Asia Dreams / March-April 2016

WITH MASTERCHEF SUPERSTAR AUDRA MORRICE

FASTLANE JAGUAR XE BMW Z4

INSPIRATION JIMMY GUNAWAN ANDRÉ KRETSCHMANN STEPHAN SIEBERG

THE HOTTEST DESTINATIONS IN ASIA TO WORK HARD AND PLAY HARDER.

JAKARTA / BALI / SINGAPORE / HONG KONG IDR 50,000 SGD 9 RM 25 USD 6 HKD 60 AUD 7 ISSN 2089-872X

CULINARY JOURNEY

Business Meets Pleasure

Mewariskan Nilai Keluarga, Meneruskan Langkah Sukses ke Depan

PermataBank Priority memberikan fasilitas lengkap yang dapat dinikmati Anda dan anggota keluarga.

1. PermataPriority Debit Card & bebas biaya iuran tahunan PermataBlack World MasterCard untuk Anda dan keluarga 2. Gratis transaksi PermataNet, PermataMobile & gratis tarik tunai ATM di seluruh dunia (ATM Bersama, Prima, Alto di Indonesia, Visa PLUS di luar negeri) 3. Kurs kompetitif untuk transaksi di luar negeri dengan PermataBlack World MasterCard 4. Bebas biaya penarikan Bank Notes mata uang asing sampai dengan ekuivalen USD50.000/bulan 5. Penawaran menarik dengan PermataPriority Debit Card : a. 10% cashback pembelian tiket Garuda Indonesia di kantor penjualan Garuda Indonesia. b. 10% cashback di golf store ternama di Indonesia.

6. Fasilitas eksklusif bagi nasabah PermataBank Priority dengan penempatan dana minimum Rp 5 Milyar: a. Priority Pass atau Airport Handling Service b. Voucher diskon Rp.1 Juta untuk paket tour di partner tour terpilih c. Free kids golf clinic bagi putra-putri nasabah d. Airport Pick Up Service

Segera hubungi Relationship Manager Anda untuk informasi lebih lanjut mengenai syarat dan ketentuan fasilitas.

Tersedia dalam layanan PermataBank Priority Syariah

Dipersembahkan bagi Anda dan keluarga:

Welcome to Kampoeng Bali, RIMBA’s authentic Balinese village dining experience.

Experience the Bali of yesteryear with a culinary journey at Kampoeng Bali, RIMBA’s distinctive Balinese cultural performance restaurant. Inspired by Bali’s rich cultural heritage and exotic cuisine, indulge the senses during one of Bali’s legendary sunsets, as a traditional market atmosphere comes to life. Enjoy lush rice paddy views and a sumptuous buffet featuring Bali’s most famous specialties including ‘babi guling’ or suckling pig. A magical Kecak dances promise to delight guests of all ages.

Open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6.00pm.

Rp. 500.000 ++ per adult | Rp. 250.000 ++ per child | Rp. 150.000 ++ per person for entertainment only.

For information and reservations: t. +62 361 846 8468 | www.rimbajimbaran.com | fb.reservation@rimbajimbaran.com

CASCADING ROMANCE LASTS FOREVER. Celebrate your romance journey on a cliff-ocean front glass wedding chapel, Dewa Dewi Chapel, offering one-of-a-kind weddings of signature grace and intimate ceremony promising a magical celebration. Exchange vows and toast eternal union over unforgettable view of the Indian Ocean and Bali’s legendary breathtaking sunsets. Create your love story celebration at Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort.

Further information or reservations, please contact +62 361 – 8957 555, uluwatu@anantara.com

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit bali-uluwatu.anantara.com

CAMBODIA CHINA INDONESIA MALDIVES MOZAMBIQUE QATAR UNITED ARAB EMIRATES VIETNAM ZAMBIA OPENING SOON OMAN SRI LANKA

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

WORK H ARD & PLAY H ARDļ

H

ere at Exquisite Media, we're firm believers in working hard and playing harder. After all, what's the point of success if you can't reap the rewards afterwards? So for this edition's cover theme, we're taking you to the top destinations in Asia for both business and pleasure.

Whether it's a five-star Bali villa that can transform into a tropical conference room like no other, or a high-flying Executive Lounge in the heart of Singapore's wining and dining district, we've been to the best hotels and resorts in the region that cater to corporate travellers and discerning leisure-seekers alike.

We then meet with four of Asia's most influential hospitality experts who live and breathe this work hard, play hard philosophy. We talk success with Stephen Sieberg, Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta's General Manager, the challenges of the industry with The Legian Bali's General Manager, André Kretschmann, and we learn why it's important to always think outside the box with the Alaya Group owner, Jimmy Gunawan.

The industry trailblazers don't stop there. We also caught up with Asia's Food Goddess and Masterchef superstar, Audra Morrice, in our Culinary Journey feature in between her TV appearances and cookbook signings, and after so much stardom, we then kick back at some of the most glamorous hotels and resorts in Bali and Jakarta for our regular Asia Destination roundup.

We hope you enjoy reading this edition as much as we enjoyed writing it – we'll certainly be raising a few glasses to celebrate, because as always, with business must come plenty of pleasure.

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

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MARCH — APRIL 2016 PUBLISHER Lenny Marlina Tanu MANAGING EDITORS Refa Koetin Louise Newsham EDITORIAL TEAM / CONTRIBUTORS Jake Fredericks Amanda Luxford Christian Galbraith Heidy Zainuddin Divya Kishore K. Pridhnani

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Dely Waty Cameron S. SALES MANAGER Putri Desianti GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sahid Darma Kusuma Aulia Karya Nugraha CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER Evy Mariana Tanu PERSONAL ASSISTANT Triana Dewi Hardita

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES BALI : (+62) 361 759 180, 759 184 JAKARTA : (+62) 21 9653 8988, 9653 9299 Hotline : (+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 www.shutterstock.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Marleen Gloria PHOTOGRAPHIC CONTRIBUTORS Jonathan W. 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

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

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

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

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

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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.

TasTe Our Fresh New FlavOurs All day breakfast, dishes to share, healthy grazers, sandwiches, salads, pasta, grills and our new selection of healthy drinks.

Dine in air conditioned comfort.

OPEN FROM 7.00 AM - 10.00 PM Ample parking space available Free Wi-Fi

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

@grazebali

CONTENTS

22 20 |

MOVIDA OPENS IN BALI

NEWS

MARCH — APRIL 2016

39 32 |

RISE OF THE TRINITY

SOCIETY

The world-famous MoVida brand opens in Bali, KUDETA releases another compilation of sunset soundtracks and The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta brings the legendary Domaines Barons de Rothschild wines to the capital.

We set sail on a cruise of a lifetime with Royal Caribbean International. Take a peek at the glitz and glam of the launch event at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place in association with HSBC, Beringer and Bodegas Puente Del Ea.

40 |

42 |

INNOVATION

We take a look at the latest cutting edge, ground-breaking and pioneering innovations from Bang & Olufsen – the speaker brand with a difference.

True automotive advancement - life on the road has never been so innovative. We get behind the wheel of the Jaguar XE and the BMW Z4.

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BANG & OLUFSEN’S SPEAKERS FOR THE FUTURE

FASTLANE

TRUE AUTOMOTIVE ADVANCEMENT

Best Beachfront Resort in Kuta Discover a world untainted, unequaled and an unrival beauty. Let us create your picturesque Romantic Journey.

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, Managed by Discovery Hotels & Resorts, set among spacious tropical gardens and along sparkling beachfront, the resort just minutes from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport.

The resort encompasses: 312 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, 7 luxury Discovery Beachfront Villas, 7 Food & Beverage outlets and the other stunning facilities are ready to impress your holiday with your beloved one.

For further information & reservations, please contact +62 361 751067

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

CONTENTS

52 46 |

MARCH — APRIL 2016

HIGH-FLYING FASHION

STYLE

50 |

BEAUTY

Keep up with the season's hottest trends with our pick of iconic statement pieces. Dior reveals a bold bag with urban attitude, Tory Burch ups the ante for the classic block heel whilst jewellery from Tiffany & Co, Mont Blanc and Cartier is undoubtedly eye-catching yet quintessentially chic.

Get a distinctively beautiful look with Klara Cosmetics Australia products, guaranteed to give an intense and long-lasting look.

52 |

61 |

FASHION

Business well and truly meets pleasure in these latest styles from Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Frank & Co, Loewe and Bebe.

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BUSINESS & PLEASURE

Whether it's to work hard or play harder, or even a little bit of both, we take an in-depth look at the best destinations in Asia for both business & pleasure.

KERATON AT THE PLAZA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, JAKARTA

CONTENTS

MARCH — APRIL 2016

102

LIVING THE DREAM

118

102 |

INSPIRATION

118 |

ASIA’S FOOD GODDESS

CULINARY JOURNEY

Four of Asia's most influential hospitality experts talk industry challenges and the importance of thinking outside the box.

Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice reveals the fast-paced lifestyle of a Masterchef finalist and her culinary travels across the globe.

122 |

132 |

GOURMET

From the European flavours at Cacaote in Jakarta to the secrets of gourmet cuisine at the Mozaic Ubud cooking classes, we follow our taste buds to Asia's newest and most innovative dining experiences to bring you the very best.

From the luxurious tropical vibes along Bali's Seminyak shores to the big city lights at Hotel Santika Premiere Hayam Wuruk – Jakarta, read on to plan your next five-star getaway.

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EXPERIENCING EUROPE IN JAKARTA AT CACAOTE

DESTINATION

RESPECTFULLY CHIC

ALWAYS A GREAT STAY Step out for great local shops, alive lifestyle, delicious dining, cultural spots and much more. We’re just walks away from Kuta Beach and Beachwalk.

You’ll love our location. Right in the heart of Kuta & Legian. Whether you’re in town for work or fun, you’re in for a great stay.

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON BALI, KUTA Jalan Benesari, Banjar Pengabetan Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia BOOK NOW AT FOURPOINTSBALIKUTA.COM OR CALL +62 361 849 6606 & EMAIL: FOURPOINTS.BALIKUTA@FOURPOINTS.COM

GREAT HOTELS. GREAT RATES.

©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.

NEWS

CULTURE & ART EXHIBITION FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF KOREA (DPRK)

Darrel Cartwright, HE. An Kwang IL & Basuki Tjahaja Purnama

In the spirit of discovering the beauty of Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), the Parklane Hotel hosted a culture and art exhibition event held on 16th February 2016 where prominent guests gathered to appreciate the Korean culture in depth. After enjoying the paintings, arts and crafts and also the cultural musical performance, guests were invited to experience authentic Korean food for dinner which included kimchi, bibimbad rice, stir-fried glass noodles and more. Also honouring the crowd with his presence was the Governor of Jakarta, Mr. Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, who addressed the audience with a brief speech and spent the evening with the crowd. www.parklanejakarta.com

CHEF’S TABLE AT OLIVIER

Occasionally, chefs and F&B executives alike are given the chance to unwind, dine and socialise during a “chef’s night out” and treated with an everlasting flow of beers and exquisite wine, paired with delectable meals and dessert. On February 15th 2016, Olivier hosted about 30 prominent Chefs and F&B Executives from upscale restaurants as well as hotels established in the capital including; Gilles Marx – Chef Founder of Amuz, Rolf Knecht – Executive Chef of Grand Hyatt and Stephane Galibert – the new executive chef of Immigrant. Guests were served a delicious array of snacks followed by two main courses to choose from, washed down with Bordeaux wine or beers. The “Chef’s Table” is said to be held every month at different intimate, stylish and comfortable venues where personalities pillaring the Food and Beverage industry in Jakarta can mingle, introduce themselves and take a little break from the kitchen.

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NEWS

Anchoa

Cecina

MOVIDA OPENS IN BALI

Opening to great acclaim this January and already getting rave reviews from Bali’s foodies, MoVida’s blend of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine is proving popular on the Island of the Gods.

This stylish Spanish restaurant is the result of a partnership between the PTT Family, the group behind Bali institution Potato Head Beach Club, and Frank Camorra of MoVida, an acclaimed Spanish restaurant group from Australia.

Located in The Katamama, a soon-to-open all-suite boutique hotel adjacent to Potato Head Beach Club, this is the first overseas opening for MoVida after opening five in Australia. Showcasing the best of both parent companies, the Seminyak restaurant is also presenting brand-new ideas and concepts.

The MoVida Bali menu is inspired by its new, island location and climate, whilst retaining its famed Spanish character. MoVida co-founder Frank Camorra and MoVida Bali head chef Jimmy Parker are working with local farmers, who are now growing 24 ASIADREAMS

ingredients native to Spain especially for MoVida Bali.

“As part of the culinary approach for our Bali venture, we will be tailoring a number of our signature dishes to reflect the tropical landscape – our dishes will still feature distinct MoVida flavours, highlighting the best produce Bali has to offer,” said Camorra.

One wildly popular tapas dish is Anchoa, a wafer-thin crispbread topped by a salty anchovy, which in turn is topped with a smoked tomato sorbet making for an incredible sensation of flavours, textures and temperature. Another heavenly creation is the Cecina – air dried beef with truffle foam holding an organic poached egg.

In addition to a wide range of top quality tapas are the meats and fish from the josper oven, including whole baked halibut and the truly divine Central Javanese lamb shoulder with saffron potatoes.

Before heading into MoVida, stop by Akademi – headed by Director of Mixology Dre Masso – for some classic cocktails with a local twist that explore Indonesia’s tropical offerings. With an extensive range of premium spirits and house-made infused local arak, Dre and his team produce a fabulously interesting menu of drinks sure to tickle your fancy. www.katamama.com/en/ community/movida

NEWS

INDONESIA YACHT SHOW ���б, THE �TH EDITION

Dreams of sailing on your privately owned yacht across the archipelago's waters and afar may possibly come true soon with the upcoming fourth edition of the Indonesia Yacht Show (IYS). The prestigious event, organized by PT Megawatt Asia and held at Batavia Marina Jakarta, will showcase the latest yachts and boats to millionaires in Indonesia and from around the globe who have massively deep pockets.

With more in-water displays, luxury products and appealing programs, as well as parties, this year’s edition is expected to bat the already impressive results from previous events down the park and attract at least 6,000 guests. The last edition drew more than 3,000 visitors from 10 countries, with 50 exhibiting companies from eight 26 ASIADREAMS

countries, including the UK, Italy, Hong Kong and Singapore to name a few, and gathered more than USD50 million worth of potential sales during the three-day event.

Moreover, the previous events placed Indonesia as one of the leading luxury yachting lifestyle exhibitions and markets in the region, which also attracted big name exhibitors such as Simpson Marine (distributor for Azimut Yachts), Aycer Yachts, Dimitri Marine (distributor for Ferretti Yachts), Princess Yachts, Wider Yachts, Gulf Craft and many others.

With the recent more “yacht friendly” regulations initiated by the government, the demand for luxury yachts, craft and boats by local upscale Indonesians and expats is

growing tremendously. This will encourage investments in the country and stimulate the general economic development of coastal communities, resulting in a massive boom in the industry.

This year’s IYS extravaganza, held on 30th and 31st July, will run from 12PM to 8PM only.

The event will take place at: Batavia Sunda Kelapa Marina Sunda Kelapa Harbour Area Jalan Baruna Raya No. 9, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia www.indoyachtshow.com

Impressive.

Colonial style mansion residing within 5,000 sq.m. of beachfront tropical gardens on the East Coast of Bali.

Villa Puri Nirwana is available as four- or six-bedroom luxurious holiday rentals or as your private and spacious beachfront event venue.

More details online at: www.purinirwanavilla.com.

Buildings are at a generous 1,200 sq.m. 16-meter long swimming pool with Jacuzzi bath located on the absolute beachfront of the property. Villa can accommodate up to 22 guests (standard occupancy is for 14 people). We also host events for up to 100 guests. There are three spacious living areas, beachfront dining and lounging bale, billiard table, two lounges with TV, and your very own private Spa. Villa is serviced by a team of 19 dedicated staff including the villa manager, butlers, personal cook, and 24-hour security service.

We are located at around 35km from Bali Denpasar International Airport, only 5km from Keramas surf-spot and beach club, and 600 meters away from the world renowned Bali Safari and Marine Park, in the village of Cucukan.

Enquires and reservations: (+62) 811 3997717

sales@villanabali.com

www.purinirwanavilla.com

NEWS

GASTRO ARTS – WINE & DINE SERIES

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place has presented a gastronomic journey of discovery, the Wine & Dine Series, at Pacific Restaurant and Lounge, introducing extraordinary vintage wines from around the world. The Wine & Dine Series paired some of the restaurant's finest selections with exquisite cuisine made by the culinary team led by Executive Chef Sean Macdougall. Guests had the opportunity to mingle with and learn from guest speaker Michele Négrier.

This year, to start the unique series, Pacific Restaurant gave attendees an opportunity to taste wines from a legendary winemaker with a five-course paired dinner on 28th January. The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place collaborated with Domaines Barons de Rothschild, which has produced renowned wines in France for centuries.

At the dinner, the Domaines Barons de Rothschild highlights included Château Lafite Rothschild, Légende Pauillac, Légende Bordeaux Blanc and Légende Bordeaux Rouge. Chef Sean Macdougall paired the wines with Hokkaido scallops, duck confit agnolotti, wagyu beef, camembert and truffle honey and a dark chocolate cherry finale. www.lafite.com 28 ASIADREAMS

Wagyu Beef with Blue Cheese and Beetroot

Mr. Michele Négrier

Mr. Kukuh

GLOW

by COMO

Is more than a restaurant but a way of living in the heart of Bali Concealed in a private clearing at the heart of COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, you will find glow restaurant — in the Ubud forest, with the Ayung River flowing deep below. In this serene, contemporary space, chefs prepare the freshest organic dishes from an open-air kitchen, using herbs from the Estate gardens, locally caught seafood, and the finest imported grain-fed beef. Now non-resident guests of our 360-wellness resort can enjoy a taste of this nutritionally rich, flavour-packed cuisine, with a spectacular weekend brunch held from 11am until 2.30pm every Sunday.

Brunch costs Rp 550,000 for adults and Rp 300,000 for those aged 12 and under (excluding government tax and service charge) with the spread on offer including as many dishes as you’d like to try.

A4

For bookings, contact +62 361 978 888 or email res.CSestate@comohotels.com

NEWS

Yee Sang

THE BEGINNING OF A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

Guests at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali joined in the southern Chinese tradition and celebrated Chinese New Year with a colourful Yee Sang tossing.

Chinese New Year is a time rich with diverse traditions and unique customs dating back hundreds of years. The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali welcomed the Year of the Monkey with an auspicious Yee Sang tossing at the property’s own signature Chinese restaurant: Table8. A beautiful arrangement of colourful shredded vegetables

attracts wealth and treasures. After reciting ceremonial verses, guests took up their chopsticks and worked together to toss and blend each of the components, creating luck, prosperity and a tasty dish to enjoy together. www.themulia.com/bali

and other ingredients were presented. Guests gathered around the gorgeous display as Table8’s Chinese chef explained that each ingredient has a unique role in cultivating wealth, prosperity and other favourable signs for the year to come. For example, raw salmon is meant to bring abundance, shredded green radish brings eternal youth and pepper

KU DE TA RELEASES A NEW VOLUME OF SUNSET SOUNDTRACKS

Keeping the legacy alive for magnificent timeless music compilations is the new release, Vol. 9, from KU DE TA. With the skills of progressive mixmaster and DJ-curator extraordinaire, Jim Breese, and Argentinian revolutionist Adrian Giordano, another hot set of sunset soundtracks gathered from around the globe has been born.

The album features classic remixes and upbeat melodious tempos including “Pandajero” by Cantoma, “Reef” by Russian producer A Vision of Panorama, “Dangerous” by DJ Pippi, “Arnold’s Theme” by Australia’s Touch Sensitive and many more. From '90s style summer jam and soulful sophisticated deep-house to groovy remixes and more, the latest volume is packed with ear-catching, head-bopping and spine-tingling music that embodies the breezy and flair atmosphere and flair of KU DE TA. Vol. 9 is available at the KU DE TA boutique and also digitally on iTunes and SoundCloud. www.kudeta.net

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NEWS

NEW MEMBER OF MESA HOTELS AND RESORTS

This year, the well–renowned MESA Hotels and Resorts is introducing a new member under its wing, the Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh. Located in the North of Vietnam, about a 90 minute drive from the south of Hanoi, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh is currently the only five–star luxury resort in the area. Situated 20 minutes from Trang An, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, this resort combines the true traditional essence of Tonkin Village in Vietnam’s ancient capital, as well as Vietnamese luxury in its architectural design.

Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh consists of 172 rooms in nine clusters and is home to two restaurants: the Sen Restaurant serving a Western and Vietnamese breakfast buffet and French pastries and Organics Restaurant bringing in an array of healthy organic Vietnamese, Asian and Western dishes for lunch and dinner, as well as a wine and pool bar to help loosen those nerves.

In addition, the resort provides a wide selection of pampering services such as

THE MULIA BALI

The Ellen DeGeneres Show Promotes Bali Destination and The Mulia Bali Globally In December 2015, the American television talk show hosted by comedian/actress Ellen DeGeneres, The Ellen DeGeneres Show promoted Bali, Indonesia and The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas - Nusa Dua, Bali destination globally. The three ultraluxurious properties are set along 30 hectares of sprawling landscape on the dramatic coastline of Nusa Dua. Epitomizing extravagance and opulence, combined with genuine hospitality, the breathtaking resorts redefine sophistication.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show often features audience participation and games where prizes are awarded. In order to welcome the festive holiday season, Ellen created the famous 12 Days of Giveaways segment where she presents gifts offer 12 days to the audience at the show, from clothing, accessories and decorations, to electronic items. As a final bonus, Ellen saves the best gift for last with a chance to relax and enjoy the holidays. On this occasion the audience received a luxurious holiday at Mulia Resort - Nusa Dua, Bali. Ellen said “This may be our best giveaway ever. It’s Bonus Day of the 12 Days of Giveaways!” www.themulia.com/ bali.

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The Ellen DeGeneres Show

La Cochinchine Luxury Spa, an outdoor swimming poor, indoor heated pool, a fitness centre, a complimentary morning yoga class and more. The MESA Hotels and Resorts continuously aims to provide unique experiences, from the busy business lifestyle, spa experience in the middle of nature surrounded by an active coffee plantation and mountainous views, to clinging from the edge of a cliff. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, Vietnam is sure to meet expectations. www.mesahotelsandresorts.com

SOCIETY

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

THE FINEST CRUISE SHIP is Ready to Sail

A

Introducing Royal Caribbean International’s newest, largest and most outstanding cruise ship yet - Harmony of the Seas, which will be setting sail beginning May 2016 across Europe’s most popular destinations in the Western Mediterranean.

warded for being the “Best Cruise Line Overall” in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards for 13 consecutive years, with a 46-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry firsts never before seen at sea, Royal Caribbean International sails 23 cruise ships to the most popular destination in seven countries including Bermuda and the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, South America and more.

The most recent cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, will debut in May 2016 for the summer season on a seven-night voyage to Western Mediterranean’s most popular destinations, including Spain, France, Rome and Italy.

Harmony of the Seas will span 16 guest 34 ASIADREAMS

decks, encompass 227,000 gross registered tons, carry 5,497 guests at double occupancy, feature 2,747 staterooms and is longer than the Eiffel Tower. It will also be the first cruise ship to feature Splashaway Bay, an interactive aqua park for kids, with The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea touting a 100 foot dramatic plunge. Other revolutionary features include the Bionic Bar with dancing robot bartenders, Virtual Balconies in many interior staterooms offering sea and port views, the Royal WOWBands with RFID technology to simplify the guest experience, VOOM - the fastest internet connection at sea found exclusively on Royal Caribbean ships, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Centre and Youth Zone.

For a gastronomic journey at sea, the cruise offers delectable dining options, which such as new specialty restaurants Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, Sabor Taqueria and Tequila Bar, and Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine.

Guests will be amazed by the jaw-dropping new entertainment offered on the Harmony of the Sea, from the hot summer nights of Broadway musicals; Grease and Columbus!

The Musical, to high-tech, high-definition ice shows in Studio B; 1887 and iSkate Showcase, to high-flying, immersive performances at the oceanfront AquaTheater; The Fine Line and Highway Heist and an interactive, problem solving puzzle break activity: Escape the Rubicon. www.royalcaribbean.com/ harmonyoftheseas

SOCIETY

A Lavish Spanish Evening

Dewi Tuegeh, Blake D. Hellam, Maria Sukrisman & Steven Suryana

Stephan Sieberg & Stephanie Sieberg

Maria Sukrisman, Lenny Marlina Tanu & Ipung Kurnia

Rodrigo de la Vina Muhlack & Daniel Plasencia

For one special evening, guests were treated with a fun filled Spanish-styled fiesta to celebrate the launch of Harmony of the Seas, held at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, on 3rd February, 2016.

mesmerised by the Zara fashion show with its chic and fabulous designs. Meanwhile, before indulging on the generous premium buffet, guests were transported to Spain with the sultry sounds of the gorgeous Australian singer, Lydia Rose throughout the night.

cruise trip from Singapore by the Royal Caribbean.

