Family Time FASHION
SLEEK AND SULTRY STYLE WITH CINTA LAURA
INSPIRATION
YONATAN KACHKO TITUS ROSIER GRANT RAUBENHEIMER
FASTLANE
IDR 50,000 SGD 9 RM 25 USD 6 HKD 60 AUD 7 ISSN 2089-872X
SELF-DRIVING CARS
Exist to Create
BEOVISION HARMONY The ultimate cinematic audio-visual experience. bang-olufsen.com
B A N G & O L U F S E N J A K A R TA — PA C I F I C P L A C E M A L L — G R O U N D F L O O R TEL. +6221 57973134
Whether on honeymoon, with a small family, or for a large family gathering, The edge villas in Uluwatu is the perfect location. Only 8 exclusive villas with 24 hour personal butler service.
Jalan Pura Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Pecatu, Bali (80364) P. (62-361) 847 0700 E. intouch@thedgebali.com | www.theedgebali.com
@theedgebali
PUBLISHER'S NOTE
Family T ime While the situation around the world right now is uncertain, one thing that remains as important as always is family. You might not be travelling this month, but you can still be looking forward to better times and planning future holidays for you and your kids. In this edition of Asia Dreams, our Cover theme features some alluring hotels and resorts in Jakarta and Bali where they go all out to provide a memorable holiday to strengthen family ties. From city breaks with on-site facilities for all ages and easy access to local fun in Jakarta, to luxurious beach resorts, restful escapes and high-adrenaline adventure in Bali, we have something for everyone. In our Inspiration pages, find out more about the general managers running some of these luxurious destinations as we talk to Yonatan Kachko, Titus Rosier and Grant Raubenheimer. We have mindful meditations and a peek into Solace Float’s floatation therapy in the Wellness pages, while our Gourmet pages have temptations from Sudestada, Mano Beach House and Street Boi. With travel on our minds, take a look at Gran Meliá Jakarta and Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta with us, then head off to Taiwan and Santa’s official hometown of Rovaniemi in Finland. You might not be leaving your house today, but with all these ideas, we’re sure you will have plenty of great things to try soon. LENNY MARLINA TANU CEO & Publisher lenny@exquisite-media.co.id
I
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay Happy!
MAY – JULY 2020 CEO & PUBLISHER Lenny Marlina Tanu lenny@exquisite-media.co.id EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Amanda O'Connor amanda@exquisite-media.co.id MANAGING EDITOR Runi Indrani runi@exquisite-media.co.id EDITORIAL TEAM Christian Galbraith Rizky Catur Adityo SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Etty Candra SENIOR SALES & MARKETING MANAGERS Heidy Zainuddin Putri Desianti SALES EXECUTIVE Anggara Dialusi SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Micco Rian GRAPHIC DESIGNER Irene Birgita Derru
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Photographer: Wong Sim Model: Cinta Laura Location: InterContinental Jakarta Pondok Indah
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PUBLISHING ADMIN MANAGER Yunita Nugraheni PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Wong Sim Wiwid Wijaya Adrian Stephanus Sutanto CIRCULATION Ketut Sri Dono Amri Suhada Samsul
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ASIADREAMS
BALI’S PREMIER OCEANFRONT RESORT, REIMAGINED. DISCOVER A SOPHISTICATED NEW LOOK
LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit bali.anantara.com
ANANTARA SEMINYAK BALI RESORT Jl. Abimanyu (Dhyana Pura) Seminyak, Bali 80361 Indonesia T: + 62 361 737773 | F: +62 361 737772
CONTENTS MAY – JULY 2020
14.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
38.
FASTLANE
17
39
Keep up with the latest happenings and the hottest destinations in the region. From the new resort The Legian Sire, Lombok, and the re-opening of Raffles Singapore, to The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel joining The Leading Hotels of the World.
46.
With rising demand for self-driving cars, we take a look at some of the exciting choices that have already hit the market in this issue’s Fastlane section.
FASHION
48
Triple threat – singer, actress, model – Cinta Laura parades the hottest, most fashionable looks this season, courtesy of international leading brands. In the fashion editorial, Cinta proves that sultry and classy belong in the same sentence.
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CONTENTS MAY – JULY 2020
52.
FAMILY TIME
Create long-lasting memories for you to look back on with your family. There is nothing more important than family, and this time we share some family-friendly facilities at select venues in Jakarta and Bali.
62 68.
INSPIRATION
Get to know and read life-inspiring stories from the leaders of some of the most prestigious hotels in Jakarta and Bali. Meet General Managers Yonatan Kachko, Titus Rosier and Grant Raubenheimer.
74.
Visit the hottest restaurants serving delectable dishes in Jakarta and Bali. In this issue, we have Sudestada in Jakarta, and Mano Beach House and Street Boi in Bali.
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77 10 ASIADREAMS IV
GOURMET
CONTENTS MAY – JULY 2020
80.
86.
DESTINATION
WELLNESS
85
87
Take a peek at some of the leading hotels in the region for your getaway choices; check out Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta and Gran Meliá Jakarta in the capital city, and Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort’s newly refurbished rooms in Bali.
This time we have some wellness tips to do at home. We also step it up a notch by unveiling Solace Float, where you can reach a calming and rejuvenating meditative state by floating.
90.
94.
EXPLORING ASIA
ESCAPING ASIA
93
96 Discover Taiwan, a country that is both intriguing and elusive, one that you might not notice at first, but once you immerse yourself in what it has to offer will take your breath away.
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Rovaniemi must be the most magical town to create wonders for the whole family. Dubbed the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi celebrates Christmas all year round, in addition to other unforgettable experiences.
WHAT'S HAPPENING
TERRIFIC THIRTY
Berbunga-bunga by Putu Sutawijaya, The Real Heroes by Umbu Tanggela, Hidrotopi by Asmoadji and many more. Another interesting programme that involved brilliant talents was the White Shirt Project, where 10 renowned Indonesian designers incorporated their fashion sense into the classic white shirt, each portraying the characteristics and signatures of the respective designers. The creations made up the 30 Years Plaza Indonesia limited edition collection, comprising fashionable and chic simplicity. The participating designers include Wilsen Willim, Amotsyamsurimuda, No’Om No’Mi, Priyo Oktaviana, Danjyo Hyoji, Auguste Soesastro and more.
C
elebrating its 30th anniversary, Plaza Indonesia presented a series of cool programmes that could be enjoyed by visitors in March. The first programme was the Amazing 30 Installation, where 20 talented Indonesian artists presented their own creative and artistic
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interpretations of the number 30 in the form of art installations showcased in many corners of Plaza Indonesia. The Amazing 30 Installation included Bunga Keberuntungan by Nasirun, Prosperity 30 by Erica Hesty Wahyuni, Happy Moment by Indra Dodi, Yin Yang by Giring Prihatyasono,
“By inviting artists and fashion designers to contribute to Plaza Indonesia’s 30th anniversary, we hope we can encourage art workers to keep on creating, so that their works can inspire many people, especially Plaza Indonesia’s visitors,” said Zamri Mamat, Plaza Indonesia’s General Marketing Manager. plazaindonesia.com
WHAT'S HAPPENING
WELCOMING CHEF GAURAV MALHOTRA
GAURAV MALHOTRA
L
ocated in the most vibrant area of West Jakarta, Pullman Jakarta Central Park is always focused on presenting an unrivalled experience to its guests. The hotel is also home to some exciting dining venues with Collage All Day Dining and BUNK Lobby Lounge. To create lasting memories for its diners, Pullman Jakarta Central Park has recently appointed Gaurav Malhotra as its new executive chef for the property. Hailing from India, Gaurav is no stranger to the culinary scene and the world of
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Accor Hotels. After honing his skills for 11 years across Europe and Asia, Gaurav finally decided to bring his knowledge to Indonesia and share his creations with local gourmands. Previously working as the executive chef at Novotel in Hyderabad, the selftaught chef has recorded numerous achievements throughout his career. In 2017, he won Rising Chef of The Year at Yes Chef Conclave, while the year after, he won Chef of the Year in Accor Hotels India Awards. Not only a mastermind
in the kitchen, Gaurav also developed a hydroponic farming system to help save costs for the property. In his new position in Jakarta, Gaurav is responsible for creating signature dishes that will elevate the dining experience. Further, he will also oversee day-to-day culinary offerings in both dining venues, as well as banquet operations, which includes weddings, gatherings and corporate meetings. pullmanjakartacentralpark.com
WHAT'S HAPPENING
A WORLD OF LUXURY IN LOMBOK
S
et to be Indonesia’s most exclusive beachfront resort, Legian Hotel Management has recently introduced The Legian Sire, Lombok. Opening in the middle of this year, the resort sits majestically on one of Lombok’s finest beaches, and will consist of The Legian Sire, The Club by The Legian Sire and The Residences by The Legian Sire, all offering unrivalled views of the Gili islands and Bali’s Mount Agung.
In line with the timeless Indonesian décor that is a mainstay at The Legian Seminyak, Bali, the new resort has been designed by an independent studio helmed by Agnes Affandy and Shaun Yeo. Touted as prodigies in Indonesian design, Affandy and Yeo’s vision for the Lombok resort was to create similar energy by using hand-woven tenun ikat fabrics from Sumba and exquisitely hand-carved solid teak from Sumbawa. Award-winning
ESA International is responsible for the architecture creating long-lasting memories, with highlights including a two-tiered swimming pool and a cleverly designed shape for the resort that allows every suite to have a large, ocean-facing private terrace. Within the compound, The Legian Sire, Lombok offers high levels of service and exclusivity with 46 suites, including a penthouse. Those looking for the ultimate exclusivity can opt to stay at The Club by The Legian Sire, home to 15 pool villas and The Beach Estate with direct access to the beach. Indulging the senses can be found in both dining venues and at Wellness at The Legian Sire. For dining, organic and locally grown ingredients are highlights on the menu, with vegetarian choices also available. For relaxing, the spa, led by Tomoka Nguyen, offers bespoke spa treatments, nutrition, fitness and highly personalized programmes for your wellbeing. lhm-hotels.com ASIADREAMS 17
WHAT'S HAPPENING
ACHIEVING GOALS WITH ALFONSO
B
anyan Tree Ungasan, Bali is one of the most popular luxurious resorts in Bali, and for obvious reasons. The resort comprises pool villas that boast unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean from the dramatic cliffs where the resort is perched, 70 metres above Melasti Beach. Add to that the world-class facilities and impeccable service and hospitality, it’s no surprise that Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali has a fantastic reputation worldwide. At the helm of Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali is General Manager Alfonso Romero, who has come a long way in his career. “I started out as a pool boy and worked my way up through all the hotel departments,” he reminisced. “What captivates me about my job is that every day is different from the next, and that it’s very intense but gratifying, especially seeing clients who are satisfied with the service we have provided for them.” Alfonso has experienced many career milestones along his journey, including meeting prominent figures like the Queen of Spain, Fidel Castro and Colin Powell, and working alongside Michelin-starred chefs, but for him the most rewarding part of the job is something else. “I love getting to know clients, who later become friends forever, and seeing all of the less fortunate people that our business has been able to help within our community.” When asked about his goals as Banyan Tree Ungasan, Bali’s General Manager, Alfoso didn’t hold back. “I have various goals, such as achieving financial goals, offering impeccable service to satisfy all of our clients, having happy employees and helping our community as much as possible. banyantree.com
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ALFONSO ROMERO
WHAT'S HAPPENING
CURATED CRAFTS
I
f you have passed the street in Batubulan leading to Ubud in Bali, you must have come across a striking establishment with salmon-coloured stone walls and intricate white statues. If you haven’t made the time to stop and check it out, it’s high time you did. The establishment is owned by UC Group Company, overseeing UC Silver Gold, Museum Naga Sanga Amurwabhumi and UC Restaurant, Café & Bakery. The one-stop destination was first established in 1989, starting out as a silver and gold workshop. UC Silver Gold has the biggest silver and gold workshop in Bali and is located just a short walk from the jewellery gallery, making it easy for customers who enjoy seeing the delicate jewellery making process. UC Silver Gold even offers a silver jewellery making class, so that you can get a taste for the craft. UC Silver Gold’s trademark design and philosophy is the sweet dragonfly that you will find on many of the brand’s collection – a reminder of how important nature is and how we should co-exist harmoniously with it. That said, UC Silver Gold offers an extensive array of jewellery, each with a distinctive design that you won’t find anywhere else. The expansive gallery comprises an open showcase style that parades its silver collection on the first floor; here
customers can choose and try any of the accessories. Head to the second floor to marvel at the gold jewellery collection and the masterpiece collection. The masterpiece collection consists of exclusive pieces with spectacular designs, each having only one item per design.
Almost two years ago, UC Silver Gold launched The Masterpiece Naga Sanga Amurwabhumi, a record-breaking silver sculpture shaped like a dragon with nine heads. You can be awed by this masterpiece at the museum of the same name, which also holds other impressive silver crafts and more. While you’re here, don’t forget to rest and relax at UC Restaurant, Café & Bakery on the third floor. A family-friendly oasis, the restaurant serves delicious food, including its signature Bebek Tungku. Take some time to enjoy a cup of coffee and freshly baked breads and pastries at the Coffee Shop by UC Restaurant, Café & Bakery on the first floor. Last but not least, the destination also opens its door to functions with the Balakosa and Abinaya rooms, accommodating meetings, gatherings, weddings, or any other function for up to 150 or 40 people respectively. uc-silver.com
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WHAT'S HAPPENING
THE RETURN OF AN ICON
F
irst opening its doors in 1887, Raffles Singapore is no ordinary luxury hotel, it is a national monument that holds the charm and history of Singapore’s yesteryears. A true visionary in bringing the world of luxury to travellers over the years, the iconic hotel has undergone a complete refurbishment to create another level of style and opulence for its loyal customers. After a careful three-phased restoration that was led by famed interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud and Aedas, the hotel showcases a refreshed social haven that delivers a compelling mix of culture, beauty and elegance. Furthermore, the all-suite hotel has also added new suite categories to indulge the senses with its Residence Suites, Promenade Suites and Studio Suites, which increase the total to 115 suites. Also part of the new spirit, discerning travellers can now expect new levels of unrivalled comfort and service brought to life by the fabled Raffles Butlers.
