, available at the Ferrari Store Junior in Hong Kong and across Asia. www.ferrarijuniorcollection.asia

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INSPIRATION

To Strength

From Strength

– Irma Damayanti Djohan, Managing Director of LHM ASIADREAMS 105

The multi-talented and multi-faceted managing director of Legian Hotel Management (LHM), Irma Damayanti Djohan, proves that expanding one's horizons and gaining skills in multiple areas of a business is key to career success.

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ot only the managing director of one of Bali's leading hotel management companies, Irma Damayanti Djohan of LHM brings an honourable and inspiring track record to the table. Once a key financial player at a handful of Indonesia's largest banks, followed by co-founding the region's reputable International Flight Academy, Irma has managed to compound her lifetime achievements and learned skill-set to become the formidable businesswoman that she is today.

drive LHM to the forefront of the luxury hospitality industry. Here, we talk to Irma about the importance of teamwork, the trick for seizing the right opportunity at the right time and why LHM is all about creating the best possible experiences for its guests.

With her expert financial management skills, stellar sales, marketing and branding strategies and a respectable philosophy on customer service, Irma has helped

A: Being a hotelier has always been my passion. My family has run and managed hotel properties for 20 years and I also love travelling – observing how each hotel

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Q: Today you're the managing director of one of the region's most promising luxury hotel management companies, but how did you first break into the hospitality industry?

around the world offers different services, how they set themselves apart from others.

I review each one's facilities, the views, the location and all elements and factors.

Eventually, once you learn and analyse these things, you start to see and feel the uniqueness. These journeys have inspired me to ensure all of our hotel guests have their own memorable experiences when they stay with us, to then share and tell their own unique experiential stories to their friends and family.

Q: We understand that you have a very successful background in the financial industry – how has this valuable experience furthered your career in hospitality?

A: In any industry and any company, the key essential element to success is healthy finance management. In my previous experience I have learnt the basic principles: maximise your revenues, control your costs and operations and manage your capital to invest or expand your company efficiently and conservatively. My late father taught me these valuable lessons working closely alongside him.

From my previous experiences as risk manager at CIMB Niaga, customer benefit head at Bank Danamon and CFO at BIFA, I learned to see and understand things from many different angles. I learned how to manage and I explored different sectors, like operations, finance, IT, policy, regulations and many other aspects that support the business.

Different businesses might require different elements of revenue and cost, but in the end the basic principles remain the same.

With this basic knowledge, combined with such remarkable team support from The Legian as well as The Club, I’ve learned so much about managing LHM wisely.

Q: In 2008 you established the Bali Flight Academy, later expanding with the International Flight Academy, and have now trained more than 550 professional pilots for leading Asian airlines. Can you tell us more about the story behind this venture?

A: When we built BIFA Flight School in 2008, aviation was still growing. That’s when my late father, Pak Oka, and myself saw and siezed the opportunity. At that time, National Airlines started to increase their operations and there were more than 5 million travellers in Indonesia. The airlines were expanding, but there was a big gap in pilot supply because there was no major pilot school other than Curug and the only other option for pilot supply was from flight schools in Malaysia, Australia and the US. We saw this as an opportunity to build the market that had been pretty vacant for the past 10 years. Our aim was to fill this gap and grab the market that needed to go outside of Indonesia for training. When the aviation market picked up in 2009, we had prepared ourselves to open our new flight school. Our prediction was correct.

We managed to become one of the biggest flight schools in Indonesia.

Q: You're clearly a very ambitious entrepreneur with an impressive and diverse skill set. What has been the secret to your success over the years?

A: Thank you, but I sincerely believe I am not yet successful. For me, it’s not about being ambitious, but about doing the right thing at the right time and the right place. It is essential that we take carefully calculated risks, thorough investment analyses and create products that are supported by many

elements that cater to the market demand, based on very strong marketing and sales strategies.

Teamwork is also essential – you have to trust and believe in the people you work with. You have to invest in your people and continue to nurture and groom good people, the right people. Indeed, a product or property must have a unique value proposition, the core DNA that is not easily copied by other properties, but it's also the “how” and the “who” of the team and the people who run it that make a difference to the guest experience.

Q: Has this been the secret to LHM's success, or is there something else that helps set LHM apart from other luxury hotel management companies?

A: LHM’s vision and mission, “Luxury in Harmony”, is how we envision LHM. Our brand mission is to create “Top of Mind Boutique Luxury Hospitality” because we sincerely put everything we have into everything we do.

The concept is also key. LHM hotels should not simply sell rooms, they should be destinations all about the experience that offer personalised services of the highest quality. That’s why, in our business, it is key that we always try to understand, to be one step ahead of our guests' needs and fully committed to taking care of them.

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competitive hospitality industry? How will LHM ensure it remains at the head of its game?

When we built The Legian, we worked together with the finest businessmen and hoteliers in the industry, such as my father, Robby Djohan, Jaya Ibrahim, Hendra Hadiprana, Ralf Ohlets Von Plettenberg and Hans Jenni. Each of them has contributed to creating a strong concept that has become the soul and passion of LHM and The Legian.

that staying at The Legian near the beach listening to the waves, or perhaps a more tranquil hideaway with more exclusive privacy at our spacious villa at The Club at The Legian. The Club Villas at The Legian come with well-trained private butlers by top notch butler trainer Robert Watsons. In their own unique way, The Legian Hotel and The Club fully complement each other.

Q: This August, The Legian Bali will celebrate its 20th anniversary. How will LHM mark this momentous milestone?

Q: We've heard LHM will soon be opening up two more properties in two very different locations: Canggu in Bali and Sire Beach in Lombok. What can we look forward to experiencing at them?

A: LHM needs to have a very aggressive marketing and sales strategy to expand to the Asian market, besides Europe and Australia. We need to diversify the risk by expanding these markets and reaching them through new distribution channels, new offers, new services and new facilities, as well as through new ways to reach today’s guests throughout their journey – all of this needs to be very well planned and executed.

A: In Lombok, we are building a set of villas with a suite hotel overlooking the Gili Islands on Sire Beach. It is one of the most beautiful spots in Lombok with a white sand beach – it’s a breathtaking site on its own and a great place for snorkeling and diving. It will also feature a number of villas that we sell with our partners.

LHM aims to expand its business to become one of the leading boutique hotel management companies in Indonesia. We position ourselves to cater to individuals who seek a personalised experience, luxury and privacy with memorable experiences and a genuine connection to the local environment and culture.

The land we have in Canggu is also located on one of the best beachfront spots in the area. It also happens to sit between two Balinese Hindu temples, making the location very special.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to hospitality enthusiasts looking to make it in the industry?

A: We take pride in The Legian’s 20-year history. We plan to celebrate this key milestone by involving our guests, key business partners and our staff in several different activities and experiences throughout the year, including special promotions at The SPA and The Restaurant, as well as a special Gala Dinner on August 15th itself.

Q: LHM's second property, The Club at The Legian Bali, sits on the same grounds as The Legian Bali and offers 11 luxury villas. Are the properties designed to complement each other or do they attract different markets?

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Q: With LHM's upcoming rapid growth, how do you see the company faring in the future within Indonesia's

A: Be different and unique. Understand your market. Take care of your guests.

Invest in your people and identify the best location. www.lhm-hotels.com

INSPIRATION

Together We Stand,

Divided We Fall – Dario Orsini, General Manager of The Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort

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Proving that teamwork and true passion really are the keys to success, the general manager of the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, Dario Orsini, talks to Asia Dreams about his inspiring approach to management and how this has helped drive the resort to the forefront of Bali's busiest tourism hub.