At the start of the evening, guests were greeted with an array of delectable canapĂŠs, endless wine and Champagne before being invited to take their seats in the elegantly decorated ballroom. After a brief introduction, the 250 guests were

The exceptional night ended with the highlyanticipated lucky draw, where guests won stay vouchers in some of Bali’s most luxurious villas, a round-trip air ticket to Barcelona supported by Turkish Airlines and a luxury

The lavish black and white event organised

by Exquisite Media at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, was supported by the partnership of Royal Caribbean International and HSBC. The memorable event also collaborated with Beringer and Bodegas Puente Del Ea which provided the superb selection of wine and Duval Leroy for the delightful Champagne.

ASIADREAMS 35

Grace Visca & Johan Tjiptadi

Filianah & Hasmin Rusli

Liang & Tandiono

Daniel Whitelaw, Lenny Marlina Tanu & Chef MJ

Sandy Zenas & Nova Sari

Maria Sukrisman, Helena Abidin & Lenny Marlina Tanu

Mr. & Mrs. Jahja Mawinata

Juwani Japriyadi & Sri Wahyuni Sariat

Yos Nugroho & Tini Nugroho

Jacques Rebaudo & Ayamah

Rita Mirasari & Desi Primayanti

Veri Y. Setiady

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Chandra Lotisto, Andry Parura & Hendra Lakwis

Mariani Santoso & Jefri Santoso

Kim Saprimon & Ruth Sihombing

Desiree Merlina, Lenny Marlina Tanu, Phoebe, Darrel Cartwright & Cameron Smith

Fashion show by ZARA

Ng Simei, Blake D. Hellam & Agus Setiawan

Zemy Kustiawan & Suzy Josito

Lydia Rose & The Band

Maria Sukrisman, Hendry Christian Wong & Fatih Guldas

Lenny Marlina Tanu & Alfredo G. Torres

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CALENDAR

NYEPI and cold delicacies, homemade pralines, ice cream and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and traditional finger sandwiches.

The Mulia, Mulia Resort and Mulia Villas, Nusa Dua – Bali Experience the Hindu Day of Silence at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas - Nusa Dua, Bali and nourish your body and soul at one of the eight food and beverage outlets, pools and fitness facilities or Mulia Spa. Guests are encouraged to join a Kapha Yoga meditation to clear the mind, body and spirit as all Balinese observe Nyepi, the annual Day of Silence, on 9th March, 2016. In addition, one of the Best Spas in the World as rated by Condé Nast Traveler USA – Readers' Choice Awards (2015) – Mulia Spa offers full or half-day spa experiences complete with wellness cuisine and a training regime that is designed to nurture and restore guests' well-being. www.themulia.com/bali

The tranquil Nyepi luxurious getaway rates start from USD540++ per night to stay in a St. Regis Suite for guests checking in on 8th March 2016 and checking out on 10th March 2016. During Nyepi, the hotel facilities, including swimming pool, spa and restaurants, will remain open. www.stregisbali.com.

The Laguna Resort & Spa Nusa Dua, Bali Combining an exceptional tropical paradise locale with unrivalled beachfront sophistication and authentic Balinese hospitality, The Laguna Bali is the perfect place to spend the most captivating two-night Nyepi stay. Experience an unforgettable Nyepi night stargazing from your own private balcony.

The St. Regis Bali Resort The St. Regis Bali Resort offers a perfect getaway to enjoy the tranquillity and spirituality of Nyepi. Embrace a magical Nyepi getaway by staying in an elegant St. Regis suite or villa with 24-hour bespoke St. Regis Butler Service and complimentary wi-fi access. Allow your palate to be seduced by a lavish international selection of food with daily sumptuous breakfast, a one-time dinner at Boneka restaurant for two persons on 9th March and Afternoon Tea at King Cole Bar featuring delightful selections of hot 38 ASIADREAMS

Be inspired by an alluring guest room or suite showcasing contemporary design, or a villa with large private pool. Enjoy daily breakfast for two and a one-time buffet dinner at the revamped Banyubiru for two persons on the night of Nyepi, 9th March 2016. Last but not least, be pampered with a one-time complimentary 60-minute massage. The offer starts from USD225++ per night for a Deluxe Garden View room for guests checking in on 8th March 2016 and checking out on 10th March 2016. www.thelagunabali.com

W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak Step into the W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak to experience a magical Balinese Nyepi.

Watch the colourful ogoh- ogoh parade, in which the local youths parade creative demonic statues made from bamboo and paper that symbolize evil or malevolent spirits. The ritual ends by burning the ogoh-ogoh to symbolize the driving away of the evil spirits. Witness the dramatic sight of millions of stars in a night sky free of light pollution, with a rare solar eclipse the following morning! W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak offers stays for minimum of two nights with rates starting from IDR3,300,000 with complimentary daily breakfast for two at FIRE, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your stay, unlimited access to the 24-hour FIT (fitness centre) and five-star services.

Book your stay on 8th – 10th March 2016. www.wretreatbali.com.

Maya Resort & Spa Celebrate Nyepi at Maya Sanur Resort & Spa or Maya Ubud at a special price of only IDR1,750,000 net per room per night. The promotion is inclusive of accommodation for two in a Superior Room at Maya Ubud or Deluxe Garden View Room at Maya Sanur, lunch for two on Nyepi day, daily breakfast for two, free late check out until 3PM on departure day, 20% discount on all food and beverage bills and 30% discount on all spa treatments at Maya Sanur and Maya Ubud.

This promotion only valid from 8th March to 10th March 2016. Reservation in advance is required and subject to availability. www.mayaresorts.com.

EASTER The Mulia, Mulia Resort and Mulia Villas, Nusa Dua – Bali | The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali presents exciting culinary Easter journeys at Mulia Deli, to international gastronomic experiences at The Cafe and the signature Mediterranean and Pan-Asian restaurant, Soleil. Seasonal chocolate confections and other holiday specialties are themed with playful notions of spring and flowers, while the simple Dover Crab with Preserved Clam in Sapo Qing Dynasty’s Palace secret recipe, among others, is also available as part of a special must–try menu. www.themulia.com

The Laguna Resort & Spa Nusa Dua, Bali | Arwana Restaurant makes the perfect setting for a meaningful Easter celebration with family and friends on Sunday, 27th March. The Easter Sunday BBQ is from 12PM to 3PM, priced at IDR480,000 net per person inclusive of beers, homemade specialty iced teas and soft drinks. Visitors are encouraged to laze around special designated beach and pool areas at the resort for the rest of the afternoon or engage in additional water sport activities. Children, 4-12 years old, pay IDR240,000 nett per child. The beverage packages start from IDR480,000 net per person and include selections of cocktails, wines and local beers. Reserve before 12th March 2016 and receive 25% off the food package. fb.reservations@luxurycollection.com

The Dharmawangsa Jakarta | The Dharmawangsa Jakarta is proud to present the most celebrated and lavish Easter Super Brunch at Jakarta Restaurant and Courtyard, on Sunday, 27th March from 11.30AM until 3.30PM. Guests are invited to have an exciting Easter weekend with an extensive selection of sumptuous food for a family feast, live entertainment, and fun-filled activities for kids; it is sure to be an extravagant Super Brunch. Guests will experience a smorgasbord of international delicacies specially prepared by the Executive Chef, Felix Budisetiawan and team, ranging from premium caviar (Sturia Primeur Caviar, Calvisius Oscietra Classic), AOC French cheese and raclette cheese collection, seafood tower with fresh French oysters, Alaskan king crab, Canadian lobster, Spanish baby lobster, Canadian sea scallops, Japanese air-flown fresh fish and seafood sushi and sashimi selection, foie gras station, and lobster thermidor.

Easter Super Brunch at Jakarta Restaurant and Courtyard is available at IDR1,588,000++ per person (inclusive of an unlimited flow of cocktails, wine, beer and sparkling wine), IDR988,000++ per person (inclusive of an unlimited flow of juices, soft drink and mocktails) and IDR688,000++ per person for kids (inclusive of an unlimited flow of juices, soft drinks, and milkshakes). For reservations, please contact (+62) 21 725 8181 ext. 6237. www.the-dharmawangsa.com

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan | Experience an amusing Easter in Ritz-Carlton tradition. Make your little ones the happiest Ritz Kids of the day! The menu includes chilled fresh seafood, slow roasted prime rib and lamb, eggs station, grilled teppanyaki meat and seafood and the delectable dessert station with ice–cream. Lobo Restaurant invites families to dine on the magnificent Lobo’s brunch buffet for a fancier afternoon. The menu includes a series of tapas, modern European – inspired pasta and pizza, prime steaks and fish, completed with colorful dessert stations. This special occasion also featured a live music performance. Priced at IDR438,000++ per person the Asia Restaurant buffet and IDR588,000++ per person for the Lobo Restaurant buffet, children are entitled to enjoy the Easter fun activities and games at the poolside after sharing the family meal.

For a longer indulgence, spend the long Easter weekend with the family in the spacious luxury rooms.

Explore the city escape as you unwind in the tropical gazebos by the pool, enjoy an above-the-ground garden jogging track, luxury fitness center and culinary exploration of the restaurants. The Easter weekend prices start from IDR2,350,000++ per night in a Grand Room, including breakfast. For more Easter information and reservations, please call (+62) 21 2551 8888 / 8380 / 8321. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/indonesia/jakarta

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MUSIC

B EATS

VIBES

WEEZER “THE WHITE ALBUM” After the Blue Album, Green Album and Red Album, Weezer announced their new album, White Album, which will be released on 1st April, 2016. They’ve also announced a lengthy tour hitting its stride this summer, featuring Panic! at the Disco and Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness.

The album will feature 10 tracks including “Thank God for Girls” and “Do You Wanna Get High?”, along with promotional single “King of the World”.

MAKE SURE YOU DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING CONCERTS! INDONESIA EVENTS

2th - 7th March, 2016 | Java Jazz Festival 2016 at Istora Senayan

LÅPSLEY “LONG WAY HOME” The 19-year-old will release Long Way Home on 4th March, 2016 on XL Recordings featuring 12 tracks and new versions of her previous tracks “Hurt Me”, “Falling Short”, “Painter” and “Station”, plus a brand new single, “Love Is Blind”. Låpsley never fails to impress us with the bellowing, incredibly captivating sounds she puts out, ever since we came across her three years ago.

5th March, 2016 | 5 Seconds of Summer “Sounds Live Feels Live” at Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) - BSD City 1st April, 2016 | UB40 “Greatest Hits Live In Concert” at Istora Senayan

SINGAPORE EVENTS

3rd March, 2016 | 5 Seconds of Summer “Sounds Live Feels Live” at The Star Theatre 4th - 6th March, 2016 | Singapore International Jazz Festival 2016 at Event Plaza, Marina Bay Sands

PET SHOP BOYS “SUPER”

Photo courtesy of www.electronicbeats.net

The dynamic duo Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe have sold more than 50 million records worldwide and will release a brand new album called Super this spring. The announcement came with new tracks: “Inner Sanctum” and “The Pop Kids”.

Twelve songs make up the album, which will be released in digital, CD and vinyl format on 1st April, 2016. Tennant and Lowe wrote this album in Berlin and recorded it in Los Angeles.

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11th - 12th March, 2016 | The Iconic Film Scores of John Williams “Star Wars and Beyond” at Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands 18th March, 2016 | Sheila Majid “My Inspiration, My Love, My Legacy 30th Anniversary Concert” at Esplanade Theatre 2nd April, 2016 | UB40 Live in Singapore at Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands

MOVIES

M OV I E TI M E BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE | THE DIVERGENT SERIES: ALLEGIANT | THE JUNGLE BOOK | 10 CLOVERFIELD LANE

RISE OF THE TRINITY | Release Date: 26th March 2016 Fearing the actions of Superman, a.k.a Clark Kent, left unchecked, Batman, a.k.a Bruce Wayne, takes on the Man of Steel. While the world wrestles with what kind of hero it really needs, a new threat in the form of Doomsday, created by Lex Luthor, surfaces and its up to Superman and Batman to set aside their differences, supported by Wonder Woman, a.k.a Diane Prince, to stop Lex Luthor and Doomsday from destroying Metropolis.

In Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice, Henry Cavill (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.) will reprise his role as Superman, while Ben Affleck (Gone Girl, Argo) will debut as Batman.

Meanwhile, Israeli beauty Gal Gadot (Furious 7) will bear sword and buckle as Wonder Woman. This highly anticipated film will be Zack Snyder’s third film with DC and it definitely won’t be the last as he has signed on for two more epic movies: The Justice League, parts one and two.

CHOOSE YOUR SIDE | Release Date: 18th March 2016 We’ve seen Tris Prior grow from being a meek Abnegation girl in Divergent, to a kick-ass action hero in Insurgent. And now, with the third movie in the quadrology, The Divergent Series: Allegiant, Tris searches for allies and answers in the ruins of a futuristic Chicago. Tris, reprised

by Shelaine Woodley (The Fault in Our Stars), and Four, played by Theo James (The Benefactor), are now fugitives on the run, hunted by Jeanine, the leader of the power-hungry Erudite elite. This will be the first Divergent movie in the series to be filmed in two parts.

THE BARE NECESSITIES | Release Date: 15th April 2016 The Jungle Book offers an all-new, liveaction/CGI epic adventure about Mowgli, a man-cub who’s been raised by a family of wolves. But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan, voiced by Idris Elba (Pacific Rim), who bears the scars of man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat.

Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever

known, Mowgli, portrayed by Neel Sethi, embarks on a captivating journey of selfdiscovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera and the free-spirited bear Baloo. These two will be voiced by Ben Kingsley (Ender’s Game) and Bill Murray ( The Grand Budapest Hotel). Other cast include Scarlett Johansson (Avengers) and Christopher Walken ( The Family Fang).

APOCALYPSE AFTERMATH | Release Date: 11th March 2016 Directed by Dan Trachtenberg and produced by J.J. Abrams, 10 Cloverfield Lane stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Kill The Messenger) and John Gallagher Jr. (Jonah Hex) as seemingly captive guests of John Goodman (The Gambler) in an underground bunker, banned from going outside for unknown reasons and warned about the apocalypse that has completely changed the world they once knew.

As the first and only choice for the lead role, we can expect some high caliber acting from Mary Elizabeth Winstead in what will be Dan Trachtenberg's directorial debut. Will it scare in a negative or positive way? Only time will tell.

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INNOVATION

BANG & OLUFSEN’S < SPEAKERS FOR THE FUTURE >

Cutting edge, ground-breaking and pioneering are just few words that best describes Bang&Olufsen’s latest innovation for speakers. Set the perfect mood with the perfect speakers and discover a listening experience like neverbefore - wherever you are located.

Beolab 90

B

eoLab 90 is the latest groundbreaking loudspeaker

by Bang & Olufsen, made in celebration of the company’s 90th anniversary and its innovative heritage and timeless design philosophy. This masterpiece is a powerful digital unit carefully built with 18 state-ofthe-art Scan-Speak loudspeakers and an impressive 360-degree design, delivering maximum performance from every direction regardless of its placement in the room and the listening position. BeoLab 90 features a combination of 14 channels of the latest generation ICE power amplifiers and four additional class D amplifiers, all customized for the specific requirements of the loudspeakers – emoting up to 8,200 watts per speaker in total.

makes up for the impact of your room, your furniture, the placement of the loudspeakers and the listening position. It includes a variety of cutting-edge settings, such as the Beam Width Control that gives you the power to widen the sound to ensure everyone in various rooms shares the exact same sound without having interference from reflections.

BeoLab 90 is fitted with the new Active Room Compensation technology, which

Building one of the world’s most advanced speakers takes precision, time and creativity,

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The beam can even be expanded to provide full 360 degree dispersion. It is as quick as using the Bang & Olufsen remote or the app on your phone to control the settings of your BeoLab 90’s beam width and direction.

In simple terms, the settings allow you to steer the sound radiation to any location you please, from a chilled out spot to a party all over the room, or a cinematic experience, with just a button.

and the BeoLab 90, which was about three years in the making. The visually magnificent BeoLab 90 is set in a complex aluminum cabinet, weighing up to 65kg, while the outer layer is subtly covered by acoustic black fabric and combined with a curved wooden base that lifts the large structure from the floor, on the whole complementing the interior structure of your home with sophistication.

Moreover, you can pre-program or save your speaker’s most suitable preferences in accordance with different occasions and needs. Be it for a simple or loud gathering, professional or casual setting, business or pleasure; these speakers will cater to your every mood with their mind-blowing technology, giving you a listening experience like no other.

BeoPLAY A6 Whether at work, home or a party, there is one common factor that helps set the right mood: music with the perfect set of speakers. Designed by award-winning Danish designer Jakob Wagner, the Beoplay A6 by Bang & Olufsen is the ideal fit for a modern lifestyle with its unique shape and features that spread the sounds to the entire room and maintain the ambiance best suited for you.

The new addition to the B&O Play lineup is tailored to the dynamic flavours of modern music lovers, with a balanced Bang & Olufsen signature sound. Shaped like a boomerang and featuring five powerful speaker units, each with its own

digital amplifier and refined digital signal processing, the Beoplay A6 fills every living space with its detailed sound wherever you are located.

In addition, the wireless speaker allows you to stream music through Airplay, DLNA or Bluetooth 4.0 and was integrated access to streaming services like Spotify, Deezer and Internet Radio Tunein. You can easily control your music directly on the speakers by tapping or swiping the innovative touch interface, or you can simply use your mobile device.

multi-coloured threads created in close collaboration with Kvadrat, one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading manufacturers of design textiles, which gives it a strong yet subtle visual appearance for any room setting. The look is available in four colours: Light Grey, Dusty Blue, Dark Rose and Dark Grey.

The portable speaker can sit upright on a surface large enough to support its frame, or it can be mounted on the wall. Wherever it is placed, the BeoPlay A6 will cater to your every mood at any given location, being simultaneously eye-catching and earcatching. www.bang-olufsen.com

The speakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior is covered in delicate and sophisticated woven patterns of ASIADREAMS 43

FASTLANE

ELEGANCE IN MOTION

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Advanced, agile and sporting astonishing features and design, the BMW Z4 tests the boundaries of driving pleasure.

T

his sporty, yet sophisticated car will capture your gaze from afar. With striking lines forming a modern shape that still preserves a classic design, the Z4 is unmistakably the brainchild of the renowned automotive innovators at BMW. Graced with sleek contours and signature accents, this vehicle outwardly exudes both power and prestige and stands ready to take on anything from heart pumping acceleration to a classy, late night rendezvous.

The BMW Z4 is the modern embodiment of the classic roadster. This exhilarating vehicle, sure to become a classic in its own right, can be effortlessly transformed from a coupe to a genuine roadster. Even at speeds of up to 40 km/h, retract the hard roof at the touch of a button. The BMW Z4 is available with a remarkable hardtop available in striking

colours of contrast. Whether open or closed the car looks simply fantastic, it remains up to you to choose your own driving experience.

Under the hood, this exceptional vehicle is powered by the BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder petrol engine. Celebrated time and time again with the prestigious Engine of the Year Award, this powerhouse delivers dynamic acceleration and an extraordinarily smooth ride. Boasting efficiency as well as muscle, the engine employs the latest technology to ensure that the Z4 is agile and responsive, performing exactly as you intend.

Perfectly tailored to the proclivities of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern driver, the BMW Z4 Roadster is sure to excite everyone from proud automotive enthusiasts, to those who simply love to drive.

For example, the centre console is configured asymmetrically and seamlessly positioned

to benefit the driver. For the benefit of all passengers, the interior of the car offers ample space even with the roof closed. For this reason, the Z4 eagerly waits to escort you to your next golf outing, or perhaps up to mountainous territory for some skiing with plenty of space for both passengers and specially designed ski rests for their gear.

The BMW Z4 comes standard with technological benefits as well. The BMW EfficientDynamics employs cutting edge processes engineered to reduce emissions and boost performance to its absolute peak.

Sporting such innovations as advanced brake energy regeneration, and electric power steering, these features make the difference in your environmental impact as well as in your experience behind the wheel as you powerfully negotiate turns and straightaways. www.bmw.co.id ASIADREAMS 45

FASTLANE

TRUE AUTOMOTIVE ADVANCEMENT

Newly available in Indonesia, the formidable Jaguar XE presents an undeniably powerful driving experience fit for the modern age.

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leek, powerful and poised for attack, the Jaguar XE prowls the streets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a lustrous example of superior design and performance. The first executive compact sedan from this celebrated British automaker, the XE is a Jaguar to its core.

Its dynamically sculpted exterior both maximizes its aerodynamic efficiency, and captures the gaze. Compact, intense and exuding power, the car is equipped with striking duel xenon headlamps, iconic chrome side vents and beautiful lines.

Combining functionality with a commanding profile, the XE is built with a strong, but ultra-lightweight aluminium structure. Increasing fuel efficiency and decreasing CO2 emissions, this rigorously designed body helps achieve optimal weight distribution for the highest quality

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driving experience. More than just a means to get from point A to point B, the Jaguar XE features powerful engine options to fit any driving style. Outfit your vehicle with the latest hi-tech Ingenium diesel engine, or perhaps an advanced petrol engine – either choice delivers peak performance. If you live to hear a commanding, raw response, the 3.0 V6 340PS Supercharged petrol engine, brings you from a dead standstill to 100 km/h in only 5.1 seconds.

For further customization of your driving experience, the XE offers JaguarDrive Control that allows the driver to alter the steering and throttle mapping at will. Depending on your preference, or the road conditions, switch with ease between Normal, Eco, Dynamic and Rain Ice Snow modes. Each mode uniquely adjusts the car’s dynamics for an enhanced

performance. For a greener ride with less carbon emissions, Eco mode encourages fuel efficiency. Dynamic mode, on the other hand, tightens the throttle response and increases steering weighting for a thrilling experience behind the wheel.

As you round corners with confidence and accelerate with ease, the interiors of the XE are just as bold and luxurious as expected from such a high calibre automaker as Jaguar. A sleek combination of style, comfort and technology, the interior of the XE is crafted from the highest quality materials.

Take command of this vehicle sitting in the large leather cabin seats. A vast panoramic glass roof overhead makes the car feel open and classy and is fitted with electronic blinds that extend when needed. Additional comfort comes from the automatic dualzone climate system and cutting edge

technological features, including a touch screen command centre with audio, and satellite navigation controls.

Take your Jaguar XE to the next level with a selection of even more mind-blowing technological features such as InControl Connect that gives you the option to turn the XE into a Wi-Fi hotspot no matter where you are as you monitor and interact with your XE right from your smartphone. As if that isn’t enough, this Jaguar model can be outfitted with a unique Head-Up Display that employs the latest laser technology to project vital information onto your windscreen. Minimizing the time spend looking down, view your speed as well as accurate turn-by-turn navigation without ever taking your eyes off the road. www.jaguar.com

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STYLE

L UXU RY BAGS & SHOES They say, give a woman the right shoes and she can conquer the world.

We say, add in the right bag and she can conquer the universe. Here are a recent selection of the hottest bags and shoes from high-end brands.

MINI C DE CARTIER

by Cartier

Complete your look with these adorable lightweight, baby-doll style bags; the Mini C de Cartier or the XS version of the C de Cartier bags. Available in a range of block colours; from shimmering gold, red spinel, jonquil yellow, morganite pink and peridot green to give your entire outfit a vibrant pop of colour. Featuring two handles and a strap, this is the go-to bag for an ultraâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;chic style.

ROBINSON CROSSHATCH SMALL ZIP TOTE

by Tory Burch The new tote bag comes with new design details and a refined functionality that is better than ever with its slim profile and minimal hardware. Made from the highest-quality, scratch-resistant leather, with a perforated diamond pattern over a contrasted colour underlay, the lightweight and roomy tote bag features a clean-lined silhouette with a centre compartment, front and back slit pockets, an optional, adjustable cross-body strap and protective feet. The bag is the epitome of understated chic which comes in two different shades.

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SILVANA PUMP

By Tory Burch Bold and ultra-feminine, the Silvana Pump features rich black suede set on a high sculpted heel made from wood and clear Lucite. This elegant pointedtoe style shoe and its mixed-material detailed design adds a touch of drama to your entire look.

DIOREVER

by Dior Introducing the new Diorever tote bag presented at the SpringSummer catwalk show â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Brandy bag with a reversible flap that has a strong and bold urban attitude. It is made from crinkled metallic lambskin, smooth calfskin or grained leather. Its crestshaped clasp boasts the emblematic signature of the Dior woman.

Make a statement with the entirely handmade, stylish and highly sophisticated Diorever bag that can be carried either by hand or on the shoulder.

DIORESSENCE PUMPS

by Dior Christian Dior presents a classic sleek heel with low-cut front in the new Dioressence collection. The pumps are available in two different heel sizes, 10cm or 7cm, in a range of chic colours including Trafalgar Red, black, pink, navy blue and more, made of either highquality calf or lambskin giving the shoe its stylish and classy look.

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STYLE

ACCESSORISE in Style

Complete your look with our selection of handpicked accessories from high-end luxury brands known for their mesmerising design, high quality products and undeniable style.

Amulette De Cartier

Piaget Possession

Fulfill your dreams with the beautiful Amulette De Cartier, made of natural gemstones in different eye-catching colours, each possessing a hidden meaning; Opal for happiness, Malachite

Sophisticated, elegant, grand and enchanting are just a few words to describe the unwavering Piaget Possession collection. Choose from the gorgeous range of iconic

for luck, Lapis Lazuli for serenity, Carnelian for vitality, Chrysoprase for fulfilment, Mother of Pearl for protection and Onyx for courage.