Outside the suites, Raffles Arcade has been newly outfitted with a charming Raffles Boutique and various bespoke retail brands, while in the dining selection, guests and locals can delight in exploring the worldly restaurants and bars of
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the hotel. These include restaurant collaborations with Chef Anne-Sophie Pic of the three Michelin-starred Maison Pic in Valence, France; venerable French Chef Alain Ducasse, and Master Chef Jereme Leung, known for his innovative
Chinese cooking. Home to the original Singapore Sling, travellers can still enjoy the refreshing drink in the comfort of the Long Bar, along with the timeless tradition of tossing peanut shells on the floor. rafflessingapore.com
WHAT'S HAPPENING
LEADING THE WAY
E
stablished in 1928 by a group of influential and progressive European hoteliers, The Leading Hotels of the World is committed to providing its distinguished guests with remarkable global travel experiences. The wonderfully luxurious and highly acclaimed The Murray, Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel, is the latest to join The Leading Hotels of the World programme, which now boasts over 400 independent and luxurious hotels located across 80 countries. “It is a pleasure to welcome The Murray, Hong Kong to The Leading Hotels of the World,” said Deniz Omurgonulsen, Vice President, Membership, The Leading Hotels of the World. “The Murray offers curious travellers outstanding service, quality and truly uncommon experiences, delivered by extraordinary hoteliers.” Dr Jennifer Cronin, President, Wharf Hotels, said, “The Murray is the flagship of our luxury Niccolo Hotels brand and has already garnered many international accolades since it opened two years ago. The historical background and unique cultural experience resonate perfectly with The Leading Hotels of the World’s portfolio of hotels and travel preferences of Leaders Club members.” Located along Cotton Tree Drive, Central, this flagship property is distinguished
by the tall breathtaking archways that frame its entrance and is one of Hong Kong’s most impressive landmark buildings. Repurposed and reimagined in collaboration with Foster + Partners in 2018, the project is part of the city’s Conserving Central initiative. A contemporary haven of opulence, it features 336 luxurious rooms set over 25 floors, some of the finest dining in Central and a host of magnificent facilities. Backed by excellent service and the hotel’s signature experiences, guests are invited to indulge in new encounters and timeless pleasures. niccolohotels.com
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WHAT'S HAPPENING
MODERN LUXURY IN THE CITY CENTRE
A
n oasis for both business and leisure travellers, Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai brings calmness in the midst of the concrete jungle. Strategically located adjacent to Ibn Battuta Mall, the hotel consists of 360 rooms and suites that are adorned in soft marine hues to create a soothing atmosphere for resting. Inside the hotel, guests are treated to multiple mouth-watering dining venues that highlight Arabic dishes and international favourites. For activities, the impressive resort-style swimming pool overlooks Ibn Battuta and beyond. Featuring cabanas and day beds, guests can relax by the pool or keep their fitness up by swimming laps. First-timers to the city can also benefit from the location as it is next door to Dubai Metro. This convenient transport system allows visitors to travel effortlessly across Dubai, including being able to reach the Dubai Exhibition Centre and the famed Dubai Marina with its many attractions, including sky diving, the beach, dining options and Marina Mall. avanihotels.com
STRONGER TOGETHER
B
ack in March, Banyan Tree Holdings Limited and Myanmar Treasure Hotel & Resort Group Company Limited (better known as Htoo Hospitality) announced the signing of a joint venture agreement for hotel management in Myanmar. In anticipation of a tourism boom in the country, the joint venture will elevate local hospitality services to a whole new level for travellers. Launched in 2002, Htoo Hospitality was built upon authentic Burmese cultural traditions, and is the largest hospitality
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operator in Myanmar. With 17 hotels located across eight states and 11 destinations in Myanmar, Banyan Tree Holdings and Htoo Hospitality’s joint venture will become the top hotel management company in the country. In addition, Banyan Tree Holdings will also help operate the Htoo Hospitality-owned Hotel & Tourism Training Centre in Yangon to provide more opportunities for locals to take the next step towards a professional career in the hospitality industry. banyantree.com
WHAT'S HAPPENING
A BETTER PLACE TO LEARN
R.M. SUHESTI KRISTIWATI, LENNY MARLINA TANU, SIENNA & I WAYAN GEDE SUYATARTHA
A
iming to give everyone the chance for a better future, especially the younger generation, Bali Education Center is now open, offering the opportunity to further hone their skills. Strategically located on Sunset Road in Kuta, Bali Education Center is ideal for those looking to stay ahead in the world of knowledge. Providing targeted classes in English and Mandarin, Bali Education Center is open for students of any age who wish to improve their language skills, whether to travel or to excel at school. In addition to the language classes, Bali Education Center also caters to those looking to improve their skills in math, music, computer and more. At the learning center’s opening in early March, parents of future students and selected guests were invited to see the brand-new facility along with Lenny Marlina Tanu, owner of Bali Education Center, R.M. Suhesti Kristiwati, as Head
GUEST, NYOMAN SANTIAWAN, YENNY GUNAWAN, LENNY MARLINA TANU, DEWI KRISHNA SYORWATKA & ANAK AGUNG GDE PRATISTA
of Vita Foundation and I Wayan Gede Suyatartha, the regional government’s head of tutoring in Denpasar. Using a British-based curriculum for English lessons, each class will be taught by a certified tutor who possesses years of experience in the field. Bali Education
Center also provides special Indonesian language classes for expats living in Bali seeking to have more confidence speaking with the locals. For professionals in the hospitality industry and F&B, private tutoring classes are available to perfectly suit their schedules. balieducationcenter.com
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TIME TO TRAVEL
B
ank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) collaborated with Turkish Airlines to present the BRI Europe Travel Fair from 27 February to 1 March. The event was launched by BRI’s Director of Consumer Handayani and Turkish Airlines’ General Manager Fatih Guldas at Senayan City Atrium on the first day of the event. Organised in appreciation of BRI’s and Turkish Airlines’ loyal customers, the event also featured a musical performance by RAN and a travel-themed talk show with Nikita Willy, Jonathan End, Tantra Tobing and Andien and her family. bri.co.id turkishairlines.com
MAHMUT EROL KILIC, HANDAYANI & FATIH GULDAS
HENDRI GUNAWAN PANDIA, WAHYU WIDYONO, PRILLY SAVITRI, MAHMUT EROL KILIC, FATIH GULDAS, HANDAYANI, LENNY MARLINA TANU, DHONI RAMADI, DEWI ANDJASARI & PRIMARTONO GUNAWAN
RAN
NIKITA WILLY, DEWI ANDJASARI, ANISSA AZIZA & FURRY CITRA
GUEST, LENNY MARLINA TANU, MARIA SUKRISMAN, ERLIAWATI ERLY, MIKO & TANTRA TOBING
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DEWI ANDJASARI, PRILLY SAVITRI & DHONI RAMADI
RIAN IBRAM & SARI NILA
NABILA, EVELIINA KORHONEN & GUESTS
FEBRIAN, BARRY KUSUMA & BAYU SADEWO
BIDDING WINNER & DEWI ANDJASARI
LENNY MARLINA TANU, ANDIEN, IPPE & OMER
NABILA, JUSTIN LARISSA & RICO TUERAH
MARIA SUKRISMAN & TANTRA TOBING
ERLIAWATI ERLY, LENNY MARLINA TANU, ARIF WICAKSONO, GUEST, OMER , GUEST & EGGY RINALDI HARIS
ETTY CHANDRA, LENNY MARLINA TANU, CARLOS MONTERDE, ELISA KUSUMA & ERLIAWATI ERLY
JONATHAN END, OMER, NIKITA WILLY, BAYU SADEWO & LENNY MARLINA TANU
LENNY MARLINA TANU, MARIA SUKRISMAN, MERRY UI, ALEXANDRA LAVINIA DARVIS & GUEST
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SOCIETY
LIVE LIMITLESS WITH ACCOR
F
rom 12 to 16 February 2020, Accor Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore launched ALL – Accor Live Limitless, with its first ever Hotel & Wedding Fair. Held at The Atrium in Senayan City, Jakarta, the event introduced its new lifestyle loyalty programme that comes with unlimited benefits, including special rates for members on room and dining packages. The opening was attended by the country’s dignitaries, along with general managers of Accor properties in Asia, and Garth Simmons Chief Operating Officer of Accor Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and South Asia. accor-event.com
LENNY MARLINA TANU, GUEST, GUEST & SYLVAIN PASDELOUP
RANDY SUWITA, FANDY LO, ELIAWATI ERLY, RHYS CHALLENGER, LENNY MARLINA TANU, VIVI VALENCIA, EDI PANCAMALA & LISA SIMO
RITA ELISABETH, ALFRISTA & MEY RANTI
SHERENT, VIVI VALENCIA, KARTIKA WANG & MELISSA
GARTH SIMMONS, GUEST, VIVI VALENCIA, LENNY MARLINA TANU & SYLVAIN PASDELOUP
LENNY MARLINA TANU, VIVI VALENCIA, ADI SATRIA, & MODELS
HANY WIJAYA, JESSY LIM, MELISSA, EVELINE, VIVI VALENCIA, IRWINA, ICE, INGGRID & SHARLY
LIVE COOKING CONTESTANTS
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SOCIETY
THE SOUND OF CLARITY
I
n February, Bang & Olufsen proudly launched two of its newest products in Jakarta. Beosound Stage and Beovision Harmony were introduced to the Indonesian market through an intimate private luncheon where Bang & Olufsen invited not more than 20 respected guests to its flagship store in Pacific Place Jakarta. During the event, guests were treated to a delicious lunch prepared exclusively for Bang & Olufsen, while witnessing the clearer sounds created by these two new products. bangolufsen.com
STEFANIE SOEWONO & ANGGARA DIALUSI
SAMBA
GREGORIUS GELSON & JENNY SULAIMAN
ANITA BOENTARMAN, PUTRI SOEDARJO & SHIRLEY GOUW
FERRY INDRA
KEVIN KUSUMA
SHIRLEY GOUW
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SOCIETY
MEAT ME AT SI JIN
S
ince the restaurant opened its doors in November 2019, Si Jin has won many discerning diners’ hearts with its exceptional meat selections and culinary techniques. On 10 March, the restaurant commemorated its grand opening by inviting selected guests to a distinguished dining experience. The Meat Eater Paradise Night kicked off with the signature cocktail, accompanied by abundant pass-around canapés that showcased Si Jin’s exquisite flair. The evening really kicked off when Chief Executive Officer Erik Fatono and Chef Owner Joel Lim Si Jin cut the ribbon to officiate the grand opening. Afterwards, the guests got to enjoy an array of superior meat curated by Joel Lim himself. sijinbali.com
MARGIE UTOMO, SUHAILA NORDIN & AMALIA WIRJONO
ERIK FATONO & JOEL LIM
SONIA ZAKHARENKO, CHRISTIE KANTER & ERIK FATONO
STEPHANIE CARRIER & CHRISTIE KANTER
GRACE & AGUS
CHRISTIE KANTER, BRUNO, ERIK FATONO, GEORGE, FEBY JABRIK, BENJAMIN CROSS, LENNY MARLINA TANU & CHRISTOPHER TOBING
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BRUNO
DIOR’S LUSH GARDEN
I
n mid-March, Dior showcased its Spring/Summer 2020 ready-to-wear collection at its boutique in Plaza Indonesia, Jakarta. The lush event was attended by Dior devotees, fashion influencers and celebrities such as Ayla Dimitri, Velove and Wulan Guritno. For the Spring/Summer 2020 ready-to-wear collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri, creative director at Dior, drew inspiration from the
archival photographs of Christian Dior’s sister, Catherine, showing her surrounded by flowers in her garden. An avid gardener, Catherine was also a member of the French Resistance and was interned in a German concentration camp during World War II. Catherine’s determined spirit has been translated in the collection, which includes utilitarian-leaning designs, like the striped burlap romper, to Chiuri’s famously feminine dresses. dior.com
DEBBIE ROBERT
FITRIAWATI
VELOVE VEXIA & WULAN GURITNO
CAROLINE HALIM & SOPHIA CHAYONO
STELLA KOHDONG, VIDA WONG, ANDY NURBANI, WULAN GURITNO, DEBORAH CAROLINE, JOPHIELLE ERNI & NOVIANA DARMADJI
CICILIA KING & WIDA BUDIMAN
JOVI ADHIGUNA, TASYA FARASYA, MICHELLE HENDRA & AYLA DIMITRI
ALGHAZALI & ALYSSA DAGUISE
JUNI CASEY
CLAUDYA TAMARA & KAREN VISENSIA
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IN THE
Spotlight We talk to some fascinating hoteliers about their success stories, how they reached today’s achievements, the ups and downs along the way and glean some insider tips on how to emulate their success.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Q: What do you find most satisfying in your job? A: When I’m travelling in a foreign country, it feels really good when I overhear strangers praising the hotel. Besides that, seeing my team grow and achieve their professional career goals is really fulfilling. Q: Who has been the most influential figure in your career? A: This is a very tough one! I am not able to skip anyone here, so I have to mention three names. First is Jack Widagdo, who saw great potential in me even though I had never worked in an international chain hotel before. Second is Vincent Pauchon, who challenged and advised me to be a good leader and also promoted me to Director of Public Relations. Last, but not least, is Ali Nihad, who always believes in me and has helped me to develop my career outside my comfort zone. Q: Name one really special thing about your hotel. A: The ladies and gentlemen of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Q: How do you unwind? A: Enjoying good comfort food accompanied by another food enthusiast.