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hilst some take a lifetime to discover their professional calling in life, others know exactly what they want to achieve and how they will achieve it right from the very beginning. Cue Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort's general manager, Dario Orsini: a humble inspirational man who has been chasing his hospitality dreams since childhood.

Now with more than 30 years in the business, Dario has worked and travelled around the globe in some of world's finest luxury travel destinations, most recently making his mark at the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. While sitting in the breezy lobby lounge overlooking the white sand beach of the bustling Kuta strip, we talk to Dario about his exceptional, worldwide journey to his position today. He speaks about the resort's growth since opening, revealing what it's like to host A-list celebrities and, most importantly for him, he wholeheartedly honours his passionate team and the importance of always working together.

Q: Today you're the general manager of one of the finest resorts in Kuta, but how 110 ASIADREAMS

did you first enter into the hospitality industry?

A: It actually goes back to when I was 8 years old. Some of my family were already in the hospitality industry and would tell me their stories and experiences – I was fascinated. As I grew up I learnt more and understood more about what the industry involved. At school when the teacher asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I would always say: “I want to work in hospitality. I want to travel and I want to learn languages.” Everything just made sense from the very beginning.

Q: You're originally from Naples, Italy.

What enticed you to Indonesia?

A: I've been travelling since I was 16 when I first left Italy and Indonesia has been a natural stop. I was in the Middle East in Saudi Arabia, the Emirates and Egypt, then Europe before I was transferred to Australia.

I joined Starwood in Perth so it was a natural move to start looking at Asia and the Pacific.

First I went to Thailand, then Malaysia, then to Indonesia – nine years later I'm still here and this is the longest post I've ever had.

Q: From your extensive 30-year, worldwide experience, how does Indonesia's hospitality industry compare to the global market?

A: Indonesia and, in particular, Bali in the last 10 to 15 years have really been put on the map in terms of international hospitality.

It's actually a point of reference for a lot of countries out there when comparing how hospitality should work. It's certainly a competitive market, but mostly it is country versus country as opposed to hotel versus hotel, so the way we need to look at it is, Indonesia's hotel market as a whole must always be a step ahead, always a novelty and always creative and fresh. We need to be trendsetters.

Q: So what is it about Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort that stands out from the rest?

A: Location is certainly a standout.

Everything is within walking distance. You've got shopping, surfing, the beach, a bit of culture, entertainment venues – we're even within walking distance to Seminyak if you like. Then there's our Market Brunch at Feast – another standout. It has great value, has a great vibe and great food – it's become

“I hope my team benefits from working with me as much as I benefit from working with them.”

an iconic part of the hotel. All of this really makes us who we are and that's something we've wanted to portray right from the start: the fact that we have a soul, a personality.

We never become complacent and we always evolve to keep the market interested.

Q: So what's your favourite aspect of the resort?

A: Either the Presidential Suite or the rooftop where you can see a different sunset every day that inspires you to be a different person each day. That same feeling of warmth that takes you and your mind somewhere else, it blows me away every time.

Q: You were appointed GM of Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort back in 2012 during the opening. How have you seen the resort grow over the years?

A: From the very beginning I've had a great and fun team behind me and the growth has therefore been very aligned. As we know, Kuta has long been renowned as the epicentre of tourism, but over the years it's become a backpacker destination, not necessarily an elite, luxury destination. So the vision of the owners and our team was to bring Kuta back onto the map as an amazing place to stay – to present the world with a new Kuta. Hence, the Beachwalk shopping mall was built next door and so was the Sheraton. My team have been dedicated to developing the hotel into an award-winning destination from the start, making sure that we're actually lifting the Kuta profile. I actually believe we have done that.

Q: We can tell you have a very respectable team-focussed approach to management. Can you tell us more?

A: I always refer to a song by Pink Floyd that says, “Together we stand, divided we fall.”

It means that if we all work together we will never fall, a philosophy that really gives me goosebumps because it's something I firmly believe and have experienced here.

My team and I are only successful because we've always stuck together and always made decisions together. We work in an environment where there's no need to set strict rules or boundaries because my team can trust their manager. We're just people working together towards the same objective. It's not scientific or complex, but it works. I hope my team benefits from working with me as much as I benefit from working with them.

Q: You were clearly meant for this industry, but what do you imagine you would have become if you hadn't pursued a career in hospitality?

A: Well, I do like to DJ every now and again, but as I said, this industry has been my dream since I was 8 years old, so even when I reflect I don't think I'd want to do anything else. I have no regrets.

Q: We've heard that you've hosted celebrities like Diego Maradona, US President Barack Obama and José Carreras, among others. What's it like when celebs are in town?

A: Each celebrity has his protocols, restrictions, limitations and often lots of security, but really most are very down to Earth. Barack Obama was very humble and even Maradona was happy eating his pasta with tomato sauce while signing autographs.

Q: So what's next on the horizon? Are there any upcoming projects we can look forward to?

A: Watch this space! Although I can guarantee you that we will target people from all walks of life, from families and couples to older guests and younger travellers – in Kuta it's especially important to have something for everyone.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to budding hospitality enthusiasts?

A: There's a couple of things my associate always tells me and that's: “Dario is always there when you need him, but, gosh, he's always there when you don't need him as well!” So I guess it's about always being present, inquisitive and always asking questions – the more you ask, the more you learn. But at the same time, it's important not to micromanage. People need to learn on their own and make their own mistakes and grow, whilst at the same time keeping an eye out for them, being there for them and supporting them. If your team is successful, you are successful. You cannot do everything yourself; you cannot be successful by yourself. www.sheratonbalikuta.com ASIADREAMS 111

INSPIRATION

Representing

The Soul of Bleisure – Alexander Poindl, General Manager of Hotel Pullman Jakarta Indonesia 112 ASIADREAMS

Hotel Pullman Jakarta Indonesia Thamrin CBD’s General Manager Alexander Poindl shares his vast experience in the luxury hospitality industry as the charismatic hotelier sits down with Asia Dreams. Acknowledging the importance of delegating and monitoring responsibility, Alex takes pride in nurturing and empowering his staff as they become great hoteliers in their own right. Thanks to his unwavering attention to detail, the hotel was recently named the best hotel in the region within the Pullman group.

Q: The first flagship hotel you managed was Sofitel Vienna. Can you tell us how you came to be in that position?

really great boss. I had the chance to really learn about many important details and it made my passion for the job grew.

A: Before that, the first hotel I opened was a Mercure in a secondary city in Austria, which I opened and ran as general manager for around five years. In 2004 I switched to Sofitel in Vienna.

In 1994 I joined AccorHotels and have been with the group ever since, and it has been 22 years now.

Q: Even before that, can you share with us what made you decide to jump into the industry and how you actually fell in love with hospitality?

A: I studied hospitality management in the University of Economics, and even during this time I was already working part-time in hotels – in the weekend, holidays, and in the evenings – mostly in the finance department, account receivables, also night shifts and audits, front office. I basically fell in love with this industry because I was proud of what I was doing. At first it was a small hotel with a very close-knit team led by a

Q: So it looks like you went and experienced many different fundamental departments early on. How important is this for the development of your career?

A: Very important. The fundamentals are very important, and also, my first hotel opening was also very important, because it allowed me to put my heart into the hotel from the start and so I knew everything from the ground up. I knew the layout of the kitchen, I basically hired everybody, and I even got to decide every small detail in the rooms. For example, just before we opened, I personally hung paintings in every room one by one. I wanted to do it myself

because I preferred a specific height so. I did this in all 101 rooms. I came to understand every single detail of the hotel on a personal level, and this allowed me to perform my role as general manager effectively.

Q: When you relocated from Europe to Asia, what difference did you notice immediately in terms of work in the industry?