Choose from a long necklace, a pendant, a ring or a pair of earrings all ringed in elegant gold. www.cartier.com.

rings, earrings, bracelets, pendant necklaces and bangles – either to be worn alone or in generous combinations. Laced with gold and completed with brilliant cut diamonds, the Piaget Possession is every woman’s dream accessory. www.piaget.com.

Tiffany T by Tiffany & Co Introducing an icon of the new era.

The Tiffany T collection, which was inspired by the big apple, masters angles and curves with the use of 18 karat rose, yellow and white gold and silver. The Tiffany T collection comes with a magnificent range of accessories, from bracelets and cuffs that perfectly hug the wrists, multiple elegant chains and pendants of varied lengths, classy earrings and seamless rings.

Grace your look with the Tiffany T collection from the renowned Tiffany & Co, perfect for every occasion. www.tiffany.com.

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Ame de Star by Mont Blanc Bringing both elegance and grace, the new Âme de Star Collection features necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings with the iconic Montblanc Emblem. The rings and earrings come in pink gold, while the three bracelets come in black cord and one in pink gold. These are matched with silver and rose gold bands with adjustable knotted ends. One ring, in silver and pink gold, is curled around itself, while the other, in pink gold alone, has a rippled effect. The silver bracelet features Montblanc’s iconic woven leather with simple, silver rings.

The Collection is classic and simple, complementing any classy female with its elegant materials. www.montblanc.com.

LUXURY

SM A RT WATC HES

Look out for the latest selection of luxury watches from the world’s best brands, where class meets quality.

OMEGA GLOBEMASTER Representing sophistication is the new Globemaster collection by OMEGA, also forever to be recognised as the first Master Chronometer – the latest certification for quality standards in the watch industry. Available in a wide range of materials, including 18K Sedna™ gold, 18K yellow gold and stainless steel, the 39mm timepiece is defined by two features: the iconic pie-pan dial and the “fluted” bezel.

The Globemaster is offered with a full four-year warranty and is water resistant to 10 bar/100 metres. The Globemaster characterises the brand’s most advanced mechanical movement and features a design inspired by early Constellation models. www.omegawatches.com.

R ADO DIAMASTER GR ANDE SECONDE Offering you a stylish and grand metallic-looking watch with unique monobloc high-tech ceramic is the new Rado DiaMaster Grande Seconde collection. It is crafted with two overlapping subdials, one indicating hours and minutes and seconds. It also comes in four eye-catching models: two of them in plasma high-tech ceramic and a brown leather strap combo, while the other two are in black – the style gives you a hard choice between a vintage or futuristic feel. Scratchresistant, light and hypoallergenic, the Rado DiaMaster Grande Seconde brings class to whatever you are wearing; be it a business suit or dressed-down casual weekend wear. This collection includes one model with the famous DiaMaster five-link bracelet. www.rado.com.

LONGINES DOLCEVITA Embody glamour and elegance all at once with the new DolceVita Longines watch – a magnificent combination of rose gold and steel will grace your wrist. The solid rose gold crown and the touch of pink on the dial harmonise with the rose gold and steel watch band, making it a timeless beauty. In addition, the steel cases of the collection feature a solid gold crown and are also offered in a version set with diamonds. The DolceVita Longines model is available in four sizes. Its unique combination of colour, material and quality makes the watch an absolute masterpiece. www.longines.com.

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BEAUTY

PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP AT HOME Klara Cosmetics Eye Shadow

Made of 100% concentrated colour pigmentation, the Klara Cosmetics Australia products are guaranteed to give an intense, distinctive and long-lasting look, even with the slightest smudge.

“CC Cream”

“Sculpt Me Skinny” Contour Stick

Multi-benefit Colour Control Cream Foundation

At the end of a night out, most women find a gorgeous panda staring back at them in the mirror, as a result of smudged eye shadow.

Highlight and outline your cheeks with one swift move using the “Sculpt Me Skinny” Contour Stick.

The stick comes with white highlights and darker

Evolving from the concept of BB Cream is a new foundation called CC Cream, suitable for all skin types. In addition to its smooth and lightweight

But, the new range of eye shadows from Klara Cosmetics is here to solve that problem. Made of 100% pigmentation, these eye shadows won't smudge, crease or fade way for up to 16 hours.

With an array of colours to choose from, these smooth and ultra-blending eye shadows are available in three different types: matte, shimmer and diamond shades.

shade contouring colours on each side, which will create depth, a slimming illusion and further define your facial structure in a matter of minutes.

This easy to use and ultra-blending cream stick will also provide your skin with a natural and healthy glow for all complexions. Suitable for the face and body, the Sculpt Me Skinny Contour Stick has made contouring by yourself real easy.

texture are eight other benefits: correcting your complexion, giving a flawless matte finish, moisturising the skin, allowing your skin to breathe with mineral ingredients, minimizing pores, enhancing natural skin tone, SPF 15+ protection and a primer for long–lasting wear. Yes, all this from one foundation. Regardless, sheer to medium finish, this foundation makes you look like you are not wearing make-up at all.

“Kiss Proof Lips”

“Line and Define”

Lipstick

Liquid Eyeliner and Brow Crayon

The number one selling product of Klara Cosmetics for obvious reasons, Kiss Proof Lips consists of 100% pigmentation, which gives you 24–hour lasting matte lips with full coverage in 16 high voltage shades. Kiss Proof Lips becomes smudge proof in just 60 seconds after application, an important benefit contributing to the product’s name. With a stunning range of tones, from classic nudes to the fiercest notice-me colours to choose from, make your lips stand out and never let them betray you again with this must-have product.

Solving every woman’s need for the perfect eye and brow is a two–in–one stick, with a felt tip precision jet black liquid eyeliner on one end and an angled brow crayon on the other. The tool has been carefully crafted to help create a dramatic winged look and lines with just one stroke; an incredibly convenient way to get a striking and clean look on your own. In addition to being waterproof, smudge free and long-lasting, this ultimate combination is available in two brow colours: invisible blonde and taupe.

Reset Gel The brand new, ground-breaking, ultimate skincare Reset gel is formulated to mimic an instant microdermabrasion. It exfoliates your skin, unblocks and tightens pores, gets rid of dirt and instantly diminishes the appearance of fine lines. Made up of a unique concoction of French Honey, Bamboo and Olive Extract, this gel is not as harsh as other exfoliants, thus making it usable multiple times a week for both face and body. Give your skin a radiant and smooth surface with the use of Reset Gel, the revolutionary step to skin prepping and care.

Coming all the way from down under, these products will be available in Sephora Indonesia soon! But, for those of you who can’t wait to get your hands on these marvellous products, you can visit www. klaracosmetics.com for online purchases and more info.

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SCENTS

Aromatic Spri n g

This spring, discover the best scents for her, with ingredients plucked from exotic gardens all around the world paired with unique essences.

VALENTINO - DONNA

by Valentino With the radiant blend of Bulgarian rose essence, notes of Italian bergamot, iris pallida, patchouli, leather and vanilla comes the new exquisite and warm fragrance from the world of Valentino by perfumers Sonia

JIMMY CHOO ILLICIT

by Jimmy Choo Jimmy Choo ILLICIT embodies tenacious and elegant women with its new provocative yet elegant fragrance created by the perfumeur Anne Flipo. Starting off with comforting ginger and bitter orange, which

Constant and Antoine Maisondieu. Much like today’s women, this perfume represents an independent female who is as strong and fragile, consistent and unpredictable, determined and delicate. This luminous and sensual fragrance is available in 30ML, 50ML and 100ML sizes.

flirts with the feminine rose and sambac jasmine before mellowing to the final allure of gourmand honey-amber accord and sandalwood, this fragrance is sure to evoke the audacious and enigmatic spirit of every women who wears it.

OMNIA PARAIBA

by Bvlgari The new “Omnia” collection from Bvlgari was inspired by the captivating hue of a blue-green gem from Brazil called the Paraiba tourmaline. The fragrance is as unique as the dazzling colour, mimicking the Brazilian tropics. Opening with a fruity

scent of Curacao Bigarade orange and maracuja passion fruit, followed by passion flower and gardenia, finally ending the sublime scent with vetiver essence and cocoa beans. The Omnia Paraiba collection also offers a limited assortment of body lotion, scented soap and shower oil.

MY BURBERRY EAU DE TOILETTE

by Burberry The latest chapter for the My Burberry fragrance story starts with the Eau De Toilette created by Christopher Bailey, in collaboration with perfumer Francis Kurkdijan. The smooth blend of various blooming rain-tipped flowers, such as sweet pea, lemon flower, peonies, peach flower,

freesia, damask, roses, white moss and musk, gives this fragrance the bright essence of a spring blossom garden. This Eau De Toilette is a fresh interpretation of the iconic My Burberry Eau de Parfum.

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FASHION

Photography: Stephan Kotas Styling: Patricia Katinka Make Up and Hair do: Claras Sinta â&#x20AC;&#x201C; QQ Franky Make Up Team Model: Nayara & Grande Communications Location: Raffles Jakarta www.raffles.com/jakarta 54 ASIADREAMS

Highâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Flying Fashion Flawlessly mixing business with pleasure, the latest styles from Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Frank & Co, Loewe, Thomas Pink and Bebe see smart cuts and playful embroidery to suit a lavish evening soiree or a stylish corporate affair.

Dress: Alexander McQueen Bag: Loewe All menswear: Thomas Pink Earings: Frank & Co. ASIADREAMS 55

Dress & Bag: Burberry Earings: Frank & Co. 56 ASIADREAMS

Dress: Patricia Katinka Bag: Loewe Earings: Frank & Co. ASIADREAMS 57

Dress & Bag: Burberry Earings: Frank & Co. 58 ASIADREAMS

All Menswear: Thomas Pink ASIADREAMS 59

All Menswear: Thomas Pink Dress: Bebe 60 ASIADREAMS

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Some say you should never mix business with pleasure, but there really is nothing better than enjoying the fruits of one's labour, especially when doing so at Asia's finest locations. So we've rounded up the top destinations in Jakarta, Bali, Singapore and Hong Kong for both business and pleasure. We explore Bali's paradisal take on corporate matters at dazzling beachside conference facilities and villa meeting spaces, before diving head-first into the flurry of rooftop pools and five-star spas the island has to offer. We also take a peek at Jakarta's highest-flying hotels with event venues like no other, with addresses smack bang in the heart of the capital's finest wining and dining districts. Indeed, we've been to the hottest hotels and resorts in the region, designed for you to work hard and play harder.

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HOTEL BOROBUDUR JAKARTA Recognised as one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading luxury hotels of 2015, the five-star diamond Hotel Borobudur Jakarta is a haven situated across 23 acres of tropical gardens with extensive recreational facilities, offering a variety of 695 sophisticated and well-appointed one- to three-bedroom suites.

BUSINESS Hotel Borobudur Jakarta has received awards from Indonesia Travel & Tourism Awards for being Indonesiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading MICE Hotel numerous times, making it the ideal venue to conduct corporate events regardless of scale. With 18 function rooms and a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 3,000 guests, the hotel also offers an array of meeting packages, including a detailed and exquisite catering service with a variety of cuisines from Indonesia, Italy, Japan, China and elsewhere.

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Recently established, the Borobudur Conference Centre comes complete with 12 exclusive meeting rooms that can accommodate between eight and 40 people. These rooms are well equipped with the latest technology, including built-in LCD projectors and screens, complimentary wireless internet video and teleconferencing. Also, they are furnished with flexible and mobile furniture that can suit various business settings, like a roundtable discussion, a classroom presentation, or a formal bilateral meeting.

The Support Centre also provides an IT

specialist and secretarial services to ensure smooth business arrangements and assist with all kinds of professional requirements, including booking airline tickets or translation.

Moreover, to keep business associates energized, the Conference Centre offers a wide variety of snacks, premium tea selections, freshly brewed coffee and also healthy nourishment for longer breaks. For a comfortable stay, business travellers can choose from a range of rooms that include the Club Deluxe, which is specially furnished

to accommodate business needs, with a separate desk, wi-fi network and facsimile machine.

addition, the Klub & Spa Borobudur provides exclusive members with the chance to mingle and network on the executive floor.

PLEASURE Recharge, rejuvenate and refresh your body at the Klub & Spa Borobudur. The Klub features an extensive range of sports and recreational facilities from an Olympicsized swimming pool, a mini soccer pitch, basketball and badminton courts, a 700-metre jogging track and eight tennis courts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; two of them covered and well lit for night play. At the spa, guests have an array of pampering services to choose from and are offered couple-themed rooms. In

Other facilities at the hotel include the Sari Indah Beauty salon, where guests can freshen up their looks before a business meeting, an event, or an outing, and the Discovery Lounge with access to personalized services such private check-in and check-out, complimentary laundry or pressing and more. Also, guests can splurge at the gift shop, the Crown Sport Station and at the Polo Ralph Lauren established in the hotel. For the little guests, Hotel Borobudur features a children's playground

in the middle of the lush garden and a swimming pool.

Meanwhile, choose to experience luxurious slumber at the Borobudur or Presidential Suite, where heads of state and celebrities such as Stevie Wonder, Princess Diana, Beyonce, to name a few, have experienced it too.

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta Jalan Lapangan Banteng Selatan, Jakarta 10710, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 380 5555 / 383 5000 E: welcome@hotelborobudur.com www.hotelborobudur.com ASIADREAMS 65

GRAN MAHAKAM HOTEL With its inspiring European architecture, hospitable environment and convenient location for the capital’s buzzing business and commercial district in the south of Jakarta, the five-star boutique Hotel Gran Mahakam earns the title as one of the most ideal spots that business and leisure travellers choose to slumber.

BUSINESS Hotel Gran Mahakam has meeting and function rooms of all sizes on several floors of the hotel. The spacious Magnolia Ballroom is the ideal venue to organize a corporate event, gala, meetings, cocktail parties, banquets or conventions, with a capacity of up to 1,200 guests. Catering to a smaller crowd of 200 guests is the Gardenia and Rafflesia Room, with flexible settings available. For more intimate professional gatherings, the hotel also offers other function rooms, including two boardrooms, one of them located beside the swimming pool for a more refreshing mingle. The availability of professional catering services and hospitality from Gran Mahakam Hotel ensures smooth sailing and pleasurable events.

PLEASURE A winner of World Luxury Spa 2014, the SPA at Gran Mahakam Hotel is the perfect oasis for business and leisure travelers looking for relaxation, overlooking the mesmerising 66 ASIADREAMS

city view. With a tempting selection of treatments that can be customised to your specific needs, including benefits like improved circulation, relief of muscle tension, increased mobility, pain relief and stress reduction. Signature treatments such as the Mahakam Signature Massage offer a combination of Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage and other techniques. All treatment rooms at the SPA are equipped with personal steam rooms. In addition to promoting wellness, the hotel established a new 45–minute treatment called Oxyluxe, which releases 100% pure oxygen in a luxurious air pressure chamber to boost the immune system, rejuvenate skin and help with sleep deprivation; a healthy and pampering solution for jetlagged travelers.

Meanwhile, recharge your system at the fitness centre, the sauna or unwind in the outdoor rooftop swimming pool.

Evoking the appetite, Hotel Gran Mahakam offers two outstanding restaurants Le Gran Café restaurant serving an extensive

International buffet and wide variety of à la carte dishes, including Indonesian, Western, Asian and Japanese cuisines, and also Aoki Japanese restaurant, which is renowned for its traditional Japanese delicacies. In addition, The Regal Bar & Lounge provides an assortment of light snacks, refreshments and cocktails for business or leisure travellers to indulge in.

With every step, the hotel oozes a classic and regal feel, from the interior and architectural design, to the round–the–clock service.

Hotel Gran Mahakam exemplifies imperial home away from home.

Hotel Gran Mahakam Jalan Mahakam I No. 6, Blok M Jakarta 12130, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 720 99 66 E: info@granmahakam.com www.granmahakam.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON JAKARTA, PACIFIC PLACE The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place is strategically situated adjacent to The Jakarta Stock Exchange and linked to it by a pedestrian walkway. Dubbed the Wall Street of Jakarta, the area also plays host to many prestigious financial firms.

BUSINESS The hotel is perched on top of the Pacific Place shopping mall, as part of a unique mixed development, combining apartments, hotel, offices and shopping areas, including the latest and greatest in luxury and fashion brands. Leisure travelers may also embark on trips to various cultural landmarks within close distance.

As well, guests can enjoy a diversity of dining concepts in four different sophisticated areas. The restaurants combine buffet and à la carte menus, whereas the lounge area offers an intimate setting for a traditional English High Tea and a cigar collection. Or you can visit the hideaway open air lounge, nestled in the middle of the glamorous modernity of Jakarta’s city skyscrapers and lush gardens.

If you’re looking for wellness, The Spa and Health Club offer a five-senses experience for guests. A selection of

workout equipment and facilities, including treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and cascading resort pool integrate the expectations of a private lifestyle.

The hotel blends luxurious designer interiors with the latest in technology. The Ritz– Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place features 62 guest rooms, which includes 43 Grand Club Rooms, eight Executive Grand Club Rooms, seven Mayfair Club Suites, two Mayfair Club Spa Suites, one Ritz-Carlton Suite and one Presidential Suite.

PLEASURE The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place offers you a premier venue among the top multi-purpose halls suitable for large-scale conferences or other business events. The ballroom is a whopping 3,600 sq.m. in size with an additional pre-function area of 3,800 sq.m., making a total of 7,200 sq.m. that can accommodate up to 10,000 guests in

standing reception style or 2,200 persons for sit down banquets. This is easily the biggest ballroom available in Jakarta and one of the biggest in Southeast Asia.

Aside from the extraordinarily spacious grand ballroom, The Ritz–Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place also offers another option to host business events in a sophisticated and eco-friendly setting in The Glass House on level 8 where a lush garden offers a beautiful backdrop. This venue is perfect for those who prefer a quieter event with room for up to 300 persons for a standing party and 220 persons for a sit-down banquet (in rounds of 10).

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) Jalan Jenderal Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Jakarta 12190, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2550 1888 E: rc.jktrt.leads@ritzcarlton.com www.ritzcarlton.com/en/properties/ jakartapacificplace

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THE DHARMAWANGSA JAKARTA Here, the art of gracious living is a blend of subtle sophistication and elegant intimacy, where guests can indulge in the modern art of an Indonesian atmosphere. The Dharmawangsa Jakarta is a peaceful oasis of serenity, luxury and timeless architectural design.

BUSINESS For meeting and banqueting needs, The Dharmawangsa Jakarta provides the Segara Ballroom and the Nusantara Ballroom. The Segara Ballroom is designed to complement the hotel building as an ideal place for wedding receptions, private formal dinners, conferences, seminars and entertainment performances.

For cocktail parties, the Segara Ballroom can hold up to 600 people, or 250 people for a banquet, 230 people classroom style, 140 people around a hollow square table, or 500 people theatre style.

For a larger function, the Segara Ballroom can accommodate up to 2,000 people for standing cocktails and 800 people for a sitting dinner. Meanwhile, the Nusantara Ballroom has the capacity to hold 180 people for cocktails, 100 people for a banquet, 85 people classroom style and 180 people theatre style.

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The Nusantara ballroom can accommodate up to 800 guests for cocktail parties. There are also 14 function rooms located at the hotel as well as the Bimasena Club, which can hold from 10 to 150 persons, illuminated by natural daylight, including comprehensive equipment such as LCDs and screens, table or floor microphones, flip charts, and flower arrangement on the conference or boardroom table.

PLEASURE The hotel offers a soothing contrast to the teaming metropolis. The Dharmawangsa is designed to recall 1920s Jakarta, with accommodations that are graciously appointed with furniture and art objects from across the Indonesian archipelago. The 99 elegant and luxuriously designed hotel rooms consist of 64 rooms and 35 suites.

Each guestroom and suite is developed in one of the five thematic schemes, using traditional fabrics from Java, Pesisiran

(North Java), Bali, South Sumatra and East Indonesia. All rooms are equipped with private terraces, spacious bedrooms and large marble bathrooms. Every guest has, at his or her request, the service of a personal butler, each a master of the Javanese art of gracious hospitality.

For relaxation, The Dharmawangsa offers Bimasena Spa. Located on the third floor, Bimasena Spa uses THĂ&#x2030;MAĂ&#x2030; Paris product and has six regular treatment rooms, three private spa suites, a manicure and pedicure room, a hair salon, a waiting lounge and locker room facilities. The Dharmawangsa also provides guests with a jacuzzi, outdoor and indoor swimming pool.

The Dharmawangsa Jakarta Jalan Brawijaya Raya No. 26, Kebayoran Baru Jakarta 12160, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 725 8181 E: reservation@the-dharmawangsa.com www.the-dharmawangsa.com

KERATON AT THE PLAZA, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, JAKARTA A beautiful place to relax as well as an up-and-coming business spot in Jakarta, Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta offers superb facilities and the utmost quality in service standards for your business and pleasure needs.

BUSINESS This five-star hotel, located in a strategic area on Jalan M.H. Thamrin, is connected directly to Plaza Indonesia, one of the most luxurious shopping centres in Jakarta, as well as The Plaza office building and business centre.

Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta always provides unfailingly satisfying first-class service. For example, there is a 24-hour butler on standby to ensure that all your needs are fulfilled.

Time flexibility is offered with early checkin facilities available from 7AM and late check-out facilities available until 9PM

without any additional charge as long as you have confirmed your departure and arrival times in advance.

PLEASURE The hotel has two restaurants where you can chill and enjoy an extensive selection of dishes and beverages. Bengawan Restaurant is the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature restaurant serving five-star authentic dishes, Sunday Brunch and a specialised Mexican menu. As for afternoon tea, cocktails and wine, you can find these at Keraton Lounge. After a long day of meetings or busy activities, guests can be relieved of all their stress and tension at Keraton Spa, a place that promises body

and facial treatments at the skilful hands of the spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experienced therapists. A wide selection of treatments and massages, including a spa package for couples, is available to pamper your body and mind.

Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta Jalan M.H. Thamrin Kav. 15 Jakarta 10350, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5068 0000 E: luxurycollection.keraton@ luxurycollection.com www.keratonattheplazajakarta.com ASIADREAMS 69

JW MARRIOTT HOTEL JAKARTA Strategically located in the heart of the golden business triangle of Mega Kuningan, JW Marriott Jakarta indulges guests with a remarkable blend of comfort, luxury and exquisite service.

BUSINESS JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta was recently named the best Indonesia Luxury City Hotel at the World Luxury Hotel Award 2015. This award is truly a reflection of the JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta associates’ stellar performance and strong commitment to providing the highest level of service to guests.

Set in a highly accessible area close to multinational corporations, embassies and shopping centers, JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta is equipped with 23 meeting rooms of various sizes that hold up to 1,500 guests, complete with state-of-the-art conference facilities. Understanding the importance of an event and how each event has different 70 ASIADREAMS

purposes, in 2014, Marriott launched MeetingsImagined.com, a digital platform that houses its visual inspiration and expertise and is used for ideation, planning and collaborating. Later in the year, the brand also launched JW Event Concierge – a Meeting Services App as a convenient way to connect with hotel event staff and improve speed of connection. Meeting requests are at the meeting planners' fingertips, wherever and whenever guests need to reach the hotel staff.

PLEASURE JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta delivers everything you need for a perfect weekend escape in town. Savour the weekend at JW Marriott

Hotel Jakarta and enjoy the luxury services of a five-star hotel with shopping nearby, rejuvenating spa treatments, or exquisite room service, and have plenty of time to relax. Through five of its food and beverage outlets, JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta offers a variety of award–winning dining options from Western, Japanese and Chinese to local cuisines.

JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta Jalan DR Ide Anak Agung Gde Agung Kav. E.1.2 No. 1&2, Kawasan Mega Kuningan, Jakarta 12950, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5798 8888 E: bc@jwmarriotjakarta.com www.marriott.com/jktjw

HOTEL MULIA SENAYAN, JAKARTA Receiving an award for being one of the top 15 hotels in Southeast Asia in last year’s Conde Nast Traveler USA and Reader’s Choice Award, this five-star hotel offers 994 sizeable, grand and classy rooms to ensure your cozy slumber.

In addition, upon awakening be greeted with the city’s panaromic skyline through large picture windows.

BUSINESS Hotel Mulia Senayan features a Grand Ballroom of 2,500 sq.m. with a capacity for 4,000 people, ideal for a full-blown business exhibition or convention. To cater to a smaller crowd are 17 function rooms with capacities ranging from 15 to 250 people.

The halls are perfect for various corporate or social events and have a flexible variety of seating arrangements available. In addition, the 24-hour Business Centre is available, offering facilities that include boardrooms, small meeting rooms and a private Business Suite that consists of a main office, a separate reception, work stations and even

secretarial services. Office equipment such as laptops, telephones, LCD projectors, electronic whiteboards and more are also available for rent.

PLEASURE Contributing to a blissful stay is the urban Mulia spa, which offers widespread tailormade massages that blend Oriental and Western techniques, as well as other body and soul treatments that include foot reflexology, pedicures and manicures. The spa is open until midnight. Overlooking a 360-degree panaromic view of the city’s skyline, guests can enjoy a quick or extensive workout at Mulia Fitness Centre,

equipped with modern fitness equipment and a personal trainer to help pump your routine up to the next level.

Enjoy the Mulia Fitness Centre's saunas and steam rooms or keep things well balanced with yoga or pilates classes. For a postworkout relaxation, the poolside offers soothing drinks and light refreshments.