WIWIN HAKIM Director of Public Relations at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Q: Describe your responsibilities in under 10 words. A: Promoting Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve with the best two gentlemen on my team.
impact on the hotel business and, worse, is beyond our control, for example the current situation with Covid-19.
Q: If you hadn’t taken this career path, what would you have chosen? A: Even though Mandapa is only my second hotel experience, after Ayodya Resort Bali, to become a hotelier has been my dream since I was in high school. That said, if I wasn’t doing this, perhaps I would be a restaurateur. mandapareserve.com
Q: What makes a typical day? A: Write and prioritise the work or deadlines that need to be completed for the day. At 9.30am, it’s the morning line up with the sales and marketing team, followed by a conference call with one of the PR agencies and a report to the Director of Sales and Marketing. After lunch, I check on the PR and marketing task list with the team, including brainstorming video content, social media plans, marketing executions and so on. Q: What’s the toughest part of your job? A: When something happens inside or outside of the hotel that has an absolute
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
favourite TV series accompanied by an ice-cold beer. Q: What’s the toughest part of your job? A: The Legian Seminyak, Bali has been established for 23 amazing years and in its early days we were one of the few five-star hotels in Seminyak, and perhaps the island. Now, there is so much competition around! I guess the toughest part is to compete and stay relevant with the modern trends nowadays. We do that by always maintaining our top service and getting creative in the ways we reach our target market. Q: What do you find most satisfying in your job? A: Being able to meet new people. The greatest thing about working in this field is having the ability to interact with all kinds of people and build your network.
ALEXANDRA ANCILLA Area Director of Marketing Communications at LHM Q: Describe your responsibilities in under 10 words. A: Overseeing all communications aspects of both LHM properties (The Legian Seminyak, Bali and The Legian Sire, Lombok). Q: What makes a typical day? A: I wake up – after the third snooze of my alarm – and get ready for work at 8.30am. I start with the morning briefing with all the hotel team. I brew myself
a cup of black coffee for my caffeine intake before I start a productive day. My workday mostly revolves around making sure all collaterals or assets are up to our brand standards, social media planning, taking care of media and partnership relations. Since we are opening another resort soon in Lombok, a huge part of my day goes to pre-opening efforts for The Legian Sire, Lombok. Stay tuned for that! After office hours, I head home to see my two beautiful dogs and unwind with my
Q: Who has been the most influential figure in your career? A: My mother. Even though we are in different work fields (she’s a political researcher by the way!), I have always looked up to her for how she manages her time so wisely between her academic life, successful career, and spending time with the family. She has always taught me to be an independent person who can stand on her own. Q: Name one really special thing about your hotel. A: I would say that The Legian’s signature style of service is unbeatable. That’s the reason why we have so many return guests coming back to the resort. Our frontline employees remember each guest’s name and their preferences, so when guests come back to the resort, it’s like coming to their home away from home. Also all our suites have uninterrupted views of the legendary Seminyak Beach, so you can basically catch a stunning sunset right from your balcony. (Sorry, I had to make it two!). Q: How do you unwind? A: Enjoying the simple things, like chilling with my dogs, binge-watching Netflix, trying out a new restaurant on the island, and of course beach days out are always refreshing! A: If you hadn’t taken this career path, what would you have chosen? Something in journalism. My fantasy career is to be a TV news anchor. lhm-hotels.com
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
story about my hotel. Seeing how all the hard work translates into sales and results for the hotel is one of the best feelings! Also, becoming friends with people whose writing and style you admire is a really big plus. Q: Who has been the most influential figure in your career? A: Brad Edman. He was the general manager at Renaissance Bali but has now moved to Renaissance Phuket. I always look up to him because leadership is an action, not a position, and he has shown me that great leaders don’t tell you what to do, they show you how it’s done.
AULIANTY FELINA RIZAL Director of Marketing Communications & PR at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa Q: Describe your responsibilities in under 10 words. A: To communicate with the right audience in the right voice.
Q: What do you find most satisfying in your job? A: The best thing about PR is building relationships with media contacts and working with them to create an amazing
Q: Name one really special thing about your hotel. A: Located inside Clay Craft Restaurant we have our very own pottery studio, complete with three charming pottery wheels and a kiln. These are not just for show, all of the pottery used on a daily basis in Clay Craft was crafted in this very studio. Our very own artisans stand ready to teach you the basics if you would like to discover the craft of pottery making. It’s available for children as young as five years old, as well as adults. Q: How do you unwind? A: A glass of wine and cuddles with my fur babies, Coffee and Latte. Q: If you hadn’t taken this career, what would have chosen? A: Probably being a teacher. renaissancebali.com
Q: What makes a typical day? A: The most interesting part of this job is that there is no typical day. One day I will be busy scheduling meetings and another day I will be supervising my team. Maybe the next day I will be busy making presentations for our bosses, or tutoring trainees on how to speak efficiently in front of a crowd. The job is unpredictable and calls for efficiency; I try my best to reach that level. Q: What’s the toughest part of your job? A: Other than it’s almost impossible to explain the ROI (return on investment), the hardest thing about my job is that it’s difficult for me to shut it off. Unless I’m literally on an island with no mobile phone service, I’m always working in some capacity!
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INNOVATION
TH E PERFECT
SHO T
Discover why the Panasonic LUMIX G9 is on every avid photographer’s list
I
n this day and age, capturing life’s special moments is easier than ever. With the right tools and skills, everyone can create high-quality shots, especially if you’re using the Panasonic LUMIX G9.
Dubbed the ultimate outdoor and wildlife camera, the LUMIX G9 has been getting a lot of attention in the world of photography. The new camera achieves the highest-ever image quality by elevating resolution, gradation and colour reproduction with its 20.3-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor, while the High Resolution Mode provides stunning 80-megapixel images in JPEG or RAW formats in the camera.
The LUMIX G9 brings game changing internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K video recording to allow professional-style filmmaking without having to compromise colour and grading fidelity, while the Dual Image Stabiliser eliminates shake in both photo and video recording to create clearer results. This LUMIX G9 is also built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions with a magnesium alloy full die-cast front and rear frame that is not only splash proof and dustproof but also freezeproof down to -10C. On the connectivity side, the camera is fitted with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to allow easy image sharing with any smartphone or tablet. panasonic.com/id
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INNOVATION
TH OF E R E T V H PH E F IVA ON LI L E P The new Samsung Galaxy Z Flip brings nostalgia into the future
N
ot one to be left behind current trends, Samsung has officially unveiled its latest smartphone offerings. The Galaxy Z Flip is a statement-making foldable smartphone designed for those who see cutting-edge technology as a way to express themselves.
Engineered with first-of-its-kind foldable glass, the Galaxy Z Flip literally bends the laws of physics, featuring a 6.7inch display that folds into a stylish and compact form that fits in the palm of your hand. With its innovative hideaway hinge and custom-built UX, the new flip phone
provides elegant new ways to capture, share and experience content without even having to touch the phone itself. When the device is freestanding, the display automatically splits into two 4-inch screens so you can easily view content on the top half of the display while controlling it on the bottom half. The dual cameras make group shots easier without the help of a tripod. Just place the phone on a table and the sensor movement will capture the shot. When closed, quickly capture one-handed highquality selfies using the rear camera, without unfolding. You can also enjoy seamless video recording in a 16:9 ratio with the rear camera which is perfect for uploads to social media. The sleek looking smartphone has been specifically designed to fit in your pocket or the palm of your hand and is available in two colours – mirror purple and mirror black. samsung.com/id
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MUSIC
BEATS
BOOKS
The music scene has been sparkling for the last few years with some truly exceptional new artists rubbing shoulders with a host of established A-list bands, like U2, as they conclude seemingly never-ending tours. 2020, in contrast, looks to be the year of the indie and new-wave revival, and sees exciting new releases and tours by some of the most influential musicians of the era. Let’s check out three of our favourites.
ALANIS MORISSETTE: SUCH PRETTY FORKS IN THE ROAD
PSYCHEDELIC FURS: MADE OF RAIN
SPARKS: A STEADY DRIP, DRIP, DRIP
One of popular music’s most prominent contemporary female singer-songwriters, Alanis Morissette, returns after an eightyear hiatus with her new album Such Pretty Forks in the Road. Launched before the start of her acclaimed Jagged Little Pill 25-year anniversary tour, a global musical celebration of the seminal and seismic album of the same name, the album and the lead single, Reasons I Drink, see Morisette at her best with haunting melodies and cutting lyrics that resonate so easily with the trials of modern life.
There are plenty of bands tapping into the current nostalgia for new-wave music and fashion from the 80s, but it is rare that an influential legacy band like Psychedelic Furs returns with an album of new music to tease and tantalize fans old and new. The last time the Furs released an album was back in 1991, but if the lead single Don’t Believe is anything to go by, the album will whisk you back into the heady days of synthesizers, make-up and moody vocals with its gloomy guitar, wailing sax and Richard Butler’s haunting vocals.
The brothers Ron and Russell Mael, better known as Sparks, gained notoriety and a huge following in the 70s with their innovative art-rock sound and low-budget visuals. Their popularity has seen a resurgence in recent years, and A Steady Drip, Drip, Drip will be their 24th studio album. The first recording since Hippopotamus and their collaboration with Franz Ferdinand under the pseudonym FFS, the new album teases content with its lead single Please as the boys plea with humanity’s leaders not to mess up the planet.
THE BOY FROM THE WOODS
LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE
Release Date: 1 May 2020
Release Date: 1 May 2020
Release Date: 15 May 2020
B O O KS
OPEN BOOK
By Jessica Simpson If your guilty pleasures include taking a peek at celebrities’ lives, then you should not miss the Jessica Simpson autobiography. The book tells the popstar’s journey, guided by her private journals that she has written since she was 15. It’s funny and also touching, and above all, entertaining. 36 ASIADREAMS
By Harlan Coben This shocking thriller focuses on a man who was found as a boy living feral in the woods with no recollection of his past. Now he’s an adult, there’s another disappearance, this time of a local girl. Lives intertwine as the search for the girl takes place.
By Celeste Ng Now a hit series on Hulu starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington, Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng is an enthralling drama ignited by the intertwined fates of the seemingly ideal Richardson family and an elusive mother-daughter duo who have their lives turned upside down.
MOVIES
WHAT TO WATCH The summer is here and with it comes a slew of fabulous family movies that are set to enthral, entertain and inspire. Strap yourself in and get ready for a blockbuster season of outstanding and highly anticipated live action and animated movies. The pickings will be rich, but read on as we choose three that will most likely be our favourites.
MINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU
TOP GUN: MAVERICK
BLACK WIDOW
A sequel to the 2015 film Minions, and a spin-off from Despicable Me, The Rise of Gru is set in the 1970s and focuses on the twelve-year-old Felonius Gru. Growing up in the suburbs, and a fan of the supervillain supergroup known as the Vicious 6, Gru hatches a plan to become evil enough to join the gang. When Vicious 6 dump their leader, Wild Knuckles, Gru interviews to become their newest member, but it all goes bad after Gru steals from them and finds himself the mortal enemy of the apex of evil.
After more than thirty years of service, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell is pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot when he finds himself training a detachment of Top Gun graduates for a special mission. Maverick encounters Lt. Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, the son of Maverick’s late friend, Goose. Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it.
The first film in phase four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Black Widow is set between Civil War and Infinity War, and sees Scarlett Johansson reprise her role as Agent Natasha Romanov, aka Black Widow. As she struggles to confront the darker parts of her life, a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past arises. Pursued by a force that will stop at nothing to bring her down, Natasha must deal with her history as a spy and the broken relationships left in her wake long before she became an Avenger.
I AM NOT OKAY WITH THIS
THE WITCHER
Based on the comic book with the same title, I Am Not Okay With This tells the story of protagonist Sydney. At a glance, Syd is your next-door teenage girl dealing with the perks and pitfalls of high school life, including complex family issues and budding sexuality. Above all, Syd has to deal with mysterious superpowers that start to ignite within her.
Another Netflix original series based on books, The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia, a mutated and solitary monster hunter for hire who has to deal with finding his place, as he learns that sometimes humans are more dreadful than monsters and beasts.
3 July 2020
25 June 2020
1 May 2020
N ETF LIX
KINGDOM This gripping Korean drama-thriller revolves around the tricky and scheming politics of Korea’s Joseon period, a few years after the Japanese invasion of Korea. In addition to the complex and riveting political drama, the series also has a terrifying plague that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
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FASTLANE
WELCOME TO THE FUTURE With a rising demand for self-driving cars, let’s take a look at some of the exciting choices that have already hit the market.
TESLA Founded in 2003 by a group of engineers led by Elon Musk, the team wanted to prove that there is no need to compromise to drive electric. Today, Tesla manufactures a range of stylish all-electric vehicles, including the sporty Model S and futuristic
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Model X, designed to be practical, safe and fun and that offer a glimpse of a world without vehicle pollution. Innovation is high on the agenda at Tesla, which has also pioneered the newly enhanced Navigate on Autopilot feature.