A: First of all, the scale of expectations for a general manager is very different. In Europe, you are managing standards and quality level. You are more involved in everything. At Sofitel Vienna, I had around 80 staff, but when I moved to Novotel Bogor this number quadrupled, and then here in Pullman Thamrin we have around 600.

Here you have different possibilities of what you can do. You are more dependent on the network. The hotel almost runs itself, with the opportunity to offer a much higher level of service. Even in an upscale hotel in ASIADREAMS 113

Europe nowadays, there’s nobody opening the door or hailing a taxi for you anymore – even in Singapore this is getting rarer. But in Indonesia and many parts of Asia, this is what people look for: the service level and attention you get as a guest.

Q: You’ve been in Indonesia for around six years now. How has the high-end hospitality industry evolved between then and now?

A: One of the reasons I moved to Asia was because this is where everything is happening. Not only in the hotel industry, but everywhere, people are trying new things, inventing new things. For example, in keeping with this, we have our first Supper Club series starting in early May. This will be the first Supper Club series in Jakarta! We’re also reinventing our buffet and will have new events, not because it wasn’t good enough but because we have to keep up with the trends.

Q: You’ve carried the identity of AccorHotels throughout Europe and Asia, currently for the Pullman brand.

Can you tell us what this arrangement

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entails and how the brand maintains its high standard?

A: One main difference is that many hotels in Europe are owned by AccorHotels. In Asia, most of the associated hotels are either under management or franchised.

The contract lets AccorHotels manage the hotel under the Pullman brand for the local owner. To ensure consistent high-quality service is maintained, we have an annual brand audit where a mystery guest will visit and crosscheck over 500 items of literally everything about the hotel – from the flag pole outside to how long room service arrives with your food.

Q: Very interesting. When was the last audit and how did the hotel do, if you don’t mind my asking?

A: The last review was in August, and it went extremely well. We exceeded our target and got the best results in the region among the brand’s entire portfolio of properties. We are very pleased as this proves that we have what it takes to be one of the flagship hotels of Pullman for the brand.

Q: With that in mind, what are some of the key features that Pullman Thamrin offers to give it a sort of a competitive edge in the Jakarta market?

A: Location is definitely the one advantage we capitalize on most, but since we are not alone in the market, we do not sit back and be content with having a good location.

Every day we ensure that this advantage stays an advantage. If you look at any respectable online reviewers, obviously you will see guests emphasizing our great location, but they don’t stop there. They also compliment our great breakfast, our new gym, great swimming pool, fast internet, and so on. All these factors coming together offer an integrated hospitality solution that our guests keep coming back to.

We are blending business and leisure. That’s what our brand is about. We call it bleisure.

This is even embedded in our logo: one side is business and one side is leisure.

Q: Coming back to yourself, would you kindly share some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job so far?

A: This is a very interesting question. I would say the most rewarding thing is when I see the team recognized. Occasionally a happy guest leaves a review online and mentions the name of our staff, and this feels great for me personally. Another rewarding aspect would be empowering our employees to improve themselves. We have employee of the month and employee of the year awards, and I can proudly say that our employee of the year was also awarded best employee of the year for AccorHotels Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia. This means that this particular employee was the best employee in 2015 for the region, which has around 100 hotels. We groomed her, we promoted her, and I am personally involved in the presentation she will be giving.

And now we’re sending her to the selection of Jakarta Hotel Association for employee of the year award. This kind of thing is extremely satisfying to me personally.

In terms of challenges, the market is not easy. Staying ahead requires constant monitoring of competitors within the market. This is very important because we want to be ahead, the owner wants us to be ahead, and AccorHotels expects us to be

ahead as well. I would say this is our drive as well as our challenge. We have been doing very well so far and we’d like to keep it that way.

Q: Would you like to share any advice for up-and-coming hoteliers trying to make it in the high-end hospitality industry?

A: I can only say that you have to do it with passion. Otherwise, you will be soulless. You can’t expect a normal Monday-to-Friday job. Expect, especially in the first year, very demanding hours. If a guest requests something on a Sunday evening, you have to react there and then. You cannot wait until Monday. You also have to get your family to understand this, because it is not a 9 to 5 job. Besides that, of course you need basic knowledge and proper education. You cannot become a general manager using only your experience alone. You will come to your limits that way. Also, it is a good asset when you know as many departments as possible early on.

Q: How do you like to spend your leisure time when you’re off work?

A: In the six years I’ve been in Indonesia I’ve become a very avid diver. I have dived in many gorgeous places such as Bunaken, Pulau Weh, Raja Ampat, and of course the must-dive spots like Bali, the Gilis, Komodo Island, and Nusa Lembongan, among other places.

Q: In your opinion, how important is it to work with the right media in pursuing better exposure and market awareness for your hotel?

A: It is very important to pick the right media as technology progresses and printing publications are being gradually replaced by electronic media. Having said that, in my experience a lot of people still value printed publications. The first thing most passengers as they take their seat on a plane is to grab printed reading materials and start flipping through the pages. This is just one of the reasons I think it is still crucial to work with outstanding printed publications. www.pullmanjakartaindonesia.com

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INSPIRATION

Success

Following a Path to

– Jean-Charles Le Coz, General Manager of Grand Nikko Bali

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With more than two decades of experience in the luxury hotel industry, the esteemed general manager of Grand Nikko Bali, one of Nusa Dua's longest reigning resorts, talks to Asia Dreams about his journey into hospitality and beyond.

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or some, working in a five-star hotel on a paradise island is a childhood dream come true, but for others, it's a fated path discovered only by

chance.

That's exactly the case for Jean-Charles Le Coz, general manager of the stunning Grand Nikko Bali Resort. Now boasting more than two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry, Jean-Charles reveals how, by chance, he ended up exactly where he wants to be.

Perched on the oceanfront at one of Nusa Dua's finest resorts, we talk to Jean-Charles at Grand Nikko Bali about the beauty of working alongside breathtaking ocean views each day. We discuss the importance of uniting Bali's hotels to create a world-class destination for all and we learn the secrets to nurturing a successful, high-end resort in today's competitive hospitality industry.

Q: Today you're the general manager for one of Bali's finest resorts, but how did you first enter into the industry?

A: By chance, actually. I had been studying for business school and eventually failed, so I looked at the various options left to get a higher education diploma in less than four years and one option was Lausanne Hotel School (EHL) in Switzerland. I took the test, was accepted and I discovered a world that I have never regretted ever since.

Q: You've worked in four- and five-star hotels in both Europe and Asia. What enticed you to take the leap to Indonesia?

A: Again, chance. A schoolfriend completed his third year internship at Grand Hyatt Bali and when he came back to school he kept raving about it and telling me I should go. So I sent an application, was accepted and that was my first contact with Indonesia in 1993.

Q: How do you see Asia compared to Europe in terms of the hotel market?

A: In Asia there's certainly more competition, better service and lower prices.

In Europe, there's less competition and in general bad service and higher prices!

Q: And what challenges do you face working in Asia, compared to those in Europe?

A: A different perception of what is expected of your superior.

Q: You were recently in charge as vice chairman and acting chairman of the Bali Hotels Association and this year you are responsible for the association's safety and security. How have these positions helped you in your current role?

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“I discovered a world that I have never regretted ever since.�

A: I joined the BHA board in 2008 in charge of education. At that time I felt it was important to participate and to give back in a meaningful way to the hotel community.

I believe, especially in Bali, that while we all compete, once the customers are on the island it is in our best interest to unite to make the destination as attractive, safe, environmentally friendly and respectful as possible, while enhancing the local culture.

Those are some of the goals of the BHA and the position of chairman came naturally afterwards.

Q: So can you tell us, what is the most challenging aspect of your job and what is the most rewarding?

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A: The challenging part is dealing with people, but it is also always the most rewarding.