Hotel Mulia Senayan Jalan Asia Afrika, Senayan Jakarta 10270, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5747777 E: reservation@hotelmulia.com www.hotelmulia.com ASIADREAMS 71

THE SULTAN HOTEL & RESIDENCE JAKARTA Located at the heart of the capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central business district and boasting 707 lavish rooms with scenic views of the metropolitan, the Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta is the ideal setting for business travellers, as well as for those simply seeking an unforgettable holiday experience.

BUSINESS The Sultan Hotel features different sized board and meeting rooms with capacities ranging from six to 25 people. In addition, for those in need of a temporary working space, a fully equipped Business Centre is located on the lobby level and executive office rental, available on an hourly or daily basis, provides secretarial services for dictation, transcribing and interpreting upon request.

The hotel is connected to the Jakarta Convention Centre, where most major exhibitions and conventions are held, thus making the location a convenient spot for business people to stay or mingle.

Business travellers will enjoy the Executive Business Rooms for the full privileges of the Executive Lounge on the 13th floor, with its private meeting rooms and other exclusive facilities.

The epitome of royal Javanese architecture combined with a fine prestigious modern

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touch begins with one single step inside the Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta.

PLEASURE The Sultan Hotel strongly believes in promoting wellness, keeping your mind, body and spirit at ease. The property features 11 outdoor tennis courts, including one multifunction court that could be transformed into a basketball, futsal, or volleyball court and a scenic 500-metre jogging route. Plus, an outdoor swimming pool that can be used for either recreation or a work-out is surrounded by a beautiful tropical garden.

For individuals who prefer a gym, a Life Fitness centre equipped with advanced machines is open until midnight daily and is located in the residence area. Meanwhile, to loosen up those nerves, the LifeSpa offers specially designed treatments including body massage, manicures and pedicures, facials, reflexology and other signature treatments such as Biodroga Body Firming

Aroma Algae and Biodraga Lifting Effect treatments. It is complete with two couple treatment rooms, three single treatment rooms and a reflexology room.

It is also home to upscale restaurants and bars including the Lagoon Cafe, an all-day dining restaurant overlooking the lagoon, the Lagoon Lounge, Qi Lounge, Nan Xiang, the Airman Planet Lounge and the Nippon Kan Japanese Restaurant.

For more leisure experiences outside, a free shuttle bus service is provided to commute to nearby shopping centres and the premises are only a five-minute walk to Senayan Golf Driving Range.

The Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta Jalan Gatot Subroto Jakarta 10002, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5703600 E: info@sultanjakarta.com www.sultanjakarta.com

THE PARK LANE HOTEL Situated in the capital is the stylish high-rise building, the Park Lane Hotel, conveniently located adjacent to one side of the city’s Golden Triangle central business district and within walking distance of the Kota Kasablanka Shopping Mall.

BUSINESS Tailoring to business needs, the Park Lane Hotel features meeting spaces with modern technology catering to between 300 and 500 people, three boardrooms and two additional spaces large enough to accommodate about 100 people each.

A well-equipped business centre with two small meeting rooms, each accommodating up to 12 people, is also available. In addition, The Park Lane 8, which is located in front of the lagoon-style pool, is the perfect venue for meetings, social gatherings and weddings. For individuals in need of a temporary working space, there are two private offices available for hourly or daily rental. To sweeten the deal, the entire hotel provides free and speedy access to Wi-Fi. The Park Lane Hotel aims to give you a more pleasurable stay with its exceptional 24-hour

service, ensuring your needs are well taken care of at your doorstep.

PLEASURE From relaxing by the pool, to a joyous evening at the bar, the Park Lane hotel covers it all. Enter a stress-free zone at LifeSpa to pamper your mind and body with exceptional treatments such as full-body aromatherapy massages, reflexology, body scrubs, facials and more. Otherwise, choose to recharge yourself in the sauna, steam rooms and the fitness centre complete with modern equipment. For a fun-filled day, enjoy the sunrise or sunset with your family and friends at the 40-metre-long lagoonstyle swimming pool, which includes a children’s wading pool, as well as a Jacuzzi, with poolside food and beverage services available. Meanwhile, unwind, dance and be merry with your favourite cocktails and lively

music spun by a DJ at the newly revamped Riva Grill Bar Terrace for a memorable evening. Little guests can also have their own fun at the Park Lane Kids Club, which also provides a toy and babysitting service, while parents are occupied with other hotel activities or getting the holiday afterglow look from the hotel’s very own barbershop.

After a hectic day, workaholics and tourists alike can also fuel up at the Bakery for a quick coffee, light meal and mouth-watering desserts.

The Park Lane Hotel Jalan Casablanca Kav. 18 Jakarta 12870, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 8282000 ext. 2042/3 E: reservation@parklanejakarta.com www.parklanejakarta.com

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AYANA RESORT AND SPA BALI The AYANA Resort and Spa Bali is perched atop 90 hectares of cliffside overlooking the iconic Jimbaran Bay, where it boasts a range of quality accommodations complemented by an unrivalled array of business and leisure facilities shared with the neighbouring RIMBA Jimbaran Bali by AYANA. BUSINESS Making the most of its size and majestic views, the resort's event and meeting facilities are widely dispersed throughout the vast property and grounds. There are 10 divine wedding settings, a MICE complex with ballrooms and various meeting rooms designed to accommodate groups of all sizes, plus a number of other bespoke venues.

Venues like SKY, a spectacular oceanfront events venue specifically for corporate functions and grand events for up to 1,000 guests, and the world famous Rock Bar for 700 guests propels AYANA and RIMBA into a realm of near fantasy for people wishing 74 ASIADREAMS

to deliver a grand message or make a significant, impactful statement.

At about 20,000 sq.m. and catering for up to 3,000 guests, Champa Garden is extravagant and designed to host grand-scale functions, events and conferences. Champa Garden is an incredible transposable venue with dedicated catering facilities and a separate entrance road and parking area and is ideal for themed dinners and events involving elaborate staged productions.

For smaller private meetings and events for up to 120 guests, then the AYANA Villa might be just perfect. This three-bedroom luxury private villa with uninterrupted views of

the Indian Ocean is one of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most lavish venues. Offering complete privacy, the highest level of security and separate catering facilities, the AYANA Villa is a truly unique option for business gatherings.

Set within the AYANA MICE complex, the indoor function rooms and grand ballrooms are no less impressive. The main ballroom accommodates 900 in absolute comfort or can be subdivided into the three salon rooms for between 200 and 300 delegates each. The complex boasts a range of boardrooms such as the Karang Mas and VIP rooms and includes the Hibiscus Classroom, a purpose-built auditorium with tiered seating for 150 people and built-in sound,

lighting and audio–visual facilities for a completely integrated business conference experience.

PLEASURE Connected by regular shuttle services, AYANA and RIMBA offer a vast range of on–site relaxation and leisure activities for guests and delegates to sample and enjoy.

With features from exceptional dining to one of the island's most exotic spas, cultural activities, sunset cocktails at the Rock Bar or UNIQUE Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, to an 18 hole putting course, it is without doubt an incredible venue.

The choice of restaurants and bars is vast. For all-day dining choose To’ge, the beachside Kisik Bar and Grill, Dava, which reopens in March after renovations, or the clifftop Warung Kubu. Why not try the Martini Club

for a touch of sophistication, or head to the sensational Rock Bar. Meanwhile, Sami Sami serves trattoria-style Italian cuisine, including a complete selection of antipasti, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta, or for a selection of Asian favourites take a peek at Damar Terrace.

For something different chose Kampoeng Bali, RIMBA’s distinctive Balinese cultural performance restaurant, where the design and menu are inspired by Bali’s rich cultural heritage and exotic cuisine. If it’s authentic Mexican you crave, then head up to UNIQUE Rooftop Bar and Restaurant for tapas or dinner, or for yet more pan-Asian dishes try out the thatch-roofed pavilions at Padi.

The crowning glory is probably Ah Yat Abalone Seafood Restaurant where diners can order the famous Birds’ Nest Soup and

Sea Cucumber and Abalone, and dim sum lovers can choose from 50 different types.

The resort offers an incredible amount of open space, a fantastic private beach and a range of business and leisure facilities designed to impress. Accommodation includes 78 private Balinese-inspired pool villas and a 290-room hotel, while the more contemporary RIMBA offers an additional 282 rooms and suites.

Supported by first-class service and a host of dedicated and experienced event planners, AYANA is an excellent choice for groups of any size.

AYANA Resort and Spa Jalan Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, Bali 80364, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 702222 www.ayanaresort.com ASIADREAMS 75

SOFITEL BALI NUSA DUA BEACH RESORT Set in a stunning beachside location, The Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is located only 20 minutes from Bali’s international airport and offers a magnificent range of luxury rooms, suites and villas along with award-winning spa and dining experiences, plus a range of opulent meeting venues.

BUSINESS Standing proud as one of Indonesia’s most prominent destinations for business meetings, MICE or other gatherings, The Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort provides clients with an inspiring range of world–class venues and amenities. The lush tropical resort boasts extensive business facilities, including computers and highspeed internet.

There are 12 private meeting rooms catering to small or large groups, including the cavernous Kecak Ballroom, situated to the side of the imposing lobby, that comfortably holds up to 600 guests.

Elegant and functional, all meeting rooms feature the latest conference technology one would expect and come backed by 76 ASIADREAMS

the Sofitel’s InspiredMeetings™ team that can offer highly professional tailor-made solutions.

For those seeking to make a lasting impression, the Gamelan Ballroom, with its unique and majestic 180-degree panoramic Indian Ocean vista, offers clients the ideal stage. With stunning views through fulllength glass walls, it is an impressive and luxurious venue that can be configured to suit your needs.

It was The Gamelan Ballroom that Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono chose as the venue when he hosted the World’s Heads of State at APEC in October 2013. Today it has carved out a reputation as one of Indonesia’s premier

and most impressive venues for groups of up to 420, no matter what the event.

Equally as notable, but designed for smaller groups, is the newly opened beachside Jewel Box. Recently used by Emirates to launch its direct Dubai-Bali flights, the Jewel Box is a stunning contemporary glass structure ensconced within exotic tropical gardens and set against a far-reaching ocean and beach backdrop. The Jewel Box can accommodate up to 80 guests and the surrounding lawn and exotic gardens can host up to 200 – perfect for post-event canapés.

PLEASURE Being relaxed and well rested is recognized by global health experts as conducive

for working at optimal performance. For business travellers or MICE participants, the Sofitel Bali goes the extra mile to help meet your objectives by offering a range of personalised individual and group activities on top of the already wonderful facilities and amenities.

Why not relax with one of So SPA’s exclusive signature treatments? The expert therapists will ease away your aches and revitalize your body on massage tables designed to ensure maximum benefit and your total comfort throughout your treatment. Or perhaps visit its celebrated medical spa, the Vietura Artisan of Anti-Aging aesthetic centre, which provides a suite of services, from skin health and intensive routines to

signature natural facelifts, hair removal and skin pigmentation treatments.

For the energetic there are a number of beach activities, from the gentle morning beach walk to beach soccer and volleyball, as well as cycling tours around the local area. Or why not join one of the cultural experiences or learn how to dance in the Balinese style? The celebrated Nikki Beach Bali, Kids Club and swimming pools complete the range of excellent amenities available for guests.

Downtime from conferences or meetings invariably involves eating and drinking and Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort boasts two excellent restaurants and three lively

bars for guests to enjoy. Kwee Zeen serves an exciting pan-Asian menu, whilst CCC (Cut Catch Cucina) features a sensational steakhouse, Italian Osteria and Sea Grill. Or if it’s drink and tapas time, then upstairs at Le Bar (the lobby bar) or at ground level at the Beach Bar and L’OH Pool Bar, guests can sample a range of signature drinks and snacks to round your day off perfectly.

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort Lot N5 Nusa Dua Tourism Complex Nusa Dua Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361/8492888 F: (+62) 361/8492999 www.sofitel.com ASIADREAMS 77

SHERATON BALI KUTA RESORT At the centre of Bali’s popular tourist area, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort’s key location and comfortable features make it a smart location for your next venture to the island.

BUSINESS With more than 1,600 square metres of versatile event and meeting space, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort can competently accommodate anything from a small business meeting in a sleek conference venue to an extravagant corporate event in a stylish grand ballroom.

Choose between nine event spaces in addition to seven breakout rooms. Make the most out of your meetings with complementary state-of-the-art equipment 78 ASIADREAMS

including microphones, projectors and even pens, water and homemade candies. These comfortable settings are modern, elegant and perfectly suited to today’s fast-paced corporate world. For more than your standard business meeting, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers a menu of exciting meeting options to ensure your time is as productive and memorable as possible. For instance, Sheraton’s fitness staff is eager to invigorate your team after lunch with a series of active exercises to get guests out of their chairs and keep the energy going for the rest of the day.

Perhaps your associates are a bit tense – in that case allow therapists from Shine Spa to rejuvenate each guest with a short back massage during a coffee break. Your meeting space can be arranged any way you wish, either theatre style, close seating around a boardroom table, or any arrangement inbetween. After a long, fruitful day celebrate with an after work happy hour with plenty of beers and cocktails to go around.

PLEASURE Just a few metres away from one of the

most famous beaches in Asia, this resort is a stunning centre of holiday excitement, indulgent relaxation and splendid dining.

The only five-star resort in Kuta, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort boasts a perfect location near many of the island’s popular attractions and is joined with Beachwalk, a modern shopping mall featuring a cutting-edge movie theatre and hundreds of upscale vendors to explore.

Wake up to a view of the Indian Ocean from your room and start your day off right with a visit to the complete wellness and fitness centre. Next treat yourself to a revitalising treatment at Shine Spa tailored to your body’s unique needs. Expert spa professionals will attend to your wishes with a wide range of treatments including

traditional methods exclusive to the island of Bali that will melt away every last trace of tension.

restaurant’s rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean spread out below.

Enjoy a meal from Feast restaurant’s vibrant open kitchen or individual chef stations while taking in the lively scenery of Kuta through the venue’s gorgeous floorto-ceiling windows. Explore authentic international cuisines from around the world in this contemporary 160-seat restaurant decorated with white marble and energetic magenta hues.

At the end of the day, witness a legendary sunset over Kuta Beach at The Lounge.

Watch as the sun sinks below the waves while sitting in this comfortable semi-openair venue sipping an evening cocktail. With more than 100 different spirits to choose from, one of the largest selections in the area, you are sure to find the perfect way to end a fantastic day on Bali. From sunup to sundown, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is overflowing with exciting and relaxing options to help you make the most of your time in paradise.

For a more intimate dining experience, reserve a table at Bene, a three-level restaurant presenting Italian cuisine.

Showcasing 100 different types of faithfully created pastas, Bene also has an unbelievable selection of superb wines.

Choose the perfect setting to create the perfect ambiance for your evening: select a seat alongside the show kitchen, next to an exhaustive wine cellar, by the pool, or on the

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort Jalan Pantai Kuta, Kabupaten Badung Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 846 555 www.sheratonbalikuta.com ASIADREAMS 79

THE ST. REGIS BALI RESORT Undeniably one of the finest resorts on the island, The St. Regis Bali Resort offers nothing less than the best.

BUSINESS With a devoted events team ready to help you plan your next meeting or event, The St. Regis Bali Resort offers an exceptional space to lend a little luxury to the world of business. The resort sports four comfortable meeting rooms armed with sophisticated technology. With soaring ceilings and soothing natural light streaming in from the beautiful tropical gardens outside, The Astor Ballroom is the leading meeting venue in the area and a great choice for hosting an opulent gala.

Presenting a more posh and personal approach to business, The St. Regis Bali Resort provides impeccable service and elegant settings ideal for exclusive events or meetings with top executives. After business matters are concluded, encourage your guests and colleagues to experience the 80 ASIADREAMS

higher standard of luxury by exploring the resort for themselves.

PLEASURE One of the most prestigious and celebrated properties in Bali, experience resort-living at its finest at The St. Regis Bali Resort.

Experience Bali as it was intended in a signature beachfront villa where your front door is your personal gateway to the pristine sands of the majestic Indian Ocean. With legendary 24-hour butler service, perfectly manicured grounds, this exclusive estate redefines tropical resort living. Recline in the shade of overhanging palm trees that gently sway in the warm breeze as you watch the waters of the lagoon pool gently flow by.

For a dining experience that is simply sublime, book a table at Kayuputi, the

resort’s signature restaurant, and allow acclaimed culinary masters to lead you on an unforgettable journey with their tantalizing dishes. Unblemished white interiors decorated with tasteful Indonesian touches will greet you as you gaze out at the endless waves of the ocean beyond from the restaurant’s tall windows. Equipped with a two-storey wine cellar and captivating open kitchen, Kayuputi is one of Bali’s most awarded restaurants serving inventive, modern cuisine from the minds of brilliant culinary experts.

The St. Regis Bali Resort Kawasan Pariwisata, Nusa Dua Lot S6 Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 8478 111 E: bali.reservation@stregisbali.com www.stregisbali.com/meetings

THE LAGUNA, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT & SPA No matter your reason for visiting Bali, The Laguna, Bali provides the perfect setting for you to enjoy the fabled beauty and traditions of the island.

BUSINESS Located on the beautiful coastline of exclusive Nusa Dua, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, welcomes business travellers from throughout the world with eight contemporary meeting venues and unique Balinese touches, making your visit to the island more than just strictly business.

With spacious interiors, elegant settings and advanced kinetic mood lighting, the Balai Raya Ballroom is the ideal location for large celebrations or fashionable events, comfortably accommodating anywhere from 20 to 400 guests. In a relaxing setting for a more intimate business meeting, open the curtains of the Balai Ulu room to reveal a complete view of the entire resort – a peaceful view that spans from the ocean to the signature lagoon pool and helps foster enlightening meetings in this harmonious meeting space. Step into an open-air lounge area for a coffee break and allow the tensions of the day recede with the resort’s tasteful Balinese atmosphere.

PLEASURE Featuring seven beautiful sparkling lagoons and pools scattered throughout the resort, from the decks of the private lagoon-access rooms this property is a great place to relax and experience the tropical paradise that is Bali. With a fantastic location on the beach, The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, presents delightful dining, serving seafood caught fresh each day, a private beach with unspoiled white sands and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Balinese culture.

Participate in a Balinese blessing and ceremony that takes place at the resort’s own temple surrounded by lush, tropical overgrowth – beginning with an entrancing fire dance and concluding with a delicious dinner at Banyubiru, the resort’s signature restaurant, it is sure to be a simply unforgettable evening.

For sumptuous relaxation, follow the winding waters of the resort to Lagoon

Spa. Begin with a healthful and zesty ginger tea as you choose from a menu of options ranging from single treatments to a multiple-day, restorative journey.

Courteous and talented spa experts will help you customize your treatment to repair an aching back, brighten the skin and awaken the spirit within. With everything from the room temperature to the ambient background music controlled by you, craft your experience exactly to your liking.

Offering products derived from local ingredients, Lagoon Spa allows guests to indulge in a transformative experience as natural as the beautiful Balinese surroundings.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot N2 Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 771 327 E: laguna.reservation@luxurycollection.com www.thelagunabali.com/meetings ASIADREAMS 81

CANGGU CLUB BALI Few places that host group events and functions can boast the range and quality of facilities and supporting activities that the Canggu Club offers its corporate clients. There really is "Something for Everyone".

BUSINESS Breaking away from the traditional and redefining the way group meetings operate, multi-functional is the buzz word at Canggu Club, where the exclusive facilities and highly professional events team have, over the last 12 months, attracted some of the biggest global brands. Toyota, Samsung, Bayern Munich Football Club, Pacto, Bank Mandiri and many more chose the Canggu Club to host their corporate events and have benefited from the club's unique approach.

Spread out over four hectares, the club complex has a fitness centre, lap pool, sports ground, tennis centre, beauty spa, sports bar and multiple restaurants, plus a water park, Strike 10-Pin Bowling and the fantastic 82 ASIADREAMS

Bounce Trampoline Centre. The facilities mean organizations can add the wow factor for maximum impact, making your event one to remember.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s widely accepted that building group activities into a schedule can have massive benefits. For longer conferences it can break the monotony and help maintain focus and is recognized as a vital component in the success of team-building activities.

With a hugely experienced team, the Canggu Club will tailor packages that exceed even the most demanding of corporate expectations. You can chose to include activities such as building

bicycles from scratch and then taking the bikes to children in the local villages, for example. The Canggu Club recognises that hours spent like this create the special interpersonal relationships your business can build upon.

With the Canggu Club's unique range of facilities at your disposal, why not get the corporate event team to create an agenda that will guarantee success? Even the food and beverage packages can be tailored to cater to any preference.

Corporate functions or gatherings can also make use of the ample spaces for marquees, stages or just about any other temporary

structure that might be required, or they can use any of the multi-functional venues.

Booking is flexible from a few hours up to a week and being just 10 minutes away from Seminyak and its swanky hotels and villas, there is ample choice of accommodations.

PLEASURE The Canggu Club, home to the Club House Sports Bar and Verandah Restaurant, is Bali’s undisputed premiere fitness and entertainment venue so naturally there are masses of leisure options to enjoy. As you arrive at Canggu Club, the first thing you will see is the bold primary colours of Splash Water Park.

This aquatic playground is built for children of all ages and is perfect for having fun or just cooling off. There are twisting chutes, ropes and channels that deliver you into the pool. The centrepiece is the Giant Racer,

a four-person race starting high above the ground that whisks you 90 metres before making the big splash. Overlooking the Olympic–size swimming pool, the water park is served by a poolside bar and restaurant that offers an array of light bites, pizza, pasta and Mexican dishes, as well as a range of beverages.

Continuing on the energetic theme we find the Bounce Indoor Trampoline Centre with a spring-loaded frame for extra bounce height and Strike 10-Pin Bowling with six automatic pinsetter lanes and a computerised scoring system; both are fabulous team activities that can be enjoyed by your delegates.

There really is “Something for Everyone” at Canggu Club. The Body Temple Spa and the Body Temple Hair Salon will help you re-energise and relax and leave you looking

and feeling magnificent. Or maybe you can make use of one of the three excellent floodlit tennis courts. No partner? No problem. The club has coaches from around the world as well as hitting partners and ball boys.

The Canggu Club provides a range of superb facilities for your relaxation or leisure or as an extension incorporated into your corporate business event. Add to that the staff professionalism and its easy access and it might be just perfect for your group needs.

Canggu Club Bali Jalan Canggu Club, Canggu, 80361 Bali – Indonesia T : (+62) 361 848 3939 / (+62) 361 474 1009 M : (+62) 828 9719 3939 E: events@cangguclub.com www.cangguclub.com ASIADREAMS 83

PADMA RESORT LEGIAN Due to its excellent location, range of facilities and reputation for event realisation, The Padma Resort Legian, in Bali, is one of the island's most popular hotels for business and corporate travellers.

BUSINESS Set in almost seven hectares of lush landscaped water-rich gardens, the resort provides a wide range of accommodations, world-class leisure facilities and a selection of excellent dining options backed by renowned Balinese-style hospitality.

Equally as impressive and housed within its own specially designed and built complex and just a short walk from the resort's lobby, Padma's meeting centre provides an excellent selection of venues for meetings, larger conferences or functions.

With a substantial pre-function room for registration or pre-event drinks and canapés, the Plumeria Grand Ballroom with 84 ASIADREAMS

its state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, comfortably holds up to 600 delegates when configured theatre-style, or up to 320 diners seated for a banquet. With its raised stage, glorious chandeliers, plush carpets and decor, it is a true multifunction room and is regularly used for MICE events, artistic performances and other larger gatherings.

For smaller events, the ballroom can be subdivided into two or three rooms and the meeting centre also features 10 other rooms that can be utilised for smaller meetings or as breakout rooms to support a larger event.

The Padma Resort Legian offers well-priced packages for small or large groups such as

the Full Day Meeting Package at only USD75 per person. The Full Day Package features nine hours' exclusive use of the designated room, media facilities, mineral water, coffee and lunch.

PLEASURE The Padma Legian Resort is tantalisingly positioned in the heart of one of Bali’s most vibrant and popular tourist areas.

Despite being adjacent to the world-famous Legian Beach and a stone’s throw from the traditional art market, it remains an oasis of calm and tranquillity and, with its reputation for superb facilities and hospitality, it’s a perfect spot to relax both before and after a day full of meetings.

For the energetic and in addition to the main pool activities, the Padma Resort Legian features a lagoon-style swimming pool located near the lobby, a comprehensive fitness centre with sauna and steam rooms, plus a floodlit tennis court and twice-weekly Yoga classes.

Maybe you can check out the Padma Spa

by Mandara, where an exclusive range of beauty treatments by Elemis, Mandara Spa’s signature treatments such as Frangipani Body Glow, Elemis Facial and Ultimate Indulgence, are available to complement the traditional therapies. After a workout, swim or spa visit, why not enjoy the stunning sunsets from S.K.A.I. Beach Club, which offers a selection of delectable cocktails and

sumptuous light bites such as the delectable S.K.A.I Seafood Caesar plus, of course, the famously refreshing minus 2 degree beer?

S.K.A.I. Beach Club, with its chilled music and ambience, is divided into two areas: an indoor casual dining room and an al fresco area complete with sunbeds, cabanas, an infinity swimming pool and great views over the Indian Ocean and Legian Beach.