Guided by ultrasonic sensors that collect data of the surroundings, this new feature helps the car to self-guide from a highway’s on-ramp to the off-ramp, including suggesting and making lane changes, navigating highway interchanges and taking exits.
adaptive cruise control, the new feature minimises the risk of accidents while driving on a highway. Another feature to highlight is the Audi AI Parking Pilot, which frees up the driver to monitor the vehicle into self-park from a smartphone. WAYMO Google’s self-driving car project, Waymo, is the leading manufacturer of autonomous vehicles. With the aim of making it safe and easy for people to get where they are going, Waymo technology has been tested on the road for millions of kilometres to ensure a high level of safety. Using sensors and software that constantly scan for objects around the vehicle, it predicts the movements of all things around it based on their speed and trajectory.
Navigate on Autopilot can be customised to each driver’s preference and includes four settings for speed-based lane changes (Disabled, Mild, Average or Mad Max). Another feature on Autopilot is Autopark. To use this system, the driver must be driving at a very low speed on a street and must put the car into reverse alongside a parking space. At this point, Autopark will begin to manoeuvre
the vehicle into the parking space by controlling the vehicle speed, gear changes and steering angle. AUDI Born at the behemoth German automaker, the latest Audi A8 range is already fitted with autonomous intelligent driving (AID), which allows vehicles to self-drive up to a speed of 60kph. Complemented by
Waymo One was the first self-driving ride hailing service to operate in the Phoenix East Valley area. The fleet has now expanded include the Toyota Prius, Lexus SUVs, Chrysler Hybrid minivans and, most recently, the Jaguar I-PACE, which is built with a fully integrated hardware suite for the purpose of full autonomy. tesla.com audi.com waymo.com
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BEAUTY
RADIANT in ROGUE There are only two rules when it comes to flawless and timeless lips. Number one, you can’t go wrong with red. Number two, see number one.
LE ROUGE COUTURE EDITION
ROUGE DIOR ULTRA CARE LIQUID
By Givenchy Givenchy’s Le Rouge collection looks good on your lips and also in your bag. More than a lipstick, it’s a fashion accessory encased in genuine leather with lace details on the packaging. With 28 shades available, the lipstick lasts up to 12 hours. givenchybeauty.com
By Dior The first Dior lipstick to be infused with flower oil, the Rouge Dior Ultra Care Liquid exudes matte and satiny finishes that can last for even 12 hours of wear. Inspired by the flowers so dear to the House of Dior, this line comes in a wide range of gorgeous shades. dior.com
ROUGE ALLURE CAMÉLIA
L’ABSOLU ROUGE DRAMA MATTE
By Chanel Comprising four bold and luminous Rouge Allure and four vibrant matte Rouge Allure Velvet lipsticks, the Rouge Allure Camélia limited edition collection is not to be missed. It glides on smoothly and applies like a second skin, resulting in an ultra-fine finish. chanel.com
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By Lancôme The long-wearing and comfortable matte lipstick from Lancôme has become a favourite among lip smackers. Unlike most matte lipsticks, this line is actually moisturised and it doesn’t make your lips feel dry. lancome.com
SCENTS
WORLD POWER By Kenzo With the success of its WORLD perfume line, Kenzo has released its latest edition, the bold WORLD POWER. Just like the name and the bottle, the fragrance is feminine, but also daring and playful. Speak your mind with this fiery tonka bean and crystalline sea salt accord. kenzoworld.com
THE BOLD
Bouquet Don’t be afraid to show who you are through your pick of scent. Pamper yourself with four of the hottest fragrances this season.
HER SECRET DESIRE By Antonio Banderas This seductive fragrance is the latest member of Antonio Banderas’ fragrance collection. Sultry with a citrus burst of raspberry-infused bergamot, a floral bouquet scent of sambac jasmine and neroli is at the heart, with a hint of sweet velvety vanilla and smooth sandalwood. antoniobanderasperfumes.com
PEPE JEANS FOR HER AND FOR HIM
By Pepe Jeans Denim brand Pepe Jeans worked together with Tailored Perfumes to create a set of feminine and masculine fragrances with packaging that you can’t keep your eyes off. Packaged like a delicate drinking glass, the feminine fragrance is perfect for daring women who are looking for that wow effect. Meanwhile the masculine perfume comes in a shaker-like bottle, exuding a refined vibrant freshness. pepejeansfragrances.tailoredperfumes.com
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LUXURY
TIME TO STAND OUT This summer, pick a distinctive timepiece to amp up your look from ordinary to extraordinary.
BIG BANG WITH INTEGRATED BRACELET GRIP WATCH MICKEY MOUSE EDITION By Gucci Gucci is back with its sleek and modern Grip watches, this time with a famous mouse on the dial, commemorating the year of the rat. The Mickey Mouse edition comes in two models, the 35mm edition with yellow gold PVD case and a GG Supreme canvas strap, and the 38mm version in steel with the GG logo engraved on the bracelet. gucci.com
By Hublot Hublot has just released a new model in its Big Bang line, 15 years after the line’s first launch. The new fusion features an integrated metal bracelet, with the first link fused to the case, combining technology and style for your wrist. This new line comes in three models, including the intriguing 500-piece limited edition All Black version. hublot.com
H1.0 X MR PORTER By HYT Watches The H1.0 x MR PORTER limited edition watch is designed to embody the dynamism of time’s constant motion. The sleek design comprises predominantly a black and white palette, with a touch of red on the dial and the side of the case. Made from stainless steel and black DLC coating with satin finish, the 48.8mm timepiece is water-resistant to 50 metres. hytwatches.com
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LOUIS ERARD REGULATOR WATCH X ALAIN SILBERSTEIN By Louis Erard World-renowned watch brand Louis Erard collaborates with architect and watchmaker Alain Silberstein to create two limited edition regulator watches, each with just 178 made. The regulator watch is the brand’s signature piece, and with Silberstein’s touch, it becomes playful and attentiongrabbing, cool and colourful. louiserard.ch
LUXURY
ENDEARING Earrings Eye-catching earrings are the best way to make a statement while being elusively subtle. Cartier, Dior and Tiffany & Co. know exactly how.
ÉTINCELLE DE CARTIER AND REFLECTION DE CARTIER By Cartier You can never go wrong sporting Cartier’s classic shapes studded with diamonds and white gold. We picked two pairs of earrings from two different collections, Étincelle de Cartier and Reflection de Cartier, which have unique shapes to bring a contemporary touch to something classic. cartier.com
DIOR OUI By Dior If you’re into written words and a playful look, Dior’s Oui collection showcases the cutest necklaces, rings and earrings with Oui, Toi and Moi, and Je T’Aime designs. Make a statement with the Toi Moi earrings, or if you’re feeling amorous, choose the Je T’Aime earrings and spread the love. dior.com
TIFFANY T DIOR ET MOI By Dior Inspired by the concept of toi et moi (you and me) jewellery – referring to a ring with two gems that sit close to each other, Dior launched its Dior et Moi collection, showcasing daring pieces that combine colours, shapes and gems. The Tribales earrings are particularly divine, especially in emerald and malachite, and in pink sapphire and pink opal. dior.com
By Tiffany & Co. Tiffany & Co.’s T collection successfully incorporates the brand’s T emblem in the jewellery design while still maintaining elegant aesthetics and exuding modern class – the earrings included. The pair with mother-of-pearl circle in 18k rose gold is too gorgeous to pass on, but if you’re into Tiffany’s signature turquoise, opt for the ones in 18k white gold. tiffany.com
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STYLE
SUNNIES There’s one sure-fire way to amp up your look, and that’s by donning a pair of edgy, too-cool-for-school sunglasses.
SERPENTI SUNGLASSES By Bvlgari After its unmistakeable bags and much sought-after jewellery, Bvlgari’s Serpenti line launched an eyewear collection, and it’s gorgeous. Simply elegant, the eyewear demands attention with its bold shape and size, not to mention the multi-coloured crystal scale details. bvlgari.com
ROUND ACETATE SUNGLASSES By Gucci Pull a Jackie Onassis and sport this oversized rounded pair of sunglasses by Gucci, reminiscent of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Retro and lavish, these sunglasses are enhanced with the brand’s signature monogram on the temples, and we like to turn the volume up by pairing these shades with Gucci’s black resin glasses chain. gucci.com
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BUTTERFLY SUNGLASSES By Chanel Bring back Coco’s sophisticated class with this Chanel number. Made from metal, resin and glass pearls, the eyewear boasts black frame, grey mirror lenses and a breath-taking pearly strap. This pair is also available in other frame, lens and strap colours, but this one is a classic. chanel.com
MONTAIGNE SUNGLASSES By Dior Inspired by the brand’s successful Montaigne bags, Dior launched these sunglasses with the same moniker at the springsummer 2020 ready-to-wear show, designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri. A statement piece, the pair features a square shape, with the House’s initials punctuating the frame. dior.com
COMBINING
COMFORT AND CLASS Sneakers have been gaining a new level of recognition as world-class couture designers dabble with their creativity to design the most comfortable kind of footwear.
LAMBSKIN & SUEDE CALFSKIN TRAINERS By Chanel This pair is perfect for those who like to be on the preppy side. The trainers are made of lambskin and suede calfskin, with simple basic colours of white, red and navy blue, with a touch of beige sporting the trademark Chanel logo. chanel.com
MEN’S ACE GG HIGH-TOP SNEAKERS By Gucci Reminiscent of 1980s’ striking glam, these sneakers feature beige/ebony GG Supreme canvas, blue and red web, blue padded nylon at the ankle, and gold leather detail at the back. A bold choice perfect for those who like the attention. gucci.com
TRIPLE S CLEAR SOLE SNEAKER IN PINK By Balenciaga Balenciaga’s Triple S Clear Sole Sneakers come in several fluorescent colours, but we love the ones in hot pink the most. Crafted with TPU technology injected inside the sole, creating an air bubble for more comfort, this pair is light and comfortable, as well as eye-catching. balenciaga.com
ONITSUKA TIGER X VALENTINO GARAVANI By Valentino The legendary Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD sneakers have been reinterpreted and reimagined by Maison Valentino’s Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli, featuring the Valentino V logo on the side. The line comes in four bold colours. valentino.com
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FASHION
Sultry c i t a s t i i h on p oS
cases the hot test look s this season ra show , cou u a L r tes ta splendour ca n bel y of d Cin ong in eduction a nd e s t t a n h inte t e s l t e h a v t e o r i s t p r na l a u d m n M a e , tio s s ent a nd na l r e b g n n i c d a e le .
PHOTOGRAPHER: WONG SIM MODEL: CINTA LAURA HAIR & MAKEUP: BUBAH ALFIAN STYLIST: IVAN TEGUH SANTOSO LOCATION: INTERCONTINENTAL JAKARTA PONDOK INDAH
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WARDROBE & ACCESSORIES: CHRISTIAN DIOR SHOES: MODEL'S OWN ASIADREAMS 47
WARDROBE: MICHAEL KORS ACCESSORIES & SHOES: MODEL'S OWN 48 ASIADREAMS
WARDROBE & ACCESSORIES: CHRISTIAN DIOR ASIADREAMS 49
WARDROBE: MICHAEL KORS SHOES: MODEL'S OWN 50 ASIADREAMS
WARDROBE & ACCESSORIES: CHRISTIAN DIOR ASIADREAMS 51
There is nothing more important than family and a family holiday is the perfect time to create longlasting memories and to strengthen the bonds between siblings, as well as parents and children. In the following pages, we share the family-friendly facilities at select venues in Jakarta and Bali. Discover city fun around Indonesia’s capital city, explore beachfront fun from Nusa Dua, to Canggu via Jimbaran and Kuta on the Island of the Gods, and find out where to learn about elephants, see Bali from the air and ramp up your ATV skills. Plan the perfect holiday escape!
ŠThe ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali
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JA K A R TA
Pullman Jakarta Central Park
L
ocated in the most buzzing area of West Jakarta, Pullman Jakarta Central Park offers five-star luxury for every visiting traveller. The hotel is uniquely designed to combine pop art and raw industrial style and is conveniently situated adjacent to the award-winning shopping complex Central Park, as well as Neo SOHO Mall.
Inside the hotel, guests are spoiled for choice with ample amenities and facilities. For the youngsters, the hotel offers the perfect staycation with its family weekend getaway package. Curated especially for modern travellers seeking a hassle-free and enjoyable stay experience, this family programme includes a complimentary adventure to see hundreds of sea animals
at Jakarta Aquarium. While the kids get to venture out to see the sea animals swimming freely, parents are invited to relax and enjoy ultimate pampering at the Pullman Spa. Within the walls of the hotel, little ones get to enjoy many facilities fully dedicated to them. If they are staying in one of the Executive Rooms, the Kids’ Playground is available for free and is a great place where they can let their creativity run wild while being supervised by the hotel’s highly skilled team members. The hotel’s swimming pool is also a great place to keep your kids away from their smartphones or tablets. Situated on the lobby level, the swimming pool area is the place to be to spend a full day of fun under the sun.
Pullman Jakarta Central Park Podomoro City Jalan Letnan Jenderal S. Parman Jakarta 11470, Indonesia T: (+62) 2129200088 E: info@pullmanjakartacentralpark.com pullmanjakartacentralpark.com
• Dedicated Kids’ Playground every weekend (Saturday & Sunday) • Conveniently located for Jakarta Aquarium • Adjacent to two big shopping malls
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JA K A R TA
Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta
S
itting comfortably in the heart of the city, Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is the ultimate place for travellers of any age to enjoy a world of luxury that is filled with history. With world-class amenities and facilities, the hotel has been a favourite venue to create longlasting memories for many years. If you’re travelling with your little ones, the hotel is offering a special Kempinski Little VIP package to create a worry-free stay experience. This package gives your little darlings access to play and learn at the dedicated kids’ playground located near the all-day dining Signatures Restaurant. This frees up the parents so they can savour the delectable buffet offerings while the kids are running around under close supervision.