What's been the secret to its success over the years?

Q: Nusa Dua is a hub of luxury resorts.

In your opinion, what is it about Grand Nikko Bali that stands out from the rest?

A: Consistency in delivering a good quality product, as well as always treating associates fairly and giving them enough training so that it is reflected in the way they handle our customers.

A: The beautiful Indian Ocean view that can be enjoyed from so many rooms and areas throughout the property, whether you're dining at The Shore Restaurant & Bar, relaxing by the lagoon pool or making yourself at home in the luxury clifftop villas.

Q: With that in mind, how do you see Grand Nikko Bali faring in the future within Indonesia's competitive hotel industry?

Q: There are clearly so many beautiful aspects of the resort, but what's your favourite feature?

A: It will always retain its greatness thanks to its unique location and ocean views, its savoir-faire and its team of seasoned professionals ready to do their utmost best to exceed customer satisfaction.

A: It would be the great view again and also the secluded beach. We don't have any beach vendors interrupting our guests here as we still have no direct neighbours. It keeps things very peaceful.

Q: The resort is one of the longest reigning in the area, open since 1996.

Q: And finally, what advice would you give to budding hospitality enthusiasts?

A: Be ready to work long hours, but be sure to make them fun. And that often depends on the people you choose to work with! www.grandnikkobali.com

Culinary Journey

Conquering the Culinary World One Rendang at a Time

Self proclaimed lover of food, travel and writing, Indonesian celebrity chef and award-winning author, Petty Elliott talks to Asia Dreams about her discovered talents in the kitchen and how it has helped her spread the joys of Indonesian cuisine to the rest of the world. She talks to us about her television debut on BBC Masterchef, reveals the ins and outs of her latest book, and she confides that one day, she hopes Indonesian cuisine will rule the world!

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Q: Today you are recognised as Indonesia’s well-known chef and author, but how did you first find your passion for food, travel and writing?

A: I think I must have had a natural talent for cooking from when I would cook with my grandmother when I was young, but actually, it wasn't until later on in life that I discovered my kitchen skills. My husband is British so whilst we were living there, I would entertain friends and neighbours with food and it just so happened that they loved my cooking. I would cook Indonesian cuisine using whatever ingredients I could find, so I guess it was a bit of Indonesian fusion. I would make simple fresh salads with ginger, chilli and lemon dressings, and as more people tried and loved my food, I started doing cooking demonstrations there in England. That was when a friend said to me, Petty, you have to join BBC Masterchef.

Q: You starred on BBC Masterchef in 2001. How did your life change following your television debut?

A: It really gave me so much confidence as a chef and a writer. It was definitely the beginning of my culinary career and now I get lots of opportunities to collaborate with international and local chefs across the world, sharing our ideas and our techniques.

I've gained so much professional input and inspiration, it has been truly invaluable.

Q: It's interesting that you discovered your passion and talent for cooking in England – a place that is often renowned for fairly bland food!

A: Yes I know! But I think that's why English people really love my cooking. They know Indian curries and Thai curries, but not Indonesian curries, so when they taste my rendang, it blows their minds! Of course, I have to tone down the spices a little bit, otherwise I'd be worried they'd have a heart attack!

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Q: You clearly love to showcase Indonesia's regional cuisine across the world. What is the typical reaction to the fiery and complex flavours of the archipelago?

A: I think people are generally very excited, open and welcoming. Indonesian food is very unique but at the same time it shares links with other cuisines that people can relate to, like curries, satays and soto; even gado gado or urap as they're basically salads with a twist! Unfortunately, when some people think of Indonesian food they automatically assume nasi goreng, so I hope that the more we talk about our cuisine and our culture, Indonesian food will one day rule the world!

Q: You’re doing a pretty good job of promoting Indonesian Cuisine having just published your latest book ‘Jakarta Bites’, a guide to the capital’s street food and Betawi, Jakarta indigenous people cuisine. What can our readers look forward to the inside.

A: The aim of Jakarta Bites is to give people an idea of the varied cuisine available in Jakarta, from all over Indonesia, without having to travel to its regions. It teaches readers about Makanan Betawi, a largely forgotten indigenous cuisine. The recipes in the book have been prepared to be as simple and easy to make as possible, including different tips and tricks for modern cooking and the option of substitutes if certain ingredients are hard to find.

Q: You're from Manado, North Sulawesi – an island with a very rich culinary culture. Can you tell us a bit about the typical staples and signature flavours of this unique island?

A: Manadonese staples are mostly fish or pork and every dish is crazy spicy! But at the same time, the cuisine is very fresh and

tangy because we use lots of lemongrass, lime leaves and tomatoes. Rica-Rica is the signature base spice, and that's made with chilli, shallots, garlic and ginger with or without tomatoes but we also have very complex recipes too, like in Woku Blanga, which is a fish dish that uses up to 14 different spices and herbs. I actually sometimes make pasta using this Woku Blanga mixture but with added tomatoes and extra seafood!

Q: We love hearing about culinary traditions around the world. What country or region outside of Indonesia has inspired your cooking and your travels?

A: I would say Italy. Italians are very proud of their heritage and their recipes have been handed down through generations from their grandmothers. The ingredients are amazing, too. So simple but beautiful.

Q: Do you have a favourite Italian restaurant here in Asia to recommend to our readers?

A: GIA in Jakarta and Tosca in Hong Kong.

Q: So how would you describe your own style of cooking?

A: I'm very modern but still stay true to the real tastes of Indonesia. Fresh, beautiful, elegant and healthy, my cooking is always easy to follow so that you can create gourmet cuisine in your own kitchen.

Q: Finally, any advice for budding chefs and passionate foodies like yourself?

A: I think it's very important to have your own personality, to stay true to your heritage and inject that into your cooking.

Don't just follow others, have your own style, work hard and always continue to learn.

Petty Elliott's Gohu Ikan Raw Tuna with Calamansi, Chillies and Kemangi “This is not usually found in typical Indonesian restaurants but instead in remote Maluku or North Sulawesi. I love this dish for its simplicity, freshness with mega flavours. Instead of kemangi (local basil) you can substitute with Italian basil or use thinly sliced lemon grass and/or ginger flower known as kecombrang. Add extra bird’s eye chillies for those who like a fiery taste. It is very important to use the freshest tuna.” - Petty Elliott Serves 4 small starter portions

Ingredients:

Method:

• 200g sashimi-quality tuna fillet • 1 large papaya chilli pepper and 3 bird's eye chilies, chopped into small cubes • 50g shallots, peeled and chopped into small cubes • A small bunch of kemangi or basil • 3-4 calamansi or 2 limes, juiced • Sea salt to taste • Kemangi or basil and edible flowers for garnish • 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil, briefly heated

1. Place four plates in the refrigerator for around one or two hours prior to serving.

2. Put the sliced chillies and chopped shallots into a medium bowl. Add the calamansi juice or lime and season with salt. Mix well and set aside in the fridge.

3. Slice the tuna fillet very thinly.

4. Place a teaspoon of the chilli and shallot mixture on each of the cold plates, setting the rest aside.

5. Arrange four pieces of tuna on each and season with salt.

6. Spread a tablespoon of the remaining shallot mixture across the top of the tuna portions, drizzle with warm extra virgin coconut oil and garnish with basil leaves and edible flowers.

7. Serve immediately, and enjoy.

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GOURMET

Comfort Feast

meets Hearty Drinks

Having more than 500 spirits, wine and liqueur collections from around the world offered at the best prices to accompany its delectable cuisines, CHAMBER Food and Spirits is currently the hippest hangout in town.

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ituated in the courtyard of one of Jakarta’s most popular malls, CHAMBER Food and Spirits is a chic modern restaurant that offers something special after every meal – a chance to enjoy a wide selection of premium liquid goodness to choose from with very approachable price tags.