Located centrally, the airy DONBIU is the largest of the six restaurants and bars on– site and serves an excellent selection of authentic Indonesian dishes complemented by a full menu of international specialties.

With regular theme nights, it opens for breakfast and dinner with live entertainment

between 6.30PM and 10.30PM every night.

There’s a lot to enjoy at the Padma Resort Legian, but one of its great attractions is its location. So, to relax take a walk down the beach path and explore the beachside bistros and bars or meander around the art and boutiques or, if fine dining is your thing, then explore the area's excellent eateries.

Padma Resort Legian Jalan Padma No. 1, Legian Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 752 111 E: reservation.legian@padmahotels.com www.padmaresortlegian.com ASIADREAMS 85

MAYA UBUD RESORT & SPA Ensconced in a quiet corner of Ubud overlooking the Petanu River, this stunning rural retreat provides modern conveniences with a truly Balinese feel.

BUSINESS If you would like to choose somewhere interesting to hold your next business meeting, look no further than Maya Ubud.

This gorgeous, serene resort provides not only business facilities but also a wide range of cultural and pampering activities, as well as excellent dining and a range of accommodations to suit most needs.

The dedicated meeting room, Bale Banjar, seats 60 theatre style, 50 classroom style and 70 for cocktail receptions and is fully enclosed to encourage focus. Opening out onto one of the dining areas, it can provide privacy for groups both during and between meeting sessions.

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If you would like something more visually stimulating, a popular alternative is the slightly smaller departure lounge with its light, airy space and windows looking out onto the gardens and woodland. Ideal for small group activities, the lounge features a pleasant open room along with indoor and outdoor seating areas.

If you prefer something even less formal, then the Maya Ubud is blessed with a range of indoor and outdoor spaces that can be utilised for special events and occasions.

The open stage overlooking the dramatic scenery of the river valley, for example, is a beautiful spot in the manicured garden and perfect for a more relaxed meeting

or breakout activity. In keeping with its philosophy, the Maya Ubud is happy to tailor your meeting package to nurture your delegates and ensure their wellbeing and comfort. To help create the ideal environment, the meeting rooms can be scented with special aromatherapy fragrances to stimulate and revive tired minds or foster a creative and energetic meeting.

The restaurants are excellent and are geared to catering healthy Asian or Western food for breaks between sessions and lunches, while a morning group yoga session pre-meeting can get the day off to a productive start.

PLEASURE Once the meeting is over, there are plenty of activities for delegates to enjoy, including the educational and interactive Experience Bali workshop where guests can learn about herbal remedies, temple floral arrangements and Balinese dance; nature treks start at one end of the resort and wend down to the river valley so guests can explore the local flora and fauna, ending in the spa valley.

The resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world-class spa offers a wide range of pampering sessions and signature treatments throughout the day and evening and there is a fully equipped gym, tennis court and a spacious yoga studio overlooking the putting greens.

However, our favourite activity at Maya Ubud is the taste of paradise cooking

class with one of the resort chefs. As befits a venue that is strongly focused on sustainability, the class takes place in the organic vegetable and spice garden, where a covered bamboo and wood area serves as the kitchen. On arrival, you will find the tables are covered in banana leaves and hold all the ingredients you need, including piles of colourful spices and vegetables.

Behind the preparation and cooking table the smokers gently burn and fill the area with fabulous aromas. In front, the dining tables are beautifully set so your group can devour the culinary creations in the garden at the end of the class.

Before cooking starts, a guided tour around the garden introduces you to a variety of spices, such as turmeric, ginger, chillies and lemongrass, as well as the more mundane

passion fruit vines, tomatoes and celery.

Next head back to the outdoor kitchen area, where the chef will help you create your own Balinese feast from scratch, starting with the basic yellow spice mix that is a fundamental part of many local dishes. From aromatic chicken soup, to grilled chicken satay with peanut sauce, curried seafood wrapped in banana leaf to local-style fried rice, in no time you will have learned a multitude of new cooking skills perfect for your next dinner party.

Maya Ubud Resort & Spa Jalan Gunung Sari Peliatan P. O. Box 1001, Ubud Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 977 888 E: info@mayaubud.com www.mayaresorts.com ASIADREAMS 87

UMA BY COMO, UBUD A luxurious, sleek and contemporary resort that resonates with the essence of Bali’s charm, culture and architecture.

BUSINESS Uma by COMO, Ubud is a stunning location for an executive meeting, team building, incentive meeting, corporate event, retreat or special group gathering.

This elegant venue is the perfect setting for more relaxed conferences, presentations and break-out sessions during corporate retreats.

Located in Bali’s heartland, the resort can be found just a few miles north of Ubud overlooking the beautiful scenic rice fields, hills and the verdant woodland of the Tjampuhan Valley. Its location and facilities will make a refreshing change for business delegates more familiar with the corporate HQ or city hotels.

The meeting group and host can remain focused on business as the experienced but discreet team are on hand to ensure everything runs without a hitch. The team also provides and serves refreshing, healthy beverages for the refreshment breaks, along with delicious treats made in-house by the chefs from the resort’s acclaimed restaurants.

Accommodating up to 20 people, Uma by COMO, Ubud has an intimate, fully equipped 36 sq.m. private meeting room that is ideal for focused meetings or board gatherings.

For less formal meetings, the Yoga Studio is an open-air pavilion with absolutely stunning views. The Studio can be set up in a variety of configurations, or, as another

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alternative, take over the airy, covered space of the Pool Bar – ideal for upscale gatherings and presentations.

Wherever you chose and whatever the purpose of your function, the highly trained event and resort staff are sure to have your meeting running as smooth as silk.

Making the right impression is often a key part of business presentations and gatherings, so why not welcome your delegates with a cocktail and canapé reception, or provide a grand closing dinner?

The thatched-roof Kemiri restaurant seats 70 and is renowned for its innovative use of local produce using classic Indonesian cuisine techniques. The menus also feature the signature healthy COMO Shambhala

Cuisine, loved by many gourmands and health connoisseurs around the world.

PLEASURE With business matters all taken care of, the delegates become the focus. The 46 rooms, suites and villas provide delightful accommodations in an extremely relaxing environment, the infinity-edged pool, gym and yoga studio provide in-house fitness facilities and the restaurants serve up a range of excellent critically acclaimed dishes.

But there is much more available at Uma by COMO, Ubud and in the surrounding area for your guests or delegates to explore or immerse themselves in.

Group activities to keep your delegates entertained and in peak condition, or to

promote team bonding and improve their wellbeing, can be arranged by the event staff.

Why not start the day with an invigorating guided walk through the adjacent rice fields, or a bicycle ride exploring the local area? Perhaps end the business day with some guided yoga or meditation to calm and restore the mind before enjoying the acclaimed rustic Italian food at Uma Cucina.

For the more adventurous, whitewater rafting on the Ayung River is very popular for visitors to the area, or let Uma Ubud arrange a mountain biking trip, complete with all the gear, so your people can challenge themselves on the muddy terrain and rough village pathways. For those more interested in culture, day trips into Ubud and the surrounding area can provide a plethora of

temples, galleries, handicraft workshops and stunning landscapes to explore. Being in the centre of Bali, there is a vast choice of places to visit on a day trip from Uma by COMO, Ubud.

Whatever you choose, Uma Ubud can organise it in style so you can get the best out of your delegates and everyone returns to the office revitalised, restored and rejuvenated.

Uma by COMO, Ubud Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Banjar Lungsiakan, Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 972448 E: events.uma.ubud@comohotels.com www.comohotels.com/umaubud ASIADREAMS 89

THE SEMINYAK BEACH RESORT & SPA The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa is a sophisticated and stylish beachfront resort with a fabulous choice of elegant guest rooms, suites and villas designed to accommodate the demanding needs of today's discerning business or pleasure traveller.

BUSINESS Located in the pulsating heart of Bali’s hip west coast tourist strip, a couple of minutes walk to Ku De Ta, The Seminyak is a modern Balinese resort with a reputation for high quality accommodations, dining, facilities and superb service that gives guests a truly Seminyak experience.

Its beachfront location is perhaps unrivalled in its popularity and for individual business travellers or small groups its discreet facilities make an excellent alternative venue to host your function or meeting or even as a base for business travel.

The tastefully appointed The Banjar meeting room is close to the lobby and like the rest of the hotel is stylish and comfortable.

The Banjar can handle meetings and group events for up 40 people in a variety of configurations, from classroom or boardroom, to roundtable banquet style.

In addition to the standard function room equipment, The Banjar is also fully soundproofed for total privacy and, of course, The Seminyak’s experienced planning and event staff are on hand throughout to ensure your event runs smoothly.

The location is excellent for banquets or other celebrations to take advantage of the resort's natural beachside ambience.

The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa has a 90 ASIADREAMS

range of fabulous poolside and beachside spaces that can be utilised to capitalise on the superb lush tropical location, excellent kitchen and Balinese service.

venue where guests can enjoy a range of delicious freshly cooked international and seafood plates chosen from the excellent and extensive menu.

PLEASURE Blessed with a beautiful stretch of beach, boutique shopping and a host of divine restaurants, bars and cafes, Seminyak is one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations.

At the resort, the spacious villas offer a chic fusion of indigenous and contemporary décor and art. Custom wood carvings, hammered bronze door handles and the sunken Jacuzzi bathtub only hint at the delightful attention to detail, whilst one of the island’s most iconic beaches is mere footsteps away. The rooms are similarly appointed.

Back in the gardens we find the pavilions that make up Santran, the resort's all-day dining restaurant. With its range of Asian and international dishes it’s sure to tickle your palate, or maybe after a long day of meetings you prefer to kick back with a cocktail or two at the Sanje Ocean Lounge and Bar?

At the beachfront the magnificent infinity pool is the social heart of the resort. With its huge sunbeds and a lively sunken bar, it’s just the perfect spot for a light bite between meetings or an icy cold beer or juice afterwards.

Dining at The Seminyak is always a scrumptious affair at either of its two restaurants. There’s also a regular special entertainment program featuring a Balinese Buffet and cultural performances, such as re-enactments of the epic Ramayana and Barong dances. Open for lunch and dinner, Sanje is the resort’s beachside casual dining

If it’s total relaxation you seek, then the resort’s heavenly Kahyangan Spa is the place to go. The name is taken from the sacred home of the Balinese gods and goddesses; the Kahyangan Spa is a place where you can feel yourself restored, rejuvenated and enlightened through a range of traditional treatments and therapies.

Whilst The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa offers discreet high-quality business facilities, in terms of leisure and pleasure, it offers all that the discerning traveller could possibly want and presents it in some style.

The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa Jalan Kayu Aya, Seminyak Beach, Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia Tel: (+62) 361 730814 www.theseminyak.com

THE MULIA, MULIA RESORT & VILLAS NUSA DUA, BALI It's no secret that The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali is a hub of fine dining and even finer living, but what some may not know is this ultra-luxurious resort in Bali's stylish Nusa Dua hotel enclave is also home to some of the most dynamic and expansive business facilities in the region.

BUSINESS Setting the standard exceptionally high for luxury business facilities in the region, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali has taken the “no expense spared” approach when it comes to its MICE facilities. Offering a choice of 15 different conference rooms, two palatial ballrooms and the ability to host more than 2,200 delegates for large-scale conferences, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali certainly knows how to please its corporate guests.

In typical The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali fashion, where resting on one's laurels simply isn't an option, the resort has most recently launched a number of packages to help businesspeople plan the perfect event or corporate gathering without a hitch. Matching meeting venues with gourmet luncheons, high-end conference technology and luxurious night stays, doing business in paradise has never been so easy.

PLEASURE Luckily for Bali's visitors and residents alike, with so much room to play with, this world-renowned resort has chosen to fill its grounds with all of the best things life has to offer: gourmet food, fine wine, an award-winning spa, business and leisure destinations like no other and all-out extravagance when it comes to its five-star suites and villas.

The leisure facilities at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali speak for themselves. The sheer expanse of the dazzling pools is without doubt the first thing to catch the eye, illuminated by the unmistakeable glow of pampered skin that's fresh from the award-winning Mulia Spa and scented by the rich aromas of The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali wining and dining destinations that have long been on the lips of Asia's most sophisticated foodies.

From the gourmet cuisine at Soleil, Table8, Edogin and The Cafe, to the world-class cocktails and fine wines at The Bar and ZJ's Bar & Lounge, indulging at The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali seems to come rather naturally. It's this all-embracing, ultra-luxurious concept that has helped put the reputation of The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali as a world-class leisure destination well and truly on the map.

The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas Nusa Dua, Bali Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Kawasan Sawangan, Nusa Dua 80363 Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 3017 777 E: info@themulia.com www.themulia.com/bali

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PEPPERS SEMINYAK Few destinations let you mix business with pleasure quite like Peppers Seminyak. Tucked away in the epicentre of Bali's swankiest neighbourhood, this five-star villa retreat doesn't separate the two if you don't want it to. Whether for dipping your feet in the pool during a conference call or hitting the gym in-between emails, Peppers Seminyak is right up there as one of the coolest destinations in Asia to work hard and play harder.

BUSINESS Peppers Seminyak is all about adding a bit of glitz to the daily grind. The resort has recently launched its Connect@ coworking space for the island's most dynamic professionals, specifically for those looking to work without the boundaries of time or the confines of an uninspiring office.

Connect@ lets business folk maximise the benefits of working in paradise by encouraging creativity and productivity through the flexibility of working poolside, in the private meeting or Skype rooms,

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or even taking the office to one of the spacious, open-air villas for a tropical conference venue like no other.

All villa hires include standard meeting room equipment, such as high-speed internet, whiteboards, flipcharts, writing materials and water, whilst catered barbecues, evening soirees and team-building activities can be organised with the help of the specialist events coordinator.

What's more, all business and Connect@ guests automatically receive a bevy of

irresistible perks, including 15% off at The Laneway signature restaurant and at the award-winning spa, unlimited access to the gym and pool and the freedom to work anywhere in the five-star resort. Peppers Seminyak is undeniably one of the most advanced and stylish business destinations in Asia and manages to have a bit of fun with it at the same time, too.

PLEASURE If the perks of Peppers Seminyakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business facilities weren't enough, the resort itself is a playground for pleasure. Not only home to

a collection of chic and stylish private pool villas, a glittering natural lagoon and the acclaimed spa that was featured in Asia's Top 10 Wellness Resorts by CNN Travel, Peppers Seminyak is also the place to experience Bali's latest fine dining venue, The Laneway.

The Laneway has consistently rated among the best restaurants in Seminyak ever since opening, showcasing authentic cuisine from around the world by fusing traditional recipes with contemporary flavours. The fresh, seasonally driven cuisine is undeniably upmarket yet never fussy, with hearty steaks,

homemade pasta dishes and freshly grilled seafood served up throughout the day.

And just like with the flexibility of the resort's business venues, guests can choose where to enjoy The Laneway's specialities, be it lounging al fresco by the lagoon, sprawled out across the fashionable couches, propped up in the air-conditioned dining room, or even in the private, gourmet kitchens of the villas.

work-life balance all figured out and shares this inspiring concept with every one of its guests.

Peppers Seminyak Jalan Pura Telaga Waja, Petitenget Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 730 333 E: info@peppersseminyak.com www.peppersseminyak.com

So whether for business or pleasure, or a little bit of both, Peppers Seminyak has the

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DISCOVERY KARTIKA PLAZA HOTEL Discover Bali like never before – located on a private section of the legendary Kuta Beach, this hotel boasts a central location and a wide selection of options for professional travellers and carefree tourists alike.

BUSINESS With nine spaces for events, The Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel is well prepared to host memorable occasions of any size. Each of these rooms is equipped with everything that you will need for a successful meeting or event, including internet, elegant furnishings, the latest technology, and a full service complete with meals and the necessities for a much–needed coffee break.

For large events, consider the spacious Kharisma Ballroom, an expansive pillarless space that can sit up to 400 people for a banquet, 800 for a cocktail reception, or 350 people classroom style. This well-appointed ballroom will impress your associates while The Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel’s staff ensure that everything runs smoothly.

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PLEASURE A dynamic retreat in the sun, The Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel invites visitors to recline, relax and dive into a Bali holiday headlong.

Escape from it all in one of six exclusive villas featuring two bedrooms, a private garden, outdoor pavilion and tranquil plunge pool.

The ideal accommodations for those looking to enjoy the very best of tropical holiday living, these villas offer exquisite privacy along with the hotel’s prime location near some of Bali’s most popular attractions.

Allow your private butler to arrange your day’s itinerary while you step out onto the sand, taking full advantage your villa’s direct access to Kuta Beach.

To rejuvenate your body and spirit, pay

a visit to the Discovery Spa. Professional therapists will attend to your individual needs as you choose between relaxing massage therapies, revitalizing body scrubs and face, hair and feet treatments to brighten your image. Take the love of your life on a romantic journey in a private room designed to accommodate couples, one that includes a sauna and an oversized bathtub. For families, even the youngest guests can be pampered with specially designed Kids’ Spa treatments.

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 751067 E: reservation@discoverykartikaplaza.com www.discoverykartikaplaza.com

PULLMAN BALI LEGIAN NIRWANA Whether it's for work or play, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana brings the signature five-star treatment of the worldwide Pullman brand to Bali's iconic Kuta beachfront.

BUSINESS Offering more than just conference rooms and office equipment, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana treats its business travellers in a way that goes beyond the materialistic.

Instead of simply dazzling corporate clients with fancy facilities (although they have plenty of those too, including Microsoft and Samsung technologies as part of the unique Pullman Co-Meeting concept) Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana caters to its business guests individually, discretely and thoughtfully.

Whether it's a specialty treatment to cure a case of jetlag, a specially designed power lunch for when time is not on one's side, or round-the-clock access to high-end Nespresso coffees for caffeine boosts whenever they're called for, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana helps its guests through the

daily grind as efficiently, productively and seamlessly as possible. And if all else fails, the expert team of business professionals is on hand to take care of the rest.

PLEASURE Pullman is renowned around the globe as one of the most business-friendly hotel brands in the world, but they also understand there is more to life than just work.

For the hotel's leisure travellers, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana makes sure it pulls out all the stops. Of course, one pool is never enough, so the hotel treats its pleasureseeking guests to two different takes on paradise: one stunning rooftop infinity pool with sweeping ocean views and one lagoon-like pool tucked away in the hotel's tropical gardens.

Then there's the 24-hour Fit Lounge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a space dedicated to staying in shape with the latest generation of cardio and weightlifting equipment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as well as Tjakra 7 Spa

by Pullman that fuses the holistic and the traditional to heal, energise and pamper.

The hotel is also host to the signature Deli Restaurant and Vinoteca wine bar because nothing says holiday quite like a bottle of Sauvignon over a long and leisurely lunch.

Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana 1 Jalan Melasti, Legian Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 762 500 E: h6556@accor.com www.pullmanhotels.com/6556

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GRAND HYATT SINGAPORE Not only considered one of Singapore's finest hotels, the five-star Grand Hyatt Singapore is renowned as a leading business and convention hub in the heart of the famed Orchard Road precinct, topped off with award-winning down-time destinations and amenities for both discerning business and leisure travellers alike.

BUSINESS With its three floors of flexible event space and a professional team of creative event planners, Grand Hyatt Singapore has long enjoyed a well-earned reputation for excellence in the field of business hospitality.

The hotel’s 16 event venues, spanning more than 5,100 sq.m. across three floors, bring a first-of-its-kind concept to Singapore: an ultimate event experience for dynamic corporate meetings and exhibitions. Its unique aesthetics, cutting-edge equipment and team of professional planners on hand to assist with catering needs, setup and administrative tasks, ensure all business and conference needs are met with the highestcalibre solutions. Nothing is standard, itineraries are tailor-made and no two events 96 ASIADREAMS

are ever the same, offering distinct appeal to every event hosted here.

As an additional benefit, Grand Hyatt Singapore offers its Hyatt Gold Passport Planner Rewards™ programme to event hosts – an exclusive programme to redeem points on night stays, room upgrades, travel prizes and meetings. It also allows splitting the rewards between colleagues and clients as an incentive.

The hotel also features its own Business Centre as part of its 10 SCOTTS signature restaurant – a place where business people often flock to enjoy casual coffee meetings or a leisurely client dinner. The Business Centre caters to all business needs, from

laptop rentals, business card printing and boardroom facilities, to state-of-the-art communication services at all levels.

What's more, the hotel's Grand Corporate Suite has been specifically designed with the business traveller in mind, complete with a study area, priviledged access to the Grand Club lounge, 24-hour concierge, optional limousine and representative services, onhand conference, travel and courier services and a specialised light-enhanced desk to maximise productivity, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the hotel's recreational facilities.

Located in the heart of Singapore just minutes from the financial and business centre, Grand Hyatt Singapore also offers a clear advantage to business travelers.

PLEASURE The 677 luxury rooms and suites at Grand Hyatt Singapore are arguably a leisure attraction in themselves. Featuring swimming pool or city views, luxurious goose-down beds, elegant bathtubs, top of the range entertainment systems and, in the suites, powder rooms and walk-in wardrobes, simply staying at Grand Hyatt Singapore is respite enough.

But it is outside the rooms where the fun can really begin, with several high-end

bars and restaurants housed under one roof. From contemporary Western and Asian cuisine at mezza9, to popular local delights at StraitsKitchen, hearty Italian fare at Pete's Place and late night cocktails at the glass-enclosed martini bar, Grand Hyatt Singapore naturally attracts the city's suited and booted.

And for when the wining, dining, shopping and exploring begins to take its toll, the hotel is also home to the award-winning spa, Damai, complete with a fitness centre,

beauty salon and outdoor swimming pool to unwind following a difficult day in the office or a late night on the town. When it comes to mixing business with pleasure, Grand Hyatt Singapore has everything covered.

Grand Hyatt Singapore 10 Scotts Road, Singapore 228211, Singapore T: (+65) 6738 1234 E: singapore.grand@hyatt.com www.singapore.grand.hyatt.com ASIADREAMS 97

MARINA BAY SANDS The iconic and world-renowned integrated resort, Marina Bay Sands Singapore, boasts luxury accommodation, high-end shopping, upscale facilities and services with outstanding architecture and is a fabulous place for business and leisure travellers from around the globe to experience.

Marina Bay Sands Chairman Suite

BUSINESS The resort is a one-stop integrated solution for all business and MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Conference and Exhibition) needs. From an extravagant party of 11,000 or a casual gathering for 11, the hotel is ready to cater to the specific requirements of its customers, especially with the availability of multiple and exclusive venues. The Sands Expo and Convention Centre is the largest and most versatile meeting site in the city with an approximate capacity of 45,000 people, featuring 120,000 sq.m. of flexible space, 250 meeting rooms and room for about 2,000 exhibition booths, as well as the largest ballroom in Southeast Asia, which can accommodate up to 8,000 people.

Moreover, the hotel features Green Meeting Options, being the first MICE facility in the 98 ASIADREAMS

region to obtain the ISO 20121 certification, and is powered by Sands ECO360⁰. Known for hosting world-class events, Marina Bay Sands also provides highly trained and specialised professionals from different technological backgrounds to be on standby for support and to find solutions for events. Additionally, the hotel can provide five-star catering services for all events.

To tailor to a group of three to 20 people, Marina Bay Sands features a Business Centre, which includes private office space and conference rooms for rent, accompanied by a wide selection of meals and drinks upon request.

PLEASURE Transport yourself to the Sands SkyPark, located on the rooftop 57th floor for

a breath-taking experience and an unparalleled panoramic view of Singapore.

The Sands SkyPark features the world’s longest elevated outdoor infinity-edged swimming pool, which is almost three times the length of an Olympic pool, and a public observatory deck on the cantilever with 360-degree views of Singapore’s skyline.

The SkyPark also houses upscale rooftop restaurants and bars, such as Sky on 57 by celebrity chef Justin Quek, Flight Bar and Lounge, Spago by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck and the nightclub CE LA VI, previously known as KU DÉ TA. Shopaholics will rejoice at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, an area of close to 1,000,000 sq.m. housing one of the largest collections of the finest luxury brands, including boutiques such as Ralph Lauren,

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Chanel, Cartier, Hermès, Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo, Montblanc and much more.

After a gratifying shopping spree, guests can enjoy delectable dining options, including eight of the ten restaurants by celebrity chefs: CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, db Bistro & Oyster Bar by Daniel Boulud, Osteria Mozza and Pizzeria Mozza by Mario Batali and Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda. Two other restaurants, Long Chim and Adrift, by celebrity chefs David Thompson and David Myers respectively, can also be found in the resort’s vicinity along with other fine dining and casual eateries.

Meanwhile, experience tranquillity and rejuvenation among the clouds with the award-winning services of the Banyan Spa and Banyan Tree Fitness Club located 55 storeys high in the world-class hotel.

Guests can choose to pamper themselves with an assorted range of 30 to 120-minute therapeutic treatments or work out in style with state-of-the-art cardio machines, weight machines and free weights, or enjoy a sunrise yoga session. Other activities include riding along an indoor canal in a sampan, catching a Broadway musical at the MasterCard Theatres, or enjoying a cultural respite at the world’s first ArtScience Museum.

Establishments around the iconic towers include a theatre block, a convention and exhibition facilities block, the blooming lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum, two floating crystal pavilions with one transformed into two clubs: Pangaea and Avalon, while the other is a Louis Vuitton Island Maison.