In addition to the kids’ playground, the hotel is also on-hand to customise special amenities for your kids in the room. Let them have their dream slumber party with their friends, complete with fun decorations and delicious nibbles prepared exclusively by the culinary team.
Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta Jalan M.H. Thamrin Jakarta 10310, Indonesia T: (+62) 2123583800 E: info.jakarta@kempinski.com kempinski.com/Jakarta
• Dedicated kids’ playground • Dedicated amenities for the kids • Conveniently located to Jakarta’s biggest shopping mall
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The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place
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edicated to embodying luxury cosmopolitan living, The RitzCarlton Jakarta, Pacific Place offers more than modern amenities and high-end facilities to its guests. Located in a prime area of Jakarta’s elite business and entertainment district, the five-star luxury property welcomes guests of any age to immerse themselves in the unparalleled, seamless service and bespoke hospitality. One of the brand’s signatures, Ritz Kids is a mainstay at every property. This special programme is wholly devoted to creating a fun, hassle-free familyfriendly escapade to enchant both kids and parents whenever families stay at The Ritz Carlton properties. Guided by playfulness and a sense of wonder, Ritz
Kids delights and engages your children, allowing them to interact with their surroundings in a fresh and exciting way, while introducing them to the four pillars of Ritz Kids discovery: water, land, environmental responsibility and culture. On top of all this, special child-friendly amenities and menus address the day-today comfort of young travellers.
The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place Sudirman Central Business District Jalan Jenderal Sudirman Jakarta 12190, Indonesia T: (+62) 2125501888 E: rc.jktrt.leads@ritzcarlton.com ritzcarlton.com
• Dedicated Ritz Kids programme • Sunday brunch with kids’ activities • Strategically located for the city’s entertainment hub
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Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue
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newcomer to northern Jakarta’s world of hospitality, Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue epitomises the true meaning of family fun. Welcoming guests of all ages, the hotel offers The Kids Room experience to immerse your little ones in a variety of entertaining and engaging activities within the walls of the family-friendly hotel. Inside the hotel, young travellers are invited to learn through interactive play involving art, storytelling, movies and local experiences. Meanwhile, the hotel’s dedicated kids’ pool is the perfect place for them to enjoy some fun under the sun. For the more adventurous, the hotel is offering a special price for staying
guests to play at the award-winning Waterbom PIK. Located only five minutes from the hotel, treat your kids to a day of fun splashing around complete with water slides, fun games and multiple pools to play in.
Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue Pantai Indah Kapuk Boulevard Jakarta 14470, Indonesia T: (+62) 2122571188 E: HB590-RE@accor.com swissotel-jakarta-pikavenue.com
• Special in-room fun activities for the kids • Direct access to one of Jakarta’s premium lifestyle shopping malls • Special price to award-winning Waterbom PIK
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The Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta
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n icon in the city, The Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta offers as an oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle. Built with family in mind, the hotel offers great facilities to keep youngsters entertained.
Within the hotel’s massive compound, kids are invited to try not one, but two swimming pools to keep them active and away from their gadgets. In addition to these, the hotel also has two children’s play areas to allow the little
ones to embark on a fun adventure with their friends. Not content with having two swimming pools and play areas, the hotel is also collaborating with Waterbom PIK. Through this collaboration, all hotel guests are entitled to a special price of IDR100,000 net per person if they visit Waterbom PIK during their stay. This affordable price can be enjoyed not only by the children, but everyone of all ages.
The Sultan Hotel & Residence Jakarta Jalan Gatot Subroto Jakarta 10270, Indonesia T: (+62) 2157891001 E: info@sultanjakarta.com sultanjakarta.com • Dedicated play areas for the kids • Brand new swimming pool • Collaboration with Waterbom PIK
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The St. Regis Bali Resort
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he barefoot sophistication of beachside The St. Regis Bali Resort is more than just an idyllic escape for couples to indulge in a romantic break, it is a fabulous destination for a meaningful family adventure. One of the St. Regis philosophies is upholding family traditions and crafting new, longlasting family memories, and in Bali there are plenty of opportunities to play together at the island’s finest address, whether you have toddlers or teens. Indulge in the luxurious accommodation and facilities as you experience a holiday to remember. The St. Regis suites accommodate up to two adults and one child, while the two-bedroom villas are perfect for two adults and two children. Set in private tropical gardens with their own pool and direct access to the saltwater lagoon, the two-bedroom villas are open and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows to make the most of the natural beauty and fresh air outside.
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open for an extensive breakfast buffet, as well as dinner.
Relax in the gazebo or on the sun loungers in the garden, dine outside, or make the most of the spacious living area in air-conditioned comfort with a state-of-the-art entertainment system, three televisions with premium movie channels, a DVD player, iPod dock and high-speed internet to enjoy some quiet in-villa time with the family. The Balinese décor, plush furnishings, separate living room, six-seater dining table, marble bathrooms, equipped kitchenette and butler’s quarters for the 24-hour on-demand butler perfectly blend indulgence and practicality.
cultivating each child’s innate interests, whether it’s yoga, sustainable and local cooking, or photography. The pristine white sandy beach is just a few steps away and is safe for children of all ages, while the main pool is manned by pool attendants who bring round cool towels to keep guests refreshed. Guests can also ask their butler to make arrangements for an immersive, back to nature visit to the nearby Eco Learning Park, which is supported by R.O.L.E. (River, Ocean, Land, Ecology) Foundation.
Throughout 2020, The St. Regis Bali Resort is offering its Family Fun package, which includes opulent accommodation, luxury round-trip airport transfer, child-sized robes and slippers for young connoisseurs and tailored turn-down rituals, two hours daily for each child in the Children’s Learning Center, as well as a scoop of ice cream per day at Gourmand Deli. So make the most of this exquisite tropical destination and enjoy a family holiday beyond your expectations.
The resort’s young luminaries, aged 4 to 12 years old, can find guided edutainment at the Children’s Learning Center, which offers activities as diverse as Balinese crafts and cooking, and is run by professional educators who nurture the children in their care while
Dining at The St. Regis Bali Resort is excellent and the resort’s Gourmand Deli is a great place to enjoy some casual dining, grab a gourmet snack or arrange a special picnic hamper. The unforgettable King Cole Bar hosts an indulgent afternoon tea, while Boneka is
The St. Regis Bali Resort ITDC, Nusa Dua Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 3618478111 E: Bali.Reservation@stregis.com stregisbali.com
• Exquisite family-friendly suites and villas • Children’s Learning Center for professionally supervised edutainment • 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service
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The ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali
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njoy your family holiday in the heart of Kuta at The ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali. Overlooking the quieter end of Kuta Beach, The ANVAYA offers luxury, tranquillity, abundant facilities and plenty of fun, with something for all the family. Create memorable experiences and fond memories with family-friendly activities that include cycling, beach soccer and volleyball, woodcarving, egg painting and learning how to make Balinese offerings, as well as the simplicity of playing on the beach or in the sparkling swimming pools. For younger children, The ANVAYA Kids Club includes dress-up and dance sessions, music, as well as board games, movies, Play Stations and Wii consoles. Open daily from 9am to 6pm, the kids’ club also has a nanny service, allowing parents some personal time, perhaps with a visit to Sakanti Spa, which has a wide range of treatments, including those for couples, and parents along with their kids.
rooms for older children and Family Premiere Rooms designed for two adults and up to two children. With Hindu Baliinspired décor and high levels of comfort, these rooms have a comfortable sofa and bench from which to enjoy some quiet time watching over 90 satellite channels on the 43-inch IPTV.
Among the 493 well-appointed and luxurious rooms, suites and villas are those that suit families, with adjoining
Dining is also a pleasure at The ANVAYA, with traditional Indonesian food served at Kunyit, and international delights at
Sands, which not only overlooks the beach and has a well-stocked wine cellar, but also has friendly chefs who will be happy to teach the kids how to cook.
The ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali Jalan Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kuta Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 3612090477 E: info@theanvayabali.com theanvayabali.com
• Numerous family-friendly activities • Family-friendly rooms in the heart of Kuta’s attractions • The ANVAYA Kids Club
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The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali
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ewly opened in December 2019, The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali combines mystical jungle vistas, world-class wellness offerings and an inspiring program of kids’ activities. It’s a property that embraces nature at every turn, from the open-air lobby to the three decks and infinity pool overlooking the Wos River valley. There’s a choice of generously proportioned rooms, suites, or villas, each designed with calming interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows to let in plenty of natural light. If you’re travelling with young children, connecting rooms are available on request. Guest facilities focus on wellness and relaxation for the whole family, and include the Westin Workout fitness studio and Heavenly Spa by Westin. The al fresco spa gazebos, which are surrounded by an ever-changing canvas of tropical flowers and fragrant herbs, are a real highlight of the property. Open from 9am until 7pm, Westin Family Kids Club is dedicated to keeping the little ones amused, offering a holistic range of activities that include yoga, crafts
workshops, face painting and gardening. Meanwhile, the adjoining children’s pool and miniature waterfall provide an exciting setting for them to splash around and burn some energy. Also on site are two distinctive dining concepts, both of which follow an eat well
philosophy. Tabia all-day dining offers health-conscious fare made from scratch with regionally sourced ingredients while Tall Trees serves up an eclectic menu of wood-fired dishes inspired by ancient recipes from around the world. Half portions are available for some dishes and Chef Robert’s hot smoked salmon— smoked in-house—is exceptional. The dedicated kids’ menu features nutritious yet delicious dishes to help them eat smart. Beyond the resort, the alluring attractions of Ubud await. Whether you’re keen to explore the region’s cultural wonders or learn about the local fauna, the possibilities are endless. Among the many family-oriented excursions are scenic cycling tours and trips to animal parks such as Bali Zoo, Bali Bird Park, and Bali Safari Marine Park.
The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali Jalan Lod Tunduh Singakerta, Ubud Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 3613018989 E: resv.dpswr@westin.com westinubud.com • Art, craft, and wellness activities at Westin Family Kids Club • Jungle-view infinity pool and children’s pool with miniature waterfall • Health-conscious kid-friendly menus
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Hard Rock Hotel Bali
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ome to the largest free-form pool on the island, Hard Rock Hotel Bali is a holiday haven for fun-loving families. The musiccentric stay is just metres from Kuta Beach with its long swathe of golden sand and perennially popular surf breaks, but there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained within the hotel walls, too.
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With slides, sprinklers and a waterfall bucket, the mini water park is one of the main attractions for young guests. The central pool also features a volleyball court, rock climbing wall and a daily games programme for young and old. There's Shack Bar, a swim-up cocktail bar for the parents, poolside cabanas for relaxing, and a tropical sand island which
hosts family-friendly foam parties on Friday and Sunday afternoons. Among the other family-oriented facilities are the hotel’s three agespecific kids’ clubs. There’s Lullaby Playroom, an indoor play room for toddlers; Roxity Kids Club, a drop-off club where 4-12 year olds can take part in
activities as varied as sand art, Balinese dance classes and culinary workshops; and Tabu Teens Club, a special venue for young adults with a DJ booth, gaming room and pool table. A mini cinema with beanbags completes the space. Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
No matter what age, music lovers will have much to love at this rock-’n-rollthemed stay. Boombox, the hotel’s on-site recording studio and karaoke room, is available all day for guests to use, and vintage record players and a mini library of classic rock vinyl come as standard amenities in the top-tier Rock Royalty
rooms. The sonic stimulation continues at the hotel’s main bar, Centerstage, where live bands play from 9pm every night. Children and teens are encouraged to join too, with Top 40 covers and the odd Disney theme song making the early evening playlists. Accommodation options for families are amongst the most creative on the island and the Luxury Kids Suites represent the very best. Light, airy and modern, the spacious quarters feature a living and dining area, master bedroom with luxurious en-suite bathroom, and a children’s playroom-cum-bedroom. The latter space features bunk beds, a flatscreen TV, a Play Station 4, soft toys, and even a bucket and spade for some oldfashioned fun on Kuta Beach.
Hard Rock Hotel Bali Jalan Pantai Kuta Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361761869 E: bookings@hardrockhotels.net bali.hardrockhotels.net • On-site water park with slides, sprinklers and a waterfall bucket • Tabu Teens Club, a night-club-themed space with a DJ booth, gaming room and pool table • Luxury Kids Suites fitted with bunk beds, games and toys for the little ones
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Mason Adventures Bali
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f you are looking for a one-stop shop when it comes to fun tropical activities and programmes for the whole family, then Mason Adventures Bali is the ultimate answer. The Mason empire started decades ago as a white-water rafting operator and elephant park, before developing into the range of exciting and educational entertainments we know and love today. Of course, talking about Mason Adventures would not be complete without mentioning its Elephant Park and Lodge, scenically ensconced in the lush Taro village, just a little north of Ubud. The park is home to the 32 Sumatran elephants, and as the only animal welfare-accredited elephant park in Bali, Mason Elephant Park & Lodge makes sure that the elephants’ wellbeing is a primary focus. At the park, you and the children can partake in cool activities with the giant darlings, like bathing the elephants, for example. The park also has a museum, information centre and art gallery, where
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the whole family can learn more about the star species, in addition to the park’s elephant education show. Don’t go home just yet, because we’re getting to the lodge part of Mason Elephant Park & Lodge. Blending understated elegance with the verdant surroundings, the boutique hotel offers 27 rooms, each enhanced with a
distinguished elephant touch that caters to all tastes. Perhaps the most popular feature is that each room has special access so that you can easily board your elephant, which is ready to take you on a jungle journey. Next in line is Mason’s white-water rafting programme, which will take you on an exhilarating and picturesque
expedition along the Ayung River in Ubud. The programme boasts Bali’s longest white-water rafting trip, complete with modern safety equipment, gourmet buffet lunch, changing rooms, towels and hot showers, electronic security lockers, airconditioned hotel transfers, emergency Air Medivac just in case, and free Wi-Fi. If your family has the need for speed, check out Mason Adventures’ jungle buggies offer. Roam the nearby jungle on Bali’s first and only purpose-built ATV track. The jungle tour includes full safety equipment, three laps on the track each of up to 5km, a delicious lunch and more. The package also includes access to the Mason Gourmet Chocolate factory showroom, which brings us to the next delight.