Upon entering CHAMBER Food and Spirits through the front, you will be welcomed by smiling faces to help you get seated in either the cool semi-outdoor area out front or the inner dining area decorated with rustic industrial metals and opulent chandeliers.

Tables are solid marble or of alluring dark colours lined with uber-comfy sofas and plush armchairs.

The focal point of décor, in my opinion, is the rows upon rows of exquisite wine and spirits neatly categorized and lined up on the wall, from floor to ceiling on some sides. From Japanese whiskies to Irish malts and rare beers, these bottles turned out to be quite the appetite arouser. Price tags are generally very visible, allowing guests to browse as they wish before deciding which to open after a hearty meal.

Speaking of meals, Executive Chef Jimmy Enggelete remarked that CHAMBER Food and Spirits tries to escape the common offering of Western food in a restaurant with bars. “We are mainly dominated by Asian cuisines with a handful of Western-Asian fusions combined with wine and spirits to boot.”

If you’re looking to enjoy some hearty dishes at your own leisure, feel free to visit CHAMBER Food and Spirits at lunchtime when the atmosphere is subtler. On the other hand, reservations are highly recommended if you arrive after about 4PM, both on weekdays and weekends, because the entire restaurant is almost always filled with diners looking to unwind with a few drinks after dinner.

CHAMBER Food and Spirits’s guests on weekday afternoons mostly consist of young executives, while the more mature crowd usually goes in after hours. ”Meanwhile, the weekends usually see quite a mix between these two groups. Our DJ plays not only on the weekends, but every single evening. This adds to the festive atmosphere we have at CHAMBER Food and Spirits. We are open until 12PM on weekdays and 2AM on the weekends.”

With more than 20 years of experience in the culinary world, leading kitchen teams at international five-star hotels, Jimmy’s high exposure to Western-style cooking only serves to perfect his fusion techniques, allowing him to create innovative dishes at CHAMBER Food and Spirits.

Some of the most coveted dishes at CHAMBER Food and Spirits include the lunch favourite, CHAMBER Food and Spirits mixed rice, which is a combination of pork belly, char siew, egg, a rich broth served on a side of delicious Hainan rice; aglio olio king prawn with mixed herbs and mild spices and a selection of meats, mainly for wine pairing options for those who like to pamper their palate with a nice gastronomic experience. “We recommend wagyu, tenderloin and sirloin for pairing options.

Our more-than-qualified waiters are always

ready to recommend wines that complement whichever steak you prefer to enjoy,” Jimmy added. With so many to choose from, your dining experience will be complete as you pick a bottle to wrap up your evening after your meal. The prices of these bottles are noticeably friendlier than in the general market, so much so that all alcohol options at CHAMBER Food and Spirits come only by the bottle. So far, the market keenly embraces CHAMBER Food and Spirits is new concept of blending late-night drinks and delish cuisines, as it is now one of the most popular hangouts in Jakarta.

CHAMBER Food and Spirits Pacific Place Mall, Lantai Ground Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, SCBD Jakarta, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5797 3128 www.chamberjkt.com ASIADREAMS 123

GOURMET

Honest

Superb Cooking At Monty’s you’ll find ample selections of modern European-Scandinavian cuisine prepared with finesse and served with sincerity.

Dark Chocolate & Whiskey

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L

ocated in the chic Senopati area, Monty’s exterior is inconspicuously minimalistic, reflecting the understated charm of the Klabo Group. Similar to its counterparts, the philosophy of Monty’s is one that offers top-notch dishes prepared with refined culinary techniques that come from the heart – no shenanigans and no over-the-top presentations, just straight-up, honest-togoodness delicacies.

Entering the first floor, you will immediately notice Monty’s main dining and bar area, laden with soft ambient lighting that compliments the dining area’s main features of marble, sophisticated seats, sofas and tables and impeccable wine glasses and silverware. Moving up to the second floor you'll find Monty’s secondary dining area and two separate VIP rooms, fronted by clear floor-to-ceiling windows to let in ample natural light during the day and allow for a lovely view in the evenings. As the hour grows late, sit back and relax with glasses of wine or fresh cocktails at the third floor bar, accompanied by a DJ or live music on the weekends.

With well over a decade of experience leading five-star hotels and international restaurants, Head Chef Christer Foldnes is at the helm of Monty’s culinary team and is responsible for the chic restaurant's ingenious dishes. Chris sat down with Asia Dreams to share how things are done at Monty’s.

Sea Scallop with Angel Hair Pasta And Caviar bang

Q: I understand Monty’s is doing something special this Ramadhan?

A: That’s correct. We’re stepping out of our familiar panache to introduce more AsianIndonesian-style comfort food. This is very exciting because we are a modern European restaurant at heart and it’s good to try something new every once in a while.

Q: You’ve been here for about a year since the opening. What has changed since then?

A: Quite a lot has changed. Of course we rotate our menu every now and then depending on feedback from customers and other things. You learn as you go, right? So there are always a few tweaks as we go along.

All in all, in terms of the dishes, we have several signatures that have stayed since the opening and we changed around other dishes that didn’t move much.

dishes constantly change, but these are some favourites that have stayed since the start because they are very popular Q: Could you tell us your philosophy both in cooking and in leading your team in the kitchen?

A: My food philosophy is all about simplicity – simple food with no cover-ups or fancy distractions. I like to let the ingredients shine and speak for themselves. Leadership philosophy: I believe in letting my people express themselves. I’m not a micro-manager.

Chef Christer’s wild Norwegian salmon crusted with roasted nuts, brocolini and lemon is truly the best salmon dish I’ve had in a while. The plate remarkably rings the chef’s philosophy of presenting a clean taste and fully highlights the raw goodness of the salmon balanced by the freshness of the seared lemon and vegetables.

Q: Tell me a bit about Monty’s crowd.

A: We have a good mix of people. I think we have a fairly mature crowd of both expats and locals: in essence, people who enjoy good food and good atmosphere. Our guests are also very knowledgeable. They know what they want and this is a good challenge for us to keep them happy.

Q: Which three top dishes would you recommend to those visiting Monty’s for the first time?

Head Chef Christer Foldnes

A: It would have to be the truffle cheese soufflé, champagne sea scallop angel hair and, of course, our Norwegian salmon and the melt chocolate dome dessert. Most of our other

The sea scallop on angel hair pasta topped with caviar presents a tantalising interplay of taste between the scallop’s delicious, tangy meat and the richness of the pasta sauce, which is quite rich but not overpowering.

If you’re looking for a sophisticated European restaurant offering delicious food that is both humble and enjoyable, Monty’s would be the perfect place to get what you want: a range of modern European dishes cooked honestly from the heart with understated elegance.

Monty's Jalan Senopati Raya No. 84, Kebayoran Baru Jakarta 12110, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 7279 2323 E: eatandtreatsindo@gmail.com ASIADREAMS 125

GOURMET

An Exceptional

Champagne Journey at St. Regis Bali

Sturia Caviar Primeur” – carpaccio of cured Hokkaido scallop, avocado sorbet, pickled green apple, Champagne-yoghurt dressing

The St. Regis Bali Resort and LVMH present a sophisticated evening of singular cuisine and prestige champagne at Kayuputi, the resort's exceptional fine-dining restaurant.

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elmed by Executive Chef Agung Gede, Kayuputi at The St. Regis Bali has carved out an enviable reputation for its fine Asian-inspired haute cuisine, grand style, exceptional service and its vast wine cellar. As well as serving lunch, dinner and its legendary Astor Diamond Champagne Sunday Brunch to its discerning clientele, the restaurant also hosts outstanding pairedwine dinners on selected nights throughout the year.