Marina Bay Sands 10 Bayfront Avenue 018956, Singapore T: (+65) 6688 8888 / 6688 8868 E: inquiries@marinabaysands.com www.marinabaysands.com

Club 55

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THE FULLERTON SINGAPORE Draped in heritage and laced with grandeur, The Fullerton Hotel in all its historic charm sits in the centre of Singapore's financial, arts and entertainment district, making it the perfect setting for a lavish city-break or distinguished business affair.

BUSINESS Be it a lavish banquet, intimate business meeting or international conference, The Fullerton Hotel is the preferred choice in Singapore for those who appreciate a classic, refined tone for their corporate matters. Managed by the experienced team of committed professionals, The Fullerton Hotel presents nine distinctively furnished meeting rooms, a ballroom, The Straits Room and the outdoor East Garden.

Although the historic building sits in the centre of Singapore's CBD, the hotel also holds its very own 24-hour Financial Centre for when business matters need tending to outside of office hours.

There's also the Straits Club for guests staying in any of the hotel's suites, which, 100 ASIADREAMS

besides offering five-star privileges such as round-the-clock assistance, in-room registration, a complimentary daily Champagne breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapĂŠs and cocktails, complimentary pressing services and a meeting room, the Club in itself is renowned as a very respectable place to meet clients and take care of business the Fullerton way.

PLEASURE It's not only the business facilities at The Fullerton Hotel that garner the attention of the city's elite. Singapore's epicureans have five delectable wining and dining destinations to choose from, spa-seekers are invited to pamper themselves at The Fullerton Spa, the health-conscious can keep fit at the fitness centre and the city's

shopaholics have the hotel's own Raffles Jeweller, Du Bois perfumery and luxury boutiques to browse, not to mention worldclass shopping malls just moments from The Fullerton Hotel's doorstep.

The hotel successfully blends its illustrious heritage with a stunning, contemporary style, discreet and personalised service and excellent dining to offer a true destination experience, no matter the occasion.

The Fullerton Singapore 1 Fullerton Square, 049178, Singapore T: (+65) 6733 8388 E: info@fullertonhotel.com www.fullertonhotel.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON, HONG KONG As the tallest of all of the waterfront hotels in Kowloon, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong provides an inspiring panorama of the city’s unprecedented growth from its convenient location atop the southern peninsula of Victoria Harbour.

BUSINESS Rising above the skyline of Victoria Harbour, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is one of the world’s finest business hotels and is an ideal location to host important corporate meetings, company celebrations and extravagant product launches that are sure to gather a lot of attention. Command expansive conference rooms prepared with cutting-edge, equipment including an LED wall in the ballroom, and The RitzCarlton’s legendary service that includes catering, concierge and on-site technicians.

Ask the culinary team to craft the perfect accompaniment to your event, while an events team ensures everything goes exactly as planned.

If teambuilding is your goal, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong offers VolunTeaming, a program that combines traditional teambuilding with community outreach volunteer programs.

This worthwhile venture forges lasting lessons while making a true connection to

the place you visit, making a difference for the community as well as for your team.

PLEASURE With a supreme view of Hong Kong and the harbour beyond, enjoy urban opulence at this towering example of luxury. High above the streets below, treat yourself to a signature treatment in The Ritz-Carlton Spa

by ESPA while taking in an arresting view of Hong Kong through the spa’s floor-toceiling windows. Employing traditional Asian healing secrets, the therapists at this soaring spa will exceed your expectations.

Known for its unparalleled culinary scene, many come to Hong Kong to experience its epicurean offerings and for this, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is the perfect place to visit. Experience the 2-Michelin Star Tin Lung Heen, a restaurant offering impeccable Cantonese dishes that have earned the eatery a Michelin Star. The similarly awarded Tosca restaurant that serves beautifully

authentic Italian fare is the delight of guests searching for the height of European cuisine.

True culinary aficionados can pay a visit to the posh Almas Caviar Bar and sample some of the world’s finest caviar alongside sophisticated champagnes.

When night falls, OZONE, the highest bar in the world, comes to life at the top of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. Its strikingly modern design creates a fashionable and contemporary atmosphere for an extraordinary evening in the sky. Order an original cocktail created by one of OZONE’s expert mixologists and let loose to the music of a live DJ.

The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong T: (+852) 2263 2263 E: e-rc.hkgw.leads@ritzcarlton.com www.ritzcarlton.com/Hong Kong ASIADREAMS 101

W HONG KONG In a modern and evolving metropolis, W Hong Kong perfectly reflects the city’s advanced, contemporary atmosphere with excellent services and facilities to accommodate every guest.

BUSINESS In a hotel that simply exudes creativity and innovation, W Hong Kong is the perfect place to hold a meeting, or engage audiences with captivating events. With six-and-a-half-metre ceilings and soothing natural light, this space will energize everyone within. Complete with plasma screens, full A/V equipment and an array of advanced technological equipment, W Hong Kong is prepared to exceed the demands of today’s modern world of business.

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Whether it's for a banquet for 360 people, or a theatre-setting meeting of 420 associates, the dedicated staff will work tirelessly to ensure it all goes smoothly – for example, the hotel’s singular chefs will be happy to present their inventive culinary creations suited perfectly to the occasion.

Additionally, W Hong Kong’s meeting specialists will be more than happy to engage your team with exhilarating virtual recess options for a productive, but much

needed break. To make a positive impact on the environment, inquire about the unique sustainability packages. Green initiatives include high-efficiency LED lighting, minimizing paper waste and exciting options like the use of only locally sourced coffees and ingredients. Capitalize on the green and creative spirit of W Hong Kong to maximize your productivity and efficiency.

PLEASURE This glamorous retreat not only offers guests easy access to thriving Hong

Kong, but is also teeming with thrilling features for fun-seeking travelers. With a trendy, contemporary vibe, W Hong Kong is not your standard hotel. All rooms are chic, yet elegant; some of these superb accommodations even allow you to gaze out at the placid harbour from your soaring vista as you soak in an oversized bathtub. If you are in need of some delicious relaxation, Bliss Spa is a unique retreat that will alleviate your tensions. Take in a movie while getting a blissful manicure or cleanse your body and mind in the vitality pool. With special treatments for both men and women, reserve a private room and treat yourself to a soothing massage.

Afterwards, venture to the very top of the building and float in Hong Kong’s highest outdoor pool. Two hundred and eleven metres above it all, relax in a comfortable

deck chair and order from a complete menu of refreshing drinks and satisfying light bites.

Named WET, W Hong Kong’s signature pool is the place to find not only relaxation and recreation, but also some heart-pumping parties, innovative drinks and the hottest music.

When night falls, pay a visit to the WOOBAR and enjoy a late-night creative cocktail with friends in this unbelievably contemporary bar. With a design unlike any other, WOOBAR is a hotspot for nightlife in Hong Kong and often hosts glamorous parties, as well as the city’s most popular DJs. With new concepts taking over every night, join in the fun and sample a new cocktail crafted by talented mixologists, or make a selection from an extensive wine list. A place to see and be seen, WOOBAR will take your night to the next level.

For more excitement, look for the hotel’s thrilling W Happenings; these sensational parties and trendy events are inspired by W Hong Kong’s signature passions of music, fashion and design. To add the thrill of shopping and fashion to your holiday in Hong Kong, browse the W brand’s collection of eye-catching artful swimwear inspired

by W’s gorgeous retreats in the Asia-Pacific, the result of a fruitful partnership with famous Australian fashion designer, We Are Handsome.

W Hong Kong 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon Station Kowloon, Hong Kong T: (+852) 3717 2222 E: w.hk@whotels.com www.w-hongkong.com

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INSPIRATION

- LIVING THE DREAM

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They say that if you dream big, you win big, and that's exactly how the story began for Jimmy Gunawan, owner of Bali's leading Alaya hotel group, the luxurious Villa de daun and three glamorous DaLa Spas.

Following a path he dreamt as a youngster, this entrepreneur went from zero to hero without an ounce of training in the hospitality industry, but he assures us it wasn't an easy ride.

T

alking with Asia Dreams at the fabulous Alaya Resort Kuta, Jimmy tells us about the climb to success that took years of hard work, focus and hands-on learning. He talks about staying true to his values, his Indonesian heritage, and most of all, always thinking outside the box.

Q: Take us back to the very beginning.

When and how did you find yourself entering into the hospitality industry?

A: When I was young it had always been my dream to own a hotel, a real high-rise building, but it was only when I finished university in Sydney that I remembered this dream, when I was fortunate enough to work for a property developer, one that specialised in high-rises. I soon returned to my home in Surabaya, eager to get into business. At that time my girlfriend (now wife) had a property here in Bali, Villa de

daun, but there was no one to manage it properly. She was a first-timer in the hospitality industry with a background in medical science, so she asked me to help out. I started with the sales and marketing side and slowly but surely I was hooked and Villa de daun became our focus. We learnt everything by experience: travelling to different destinations, staying at different hotels, seeing what they did and what they were missing. Then we went out and did things our way.

we were really able to get our hands dirty.

We did everything from the bottom up, from the housekeeping to the landscaping, accounting, service training and the F&B â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we were totally hands on. I was about 26 at that time so I wasn't afraid to try new things and, in a way, not having a hospitality background meant I wasn't stuck in my ways. We did things differently partly because we weren't afraid to do so and partly because we didn't realise we were being unconventional.

Q: So how did you go from managing Villa de daun alone, to launching two Alaya properties central to Bali's hospitality scene?

Then, after four years, we knew what our dream hotel should look like and we had the drive to create it from scratch. It was in 2010 that we found the land for Alaya Ubud.

We opened at the beginning of 2013 and

by April we were already at full occupancy for a straight 20 months. From start to finish we were committed to being different and staying true to our values and in my opinion that's how we got things right.

A: Honestly, it was simply by using our common sense, learning as we went and doing what we love. Villa de daun was a big part of our training. It was small enough for us as beginners, but big enough that

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Q: So in what way is Alaya different to other hotel brands?

A: Whether it's always addressing our guests in the proper Indonesian way offering a taste of Indonesian culture, or offering things we would want to experience ourselves, Alaya is all about the guest. For example, our breakfasts are à la carte with pure 100% juices and gourmet coffees because if I was a guest, I wouldn't want instant coffee or impure juices, but that's exactly what a lot of hotels provide. Breakfast is seen as a cost and so they stick with the rule of keeping it cheap. We see it as an investment. Yes it will cost us, but the guests will start each day the right way. They remember that. They tell their friends and that's the best form of marketing.

That's how Alaya sets itself apart from the rest because we see things differently and so we serve our guests differently.

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Q: How about the properties themselves?

They are in two very different locations, so how does Alaya Kuta compare to Alaya Ubud?

A: Ubud is definitely more cultural. You've got that jungle feel, perfect for the yogis and the nature lovers. Kuta on the other hand is more urban, less traditional but still with lots of reference to Indonesian culture and the Alaya brand. In everything we do, even with Villa de daun, DaLa spa and at both Alaya's, we emphasise heavily the cultural aspect of Indonesia. You can see it in the décor, the spa menus, the service – it's all inspired

by Indonesia. That's the true core of our creations.

Q: So where do you see Alaya in the next few years? How will the brand be staying at the head of the pack?

A: In this highly competitive market we have to remain different. Of course we have to offer value but we also need to be daring enough to try new things. For example, I want to see Alaya in more exotic places, like Sumba or the Gili islands. Not enough players take on new exotic locations, everyone wants to saturate the same market. I see opportunities elsewhere. Then beyond the physical, I want the Alaya brand to always remain pure. To remain Alaya. It's going back to those core values, staying true to ourselves and staying true to what we believe in.

Q: So are there any other projects on the horizon?

A: A few actually! First we are extending Alaya Ubud, adding 46 rooms and also opening a new restaurant called Manisan,

headed by the number one foodie in Indonesia, William Wongso. He's the Anthony Bourdain of Indonesia. We want to capture the ultimate Indonesian food experience – no fusions, no twists, just pure Indonesian food served up in a traditional joglo in the middle of the rice paddies, taking care of all five senses.

We're also working on a third Alaya, also in Ubud and designed by Australia's Grounds Kent Architects and landscaped by Made Wijaya, as with the two other Alayas. But it will have a different concept – an Ayurvedic retreat that's not going to obliterate people's budgets. We'll have a full-time Ayurvedic doctor and a new herb-oriented healthy food concept curated by Diana von Cranach, Asia's top raw food chef. So again it's something totally new for me to learn, but that's what keeps the excitement alive.

Q: With so many projects on the go, what does your work-life balance look like? Is it all work and no play?

A: It's always work hard, play hard! We work very hard, but it's important not to get lost in the business. My parents raised me that way. Stay focused, but always make time to enjoy life.

Q: And how about your team at Alaya – do you like to run a very tight ship or do you prefer to play it cool?

A: We're a team, so it's the same work-life balance for us all. I took the whole team rafting last year and for the next trip I plan to take them on a cruise to Nusa Lembongan.

I value them so much, I feel like they are my partners. I have to take care of them. We regularly go riding together. We spend time

outside of the office together. There's a real team spirit.

Q: So what advice would you give to budding hospitality entrepreneurs?

A: Always be different and use your common sense. You don't just build a hotel simply because you have the land. You have to think about things logically and then you have to be willing to work hard. Some people say I've been lucky, but they don't know how hard I've worked. www.alayahotels.com www.villadedaun.com www.dalaspa.com

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INSPIRATION

MEET

A NDRÃ&#x2030; K RE T S CHM A NN

A MAN ON A MISSION

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After six years with Cheval Blanc as area general manager for Southeast Asia, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, André Kretschmann returns a decade after leaving the prestigious group for which, between 1995 and 2005, he managed properties in Jakarta, Phuket, Oman and Sri Lanka before moving on to new challenges.

K

retschmann has returned as general manager of the acclaimed The Legian Bali, an all-suite resort located alongside its 11 pool-villa sister property in Seminyak, The Club at The Legian. Asia Dreams caught up with him for a drink and a chat in the resort’s signature eatery, The Restaurant, overlooking the resort's infinity pool and the spectacular Seminyak Beach.

Q: It’s been almost a year since you took the reins at The Legian. How are you enjoying the challenge?

A: The Legian Bali is a beautiful and truly

iconic hotel and it is a privilege to work in such a nice property, with such dedicated and wonderful staff. It has been very enjoyable so far.

Q: What made you chose this career?

A: As a child I used to travel a lot with my father to various hotel projects throughout Germany – he is an architect and interior designer – so I got exposed to the fascinating world of hotels at an early stage and have never turned back.

Q: With a history working at some of the most iconic hotels on Earth, The Savoy London, The Lancaster Paris and the

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, what attracted you to Bali and to The Legian in particular?

A: I have worked in Asia for many years at a number of luxury hotels. For this exciting position the owner of The Legian Bali and our GHM president asked me to re-join the company. I had worked with GHM before joining other hotel companies and organizations. We are currently also developing a new management company (LHM), which I am representing as vice president.

Q: What first brought you to Asia?

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A: After working in The Savoy London and The Lancaster in Paris, I was hired

by Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, in the late 1980s. I was very impressed the high standards prevalent in luxury hotels in Asia and decided that this was the part of the world I wanted to live and work in.

Q: Asia has so much to offer. Do you have a personal favourite destination?

A: Definitely! I love both Thailand and Indonesia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the people are charming, hard working and the genuine hospitality mindset is simply amazing.

Q: How are you enjoying life in Bali?

A: I enjoy living in Bali. It have lots to offer and the creativity here seems endless.

Q: In a resort, the challenges are very different than somewhere like the Mandarin Oriental, for example. How you see your role here differing in that respect?

A: Yes, they represent a very different set of

challenges for any hotel management team.

Resort guests are in general more relaxed and usually tend to be very easy to interact with. They also stay longer than a typical business traveller in a city location and obviously have a different reason for being there. Our guests at The Legian expect a lot of personal attention from the management team and that is exactly what we aim to give them.

Q: What changes, if any, will you be implementing through 2016?

A: Our executive chef, Luke Macleod, is implementing several changes to our food strategy and there will be a number of events, such as in March when The Legian Bali will be hosting a unique invite-only master class and dinner with Ivan Brehm, the 2015 Chef of the Year and head chef of the acclaimed restaurant, Bacchanalia, in Singapore. We also plan to add a woodfired pizza oven at our Ocean Bar, which will be very popular with our many returning guests who love the ambience and sophistication. Of the larger scale projects, we are currently discussing the feasibility

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preparation work to manage and that will definitely keep me busy for the next few years.

Q: What can guests expect of you?

A: My undivided attention. My door is literally always open to our patrons. In more broad terms I am constantly trying to improve on services, equipment and the training of our staff.

Q: What do you do in your precious down time?

A: The island has a lot to offer, both locally in Seminyak and beyond, so I try to experience new restaurants and I like to explore some of the more remote parts of Bali.

Q: What do you miss most about Frankfurt?

A: The famous â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sachsenhausen Ciderâ&#x20AC;? restaurants: a unique feature only to be experienced in Frankfurt! www.LHM-hotels.com

of upgrading and renovating The Club at The Legian, our cluster of 11 exclusive and extremely private pool villas.

Q: The enduring attraction of The Legian, for me, is that it truly is an oasis of calm in the buzzing heart of Seminyak. Do you have a favourite feature?

A: I agree there is an air of serenity about the whole resort and, for me, I personally love the Pool Bar and the Ocean Bar located either side of the infinity pool. I also love the extensive lush lawn because I think it adds a very classy feel to the resort.

Q: General managers working in resorts often talk about managing guest relations as one of the key parts of their role. What would you say is the most important facet of your role here?

A: Yes, good guest relations are definitely key to a successful hotel operation; aside from that, in respect to the new properties that we will be launching in Lombok, Bali and possibly Jakarta, well I have plenty of

ASIADREAMS 111

INSPIRATION

PASSION FOR PEOPLE 112 ASIADREAMS

Drawing from his 30 years of experience with Starwood Hotels and Resorts, one of the world’s most prominent luxury hotel operators, Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta's General Manager, Stephan Sieberg, shared some time with Asia Dreams and revealed his enlightening views on the current state of the hospitality industry, the unique elements of Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta and tips on becoming a successful hotelier who crafts unrivalled experiences for guests.

Q: Firstly, thank you very much for setting aside some of your time today for this interview and photoshoot. Can you briefly share the highlights of your journey career-wise so far and how you ended up at Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta?

A: I am a very practical person. I took on an apprenticeship early on in a small, familyowned hotel in the south of Munich, since I love skiing, and I thought, if I’m doing this I might as well go to a nice place. I was assistant to the General Manager and owner.

After nearly four and a half years I then applied to international hotel chains. Every single international chain I applied to told me to start in the stewarding department first, which is to say, the dish-washing area.

They wanted to see management skills and how you handled difficult situations and working with different mentalities and nationalities. So I decided, if I'll be dish

washing, I might as well go to the biggest hotel in Europe, which at the time was the Sheraton Frankfurt at Frankfurt International Airport.

That was approximately 26 years ago. I made it all the way up over the course of nine years there and experienced Sales and Marketing, F&B and finally became the F&B Manager and then I thought, “Is that it? I mean, General Manager would be nice.” But I’d have to go abroad for that, widen my perspective, work with a different mentality, explore cities and countries.

So then I applied abroad within Starwood and the offer was either Sheraton Hotel London or Sheraton Hotel Sofia, Bulgaria.

Deciding these things, I never go for the obvious choice that everybody would jump on. I like to give the other opportunity a thought. Bulgaria at that time was struggling and underdeveloped. I went to

Sofia as Executive Assistant Manager and after nine months made it to be General Manager. I learned a lot there and it was really enjoyable. Then I was asked to do an opening. It’s almost customary for a General Manager to do an opening at least once.

It was in Tirana, Albania. That was another challenging country and once again I thought, “Why not?” It was the first fivestar, international chain hotel adjacent to a shopping mall ever in the country.

I then moved on to Warsaw, under the Westin brand, and stayed a little bit longer, for seven years, because of the 2009 global crisis. When it recovered in 2010, I finally thought about what’s next. Asia Pacific was a great opportunity. I took over Sheraton Imperial in Kuala Lumpur. Two years after that I was offered Keraton at the Plaza here.

Naturally I said yes and another exciting adventure began for me.

ASIADREAMS 113

Q: It has been almost half a year now since you joined Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta. Are you enjoying your time in Jakarta so far?

What elements of the city do you enjoy most and which (if any) do you find most challenging to adapt to?

A: To be honest, there was less rain in Malaysia, so the rain here is heavier and it's cloudier. I would say if you are looking to explore Indonesia, you’d have travel to the islands of Indonesia. Apart from that, people complain about traffic, but every growing city has traffic. Indonesia is a beautiful country with a lot of opportunities. We definitely love Jakarta for its vibrant lifestyle and hidden secrets.

Q: What changes have you implemented, or begun to implement, since you took the reins? And could you share some of the things you have planned for the hotel in the future?

A: We're living in the great age of change.

We have a fantastic product here. By this April, the hotel will have been open for four years. We have the latest innovations, the latest designs, and we are adapting to the business level. Change means you should not only look within your industry.

It's about how we can be different from the competition. We are in a people-driven industry. We are living in a fast-moving 114 ASIADREAMS

world and I aim to drive Keraton to constantly know what the customers want and deliver an extraordinary experience.

Q: Given your credentials and very strong track record in the hospitality industry, what’s your take on the current standard of luxury hotels here in Indonesia, specifically Jakarta, based on what you’ve witnessed so far?

A: Especially in Southeast Asia, there are large developments, shopping malls, hotels and residences. The investment part seems to be ongoing and it is foreseen that we will continue to have more of this in the coming years. The question is what the market can give in return. Unfortunately, occupancy levels are not expected to have major growth in the years to come – meaning the more unique your product is, the more trendsetting and pioneering your product is, the easier it is for you to position your business in the market.

Q: What can you tell us about the unique traits and characteristics of Keraton at the Plaza that your clientele can’t find anywhere else?

A: Keraton at The Plaza is indeed a very special hotel in a very special city and a very special market. We consider ourselves a boutique hotel and not one of the mainstream hotels. We have 140 rooms,

plus 54 residences embedded within Plaza Indonesia, the biggest and most upscale shopping mall in Indonesia, directly connected to us. I believe this is a wow!

I stayed here about two years ago for a conference and from the moment of the limousine pick-up to the point where I entered the hotel, I felt this unbelievable luxurious feel that is completely different from the other mainstream hotels. It reminded me very much of a private apartment lodging within a complex; it never appeared to be a plain hotel.

This explains our approach. We don’t want to be perceived as one of the mainstream hotels. We are finding our niche market within the market. It’s a very personalized service we are trying to offer. Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta is a part of Starwood. I like to say, “With passionate people, try to be a trendsetter.”

We are not looking to follow the other mainstream hotels and this is why we are under the Luxury Collection.

Now, the name “Keraton” says it all. The word means “palace” in Bahasa Indonesia, but we’re not talking in the sense of an old-fashioned palace. We have an urban contemporary modern design very much perceivable as a palace, in a sense. Although we have much bigger rooms than the standard, it is not merely about room sizes. It’s about being different by brand,

by design, by location. Above all, we offer highly personalised experiences from passionate people.

Q: Very few individuals can say they have 30 years of experience in the industry.

What are some recent changes or shifts in trends that you’ve witnessed or helped pioneer and how do these events change you personally, as well as in your professional capacity?

A: As I said, it’s a people industry, meaning the people we hire, the people we host as guests – we have to adjust to these individuals. In order to run a hotel successfully, you need to understand the country, culture, mentality and what is around you.

Q: Your background also shows an enviable track record in the food and beverage department. What’s your take on the current situation of Jakarta’s high-end F&B scene?

A: I am a strong believer that F&B plays a very important role, as it helps drive traffic to the hotel. I’m always trying to find ways to use the F&B outlets as vehicles to promote the hotel because they show the creativity, innovation, commitment and the level of service the hotel has. I have to say Jakarta’s F&B scene is very healthy, but I have to say that Bali is still more advanced. For

me, it is all about how to bring concepts alive. Most of the time it is not always the food that strikes you the most, but it’s that certain wow factor – whether it’s a special service, or a unique feeling in the ambience, this is what remains in your memory. So consistency is very important. If you fail to maintain that quality, returning guests will not find the wow factor that they liked on their first visit. Similarly, consistency is the key word in our business because that’s why people come back. Room experience can be gone in two minutes, but not your overall experience from arrival all the way to departure: Was it a journey worthy of remembrance, or was it just a stay? This point is crucial in both F&B and hospitality.

A: I’m a fan of going out, especially to visit places I’ve never been before. I like to explore something – the country, see the culture, see what each city has to offer. I feel I’m blessed to work in an industry for which travel is an integral part. I’m also a passionate motorbiker, but unfortunately I left my bikes in Europe, so I’m looking forward to unwind in summer. We have a home base in Germany and this is where the family gathers once a year for a lovely reunion.

Q: What advice can you give to budding hoteliers and hospitality professionals trying to make it big in the industry?

A: Nowadays, it goes without saying that the media is very important. Contrary to popular belief, I would say print media is still very important and that it all comes down to picking the right media partners. I’m very happy to be sitting here with you because we are always trying to find partners with the same values and approach and that are unique and above the mainstream. I believe the Exquisite Media group carries the same values as we do and our long-term partnership will benefit us greatly in the years to come.

A: If I’m allowed to use another key word it's passion. The most important thing to have, I believe, is passion for the industry.