Make some time to take up the Mason Sky Tours offer, as it takes you on a luxurious Mason Gourmet Chocolate hosts the Bali journey aboard a modern and sleek Chocolate Tour & Tasting, welcoming Eurocopter B2 helicopter, with full aireveryone with a penchant for chocolate conditioning and luxury leather seating and sweet treats. The factory uses only the for up to five passengers. The air journey best hand-picked cocoa beans, sourced will show you scenic corners of Bali, from throughout Indonesia. The youngsters volcanos, and more exotic destinations will be delighted in taking a peek at the around the island. behind-the-scenes dynamics in the factory. Afterwards, you can also participate in the In addition to the aforementioned gourmet chocolate tasting. activities and experiences, Mason
Adventures Bali offers challenging programmes like mountain cycling and tropical trekking, and indulgent experiences, like spa and wellness rituals.
Mason Adventures Bali Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Pesanggaran Denpasar, Bali 80221, Indonesia T: (+62) 361721480 E: info@masonadventures.com masonadventures.com
• Educational programmes at the elephant park • Exciting rides on jungle buggies • Exclusive helicopter tours
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Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran
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aidback Jimbaran Bay, with its idyllic strip of golden sand and mellow waves, is one of Bali’s most charming spots for a family holiday. Mere metres from the shore, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran offers a choice of thoughtfully styled rooms, suites and sky villas in a five-star resort setting that art lovers will adore. Paintings, sculptures and art installations add vim to the contemporary interiors, while outside, a saltwater lagoon pool and tropical gardens provide an enviable setting for lazy days in the sun. Dining options are plentiful with five eclectic venues on site, including Bamboo Chic, the resort’s signature Pan-Asian/Balinese eatery; Smoquee Sky Bar, a panoramic
rooftop bar serving freshly shaken cocktails; and WALA, a colourful café scooping up handcrafted gelato – a real highlight for the kids!
Keeping the younger members of the clan entertained shouldn’t be a problem here, with hours of supervised fun courtesy of Le Méridien Family Kids Club. A mini foosball table, a library of children’s books, an outdoor paddling pool, soft toys and video games galore await, and there’s a regular schedule of Bali-themed activities to spark their curiosity, too. Kite decorating, mask making and fun Balinese language classes are just a few of the options. In addition, the resort’s lifestyle programme is designed to encourage parent-child bonding time, and includes sunset yoga sessions, tie-dye craft workshops and fun family photo shoots in traditional Balinese ceremonial attire. Venture out of the resort and you’ll discover the tranquil bay of Jimbaran, famous for the rustic seafood barbecues that grill freshly caught fish platters every evening. A little further afield, a myriad of family-friendly adventures beckon, from close encounters with wildlife at Bali Safari and Marine Park, to eye-opening cultural spectacles like the clifftop kecak (fire dance) at Uluwatu Temple.
Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran Jalan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 3618466888 E: reservations.balijimbaran@lemeridien.com lemeridienbalijimbaran.com • Mini foosball, reading corner and kids’ pool at Le Méridien Family Kids Club • Family-oriented lifestyle activities like sunset yoga and Bali-themed photo shoots • Tranquil beach locale with mellow waves
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Air Bali
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levate the way you enjoy Bali with Air Bali helicopter sky tours. Air Bali is the first helicopter service in Bali to offer leisure tours, medical retrievals, aerial filming and photography. With more than a decade of experience, Air Bali boasts a 100-percent safety record thanks to its regular monitoring and auditing of even the smallest aspects of its operation.
Absorbing the beauty of Bali from up in the air can be an unrivalled experience enjoyed by the whole family. Avoid the hassle of getting stuck in traffic and the boring and winding road and fly in style with Air Bali. The sky tour operator offers Bali’s best attractions as destinations, from Tanah Lot Temple and the Seminyak coastline, to Uluwatu Temple, the mesmerizing Lake Beratan and thrilling
mountains and volcanoes, like Mount Agung and Mount Rinjani. In addition to set tour packages, Air Bali also offers charter services that allow bespoke itineraries, tailor-made to fit your preferences and needs, that are guaranteed fun for all ages. Air Bali even provides transfer services, as well as from the main island of Bali to its satellites, Nusa Lembongan and Gili Trawangan islands. Imagine having an idyllic tropical vacation with the kids, and beyond the beautiful beaches and exciting adventures you promise to the young ones, there’s also an enthralling helicopter ride as the cherry on top. A great reason to brag!
Air Bali Benoa Heliport Complex Jalan Raya Pelabuhan Benoa Pesanggaran, Bali 80222, Indonesia T: (+62) 81236598171 / 81911110047 E: sales@airbali.com airbali.com • Safety guaranteed • Bespoke itineraries • Volcano tours
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COMO Uma Canggu
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ocated on the sandy beach of Batu Mejan, famed for its surf and rolling waves, COMO Uma Canggu offers modern luxury with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Consisting of 119 rooms, residences and penthouses, everything about this resort encourages easy living with an elegant edge. Styled by interior designers Koichiro Ikebuchi and Paola Navone, the chic resort is a haven for all ages. The main focal point is the free-form swimming pool, which at 115 metres in length is the longest in the area. For added relaxation, and closer to the sound of the breaking waves, is another swimming pool at COMO Beach Club. Guests travelling with their little ones are in for a treat with an abundance of facilities on offer. The resort offers Play by COMO, located adjacent to its Beach Club, which is COMO Hotels and Resorts’ way of creating wonderful memorable family experiences. The dedicated Play by COMO space is designed to inspire purposeful and
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creative child-directed play for children aged 4-12. The daily activity schedule has been created by early childhood experts to incorporate areas of child development and cater to various needs and interests. Wellness is a significant part of the program and children love trying yoga, mindful exercises, healthy cooking classes and sensory experiences. This encourages them to learn new skills that build their confidence, while at the same time developing healthy behaviours that can become part of their lives. Play by COMO is a space for families to spend quality time together and reconnect. Parents and other family members are encouraged to join activities with the children and to make the most of the beautiful location, cultures and traditions that surround them. In addition to the dedicated Play by COMO, kids can learn to surf through the professionalism of Tropicsurf. COMO Uma Canggu is one of only a few places in the world that works closely with this pioneer
in luxury surfing, which offers a multitude of classes, even for youngsters. With the beach in front of the resort as your outside playground, a stay at COMO Uma Canggu is definitely enjoyable for both families and surfers. Away from the water, COMO Uma Canggu is also on-hand to take you on a fun adventure on dry land. A range of cultural trips across southern and central Bali
are available, including guided temple visits by the sea, jungle trekking, canoeing expeditions and traditional village walks.
COMO Uma Canggu Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, Canggu Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 3616202228 E: como.uma.canggu@comohotels.com comohotels.com
• Dedicated Play by COMO • Walking distance to the beach • Longest swimming pool in the area
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INSPIRATION
YONATAN KACHKO GENERAL MANAGER, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL JAKARTA
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Yonatan Kachko is proud to lead Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, an artful and stylish property that provides guests with high levels of personalised service, outstanding dining and exceptional stays. Asia Dreams talked to him about his career and the Four Seasons brand.
Q: What made you decide on hospitality as a career? A: When I was on family holidays as a child, I was fascinated by the dynamics of the hotel and would sit in reception watching all the interactions, seeing how happy the guests were. I told my parents then that this would be my future and things just evolved. Q: You’ve been with Four Seasons all your working life. How did that happen? A: It was sheer luck. I was working in a small boutique hotel in Toronto while I was at university and my boss was exFour Seasons. He believed my passion and character would suit the brand and put me in touch with them. Coincidentally, although I didn’t know it at the time, my university’s hospitality programme was supported by Four Seasons.
Our hotel is highly curated with many great statement spaces that feel unique, special and luxurious. It feels like a boutique hotel but offers all the facilities and service that you find in larger hotels, which I think is great. Of course, we keep our offerings fresh and have plenty of tactical changes lined up, like visiting Michelin-starred chefs, refreshed menus, a brunch concept at Alto and more. Q: Did you always want to be a general manager? A: Yes, I think that was always my goal and I’ve remained very focused on achieving this. But I have been happy in every chapter along the way.
Q: If you hadn’t made hospitality your career, what would you have chosen? A: Real estate, or maybe finance. Every single person in my family is a doctor, but Q: The Four Seasons brand is very well that really isn’t me. As a general manager known. What do you think are this hotel’s you are managing an asset and capital strongest selling points? investments, making decisions about A: Each brand has its own nuances and where to put the money, so there is a real areas in which it excels. The intangible estate component to the job. things are very important to us, like how we treat our guests. We have people who Q: What do you think about the would go to the end of the world to satisfy hospitality scene in Jakarta? our guests; I’m not saying we’re perfect, A: As a major Southeast Asian gateway but the culture of the brand runs very destination that is growing at an strongly through our people here. exponential rate, there are a lot of luxury
hotel operators in the city, but I think it’s still developing as people work out what is needed. I’ve also noticed that the people here are highly entrepreneurial and have come up with lots of interesting F&B concepts that are well aimed at their target markets. Q: Can you share any special moments from your career? A: In hotels you really see all the emotional highs and extreme lows. One guest, who I am still in touch with today, was staying at our hotel with her husband when he passed away. We spent 10 days supporting her through a very emotional time in every way that we could, from dealing with the arrangements, to repatriating her husband. While this is not an occasion that you want to have, it highlights the depths that we as humans can have in terms of relationships, breaking the barriers between a service provider and a customer. Q: With the world at your fingertips, what is your dream holiday? A: To be able to spend time with my wife and daughter, anywhere in the world, so long as we can spend time together. Europe would be nice, so that we can enjoy some delicious food and stroll around a city. fourseasons.com/jakarta
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INSPIRATION
TITUS ROSIER GENERAL MANAGER, THE WESTIN RESORT & SPA UBUD, BALI
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Football protégé turned hotelier, Titus Rosier is the face behind Ubud’s most inspiring new wellness resort. Hailing from Maastricht, Holland, the down-to-earth general manager talks about what got him hooked on hospitality, the hidden-gem appeal of rural Bali, and why The Westin’s wellness-inspired approach to the industry is the perfect fit for his own active lifestyle.
Q: Congratulations on the opening of The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali. Can you share some of the features that make the hotel special? A: One of the most unique features is the design. The hotel was built around the biophilia principle to create an environment that’s very much in touch with nature. When you enter the property, you’ll immediately notice the forest views and fresh air – it’s intended to be a very calming experience. We built around the feel-well experience with the spa, which has a strong focus on emotional wellbeing. The flowers that surround the spa gazebos are specially selected so that the colours and fragrances change throughout the day. During morning yoga, the scenery is yellow and purple. In the evening, the fragrance of the jasmines comes out. Similarly, our restaurants follow an eat-well philosophy, showcasing healthy dishes, slow cooking and ancient ingredients. Q: You’ve worked in hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. What are Bali’s strong points in terms of hospitality? A: It’s just such an incredibly beautiful place that has so many hidden spots to discover. You get lost on the streets and, before you know it, you’re in paradise! The other big difference is the people. When I
talk to guests, the number one thing they comment on is the warmth of the locals. Q: Did you always aspire towards a career in hospitality? A: No. I wanted to be a professional football player! I combined my education with playing football and was allowed to skip classes for training with one rule: I wasn’t allowed to fail anything. I’ve never failed a class since! Q: So what led you into the industry? A: My father designed a few hotels, so he exposed me to the architectural side of things. And my mother was a very good cook. Every year at Christmas, I helped her to prepare dinner. It was her who told me to go into hospitality. She gave me a book called Hotel on the Roof of the World, about a guy who moves to Tibet to work at a hotel there. As I read about the experience, I realised I wanted the same. Q: And what, specifically, appealed to you about the job? A: The challenges and different situations that get thrown into your life every day! Q: Sustainability is becoming more important for modern travellers. How does the hotel address this? A: As a brand, we’re all about wellness,
so it’s natural that we take it seriously and follow the trend towards more sustainable practices. For example, we’re working with a company called Refill my Bottle to create a plastic-bottle-free environment. There’s now a water station in the hotel to encourage guests to re-use their bottles. We’re also working with a company that collects plastic for recycling, with the profits going to the local community. Our meeting rooms are proudly clutter-free with no paper or pens on the tables – these items are available if you want to use them, but we’re trying to minimise waste. We have untouched food from our buffets collected and taken to deprived areas, and urge our business clients to donate any leftover meeting food to this cause, too. Q: When you’re not working, what do you get up to? A: When I played football, I trained every day. But when I started to work internationally, I stopped and it changed my life. One day, I realised I weighed 94 kilograms and was fed up, so I signed up for a 10k run. I remember getting passed by an old lady! It only spurred me on to sign up for a triathlon. I kept going until eventually I signed up for an ironman competition. So that’s how I keep myself active; every few months, I do a triathlon or a marathon. westinubud.com
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INSPIRATION
GRANT RAUBENHEIMER GENERAL MANAGER, GRAN MELIÁ JAKARTA
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Grant Raubenheimer brings years of experience in luxury hotels around the world to Gran Meliá Jakarta, including stints in IT and quality assurance, and firmly believes that nothing is impossible if you believe in it with your head and your heart. Asia Dreams talked to him about his career.