Nestled deep within the stunning St. Regis Bali resort and reeking of timeless sophistication and elegance, the airy and

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high-ceilinged Kayuputi (literally “white wood” in Indonesian) is a refined beachfront restaurant and a five-time Wine Spectator Award winner. The white décor, bleached shadow puppets and plush furnishings frame both the vast open kitchen to the rear and, to the front, the magnificent beachfront vista. An opulent venue in a beautiful tropical setting, it was the perfect location for this highly anticipated and exclusive event that featured a prestigious collection of eight champagnes and some of the finest Asianinspired haute cuisine available in Indonesia.

The champagne selection included Veuve Clicquot NV, Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut,

La Part des Anges - Creamy griotte-verbena, pistachio financier, beet root-raspberry sherbet

La Grande Dame, ‘R’ Ruinart, Krug, Dom Pérignon and Dom Pérignon Rosé and the evening finished off with Moet & Chandon’s latest offering, Ice Imperial Demi-sec served with fresh strawberries and paired with the creamy griotte-verbena, pistachio fancier and a beetroot-raspberry sherbet.

The evening kicked off with aperitifs, canapés and champagne in the opulent Kayuputi Bar served by the white-tuxedo clad wait staff, swiftly followed by the traditional St. Regis Champagne Sabrage, where, with a flourish, the sommelier opens the first bottle of champagne with a slash of his ceremonial cavalry sword.

Space prevents me from waxing lyrical over each delicious wine and every artistically crafted dish, but suffice to say that from the Fine de Claire Oyster amuse-bouche, paired with the well balanced Veuve Clicquot Brut, to the aforementioned griotte-verbena, via the Sturia Caviar, blue swimmer crab dumplings and shaved tataki of Rougie foie gras, each and every delicately prepared and beautifully presented course, along with its paired champagne, was simply magnificent. Between courses, guests were treated to regular anecdotes and snippets of information supplied by The St. Regis Bali chief sommelier, the renowned Harald Wiesmann, the LVMH brand ambassador,

Alistair Toyne, and Executive Chef Agung Gede, who even by his extremely high standards delivered an evening to cherish and one that further enhanced the reputation of The St. Regis Bali Resort for its exceptional wine dinners.

The St. Regis Bali Resort Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot S6, Nusa Dua, Kuta Selatan, Badung, Bali T: (+62) 361 847 8111 E: stregis.bali@stregis.com www.stregisbali.com ASIADREAMS 127

DESTINATION

Faultless

City Luxury

Experience for yourself the award-winning comfort that has made Four Seasons Hotel Singapore famous.

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ituated on lively Orchard Boulevard, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore is just a few minutes’ walk from a famous array of shopping and dining centres. Upon arrival you will be overcome by the impeccably luxurious property. Some of the resort’s 1,500 international art pieces are visible in the sophisticated lobby. Modern pieces, traditionally inspired artwork and much more are displayed throughout Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, adding to the sophistication of the resort. Offering guest-centred service alongside worldclass accommodations, Four Seasons

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Hotel Singapore is well known as one of the most comfortable experiences possible in Singapore – its staff famously trained "to treat others as you wish to be treated yourself”. Choose from many equally posh accommodations options that are tailored for individual travellers.

Sink into the soft, pillow topped bed in your luxurious guest room. Adorned with elegant furnishings, the latest amenities and stylish artwork, these contemporary and refined five star accommodations are as comfortable as they are lavish. Whether you are in Singapore on business, or for a

family holiday, you will want for nothing during your stay at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore. Open your curtains to sweeping views of Orchard Boulevard knowing that your room is one of the best in the city.

For fine dining, visit one of the hotel's awardwinning dining destinations including OneNinety Wood-fired Steaks and Seafood. This restaurant serves ocean-fresh seafood and masterfully grilled meats and hosts a unique inclusive international breakfast experience.

For more variety, indulge in a selection of authentic Cantonese cuisine, including Chef Alan Chan's signature double-boiled soups and Cantonese roasts at Jiang-

Nan Chun. This dining concept has been newly redesigned to better encapsulate the restaurant’s philosophy of “Xiang Le Zhu Yi” or "the principle of enjoyment and happiness,” which states that flavour has the ability to transcend the body’s appetites to fulfil the aspirations of the mind and soul.

and wildly creative cocktails handcrafted with "secret potions": an exclusive range of DROPLETS by Javier that took three years to formulate. Sophisticated yet wholly enjoyable, guests experience cocktails like never before in an elegant and sociable lounge atmosphere.

After dinner the night is only just beginning – wrap up your day at One-Ninety Bar and Terraza by Javier de las Muelas. There you can socialize over deliciously blended libations such as the signature Singapore Sangria, complemented by a resort-style outdoor terraza. Explore a line-up of familiar

For these reasons and many more, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore Four Seasons boasts a list of accolades – including honours for its restaurants and spa. The contemporary One-Ninety Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood as well as the Chinese fine-dining Jiang-Nan Chun have been

named among the illustrious Singapore Tatler Best Restaurants 2015 and Wine & Dine Singapore’s Top Restaurants 2015. With its skilled therapists and all-encompassing menu of options, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore has truly earned the award for Best Jet Lag Recovery Spa Treatment at the Harper’s BAZAAR Spa Awards 2015.

Four Seasons Hotel Singapore 190 Orchard Blvd Singapore 248646 T: (+65) 6734 1110 www.fourseasons.com/singapore ASIADREAMS 131

DESTINATION

Overflowing Serenity

Luxurious in its refined Balinese simplicity, escape your hectic day-to-day routine at Kamandalu Ubud.

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his resort takes its name from ancient Sanskrit in which Kamandalu refers to a special vessel used for carrying holy water – the essence of life itself. In the same way visitors will leave with a complete sense of calm rejuvenation, as if they have imbibed these sacred waters themselves. Not far from the centre of Ubud, the property sits atop the hills overlooking the Petanu River amid a vast sea of green. In this pastoral scene, water flows through the resort, irrigating operational rice terraces.

Inspired by traditional Balinese villages, each villa features natural stone finishes and thatched rooftops, but are furnished to ensure five-star comfort. Tropical palms hang over your private pool as you relax on your Balinese daybed enjoying the view of

the surrounding lush hills and rice paddies and a chorus of birdsong. Feel free to explore this tranquil setting with a bicycle tour through rice paddies – if your timing is right, you may even be able to learn how to plant and harvest this vital crop.

Afterwards, enjoy a picnic lunch on a boat as you drift along the gentle waters of a peaceful lagoon in a tropical garden setting. This picnic pastime is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with a loved one. Savor a basket full of light bites and take plenty of romantic photos together during this delightful rendezvous on the water.

For the wellbeing of your body, visit the Chaya Spa at Kamandalu and treat yourself to a massage and a treatment at the beauty spa.

As night begins to fall, watch the sun set over the green valley and take pleasure in a private dinner under the stars surrounded by flickering candles and the timeless ambiance of Alun-Alun. Feast upon a sixcourse menu of culinary precision prepared by the resort's chef at a live cooking station. This intimate dining experience includes the release of a pair of birds to symbolise your shared destiny as a couple.

To maintain an element of exclusivity, only one dinner booking is accepted per day for what promises to be an evening of pure perfection.

Kamandalu Ubud Jalan Andong, Banjar Nagi Ubud, Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 975 825 E: reservation@kamandaluresort.com www.kamandaluresort.com ASIADREAMS 133

DESTINATION

Sail Away in Utmost Style

There really is nothing quite like setting sail on the open ocean, cooled by a light sea breeze and intrigued by the distant and glittering horizon. Add to that a luxury yacht with sleek, air-conditioned saloons, a few bottles of chilled Champagne, even your own private chef or butler if you so choose, and you'll begin to understand why Pulau Luxury Charters is Bali's premier cruising company.