Our working hours are long and on odd days and most likely on public holidays.

It is not exactly a desirable profession for the younger generation. We are in the hospitality industry. If you have the passion for that, it's easy, but if you lose the passion, you’re out.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time to unwind?

Q: Lastly, how important do you think it is to pick the right media to work with?

Can you please share your experience working together with Exquisite Media so far?

www.keratonattheplazajakarta.com

ASIADREAMS 115

WINE INSPIRATION

116 ASIADREAMS

PARAGON OF WINE AWARENESS

As one of the early pioneers of Indonesia’s fast-growing wine industry, Adam contributed a great deal in the early days of the Indonesia Sommelier Association. Apart from his full-time responsibility as Head Sommelier of the F&B mogul, Union Group, Adam is actively advocating wine awareness to Indonesia’s younger generations. Asia Dreams sat down with Adam over a lovely bottle of Sauvignon Blanc as he shared his views on the current state of Jakarta’s wine industry, his secrets of the trade, and on wine pairing with Asian food.

Q: Adam, thank you for allowing us some of your time today. Can you tell us the scope of your responsibilities as Head Sommelier of the Union Group currently?

A: First and foremost, I’m in charge of all the wine needs within the group’s entire outlets, which includes educating and developing the staff’s knowledge about wine. I organize internal weekly training, wine tasting, as well as wine events in each outlet, in conjunction with Jakarta’s fine wine distributors.

Q: And can you tell us about your other activities in the world of wine?

A: I’ve also been the President of the Jakarta chapter within the Indonesia Sommelier Association. We manage training, testing, including local competition for sommeliers and wine enthusiasts in Jakarta. This is a very helpful medium to help improve the knowledge of local wine lovers.

Q: How long have you been a sommelier and how did you know that this is what you want to do?

A: In 2009 I got my first sommelier position.

At the time it was at Riva, The Park Lane Jakarta, a French fine-dining restaurant with an extensive selection of wines. I

was just fascinated by the variety and the many different labels available to pair with.

Jakarta’s wine market around that time was booming. I participated in numerous wine classes and my interest kept growing.

When the sommelier association was formed in 2009, I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to be involved even more.

It’s very rewarding to learn about wine varieties, wine and food pairing options, and exploring lesser-known varieties that yield pleasantly surprising flavours.

Q: What are some of the most rewarding and challenging aspects in your profession so far?

Q: The local wine industry may just be starting to grow, but many upscale establishments have been employing international sommeliers for quite a while. How do you deal with this competition?

As for the rewarding aspect, I feel very fulfilled with the achievement and recognition of the Union Group in terms of pioneering wine. Just ten years ago, people had to go bars and restaurants at five-star hotels to get a good wine experience.

I’m quite proud that our outlets offer an extensive selection of international fine wine, and how the market appreciates it.

This also educates the market, so that’s always a good thing.

A: That is right. Our industry has been catching up recently, although a lot of prominent sommeliers have always been around. I think, being locals, we should have a fair advantage over international sommeliers, in that we understand how the local market works better and we know about local preferences and what they want.

While expatriate guests are plenty, I think the volume of local clients is still dominant, and there lies our advantage. The question is, do we educate ourselves sufficiently to utilize this advantage?

A: Educating the younger generation is always a challenge. Throughout the six years of the association, member regeneration is very short. We sift through five-star hotels and try to recruit from high-end restaurants, trying to find young, new wine experts inthe-making, but the response is not always as we expected.

Q: Adam, I understand it takes a substantial amount of passion and dedication to be a true sommelier. What advice can you give to those who are trying to be a successful sommelier?

A: It certainly takes a lot of passion and determination to actually ascend from a ASIADREAMS 117

ASTROLABE VALLEYS KEKERENGU COAST SAUVIGNON BLANC 2012

This wine provides focus and clarity on Marlborough's rapidly emerging subregions. Vines from Kekerengu Coast have distinct characteristics, one of which are highlighted strongly in this Sauvignon Blanc 2012.

PALATE Full-bodied, round, concentrated wine with some green tropical fruit and peach, and a crisp dry finish.

ADAM’S PAIRING SUGGESTION Salad with lemon dressing (mango salad, squid and prawn salad). The freshness of the wine (fruity, fresh acidity) goes well with the fresh vegetable/fruit and the heavy dressing.

wine enthusiast and become a wine expert.

I’m not trying to promote alcoholism, but to get there you have to expose yourself to as many varieties of wine as possible.

Train your wine senses to understand the smallest of details and learn how to describe them. If you find it difficult to distinguish a certain wine, take some time to focus on that particular wine and let your senses get a good feel of it before moving on to other wines.

Also, a sommelier knows which wine to suggest for any occasion, dishes, and types of guests. Contrary to popular belief, a sommelier’s job is not to sell wine at outrageous prices. They are there to enhance a guest’s dining experience by offering fine wine that suits the guest in both preference and budget. They have to be able to approach guests and make them 118 ASIADREAMS

feel comfortable with the establishment’s wine portfolio, without intimidating them with technical terms or wines irrelevant to their needs.

You also need to know what your guest wants. International guests usually see wine as an integral part of their daily life, and so will opt for a more moderate quality wine more regularly. On the other hand, locals who are celebrating special occasions often pick wines that are pricier, or more exclusive. It is no longer offensive to politely and discreetly inquire the budget when considering wine. This helps us make better suggestions tailored to each guest’s need.

Q: You mentioned wine and food pairing earlier. What kind of wine is usually perfect to pair with local Indonesian food?

A: Asian food is dominated by rich flavours, with abundant herbs and spices. For this we want more refreshing, fruity notes. We want to steer clear of tannin-heavy wine since it doesn’t go well with spicy or oily food. Pinot noir is usually perfect. The trace acid and fruity notes do not overpower the wine, nor does the food overpower the wine. We’ll have balance that way. For spicier food, typically we would go with Riesling.

I personally like how the hint of sweetness from New Zealand Rieslings really help balance out the spicy notes.

I know what you’re probably thinking: what about the old "red wine goes with red meat" rule? That’s just it. Old. The combination is safe, sure. And it works most of the time.

However, the culinary world has evolved so much ever since that pairing rule was instated. In order to fully enjoy pairing wine

ASTROLABE PROVINCE

ASTROLABE PROVINCE

MARLBOROUGH DRY RIESLING 2014

MARLBOROUGH PINOT NOIR 2014

In the province of Marlborough high sunshine hours are moderated by a mild sea breeze, while steep mountains keep moist and chilly winds at bay. A long cool growing season leads to gorgeous flavours.

This wine grown in a classic Marlborough vein emphasises the varietal intensity created by leafy vineyards, ripe fruit and cool climate. In the province of Marlborough, high sunshine hours are moderated by a mild sea breeze while steep mountains keep moist and chilly winds at bay.

PALATE Full bodied wine with round, mouth filling flavours of plum, brambly fruit and dark cherry. The oak integrates nicely with the fruit, and combines well with the silky and linear tannin structure.

PALATE Light textured, mineral wine, with fresh apple, lemon citrus flavours and a crisp, racy acidity.

ADAM’S PAIRING SUGGESTION Asian style steamed fish, preferably with heavy herbs and spices. This type of wine has noticeable floral, tropical fruit notes and a hint of sweet, ripe character of sweet of ripe character that easily pairs with Asian– style food. The sweet ripe fruit character of this wine can help balance out the spicy flavours in the food.

with modern, progressive Asian cuisine, one must simply apply a progressive pairing combination as well.

Nowadays, flavour enhancement is the name of the game as much as palate balancing. In elementary math we remember how two minuses equals a plus. This is sometimes the case for modern food and wine pairing. Pick a wine that enhances the highlighted flavour of your dish and, if you get it right, you will discover a whole new level of tasteful sensation. This is especially true for Asian or even Indonesia food, where complex herbs and spices are often in play.

That said, palate balancing is still a thing, but at a more delicate level. For example, lemon dressing, a very popular garnish in many Asian-style progressive salads, is very powerful in acidity. We don’t want

ADAM’S PAIRING SUGGESTION Mostly poultry (duck, chicken). Pinot noir is a light wine that’s easy to drink, and therefore compliments simple, lighter meat very well.

The red fruit character and fresh acidity of pinot noir goes well with poultry or white meat.

to nullify this acidity entirely, but instead, we can balance it with tropical fruit notes of a Sauvignon Blanc to add a touch of sweetness to round up the flavour. This freshness is then preserved for a bit longer in your taste buds thanks to the wine’s crisp, dry, lingering aftertaste, allowing you to savour the sensation that much longer.

Q: Interesting indeed. Can you give me an example of a New Zealand wine brand that you’ve enjoyed working with?

A: In terms of wine pairing in particular, I’ve enjoyed working with Astrolabe. The brand’s portfolio is absolutely great with Asian food. I love their famous Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, as well as the dry Riesling for food pairing. The latter offers distinct off-dry notes with a touch of ripe fruit. The Kekerengu Coast Sauvignon Blanc is also

something I’d recommend to have with an Asian salad, such as an acidic mango salad.

Q: I’ve actually been hearing a lot of good things about Astrolabe lately. What do you think contributes to the brand’s growing popularity in Indonesia?

A: The thing about Astrolable is they have a very wide variety of wines, from Sauvignon Blanc coming from different wineries, and Pinot Noir, to Chardonnay and Riesling.

And in terms of price, value for money is the name of the game. Astrolabe offers probably the best value for money wine in the market at the moment. www.astrolabewines.co.nz www.paniaga.com

ASIADREAMS 119

CULINARY JOURNEY

Coconut and Banana Bread

120 ASIADREAMS

ASIA’S FOOD • GODDESS • Celebrity Chef Audra Morrice is something of a culinary phenomenon, or at the very least a mastermind in juggling a high-flying career that most of us could only ever dream of.

A

finalist in Masterchef Australia, the judge for Masterchef Asia, author of her first cookbook, My Kitchen, Your Table and host of her own cooking show, Tasty Conversations, this Sydney-based Singaporean-born, Chinese-Indian chef has been around the world and back again.

We talk to her about her transition from Masterchef contestant to Masterchef judge.

She tells us about her culturally diverse upbringing, how her life has been flipped upside-down ever since making her first television appearances and how she's

shooting for “Food Goddess” status.

Take a seat, because this tenacious chef isn't slowing down.

Q: You were born and raised in Singapore, a true melting pot of cultures and cuisines. What was your favourite part about growing up in a country with such culinary diversity?

A: For me, the essence of what makes Singapore such a wonderful place to grow up in is in everyone's kitchen, the recipes that have been passed from generation to generation and the pride that each and

every family takes in preserving their family’s secret recipes. Growing up, I had friends from all cultures and it was a real treat to be invited to their homes where you would feast on new and exciting dishes. Around the dinner table, we were all the same, but we learnt to appreciate the beauty of different cultures and beliefs. I still count my blessings to have been exposed to such diversity. In many ways, these influences have moulded me and my cooking today.

Q: Where else do you find inspiration for your cooking?

ASIADREAMS 121

A: My travels inspire me a great deal. Just about all of my travel these days revolves around food. I get excited learning about the way people grow their produce, the way they cook and eat in different countries. There are still so many places to visit and so much to see and learn.

Q: So if you were to follow your tastebuds around the globe right now, where would they take you and why?

A: Definitely India! I have travelled widely around Asia, Europe, America and the UK but my craving to visit India is two-fold. Firstly,

I sometimes feel Singapore is somewhat misunderstood and often only remembered for Orchard Road and Chilli Crab. But there is so much more! I am in the midst of planning an off-the-beaten-track food tour to Singapore where it's all about exploring this beautiful country, its people and the food.

If you are a big foodie, then this personally guided experience by "moi" is for you.

Q: And now the question we're dying to ask: You made it to the finals on Masterchef Australia – what was it like being on the show?

are there and bring it every time they enter the kitchen. I hope to continue to challenge, teach and inspire many more people.

Q: So how have things changed for you since your Masterchef appearances?

A: I've dived head-on into the hot pan and never looked back! I'm totally encapsulated in the food world, working on dining events, catering and team-building cooking events with both private and corporate clients, speaking at various international events. I have my own cooking show, Tasty Conversations, airing right across Asia on Lifetime and on

“Masterchef Australia was a truly life changing experience.

I went in knowing exactly what I wanted and came out with so much more.”

Tasty Conversations TV Show

I cook with a lot of spices and India is the Mecca of spices. Travel from north to south and you might actually believe you are in different countries.

But on a more personal note, my father is Indian and my grandparents are from Pondicherry and Chennai. Sadly I never got to meet them as they passed away early so all I know of them is what my father shared with me. I'll let you in on a secret, my grandfather was an assistant cook to General Yamashita during the Japanese occupation in Singapore in World War II and then worked for the British as a butler to Lord Mountbatten. I am convinced cooking is in my blood!

Q: We would agree! This draw to cooking has taken you around the globe. Do you miss Singaporean food when you're on the road or at home in Sydney?

A: Having grown up in Singapore, I have such great love for the country and the food has a lot to do with it. I do crave some dishes, particularly the Nonya Kuehs but I make a pretty mean Laksa, rich and "lemak"! A lot has changed in Singapore but there is still so much to experience in this little culturally rich food paradise if you dig a little deeper.

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Salmon Tartare Crostini

A: Masterchef Australia was a truly life changing experience. I went in knowing exactly what I wanted and came out with so much more. The people I met who inspired me with their creations, who challenged me and the experiences I went through were priceless. But most importantly, it sealed my fate in the food business - I have never wanted to do anything more than this!

Q: You're now a judge for Masterchef Asia. What has it been like going from contestant to judge?

A: It's really quite humbling to be looked upon as someone who is an inspiration.

Having been a past contestant in one of the most gruelling reality cooking TV shows in the world has enabled me to judge with both eyes wide open. I know exactly what contestants are going through, I've been there. I've done it: the angst, the nerves, the excitement, the glory, all of it. Probably the toughest thing is being away from your loved ones; it plays with your emotions tremendously. I spent six and a half months away from my family with minimal contact; then to have to be on top of your game all the time was tough. However, my advice to all the contestants is to keep focused on why they

GEM HD here in Australia. I've run pop-up restaurants that are soon to hit Asia. My bespoke food tours will be up and running this year. My all-natural artisan food products have hit the shelves in Sydney and Singapore.

I've written my first cookbook My Kitchen, Your Table, which was launched in London, Sydney and Singapore last October. I am an ambassador for the Singapore Tourism Board.

The list goes on! Life after Masterchef has been all about creating the Audra brand that harnesses the traditions of my Chinese-Indian heritage, embracing the East meets West concept and bringing the knowledge, passion and love for food to diners. All this through my products, my books and my TV cooking series. The ultimate goal is to be “Asia's Food Goddess”!

Q: We think you've reached that goal, but what inspirational words would you give to other budding food gods and goddesses around the world?

A: I'm a big believer in the value of travel and when you do, be sure to explore, learn and experiment. Remember, the only way to the top is through hard work. So head down, bum up, keep an open mind and just do it! www.audramorrice.com.au

AUDRA'S SMOKED SALT, AVOCADO OIL ANGUS RUMP & RAW MUSHROOM SALAD

FROM HER COOKBOOK, “MY KITCHEN, YOUR TABLE”.

SE RV E S 4

“One of the joys of living in Australia is the abundant, fabulous produce. I’ve been blessed to have had the opportunity to cook with some of the most amazing meats produced locally. Use the best quality meat, cook it well and you will get the most beautifully tender result. This is a big favourite at my private-dining events.” - Audra FIRST MIX THE SALAD: INGREDIENTS • 100g fresh cloud ear fungus or rehydrated dried wood ear fungus • 150g fresh enoki mushrooms • 150g fresh oyster/pearl mushrooms • 150g fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced and pickled • 4 small red radishes, trimmed, halved and thinly sliced • 2 sprigs coriander leaves, picked

• 1½ tsp dark soy sauce • 3½ tbsp brown rice vinegar • 4 shallots, peeled, thinly sliced • 1 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tsp sesame oil 1. Mix together all ingredients.

Dress the mushroom salad just before serving.

FINALLY COOK THE RUMP:

1. In a large mixing bowl, tear the mushrooms into strips, toss in the pickled mushrooms, radishes and coriander leaves.

INGREDIENTS • 800g Australian Angus Rump, 5 cm thick • 1½-2 tsp smoked salt • 2-3 tbsp avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil

THEN PREPARE THE DRESSING:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.

INGREDIENTS • 1 large sweet orange, zest and juice • 3½ tbsp tamari or premium soy sauce

2. Marinate the beef by rubbing on a sprinkling of smoked sea salt and a good drizzle of avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil.

Set aside for at least 10 minutes.

3. Heat an ovenproof griddle or frying pan on high heat and sear the rump on both sides until nicely caramelised and charred.

4. Place in the oven and cook for 10 minutes or until medium rare. The internal temperature of the meat should be approximately 55°C. If your cut of beef is thinner, you may choose to cook the beef solely over the stove, ensuring that the meat is cooked to medium rare. Alternatively, you will get great results from cooking your beef over the barbecue grill.

5. Remove from the oven or grill, place on a plate, cover loosely with foil and leave to rest for 10 minutes.

6. Slice thinly on the diagonal and across the grain and serve with my Raw Mushroom Salad.

ASIADREAMS 123

GOURMET

AUTHENTIC CANTONESE REFINEMENT Equipped with awe-inspiring luxurious ambience, House of Yuen offers a taste of elevated authentic Cantonese cuisine.

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ister restaurant to the highly acclaimed, Michelin-starred Sun Tung Lok, Hong Kong, House of Yuen presents a modern take on fine Cantonese fare. Needless to say, the restaurantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall culinary direction is well refined and clearly partial to its sibling restaurant, aiming to constantly deliver a gastronomic experience of excellent quality paired with a high standard of service.

The main dining hall of House of Yuen is filled with intricate luxurious elements that are delightful to behold. The spacious venue is superbly decorated with grand chandeliers, massive art decorations, floor124 ASIADREAMS

to-ceiling windows, silver-lined metal bars dividing the larger round tables, dapper tablecloths and impeccable silverware. If you have a thing for superb service and upscale establishments, House of Yuen at Fairmont Jakarta surely warrants a visit.

The restaurant is also an ideal venue to host your upcoming social or private events, such as weddings, family reunions or intimate dinner with prospective business partners. With a total capacity of 250 guests, including in 12 exclusively luxurious private rooms, House of Yuen is already a popular option for prestigious corporate events or tight-knit socialite gatherings.

One of the signature appetizers at House of Yuen is the traditional Peking duck skin overlaying crunchy bean curd on top of delicate foie gras complete with a wrapper in XO sauce. The foie gras offers superb tenderness that melts in your mouth, and lets out a very delicate flavour when combined with the subtle richness of the duck skin. Wrap them together and feel the elevating sense of the XO sauce for a taste of traditional Cantonese refinement.

When selecting your main course, it is completely acceptable to take a few extra minutes to choose from the many delectable varieties available on the menu.

My recommendation would be to opt for the braised prime rib of beef that had a masterful cut that leaves only the juiciest part sitting pretty on top of the bone.

The prime rib comes with a special house gravy and fresh asparagus that melds well together, creating a sensational flavour in every bite. From the special ribs and the texture of the gravy to the combination of other condiments, every element of this dish was masterfully prepared.

Another highly recommended main course is the wok-fried king prawn with House of Yuenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special XO sauce. This is a very rich dish that does not overpower the base idea, which lies in the tangy freshness of the king prawn - a quality that is difficult to highlight, but very easy to enjoy.

The Sun Tung Lok royal dessert provides the perfect ending to your culinary journey at House of Yuen. Bearing the name of the Michelin-starred establishment that is the root of House of Yuen, this scrumptious dessert platter offers a number of sweet treats and light pastries such as the birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nest glutinous rice balls with custard and the egg white ball with salted yolk custard filling.

The culinary team of experts at House of Yuen is truly a force to be reckoned with; wholly worthy of the Sun Tung Lok gleaming reputation. The balance found in each dish, from appetisers to main courses and desserts, and the consistent delivery of authentic Cantonese flavours, is a true testament of this quality.

The Sun Tung Lok Royal Dessert

Traditional Peking Duck with Foie Gras

With the unparalleled luxurious styling of its main dining hall, as well as the highly exclusive private rooms combined with bespoke Cantonese delicacies masterfully presented in a contemporary manner, the final verdict is that House of Yuen has managed to attain that perfect balance between traditional essentials and modern refinement by creating a strong and welldefined identity amidst an ever-changing gastronomic climate, clearly making it one of the best up-and-coming Cantonese modern fine-dining restaurants in Jakarta.

House of Yuen Fairmont Jakarta, 3rd floor Jalan Asia Afrika No. 8, Senayan Jakarta 10270, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2970 3333 www.fairmont.com/jakarta/dining/houseof-yuen ASIADREAMS 125

GOURMET

A MEDITERRANEAN TWIST IN THE CAPITAL CITY Introducing the latest edition to Jakartaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary world: Sea Grain Restaurant and Bar at DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro, where you will find Mediterranean and Indonesian realms merging on a plate.

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he development of new and upcoming restaurants in the capital city seems neverending, thus it requires a unique atmosphere, to-die-for dishes and creativity in order to stand out.

However, undoubtedly standing out is the newly established Sea Grain at DoubleTree

by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro, presenting an incredible fusion of mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes with a local twist.

Located on the third floor, Sea Grain conjures a rustic, casual, yet classy feel. The lavish ambiance features 640 sq.m. of indoor and outdoor spaces, which has a separate 126 ASIADREAMS

section for the bar and includes three private dining rooms. In addition, the glass walls overlooking the evening light, the breezy music or chilled out live band and table settings bring a more intimate vibe to the outlet, making it perfect for a romantic or friendly gathering.

By featuring a twist of local ingredients in the delectable Mediterranean dishes fashioned by Chef Ahmad Nurseha, Sea Grain is able to offer the best selection of dishes that can cater to both local and international palates, also providing them with an unforgettable culinary journey, just like the one I recently had.

A Gastronomic Experience My journey began with a simple complimentary basket of assorted freshly baked breads and dipping sauces, which included the crispy jalapeno cheese bread and truffle spinach oil dip that left a mark on my palate.

Moving on, the first appetiser was the fresh and tangy Octopus Salad made of octopus marinated in local ingredients served with watermelon salsa and a tangy dressing with a dash of spinach and truffle oil. Next was the Mezze Platter serving seven exquisite dips including hummus, baba ganoush,

Steam Sea Bass

mutabal, tabbouleh, ezme, olives and feta cheese with soft pita bread and crunchy lavash sticks. Each and every dip amazed me with its authentic, unique and fresh flavours.

One of the favourites at Sea Grain marries two classic Mediterranean and Indonesian dishes: Rendang Lasagna. In reference to the dish’s name, the Indonesian spicy coconut beef rendang is incorporated in between the lasagna layers, draped in melted cheese and placed in a pool of tomato and béchamel sauce with fried cassava cheese balls. Another favourite is the Frito Octopus Pizza, which features for the first time a bold and rare local ingredient, oncom “orak-arik” (fermented soya beans) – the combination was mind-blowing.

Mezze Platter

For a more seafood route, I had the steamed sea bass fish cooked in local staple ingredients and Cajun spices, topped with a mixed salad that included pomegranate seeds and watermelon skin, with pureed cassava on the side, finally draped in generous lemon butter sauce.

I had to leave some space for dessert, especially when it is tiramisu crepes combined with a luwak coffee twist. The thin crepes are stuffed with tiramisu with a luwak coffee flavour, to be had with a spoon of vanilla ice–cream. The sweetness was well balanced and did not over power the palate.

Additionally, the soft and cooling texture made it easy on the tummy. My gastronomic experience was made complete with the

Sangria

signature homemade Sangria, made with a secret concoction of fresh fruits added to the well-known Mediterranean-character drink.

Experience many more unique, fusion and zesty meals accompanied by afterhours drinks at Sea Grain from Mondays to Saturdays, starting from 5PM onwards.

Sea Grain Restaurant & Bar DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro Jalan Pegangsaan Timur No. 17, Cikini, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat 10310, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 29857093 www.jakartadiponegoro.doubletree.com ASIADREAMS 127

GOURMET

TAKE HOME THE MAGIC OF MOZAIC Visit the epicentre of Baliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culinary scene for more than just a meal.

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enowned for its gorgeous haute cuisine, Mozaic Ubud, one of the best restaurants in the region, is a fine dining favourite that excites even the most discerning connoisseurs. Always suprising the palates of guests with supreme ingenuity and unwavering quality, this acclaimed eatery has an untarnished reputation for excellent ingredients, flawless execution and majestic flavours.

But that is not all that this axis of culinary artistry has to offer. For true food enthusiasts 128 ASIADREAMS

looking for more, Mozaic has its own cooking school offering uniquely designed recreational classes taught by professional chefs. Separate from the dining area, manned by high calibre chefs and equipped with cuttingâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;edge equipment, Mozaic designed The Workshop to be a space for training and developing the culinary arts. Designed as a cooking school for recreational classes doubled with facilities for professional chefs, The Workshop is a place for culinary arts development, training and individual growth.

Packed with accessible, yet sophisticated techniques and invaluable culinary skills, there is a range of courses to enhance your abilities in the kitchen. Whether you are a professional who could benefit from rigorous instruction, or someone just looking for a fun afternoon to spend with friends, The Workshop stands ready to illuminate hallowed culinary knowledge.