Q: So how did you start out in hospitality? A: I knew I wanted to go to hotel school even at 15 years old and considered applying to Luzern but decided to stay in Zimbabwe as the hotel school there had a similarly good reputation. I started my career at a Holiday Inn in banqueting, but when I later moved to London, my team manager asked me look after the IT department at the weekends, while she was off. At that time, I had absolutely no experience with computerised systems, but this led to more IT-based positions, including one in Germany. The general manager there was very particular about detail and keen for the hotel to embrace computerisation, so I could make improvements to lots of the hotel systems. Q: How did you move back into a more guest-centric position? A: I moved back to Zimbabwe and joined Bumi Hills as the country’s youngest general manager and ran it for two years. As a safari lodge with organised activities, we were literally looking after the guests 24/7. I’d missed that. But I also used my IT experience to centralise reservations across the group’s 23 properties and develop quality assurance systems that identified areas for improvement.
Another very guest-centric role was as EAM at the Observatory Hotel in Sydney. It was Australia’s most-awarded hotel, winning best service hotel every year, because everyone in the team was empowered to make decisions to care for and awe the guests. Q: You’re leading Gran Meliá Jakarta now. What do you think are the hotel’s strongest selling points? A: We have a great team here that gives its all when looking after guests, which is always good for customer loyalty. We have a high number of repeat guests, which is very gratifying. Our restaurants, Café Gran Via, Yoshi and Tien Chao all have a good reputation, and our RedLevel Lounge is a beautiful space that is calm and peaceful, with attentive staff. I think the combination of the building’s stature, the staff and what we offer works very well. Q: Could you share some significant experiences from your working life? A: I met Nelson Mandela when he stayed at our hotel in Zimbabwe and had the chance to sit and chat with him. To be so humble and forgiving after spending 27 years in jail is amazing. He was a true statesman. Then when I worked in Perth, our hotel
was the venue for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. We had 53 heads of state staying with us, and we hosted Queen Elizabeth’s final banquet dinner. The preparations were incredibly detailed, and we worked very closely with the head of the royal household to make sure everything was perfect, from the food, to the wine glasses, to the timing. I had a private audience with the queen at Government House, as well as greeting her at the hotel and taking her up to the dinner. That was a very special time for me. Q: If you hadn’t chosen a career in hospitality, what would you have done? A: I can’t see that I would have had any other career. The thought of sitting in front of a desk day in and day out just bores me. I like to manage by walking around the hotel and seeing what needs doing. Q: Where would you go for your ideal holiday? A: I would love to go to the Moon because it’s so different; I’d love to see Earth from out there! More realistically, I would love to visit the Amazon, from the top to the bottom, being out in the jungle, seeing something so different, would be amazing. granmelia.com
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GOURMET
of
The Real Taste
ARGENTINA
Sudestada Jakarta brings authentic Argentinean cuisine straight from the grill to your taste buds.
MATAMBRE SIGNATURE CUT
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ocated in the posh neighbourhood of Menteng, Sudestada Jakarta is a new player in the culinary scene that will whet your appetite with its mouth-watering Latin menu filled with flair. Comprising three concepts, the restaurant offers a place for people to eat, meet up and relax in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the big city.
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Helmed by Argentinean chef Victor Taborda, Sudestada is a Spanish word that translates to powerful wind. The name is regarded as being auspicious and bringing good luck in the Argentinean culture. Mimicking traditional Argentinian houses, the two-storey restaurant is illuminated
by natural light that comes in from the floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors. Inside, the Argentinean cultural and hobby-influenced dÊcor adorns the brick walls with things like polo gear and ponchos. A Buenos Aires’ nuance also features with a huge framed photo of the El Caminito building, a landmark tourist destination in the La Boca district.
The carefully prepared menu gives a nod to the chef’s roots. Highlighting the beauty of sharing, it encourages diners to share the perfect slow-grilled meats that are cooked using an outdoor fire pit imported directly from Argentina. For starters, the house signature of hand-cut beef empanadas is a favourite created from a special family recipe that was passed down from the chef’s grandmother. Another one to savour is matambre, crispy grilled rose meat that is found between the ribs and the skin, presented with house-made chimichurri sauce. For something refreshing and lighter, the baby spinach and kale salad is the perfect option. In the grill department, premium meat cuts tempt diners with a hearty appetite. Special cuts, including picaña and chuletón, are available, along with massive porterhouse and T-bone steaks for sharing. The desserts are all equally favoured with the chef’s recommendation including Argentinean classics of caramel flan or bite-sized churros with dulce de leche. While the food is great, the Argentinean experience would not be complete without an all-encompassing drinks menu. The seductive-looking bar greets guests as they step inside the restaurant. Manned by a team of
EMPANADAS
highly skilled bartenders, there is a dazzling array of innovative cocktails and sangrias, while it is also home to the best of the Mendoza and Malbec varietals in the city, meaning the wine experience at Sudestada Jakarta will transport you straight into the heart of the Patagonian plains. Sudestada Jakarta is open daily from breakfast time at 7am and offers weekly promotions that include happy hours to lunch specials. SUDESTADA JAKARTA Jalan Irian No. 18 Jakarta 10350, Indonesia T: (+62) 213928944 E: booking@sudestadagrill.com sudestadagrill.com
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GOURMET
BEACHSIDE RELAXATION & DINING Located on the famous Petitenget Temple beach, Mano Beach House offers guests a laidback, friendly ambience and a fine array of rustic comfort food and classy drinks.
SEARED BARRAMUNDI
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reat yourself and indulge in today’s most precious commodity, relaxation, be it alone or in the company of friends or family, while enjoying a contemporary take on the classic beachside experience. With its delightful blend of simple comforts, good food, great drinks and a cool soundtrack that adapts to suit the time of day or night, Mano Beach House is a deservedly popular all-day hangout. Offering rustic, nature-inspired flair, with a sparkling pool, plenty of thatch, rugged stone, wooden decking, and bohemian-tribal images and décor, this is an idyllic spot to chill over a classy cocktail and a satisfying meal as you watch life pass by on the beach and take in the glory of Bali’s sunsets. Open for breakfast right through until late evening, guests can indulge in the excellent choice of food available on the menu. The kitchen is helmed by Agung Arnawa, who expertly turns out modern international cuisine with vibrant flavours enhanced by exotic spices, while remaining mindful of sourcing the
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freshest local ingredients, hand-picked for the best results. Creating dishes that suit today’s demands and dietary considerations, Chef Agung’s signature dishes include home-made pasta, like the excellent spinach ricotta ravioli, Panaeng curry with confit chicken, and pan-seared barramundi, as well as vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free delights. There are several spots to settle in while dining, from the semi-indoor lounge to the covered beachside area, outdoor terrace and pool side. The salads are tasty and colourful, the burgers and sandwiches cover all the bases and include a house-made beef pastrami toastie, the main dishes feature local and international favourites, while the sweets include gelato, brownies and crème brûlée. The drinks menu is also varied, with a full range from potent coffees from Expat. Roasters to wake you up, to TWG teas, fresh juices, health-conscious boosts, and sophisticated cocktails, wines and
spirits, making Mano Beach House even more attractive. Sit under the stars in the cooling ocean breeze and while away the time listening to the chill-out tunes and indulge your palate in island favourite cocktails like Hugo Spritz with sparkling wine, elderflower, mint and lime; Frosé with rosé wine, gin, lychee and mixed berries; to the Pomegranate Caipiroska with vodka, pomegranate and kafir lime. Enjoy breakfast by the beach, happy hour cocktails and Sunday brunch, or take in Mano Sundown with acoustic performances by well-known local musicians on Wednesdays, and Sunset Anthems with prominent DJs from Thursday to Sunday. Celebrate personal special moments, from birthdays all the way to weddings, and enjoy the welcoming vibe of Mano Beach House. MANO BEACH HOUSE Jalan Pantai Pura Petitenget Seminyak, Bali 80356, Indonesia T: (+62) 3614730874 E: hello@manobali.com manobali.com
ASSORTED DISHES
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GOURMET
SAVOURING
the Street
Juxtaposing the Asian street food culture with the Western diner lifestyle, Street Boi is the tough kid you need to keep an eye on.
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treet Boi is an example of intriguing contradictions that work really well. Just a short walk from Petitenget Beach, where most dining establishments parade a tropical lifestyle and aesthetics, Street Boi exudes an urban feel with its sleek, predominantly black façade and light box sign.
the wall – including a vintage Star Wars poster that has been altered to Bao Wars, and one in particular, a Bruce Lee vs Chuck Norris poster. This last one is significant because it describes the cuisine concept that you’re about to enjoy at Street Boi – Asian badass combined with a tough guy from the West, resulting in one of the best cinematic wonders / culinary creations.
Stepping into the joint, your attention will most likely fall on the novelty posters on
Add to that Asian street food culture, the diner concept and an overall kickass
FINGER LICKING PORK RIBS
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ambience, and you’ll get Street Boi. In addition to Lee and Norris, the ultimate star here is the bao – an advanced version of the bao, to be exact. Imagine bao in the shape of burger buns, filled with the most creative and mouth-watering fillings. First-timers who bring along big appetites should definitely give the Porky Pork bao a try. Inside the warm, pillowy bao is twicecooked glazed pork belly, complete with a refreshing and crunchy slaw of cabbage,
KFC BAO, PORKY PORK BAO & CHUCK'S BAO
apple, red onions and radish, all topped with Asian verde sauce.
carrot, smoked cheddar cheese, curry mayo and chilli oil.
honey, and Blue Sky – blueberry, banana, milk, honey and plain yogurt.
That’s not all. Reminiscent of a good ol’ fashioned cheeseburger, Chuck’s Bao is another item on the menu not to miss. In between the bao buns are a hefty 120g beef patty, smoked cheddar cheese, grilled caramelised onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles and mustard. Topped off with garlic confit aioli and Street Boi’s signature sauce, this hearty heavyweight is not kidding around.
If you don’t really feel like devouring scrumptious bao at the moment, fret not, as Street Boi also offers other delicious dishes that really pack a punch and carry a kick. The prawn and bacon dumpling served with ginger, black vinegar, Szechuan chilli oil and peanuts boast rave reviews from long-time guests; the popcorn fried chicken served with gochujang mayo is a great comfort food; and the loaded fries are an appetising cacophony of pulled beef, smoked cheddar cheese, tomato salsa and Street Boi’s sauce.
You really shouldn’t leave Street Boi without taking a sip or more of its craft cocktails. The Seminyak Mule mixes vodka with homemade ginger and herbs, offering a delectable warm sensation all the way down. Sick Boy caters to those with a penchant for desserts, with scotch, spiced rum, chocolate bitters, sweet vermouth and black cherry. Last but not least, the SB Negroni is not to be missed!
For those of you who have a taste for Korean delights, try the KFC Bao, filled with Korean-style fried chicken, red cabbage and gochujang mayo. Meanwhile, vegetarians can take comfort in the Vego Bao, with chickpea patty,
While the burger culture has milkshakes, the bao culture at Street Boi offers refreshing smoothies, like Solitude – strawberry, milk, mango, plain yogurt and
STREET BOI Jalan Petitenget No. 18AA, Seminyak Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 81236768665 E: streetboibali@gmail.com streetboibali.com
COCKTAIL SELECTION
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DESTINATION
An Unforgettable
City Escape
Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta offers guests extraordinary levels of personal attention and service in an exquisitely luxurious home-away-from-home.
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hether you are travelling for business or leisure, Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta is an intimate oasis with a prime city location that exudes a refined, sophisticated ambience. The stunningly gorgeous venue has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that guests feel relaxed and valued. Each space has its own distinct feel and character and is curated with artwork and décor that captures the imagination. The 125 guest suites are spacious, with the smallest a generous 60sqm, and sumptuously decorated in shades of silver with chinoiserie wall panels, opulent furniture, Indonesian artwork, black and white Italian marble bathrooms
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and spacious walk-in closets. With the smallest detail considered, from lavish amenities to an elegant desk and multiple charging stations, these suites are a perfect sanctuary that invite relaxation and are ideal to recharge after a long day. The neo-classical styled Presidential Suite, at 380sqm, is on the 19th floor and offers dazzling cityscapes from the US BR5 bulletproof and sniper-resistant glass windows. With a living room, private study, two bedrooms, separate dining room and kitchen, as well as state-ofthe-art functionality, this perfectly suits travelling VIPs. Dining at Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta is refined and delectable. Whether it is an
intimate dinner à deux at one of Jakarta’s finest Italian dining venues, Alto Restaurant & Bar, a family gathering at the exciting Alto Sunday Brunch with its Campari Corner and Wine Trolley, a business dinner or a lunch with the ladies at the sophisticated, contemporary Palm Court, diners are sure to enjoy the outstanding cuisine. Nautilus Bar serves hand-crafted drinks, bespoke cocktails created by the talented mixologist, artisanal single malt whiskies and more. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will be keen to explore the lush creations at the ornate La Patisserie. The gorgeous cakes, pastries and gourmet chocolates make perfect gifts and are packed in cute boxes that make a stylish statement.