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lthough an exclusive hotel on a tropical island is a dream come true for many, nothing quite beats the total serenity and privacy of sailing away on a luxurious yacht that's stocked full of everything you'd expect from a world-class, five-star resort, one that James Bond himself would be proud of.

Offering just that, Pulau Luxury Charters is Bali’s premier, luxury yacht and powerboat company that specialises in customised, tailor-made excursions and luxury holidays around Bali and the surrounding archipelago. These luxury charters have all the panache and comfort of a floating villa, with the added bonus of being able to explore all of Indonesia’s amazing destinations in utmost style.

Depending on the occasion and the size of each group, whether its a romantic couple's getaway or island-hopping with friends, you can choose between a fleet of some of the region's finest vessels.

From the Haruku, a long-range craft designed to whisk up to 20 guests away to remote locations, to the impressive Jemme Cat 43 – a 43 foot-long sailing catamaran with huge trampoline sunbeds and a wide deck space for entertaining – every aspect of a Pulau Luxury Charter is handled discreetly and professionally for a truly world-class experience.

An Ocean of Opportunities Beyond the thrills of five-star cruising, Pulau Luxury Charters can also tailor a number of exciting excursions whilst sailing the deep blue. Whether it's a surf at one of Bali's fabled breaks, a dive down to the lively coral reefs, or a spot of fishing for tuna, mackerel, or blue marlin, Pulau Luxury Charters makes the ocean your oyster.

In particular, the Burjuman is an Italianmade luxury yacht and a personal favourite of the Asia Dreams team. Sparkling with sophisticated glamour, this superbly appointed cruiser is a yachting connoisseur's dream. It's lavishly decked out with a spacious fly bridge with a BBQ grill and an air-conditioned dining room and saloon, as well as three luxurious staterooms, all with en suites. Plenty of Champagne and a magical sunset is highly recommended to match.

To complete the entire experience, Pulau Luxury Charters, although Western owned and operated, is supported by an outstanding, handpicked local staff who have been professionally trained to carry clients away to Indonesia's most unique destinations, promising captivating seafaring experiences of a lifetime.

Pulau Luxury Charters PT The Pulau Asia Group Jalan Tukad Punggawa, Melasti Beach Serangan Island, Bali 80223, Indonesia T. (+62) 361 8951075 E: pulaudc@pulaugroup.com www.pulauluxurycharters.com ASIADREAMS 135

DESTINATION

A Barefoot

Hideaway

Located on Tanjung Benoa’s beach strip, famous for white sandy beaches and water sports, lies the Sadara Boutique Beach Resort.

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ust a 20-minute ride from Ngurah Rai International Airport, Sadara Boutique Beach Resort is a great choice for young couples looking for a romantic, relaxing getaway.

Last year the hotel closed for large-scale renovations, for modernisation and upgrading throughout. Despite the new additions, it is clear from the moment you are greeted in the lobby that this hotel has remained close to its Balinese roots.

The smell of frangipani fills the air in each of the 80 guest rooms, each one beautifully crafted by combining traditional Balinese architectural elements with modern amenities. Wi-Fi, air conditioning, safety deposit boxes, TVs and mini bars come as standard. The classic rooms are spacious and airy with hand-crafted wooden features throughout. The beds are decorated in maroon and cream, and roses

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and chocolates are left on the pillows.

The premier rooms are located in the newer wing and follow a similar colour scheme. An impressive mirrored wall really opens up the space and makes for a welcoming retreat from the midday sun.

Guests can also enjoy their own outdoor seating area overlooking the gardens.

The exclusive and spacious suites are designed to deliver the next level in relaxation and comfort. Guests can enjoy their own private outdoor Jacuzzis, littered with rose petals and set to the backdrop of the glistening ocean.

The green and well-kept grounds are home to exotic plants and water features.

Continuing down the path, guests will find a large swimming pool overlooking the Indian Ocean. The floating day beds, lazy cabanas and bean bags are a

sun-worshipper's dream come true.

Renowned for its excellent water sports, the beach is a hive of activity for the more adventurous guests out there. Jet skiis, diving and parasailing are right on your doorstep.

The hotel also offers a romantic private dining experience on the beach. A four-course dinner, private butler and bottle of wine guarantee a truly spectacular evening.

Enjoying great food is not a problem at Sadara Boutique Beach Resort. There are three dining facilities: the Wave Beach Club, the Rasala Kitchen and the Rasala Bistro.

The Wave Beach Club serves food all day and combines beach activities with light meals served at your sun lounger.

The light and breezy Rasala Kitchen's turquoise interior matches the views of the pool and ocean perfectly. The menu serves a range of international dishes to suit most tastes. For a lunchtime snack, the

calamari salad is particularly delicious.

The signature restaurant of the Sadara is the Rasala Bistro, open for dinner every evening at 6PM. Here guests can enjoy a five-course set menu of traditional Balinese cuisine. The food is carefully crafted to keep the authenticity of the taste and presented with a modern twist. This dining option must be booked in advance.

The Sadara Boutique Beach Resort is an enchanting barefoot hideaway ideal for couples and honeymooners looking to unwind. With the superb choices of dining and daily activities it's no wonder guests return year after year.

Sadara Boutique Beach Resort Pratama Street, Tanjung Benoa Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 772 010 E: info@sadararesortbali.com www.sadararesort.com ASIADREAMS 137

DESTINATION

· A Gateway to Paradise · The Kunja Villas and Spa embodies the perfect combination of privacy and access – just minutes away from the excitement of Seminyak, but far removed from the usual holiday hassles.

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pend the day combing the trendy streets of Seminyak, filled with boutique shops and delicious eateries, just minutes away from glittering, sun-soaked beaches. A reservation at The Kunja Villas and Spa is the key that unlocks these splendours and many more, offering gorgeous, fully serviced, private villas. The Kunja consists of four exclusive three-bedroom villas and 14 one-bedroom villas, each appointed with a spacious and well-appointed living area, a private swimming pool with sundeck, a full-service kitchen and lush tropical gardens. Take a well-deserved break after an exciting day of island outings.

The facilities in the villas at The Kunja include lavish lounge areas where guests relax on comfortable sofas, sipping drinks while they are tended to by friendly, but non-intrusive staff.

Your villa will be intimately prepared before you arrive and your medical and dietary needs taken into account – the kitchen well-stocked with vital items before you even arrive. The kitchens also include all the appliances you need to make your favourite dishes and drinks yourself, along with the best chinaware and cutlery for a sophisticated evening.

During your stay, you will experience the famed hospitality of the Balinese as the warm and welcoming staff will exceed your expectations. You may even wish to indulge in a personal chef and chauffeur, enabling you to truly enjoy your holiday and the spirit of the Island of the Gods, untainted by stress.

For couples in paradise, the beauty, privacy and exclusivity of The Kunja offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable romantic getaway. With wonderful wedding packages and tailor-made preparations, let the splendour of this location carry you and your spouse into eternity. The Balinese terraces and glass architecture of the Santi Chapel ensure the wedding of your dreams, while The Kunja’s impeccable accommodations and fantastic service help create the perfect honeymoon surrounded by tropical beauty.

The Kunja Villas and Spa Jalan Lb. Sari No.8, Kerobokan, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 473 3130 E: reservations@thekunja.com www.thekunja.com ASIADREAMS 139

SPA

A True Oasis In The Heart Of Jakarta A charming escape, Hotel Borobudur introduces the new Klub & Spa Borobudur as Jakarta’s next wellness retreat.