Select the perfect all-day course for you: a master class in basic to advanced cooking techniques necessary to transform the finest ingredients into excellently presented

Introduction

Picking Ingredients

Finished Product

dishes, or an in depth exploration of a particular luxury ingredient of your choice, turning you into an expert in the fields of foie gras, caviar, truffles and more. Or perhaps you would prefer to learn more about the local cuisine and culture of Bali during a holiday – in that case the course, “Asian Ingredients in Western Cuisine”, is perfect as it offers a golden opportunity to learn the techniques that are the hallmark of Mozaic’s culinary tradition and helps budding chefs foster the refined balances between global ingredients. Whichever course you choose, prepare to immerse

Cooking Folder

A Morning With The Chef

Tasting

Eat What You Cooked

yourself in the rich world of complex flavours, fresh ingredients and culinary skill as you bring to life some of Mozaic’s acclaimed dishes for yourself. Bring your friends and enjoy a welcome drink upon arrival as you get acquainted with the skilled culinary team and get ready for an exciting day ahead.

Get messy and have a few laughs in this comfortable environment of enriched learning and feel free to ask anything as a team of attentive chefs will see you through towards success. At the end of the day you

will have a new dish in your repertoire, or the mastery of a new technique that you can bring home to impress your family and friends at future dinner parties. Bring home your own recipe book and apron and a wealth of invaluable knowledge and experience to share.

Mozaic Ubud Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Ubud, Gianyar Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 975768 E: info@mozaic-bali.com www.mozaic-bali.com ASIADREAMS 129

GOURMET

EXPERIENCING EUROPE IN JAKARTA AT CACAOTE Enter a castle of indulgence at Cacaote for a full experience of European meals prepared with fine French techniques in a neo-classical and elegant ambiance.

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ocated in Senopati, one of the most rapidly growing and bustling hubs for food and beverages in Jakarta, is Cacaote Patisserie, Brasserie and Bar that will not only wow you with its beautiful neoâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;classical European architectural design, but also with its array of mouth-watering desserts, starters and mains. Everything served at Cacaote uses French techniques for preparation and incorporates flavours from France and Western Europe.

To start off my gastronomic journey, the Warm Camembert Salad was a fine 130 ASIADREAMS

introduction for my palate. A generous slice of French Camembert cheese was placed on a crispy brioche, accompanied by a fresh salad on the side, thinly sliced smoked duck breast and draped with honey mustard dressing. The cheese and brioche, when eaten with a slice of smoked duck on top, teased my tongue with the dual texture of melt-in-your mouth and crispy goodness.

Following on from the appetizer, next on my list was the tantalising main course of pan-seared salmon served with white clams, braised fennel and sautĂŠed spinach in a generous pool of chives beuree blanc, or

white butter sauce (butter cooked with a reduction of white wine) made from scratch.

Cutting a slice through the crispy salmon skin I found it pink, moist and cooked to perfection. The marrying of the sauce, salmon and clams brought the fresh flavours of the sea to life with every bite.

Meanwhile, fellow sweet-toothed individuals should prepare themselves for one of the best-selling desserts served at Cacaote: Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut cake. It is made up of chocolate sponge, crunchy hazelnut, dark chocolate mousse and salted caramel, dressed with a glittery chocolate glaze

Pan-Seared Salmon

Candylicious Martini

Antoinette's Smoothies

Warm Camembert Salad

dome. Slicing the delicate cake resembled parting a bed of clouds, so imagine the texture and burst of flavours a bite revealed in my mouth. Another best-selling dessert I couldn’t resist devouring, especially as a caramel lover, is the Salted Caramel Éclair.

It is made up of chewy dough stuffed with caramel filling, salted caramel and almonds, then topped with caramel cream and peanut, giving me a flavourful texture of crunchy, chewy and creamy brilliance. This scrumptious dessert comes in four other flavours, vanilla, berry, chocolate and matcha

(green tea). To wash down your meal is a range of mocktails or cocktails. I started with the Antoinette, a strawberry, peach and vanilla smoothie and slowly transitioned to Cacaote’s original Candylicious martini, a concoction of raspberry vodka, Cointreau, peach, liquer and raspberry juice.

and is designed in chic pastel colours of pink and gold, while the second floor is a contrast of bold and stylish colours in red and black, complete with a bar. Both floors are well appointed with detailed and handpicked European furniture, which evokes a regal feeling.

Cacaote is divided across two floors with impeccable but different designs and a similar neo–classical concept, which transported me instantly to France. The nonsmoking first floor features a dessert section

Cacaote Patisserie, Brasserie & Bar Jalan Senopati Raya No. 80, Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta 12190, Indonesia.

T: (+62) 21 2930 6127 ASIADREAMS 131

GOURMET

EXPLORING THE ALL NEW YANIE'S RESTAURANT AT THE UBUD AVENTURE CENTRE Discovering a blend of pan-Asian, fusion and international plates at one of Bali’s most iconic eateries.

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ay back in 1985, when Nigel and Yanie Mason first opened Yanie’s Restaurant in Legian, Bali was a very different place to dine out compared to the globally acclaimed gastronomic hub that it has today become. But for Yanie’s Restaurant, its Legian location, the growing number of tourist arrivals, great food and a relaxed atmosphere combined perfectly to propel the restaurant into legend and make it one of the island's most popular eateries.

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Building on the quality of the food, the service and overall experience that had made the original eatery so popular, 30 successful years later Yanie’s Restaurant has left its roots and relocated to Ubud as part of the expansive and extraordinary Ubud Adventure Centre in Kedewatan.

The centre is a magnet for thrill-seekers who get their kicks from an array of exciting sports and outdoor activities, such as whitewater rafting, elephant safaris and mountain biking. The centre also features a gallery, spa, deli and coffee shop and, of

course, the all-new Yanie’s Restaurant, which is now open daily to both the public and centre guests.

The menu at Yanie’s Restaurant, created

by Chef Ida “Tiwi” Ayu Pratiwisari Pidada, is colossal and offers so many classic Western, Asian, Japanese and Indonesian dishes it must surely be impossible not to find something to tempt your taste buds.

The swish contemporary-style restaurant includes a Japanese sushi bar and a spacious lounge for taking casual drinks or meals.

Salmon Caesar Cobb

SlowRoaster Pork Belly Parcels

There’s also a BBQ and the cool al fresco decked area. Or if it’s just a long cool drink you crave, then adjacent to the lounge find the Blu Bar with a selection of quality cocktails, beers, wines and soft drinks.

The food is fresh, wholesome and delightfully plated. For an appetiser, the restaurant’s specialty signature Salmon Caesar Cobb is simply superb and typical of the creativity Chef Tiwi brings to the table.

Try a slice of Atlantic salmon pan fried in dill herbs served with a cob salad dressed with a twist of classic Caesar dressing, a bacon curl, garlic croutons, shaved Parmesan cheese and boiled quail eggs.

Not for you? Maybe the scrumptious Slow Roasted Pork Belly Parcels or the fresh pink Tuna Carpaccio is more to your liking. The

mains are no less appealing and include treats such as Chateubriand à la Maison, Spicy Roast Duck Breast, East Meets West Lamb Chops and Vodka Flame Prawn Pasta, as well as a host of the chef’s takes on many classic dishes. The sushi bar caters to those who love authentic Japanese sushi or sashimi with The Super Deluxe, a large smorgasbord of sushi along with fresh tuna and salmon sashimi that comes highly recommended as a sharing platter for two.

The BBQ offers a choice of fresh meat and seafood and from the desserts menu check out the homemade Vanilla Slices, the scrumptious Warm Flourless Chocolate Cake, or our favourite, the silky Soft Meringue Fruits.

Yanie’s, like its predecessor, offers quality culinary succour to those who long for

excellent pan-Asian, fusion or classic international dishes. Made using only the best ingredients, no matter what you order or where you eat, the beautifully presented plates are prepared and served by one of the island’s most accomplished culinary teams and are sure to hit the right spot.

Located on the main road to Kintamani and just a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Ubud, there is ample carefully designed parking and even a heliport, should you be so lucky!

Ubud Adventure Centre Jalan Raya Kedewatan II, Ubud Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 8989777 www.baliadventuretours.com ASIADREAMS 133

DESTINATION

A TASTE OF SERENE TROPICAL PARADISE IN THE PULSING HEART OF SEMINYAK There’s plenty to keep you engrossed within this elegant relaxed boutique hotel, but The Legian Bali is also conveniently placed to explore both Legian and Seminyak’s famous boutiques, fabulous dining and stylish nightlife, if that’s your style.

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sophisticated oceanfront hotel, The Legian Bali is located in the very heart of Seminyak, one of the island's most popular tourist destinations and just 15 km from the international airport.

With superb views over one of most famous stretches of beach in the world, the main complex of The Legian Bali features just 68 luxurious one- and two-bedroom sea-facing suites. There is also a super-private threebedroom Beach House and the choice is extended further by The Club, a collection of 10 extremely private one-bedroom villas and one three-bedroom villa, located just a few metres from the main hotel lobby.

The contemporary design, by the late iconic architect Hendra Hadiprana, is a pleasing mixture of modern and traditional materials and features. The public spaces in particular 134 ASIADREAMS

show Balinese influences with stone, dark wood and the use of water. The Jaya Ibrahim interiors takes this tropical feel still further with a host of traditional paintings, furnishings and artworks set against light stone or painted walls with, in places, a near minimalist approach.

On arrival you enter the lobby by passing the first of the koi-filled water features and are graciously met and checked in before being escorted to your suite. If you have one of the butler-serviced suites then they will help unpack and explain the features in detail. A range of suites are available and all feature iPod docks, iPods, Bose sound systems, LED flatscreen TVs, Blu-Ray disc players and espresso machines, as well as bathrooms with deep-soak tubs, rain showers and spacious living areas. There are 14 Studio Suites, 36 one-bedroom Deluxe

Suites, 14 two-bedroom Suites and one each of The Seminyak, The Sunset and The Legian suites, plus The Beach House and, of course, the 11 villas at The Club.

The 800 sq.m. three-bedroom Beach House (each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom) includes your own 16-metre infinity pool with a sunbathing deck and day beds.

This unique villa is very private and boasts breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

With lush tropical landscape and delightful custom décor, both the Beach House and three-bedroom Club Villa offer guests the ultimate in luxury residences.

The largest suite, at a huge 364 sq.m., is The Legian. With two master bedrooms, plus a 100 sq.m. terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean, this opulent suite comes with a host of exclusive benefits including afternoon

tea and two hours of sunset cocktails and canapés in your suite, at The Pool Bar, The Ocean Bar, or The Lobby Lounge.

This wonderfully private suite is perfect for families or two couples seeking pure indulgence. At 110 sq.m. the one-bedroom Deluxe Suites offer a four-seat dining room and a patio with an outdoor dining table and day bed and can sleep up to three adults in absolute comfort.

being particularly delicious. The restaurant is where guests can also find an excellent breakfast served from 7AM.

Ayurvedic massages, detoxifying body polishes and wraps, Voya facials and manipedis.

The Restaurant at the Legian, helmed by Chef Luke MacLeod from his fabulous open kitchen, has seating inside or outdoors on the deck. Both areas overlook the infinity pools and ocean.

The hotel has a range of fabulous amenities including a fitness centre with stationary bikes, free weights and treadmills. The beachside infinity pool complex is a magnet throughout the day and framed by The Pool and Ocean Bars, which serve a range of signature cocktails, afternoon tea and canapés like mud crab with watermelon or Vietnamese spring rolls. With sun loungers and decking, it’s a perfect place to relax, sunbathe or, better still, kick back with a sunset cocktail or two.

It is, above all, a serene and relaxed place to take your vacation and is complemented by the outstanding hospitality one would expect from a LHM-managed hotel - a company dedicated to expanding The Legian name and offering an authentic, personalised service. Nothing seems too much for the staff at The Legian Bali and that, plus the fabulous ambience, facilities and location, is why guests return year after year to holiday at one of Seminyak’s best kept secrets.

Chef Luke offers guests a mix of creative and beautifully presented French and Southeast Asian plates; the menu is substantial with the fish dishes we sampled

The hotel boasts a luxurious spa with four single treatment rooms and two dedicated to couples where guests can indulge in a range of expertly delivered Balinese and

The Legian Bali Jalan Kayu Aya, Seminyak Beach, Bali 80361, Indonesia www.LHM-hotels.com ASIADREAMS 135

DESTINATION

RESPECTFULLY CHIC Honouring the iconic culture, history and architecture of its island home, Sadara Boutique Beach Resort in Bali opens the door to both modern luxury and age-old tradition at this classicmeets-chic oceanfront retreat.

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s one of the oldest properties in Bali's Tanjung Benoa neighbourhood, Sadara Boutique Beach Resort takes the history and culture of its home very seriously. Formerly named Kind Villa Bintang, Sadara Boutique Beach Resort opened its doors back when Bali was arguably unspoilt in its culture and tradition and so the resort naturally pays homage to these “good old days” with architecture, hospitality and an entire concept built to champion Bali's bygone era.

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Despite enjoying an address along the pristine coastline of Bali's high-end hotel strip, the resort's foundations follow the ancient Hindu concept of Tri Hita Karana: the Balinese philosophy of harmony between God, humans and nature. The name itself, “Sadara”, means “respectfulness” in Sanskrit and as such the resort's landscapes, interiors and guest services have been thoughtfully designed to adhere to the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, from the use of locally carved stones and antique wood, to offering guests cultural activities in the local community to enrich their Balinese experience.

Seamlessly matched, the culturally polished nature of this resort is uniquely balanced by a fresh and contemporary flavour. Each of Sadara's rooms captures the elegance and charm of tropical island living; each has a private balcony or terrace that overlooks either the lush greenery of the resort's gardens or the glistening ocean beyond.

Bright marble floors and cream-washed walls are drenched in natural sunlight and kitted out with 21st Century amenities, like flat-screen TVs, iPhone docking stations and, in the Suites, magnificent Jacuzzis

that sit just footsteps from the powdery white sands and the Indian Ocean's alluring turquoise hues. The exclusive and spacious Suites and the top-end Royal Suite rooms are specifically designed to deliver a whole new level of style and comfort, with modern boutique designs, luxurious facilities and distinctive and personalised hospitality.

Finishing off the resort's old-meets-new experience without a hitch, Sadara boasts three signature restaurants that each present a selection of Balinese cuisine in a multitude of ways. Rasala Bistro, perched

on the oceanfront, is reserved for stunning dinner soirees with a fabulous backdrop to boot, serving up a tribute to Balinese cuisine through the chef’s specialised degustation menu.

Meanwhile, Rasala Kitchen offers Indonesian and international comfort food throughout the day and at night the restaurant transforms into a “pasar malam”, a night market – an interpretation of Bali’s street food delicacies. Last, but certainly not least, the resort's stylish Wave Beach Club serves tapas and cocktails based on

traditional Balinese fare, letting guests soak up the sunshine and sumptuous flavours of paradise, while learning a thing or two about Bali's enchanting culture, too.

SADARA Boutique Beach Resort Pratama Street, Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T : (+62) 361 772 010 E : info@sadararesortbali.com www.sadararesortbali.com

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DESTINATION

LIVING IT LARGE IN A PALATIAL LUXURY PLAYGROUND Double-Six Luxury Hotel in Seminyak gives guests a glorious venue for playing, dining and lounging in splendour.

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ight in the heart of Bali’s liveliest, most elegant, happening hotspot is Double-Six Luxury Hotel, with beachside living, fabulous service, divine dining and a host of must-do bars. The hotel is not just located in the midst of the Legian/ Seminyak scene, it helps to drive the worldclass dining and nightlife in the area.

From the spacious, open-air lobby that looks directly across the hotel pool and out to the beach, to the large, beautifully appointed suites, the 24-hour butler service, the super funky wellness spa, the 120-metre pool and the fabulous dining and drinking establishments, the focus is entirely on ensuring guests are happy, pampered and having the time of their lives.

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The hotel’s five destination dining venues each have their own unique characteristics and ambience, ranging from Seminyak Italian Food – a modern Italian trattoria overlooking the beach with all-day dining – to the stunningly fun and stylish Double Six Rooftop with its delightful cocktails, aweinspiring sunset views and beguiling menu.

Designed and run by a team handpicked by renowned Australian restaurateur Robert Marchetti, these food and drink destinations keep guests coming back for more.

A three-in-one punch is delivered by Robert Marchetti The Plantation Grill and its Billiard Room, which are overlooked by the slinky, prohibition-style Sling Bar, with its hidden rooms and stunning drink menu. All of the cocktails at each of the venues have been specially designed for that outlet to reflect its

style and the venue’s own story. After dinner, check out the 10 wildly different espresso martinis in Sling Bar – they are awesome!

Of course, being a beachside destination, guests are thrilled to find the Lagoon Bar where they can relax, worship the sun, watch the beach life and indulge in the custom poolside menu throughout the day. And let’s not forget the fabulous house-made gelatos and sorbets – ideal for kids of all ages.

Accommodations at Double-Six Luxury Hotel are very cool. The expansive suites – the smallest is 80 sq.m., have been designed and fitted with an eye to indulgence. The modern decor and splashes of bright colour serve as a background to guest comfort, with large sofas, mood lighting, the “not so mini” bars, sound dock and very

comfortable king-sized bed. The bathrooms are exquisitely appointed and include a large bathtub, his and her sinks and a range of Hermes amenities. Both the bedroom and bathroom have flat-screen televisions.

With an executive desk, high speed Internet access and tea- and coffee-making facilities, even if you have to do a little work while on vacation or upload your photographs you can do so in complete comfort.

For convenience, the easy check-in and check-out take place in your suite and you have 24-hour on-call butler services. With a range of suites to choose from, all of which have an outdoor area, all you have to do is pick your favourite and focus on your holiday.

As well as one-bedroom plunge pool suites, pool access and ocean-view suites, if you are travelling with friends or family, a two-

bedroom suite may be more convenient.

Both the master bedroom and second bedroom in these 120 sq.m. suites have their own luxurious bathroom and there is more than enough room for some privacy.

For those really in the mood to splash out, the two-storey Penthouse is a glorious cosmopolitan space spread across a huge 300 sq.m. and is a study in thoughtful contemporary residential pampering.

Downstairs is the master bedroom with its oceanfront balcony and a guest suite with two European Double beds, while the huge second floor al fresco terrace is a great place to entertain friends. With its 180-degree uninterrupted view across the Indian Ocean, a large Jacuzzi, a media room, comfortable seating areas and discreet butler access via the kitchen to ensure premier exclusivity, it is

sensational and when you want to take the party over to Double Six Rooftop, you also have VIP access.

Wellness and beauty are not forgotten at Double-Six Luxury Hotel. The hedonistic Acqua Perla Spa has a quirky, tactile, brightly coloured decor and offers state-of-the-art treatments, detoxifying and pampering to keep you on form for the vacation of your lifetime.

Double-Six Luxury Hotel Jalan Pantai Double Six No. 66, Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 730466 E: info@doubleâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;six.com www.double-six.com ASIADREAMS 139

DESTINATION

A CITY ESCAPE Located on one of the busiest and oldest streets in Central Jakarta is the newly established four-star Hotel Santika Premiere Hayam Wuruk. The hotel is surrounded by thriving local businesses, restaurants, malls, transit stations and more, which makes it the ideal location to experience Jakartaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s buzzing spirit.

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his minimalistic and cosy hotel has 271 rooms of five different standards, from deluxe to duplex suites, each offering the latest technologies, including IPTV interactive television.

Business facilities feature a premier boardroom, five meeting rooms of various sizes that can house from 12 to 80 people according to the table settings, and two separate ballrooms that can be combined into one Grand Ballroom with a maximum capacity of 1,000 people.

The meeting rooms come complete with white boards, LCD projectors and screens, Wi-Fi, sound systems and other rentable equipment such as laptops, LED TVs, printers and more.

Hotel Santika Premiere Hayam Wuruk also offers packages that include catering services for either lunch, or dinner, or both, according to the hours rented, as well as

light bites, coffee, or tea to keep delegates energised. Entertainment services are also available upon request, such as a keyboard player with singer, a strolling acoustic band, traditional dancers and an MC. To cater to smaller and casual gatherings is Club Premier Lounge, offering an array of delectable buffet meals, afternoon high tea and desserts overlooking the bustling city view until midnight. The hotel’s location is also a great advantage for business travellers because of its easy access to businesses, shops, exhibitions, conventions, government institutions, the CBD and transportation systems such as trains and buses.

After a long day of activity, most travellers prefer to confine themselves to their own suites for a little recuperation, thus Hotel Santika Premiere Hayam Wuruk provides guests with an in-house spa service to help rejuvenation without having to step outside the room.

Meanwhile, the gym and outdoor swimming pool are a cosy, mini-sanctuary for those looking to re-energise. To fuel the stomach is Kicir Kicir restaurant in the Lobby, which serves a delicious assortment of food in an Indonesian and international buffet, as well as à la carte meals 24-hours daily.

For more choices, the hotel’s neighbourhood is a hub of tantalising local and international restaurants offering all kinds of cuisines to readily tease the appetite. Meanwhile, guests can order through the 24-hour room service just using the IPTV remote to enjoy a cosier meal in their suite.

Hotel Santika Premiere Hayam Wuruk – Jakarta Jalan Hayam Wuruk No. 125 Jakarta Pusat 11180, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2600 818 E: jakarta.hayamwurukpremiere@santika.com www.santika.com/santika-hayamwuruk

ASIADREAMS 141

DESTINATION

AN ALLIANCE OF HOPE Demonstrating the importance of giving back to the community, A Tree For A Child opens a new centre in Bali to support local children, giving them a chance to reach their dreams.

A

ccorHotels, a formidable worldwide chain of hotels and resorts operating in more than 90 countries, showed an incredible commitment to local communities and its vision of a better future as it expanded the A Tree For A Child programme to Bali. In 2001, ATFAC established a centre in Jakarta to educate and support underprivileged children, allowing them a chance for success.

Years later, the same children who first experienced the benefits of the programme were able to pay for their own flights to Bali in order to show their appreciation and witness the grand opening of the new learning centre, the Sanggar Yayasan Peduli Tunas Bangsa in Bedugul, for children in Bali and Lombok. All graduates of A Tree For A Child, these children first learned the basics of English and computer skills, as well as 142 ASIADREAMS

gardening, cooking, hygiene and more at the centre in Jakarta. Now, as many of them are moving on to the world of business and higher education, these now-adults took the stage at the grand opening of this new location and tearfully looked back at everything they were able to achieve with the help of this noble programme.

Resting on 1,900 square metres of beautiful rural land, Sanggar is located in Candikuning Village in Bedugul, Bali. Able to care for as many as 70 impoverished children, this site will see a new generation grow up under the care of professional teachers and volunteers.

In addition to getting instruction, attendees will receive free on-site medical care, checkups and nutritional meals. Sanggar will also brighten the future of 20 students, allowing them to pursue their dreams of higher education with scholarships able to support

them through the completion of academic, vocational schools and even universities.

This miraculous centre was only made possible through years of fundraising by AccorHotels and the generosity of thousands of donors. Three charity golf tournaments, the continued sale of recyclable items in its hotels, as well as lobby donation boxes and more, all provided the necessary funds to make this dream a reality. A witness of the groundbreaking ceremony in January 2015, Bapak I Gede Ardika, the former minister of tourism for Indonesia, returned almost exactly one year later with an impressive showing of general managers representing AccorHotels from across the region to be present at the grand opening of Sanggar.

Demonstrating their years of dedication to this project, important leaders of AccorHotels

gathered with members of the community and past graduates from Jakarta for the grand opening as the chief of the local district began the proceedings by testifying personally to the impact this program has already had on the village. After awarding uniforms and scholarships to 20 local children, the formal ribbon cutting took place and the kids explored the centre that will become their second home for years to come. Later, they gathered together around a whiteboard and were taught their first lesson at Sanggar by Garth Simmons, the chief operating officer of AccorHotels in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.

This touching moment illuminated the continuing effect that this partnership

between corporation and community can have on future generations and the power of charity. The belief in a brighter tomorrow and the generosity of Accor Hotels, as well as of their donors, has brought hope to these children and their families. Affirming its dedication to the health, education and wellbeing of even the littlest of its neighbors, A Tree For A Child continues to be a force for good across the region.

As he articulated at the opening ceremony, Garth Simmons, AccorHotels Malaysia Indonesia Singapore COO, put it best: â&#x20AC;&#x153;AccorHotels is a leading global hotel operator with a network of almost 3,800 hotels in 92 countries, including over 680 hotels across Asia Pacific. The group places

strong emphasis on our community and environmental programmes through Planet 21. Our programmes go beyond tackling carbon issues to enriching communities with new forms of livelihoods and economic opportunities. We believe we have a responsibility to give back to our communities that have supported us over the last two decades. We take a strong leadership position in developing the future of our children. Today, AccorHotels through A Tree for A Child Foundation continues our commitments and dreams to bring a brighter future to underprivileged children in Indonesia as well as build a sustainable environment in Bedugul Bali with the opening of our second education centre.â&#x20AC;? www.pullmanhotels.com ASIADREAMS 143

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144 ASIADREAMS

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LAST WORD

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The May/June 2016 Issue of Asia Dreams Magazine will feature "Style: Bespoke Shopping Around the Globe" & "Sit Back & Relax: Luxury Holiday Getaways".

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