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estled in the centre of the bustling metropolis of Jakarta, Hotel Borobudur opens the doors to the new Klub & Spa Borobudur, a lavish haven for the mind, body and soul. The iconic five-star hotel introduces the latest state-of-the-art wellness facility amongst 23 acres of a surrounding tropical garden that lets you escape from the city’s traffic into serenity. It is complete with a newly built Olympic-sized swimming pool, a 700-meter jogging track, fitness centre, exercise courts, a helipad to beat the traffic, an executive lounge and meeting rooms, as well as the Spa Borobudur.

Enter your Modern Oasis Like finding a hidden gem in the city, the Spa Borobudur truly indulges you in undiscovered tranquility with an unparalleled variety of spa treatments.

Upon entering the double doors to the spa reception, the soothing floral scents fill the air, welcoming you into a sanctuary.

The Spa Borobudur embraces true Indonesian heritage with a touch of other Asian-inspired healing philosophies that are reflected in an extensive menu of rejuvenating spa treatments. Even its interior resonates a blend of Thai and Balinese styles with a setting that creates a traditional yet modern feel. From the warmth of the lounge that ultimately leads in through a corridor of mirrored golden branches, the

spa features 10 charismatically designed private treatment rooms, six single rooms that cater for traditional massages and Shiatsu treatments and four couple’s rooms equipped with soothing baths, as well as sauna and steam facilities.

Your Lair of Tranquility With a modern touch of serenity, you can definitely feel the calming and amiable aesthetic as the therapist takes you to one of the rooms. The treatment lair is lit warmly as you enter through the ceiling-high wooden door and suddenly you are faced with a satisfyingly spacious room complimented with enchanting tunes of tranquility. Decked in dark red and wooden furnishings, there is also a temple presence in the room with one side of the wall covered in Balinese-inspired dark stone works. It truly does make you feel like you’re in a serene oasis amidst the noise of the city.

Personalized to your revitalizing needs, Spa Borobudur offers various styles of signature Balinese, Thai and Japanese treatments in specially designed themed single or tandem sessions: from the Borobudur Signature treatment of 150 minutes of body exfoliating and mask with face treatment and a full body massage to a Healing Stone Therapy, a Shiatsu Massage, a Thai Massage, Foot Reflexology and even a Half Day Full Recovery treatment of full body massage, scrub, mask, herbal bath and a facial as

your choices. The spa also uses the best in traditional oils, herbs and spices that stream you into a spa journey in your own luxurious personal space of blissful relaxation and renewed spirit. You can even take a piece of the tranquil haven home with you by picking up your massaging essentials from the Spa Borobudur’s retail shop.

It is definitely a mark of the times when you feel like you never have enough time for yourself in the city. Well now there is no need to go so far to escape as the Klub & Spa Borobudur truly embodies an ultimate wellness haven where you have the best of all worlds. With strong Asian-inspired treatments, the Spa Borobudur drifts you into a holistic journey of serenity and peacefulness with its range of signature rituals. From head to toe, you can choose to be pampered with a Javanese-style massage, or Japanese Shiatsu to the renowned Thai massage. There is simply no excuse when you can experience full revitalization in the heart of Jakarta as you pamper yourself in true traditional relaxation.

Klub & Spa Borobudur, Hotel Borobudur Jakarta Jalan Lapangan Banteng Selatan No.1 Jakarta Pusat 10710, Indonesia T: (+62) 021 380 5555 E: welcome@hotelborobudur.com www.hotelborobudur.com ASIADREAMS 141

ESCAPING ASIA

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A Truly Magical Moment on the Saharan Dunes â€

By Maria Sukrisman

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orocco is a perfect getaway on the African continent.

Experience the beauty of the golden dunes stretching out into infinity and, as night falls, retire to your secluded camp under the stars. To experience Morocco is to witness a whole new world that should be seen at least once in a lifetime.

My main reason for heading to Morocco and flying into Marrakech was to explore the famed Sahara Desert with a caravan of camels and eventually see a magical sunrise over the dunes. Prior to my trip to this exotic country, I found out there are many options of tour operators offering desert tours ranging from one to three nights. The process to book the tour was very simple and I chose to join a two-night group camel caravan ending at the awe inspiring Erg Chebbi dunes.

Other travellers may opt for a private tour, a guided excursion with desert 4x4 vehicles, or other exciting camping offers.

Winter is one of the best seasons to visit Morocco; the weather can be quite extreme between day and night, but the heat in the afternoon is often acceptable. I packed a selection of clothing styles to prepare for any and all weather conditions and readied myself for the long ride from Marrakech.

The driving distance was a little less than 144 ASIADREAMS

500 km and along the way we were able to get a glimpse into the culture of the local Berber people as we made periodic stops in picturesque villages, including the famed Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified city and UNESCO World Heritage site that lies along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech in present-day Morocco.

After a very long and very tiring day of more than 10 hours of driving, we eventually crossed the high Atlas Mountain and finally reached our hotel for the first night.

The tour provided dinner and breakfast packages and all of participants were excited to try the traditional Moroccan dish, tagine, served in a clay pot.

When I woke up in the early morning, I could feel my adrenaline increase as I looked forward to experiencing the camel trekking on the second day. The journey took a few hours to reach the Sahara Desert. On our way, we visited another village where we witnessed traditional carpet making. It was amazing indeed to see how the village people spend months to complete a fascinating colourful Moroccan carpet.

At about 3PM, we were entering the main road to the Erg Chebbi; it was a dusty and challenging journey. By the time we reached our destination, all the camels were ready to carry all of us through the soft

sands. Camel trekking, the traditional mode of transportation of the Berber people, is a wonderful way to be introduced to the culture. Experienced local guides who walked beside each camel assisted me and we slowly began the bumpy ride to our final destination. Riding a camel is not the most comfortable experience and it took more than 90 minutes to reach the Berber tent that would be our overnight oasis.

That night, surrounded by endless sands, the sky was vast and clear; there was complete silence as millions of bright stars shone in the darkness. The wind was quite chilly, but luckily the tent was filled with many thick blankets with which to stay warm. Then, after serving a traditional dinner, to entertain everyone the Berber people performed a traditional song and dance around the campfire.

On the following morning, before 6AM, everybody readied themselves to ride back to civilization. Although it marked the end of the trip, this was the moment that everyone was waiting for, as all the camels and passengers climbed up a tall dune and watched the sun rise over the wind-sculpted orange sand dunes – it was a very breathtaking scene indeed. All of us weary travellers took the opportunity to capture this spectacular sight; no words can describe this magical moment.

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Subscribe Now! And win a 3-night stay at The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah, Ubud with Club Service benefits for two persons that includes breakfast, afternoon tea, sunset cocktail, private butler, yoga class and many more.

Hidden among the lush undulating hills of Bali’s culture-rich highlands, this most private of Ubud hotels sits among thriving rice fields as far as the eye can see. Just outside the artists’ village of Ubud, the former estate of Hendra Hadiprana, one of Indonesia’s most respected art collectors has been transformed into an intimate luxury retreat with twenty individual villas, each one uniquely featuring original Balinese artworks from his collection. Those seeking serenity and rejuvenation will find both in abundance at The Spa, nestled at one edge of the seemingly endless paddy fields. Experience breathtaking sunrises over Mount Agung – Bali’s highest and holiest mountain – and enjoy a leisurely stroll by the estate’s lotus pond, home to a family of white Dutch and black Australian swans.

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The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah, Ubud, Bali Jalan Goa Gajah, Tengkulak Kaja Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 975 685 F: (+62) 361 975 686 sales@thechediclububud.com www.GHMhotels.com

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LAST WORD

“The family that plays together, stays together” – Anonymous

The September/October 2016 Issue of Asia Dreams Magazine will feature "Art, Architecture and Design with Spa, Beauty & Wellness".

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Plantation wins them all!