The meeting and event facilities at this prestigious address offer understated opulence and exceptional service, with a choice of indoor and outdoor venues for intimate social gatherings, product launches and board meetings, as well as a 720sqm ballroom with expansive windows overlooking a private garden terrace and a sunlit foyer, ideal for prestigious social and business events. Families are also welcomed, with younger guests receiving special attention and amenities, while parents can make the most of the sophisticated spa, visit the hotel’s outdoor urban oasis with its shimmering pool and casual pool terrace, or keep up with their training in the fitness centre, which is fully equipped for weight training and cardiovascular exercise, as well as offering personal trainers. The faultless service and attention to detail, combined with the stunning yet functional facilities, make the Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta an ideal choice for today’s discerning traveller. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL JAKARTA Jalan Jenderal Gatot Subroto, Kuningan Jakarta 12710, Indonesia T: (+62) 2122771888 E: contactus.jakarta@fourseasons.com fourseasons.com/jakarta
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DESTINATION
A Life WELL LIVED A prime location in the heart of the city, glorious gastronomy, luxurious rooms and suites, excellent meeting facilities and a high-level of attentive service make Gran Meliá Jakarta an ideal choice for both business and leisure.
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ran Meliá Jakarta embraces the concept of a life well lived with a plethora of services and facilities to gladden today’s travellers. From the moment guests step into the vast space of the eye-catching lobby, they are enveloped in the welcoming ambience inspired
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by the Spanish heritage, which drives passion for service and prioritises guest comfort. Set on the upper level of the towering entrance space are highly regarded dining venues, including critically acclaimed Yoshi Izakaya with its excellent modern
Japanese dining, and the magnificent Tien Chao serving delectable Cantonese and Szechuan flavours. Adjacent to the Lobby Lounge is the ever-popular Café Gran Via with its open kitchens and daily buffets offering an extensive range of enticing dishes, which are even more special for the Sunday Brunch.
With its central location and attentive service, Gran Meliá Jakarta is a preferred choice for astute business and leisure travellers looking for somewhere to stay in Indonesia’s bustling capital city. The luxury guest rooms and suites offer an elegant blend of Indonesian and Western aesthetics and are designed to be comfortable and suit the needs of today’s demanding travellers. Complimentary rapid Wi-Fi, a work area with desk and chair, fine bed linens and spacious marble bathrooms turn these rooms and suites into personal sanctuaries after a busy day. For greater personal attention and the benefits of an upscale stress-free environment, be sure to book a room with RedLevel access. This not only provides you with butler service but also means you can make the most of the inviting, elegant ambience of the exclusive lounge with its refined service, which is also home to facilities including private check-in and check-out, daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening cocktails and canapés, private meeting rooms and state-of-the-art business facilities. The warm welcome and attention to guests on the RedLevel means that by the time you check-out, you feel like you are leaving your friends. The hotel is also well set up for meetings and conferences, with spaces that range from boardrooms to those accommodating up to 290 people. All are served by modern technology, with in-house catering available and views across the hotel garden. Of course, while travelling you still need to maintain your wellbeing and YHI Spa is home to some excellent spa facilities, where the talented therapists deliver tailored treatments to nourish, restore and rejuvenate guests in a tranquil atmosphere. While you are visiting, enjoy the steam bath and Jacuzzi. If you are looking to keep your fitness levels up, then visit the fitness centre, or head to the outdoor pool and swim laps. The pool is situated in a tropical garden setting and is a wonderful place to relax, cool off and enjoy being outside. GRAN MELIÁ JAKARTA Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said Jakarta 12950, Indonesia T: (+62) 215268080 E: info@granmeliajakarta.com granmelia.com
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DESTINATION
A New Level of Luxury
Placing guest satisfaction as its utmost priority, Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort has reopened with a fresher look and unrivalled luxury.
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tanding proudly as the only all-suite resort along the golden stretch of Seminyak Beach, Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort always strives to bring unparalleled service and hospitality to its guests. For this reason alone, the resort has undergone a month-long hiatus to renovate and enhance its guests’ staying experience. With a layout centred on the property’s beachfront location, the ocean is never out of sight. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the scent of the frangipani waiting in the lobby, with the gentle ocean breeze helping to create a warm and relaxing ambience.
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Offering 59 luxurious and spacious suites, the new refurbished resort has added new suite categories to cater to everyone's needs. The Seminyak Suite, Seminyak Pool Access Suite and Seminyak Ocean Suite are all bathed in natural daylight that streams in from the floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows. Inside each suite, guests are treated to exquisite local detailing that includes Indonesian hardwood floors, oversized bed with silky-smooth bed linen, and a pillow menu, along with in-room amenities from a rainmaker shower to Smart TV, Harman Kardon sound system, complimentary WiFi and espresso machine.
As part of Anantara’s commitment to offer exceptional experiences, all guests are now getting access to the services of a dedicated experience guru. The main point of contact throughout the stay, the appointed butler will take care of airport transfers, spa appointments and restaurant reservations, as well as serving decadent in-suite breakfast and high tea. Outside the comfort of your suite, enjoy leisure activities at the enhanced spa, fitness centre and swimming pools. With a refreshing view over the Indian Ocean, guests now get to lounge on beanbags by the beach, followed by a dip in the infinity
swimming pool, or a luxurious pampering session at Anantara Spa. The dining experience has also been refreshed and the newly refurbished restaurants at the resort now offer more space and choices to satisfy guests’ hunger. At Sunset on Seminyak, the dining concept now combines the renowned warmth and modernity with the signature architectural and design details. Overlooking one of Bali’s most iconic beaches, the poolside restaurant terrace has been enlarged to offer an even more refined leisure experience. Above the resort, the intimate space of MoonLite Kitchen and Bar now features an extensive selection of signature and classic beverages. On the menu, diners are treated to a fine selection of contemporary Asian cuisine served under the twinkling stars and the moon. To make the night more enjoyable, nightly live music performances are setting the tone for sunset cocktails and elegant dinners. ANANTARA SEMINYAK BALI RESORT Jalan Abimanyu, Seminyak Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361737773 E: seminyak@anantara.com bali.anantara.com
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WELLNESS
FLOAT TO
FITNESS The idea of floating therapy may feel unfamiliar or strange for those who have never tried it, but one try is all it takes to discover an interesting and intriguing form of meditative activity.
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olace Float has opened the doors of its wellness centre with its four (and counting) floating tanks to anyone in Bali who is up to feeling weightless – both in body and mind. To give you an idea, a float tank is a light and sound-proof pod that serves as a sanctuary for you and you alone. The tank is filled with 12 inches of warm water with an Epsom Salt solution that allows your body to float effortlessly. The water is kept at about 34.5 degrees Celsius to mimic human skin temperature, thus creating a sensation in which you feel like one with the water. Between the Epsom Salt effect and the temperature, the point of floating is the zero-gravity, sensory deprivation experience. Each floating session at Solace Float is 90 minutes long, ensuring the amazing effects kick in and stick with you – since many of the benefits don’t really take hold until 45 minutes in. Preparing yourself for float therapy is easy. It’s better if you have a light meal 60 to 90 minutes before your session, so you won’t get hungry or get disturbed by the sound of your own stomach in the tank. Nothing too heavy though, you don’t want to feel bloated and uncomfortable while floating. You might want to avoid coffee or other forms of stimulant before the session,
they might prevent you from completely relaxing. Another thing to avoid is shaving or waxing at least 24 hours before the float, because the salt water can irritate your shaved skin. Don’t apply oils like moisturiser, hair gel or make up before floating.
video in Solace’s darling pre-float lounge, so you won’t feel confused.
Even if you’re claustrophobic, you don’t need to worry, as the tank is large and wide, and you can always open the door of the tank. There are lights and air vents in the tank to ensure your comfort. The effect of floating In a nutshell, Solace Float prepares is so relaxing that you might find yourself everything you need, so all you have to do falling asleep. If that happens, don’t fret, as is come at least 15 minutes before your there’s not enough water to drown and the session and bask in the experience. You buoyancy of the water won’t let you sink. can bring your own hair brush and contact There will be music played 10 minutes lens case (if you wear them, because you before the session ends so you know your will need to take them off), but Solace time is coming to an end, and also to wake has prepared a shower, towels, shampoo, you up should you have fallen asleep. conditioner and refreshments. You will also be shown a briefing and information The ritual of floating might sound simple, but it carries many benefits with it. By depriving yourself of light and sound, your sympathetic nervous system, which keeps you alert, takes a break, and the parasympathetic nervous system that helps you relax takes over. Floating helps you to relax and calm, in addition to decreasing stress and anxieties. The near-weightless sensation during floating also helps relieve joint pressure, and this can be beneficial to help your body recover from athletic activities or chronic pain, like arthritis. Last but not least, floating improves blood circulation and helps reset your circadian rhythm. But don’t just take our word for it, you have to try it yourself! SOLACE FLOAT Jalan Subak Sari 10 No. 11, Canggu Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 81977765223 E: hello@solacefloat.com solacefloat.com
ASIADREAMS 87
WELLNESS
How to Get a Healthier House
CLEAN Cleaning your house is all about removing contaminants from everywhere that they don’t belong. Start your spring cleaning now and leave the hoarding lifestyle behind. For both cleanliness and efficiency minimalise the things you own – from the clothes you wear and books you read, to the food you buy and the knickknacks you keep around. Dust every corner of your house, especially those you tend to forget about, like the top of your books on the shelf. Sweep and mop your floor, and regularly change your sheets. DISINFECT It’s really important to regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces in your house, such as table surfaces, doorknobs, kitchen and bathroom counters, faucet knobs, toilet seats and handles, and light switches. Remember to clean the surfaces first, then disinfect using your choice of disinfectant. We like sprays or wipes for ease of use.
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DIY DISINFECTANT If you are having difficulties finding disinfectant products, you can make your own by mixing four teaspoons of household bleach with four cups of water, then pour the mix into a spray bottle and shake vigorously. Your DIY disinfectant is now ready to use. Spray on the targeted surfaces and let sit for 10 minutes before wiping with a wet cloth. LIGHT AND AIR Make it a habit to open your doors, windows and curtains or shutters in the morning. This way, your house will get enough sunlight to benefit both you (hello vitamin D) and your house (goodbye mouldy corners). By opening the windows, you also ensure good air circulation around the house. TAKE OUT THE TRASH Don’t postpone taking out the trash, even when there isn’t that much. Trash, especially food waste, rots quickly
and can contaminate the air in your house, while it can also lead to bacterial contamination. Trust us on this, don’t wait till later, take out the trash now.
WELLNESS
Mastering Mindful
T
MEDITATION
o find a zen state, you don’t have to isolate yourself in a secluded forest or uncharted mountain top. You can easily turn your home into the perfect meditation haven with a few simple steps.
colours, or designs that can easily distract you from your meditation. Replace unnecessary knickknacks with only the necessities, and try to have neutral, earthy tones to create the mood. Repaint the room if you’re up for it.
PICK A SPOT Choose a corner of your home that has minimum distractions, nowhere near the living area, kitchen and dining room. Don’t pick a spot where you usually do your work or watch TV. Opt for an area where there’s enough natural light during the daytime and good air circulation; these factors help ease your mind. Bonus points if you can get a room with a view.
PHONE FREE We know your phone is basically your life, allowing you to connect to the outside world, to anyone, anywhere and anytime, but your meditation time is not one of those times. Make sure your corner is free from TVs, laptops and mobile phones. The idea of meditation is to temporarily disconnect from the outside world and get in touch with yourself.
COLOUR ME CALM Now that you’ve found your spot, use this as an excuse to do a little redecorating. Remove furniture or decorations with bold
DARLING DETAILS Now you’re ready to have some quality time with yourself, it’s time to add some touches that provide sensory
stimulation. Use aromatherapy so that you can focus and relax. Aromatherapy candles are great options. Last but not least, play some meditative tunes to really soothe you.
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EXPLORING ASIA
TRANSCENDENT
Taiwan
Taiwan is the kind of country that is both intriguing and elusive, one that you might not put at the top of your travel bucket list at first, but once you bask in what the country has to offer, it really is an unforgettable experience.
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A
mong the beautiful things about Taiwan are the warm and friendly locals, abundant travel wonders to discover, and that the best destinations aren’t just found in its capital city of Taipei, but in many places and cities around the country. TAIPEI 101 The iconic landmark that comes first to most people’s minds upon the topic of Taiwan is Taipei 101. The skyscraper stands tall with – officially – 101 storeys, just like the name, and is a reminiscent of bamboo growing tall, symbolising progress and prosperity in Chinese culture. While Taipei 101 is home to leading dining and shopping destinations, be sure you make time to take the tour and unveil the architectural mechanism of the building. On the 101st floor of Taipei 101, visitors can find a 360-degree Observatory Deck where they can marvel at the views of Taiwan’s capital city from high up above, behind glass windows. When visiting Taipei 101 we suggest you literally take it up another level by taking up the Walk in the Clouds offer. This programme has limited slots, so you might want to make arrangements in advance so you can go up to level 102 and observe the city from the outdoor deck. Forget glass windows, forget an air-conditioned indoors, here you can actually feel the windy outdoors and take a memorable picture that will give you the right to brag later on. RAINBOW VILLAGE From the capital, head south to Taichung city to find Rainbow Village. The story of the village is as enchanting as the name itself. It started when a small housing complex reserved for war veterans faced demolition to be turned into a commercial development. The residents started to leave one by one until there were only 11 houses left, when one of the residents, former soldier Huang Yung-Fu, who has an artistic flair, started to paint and draw on the abandoned houses. His painting style is colourful and child-like, creating vibrant sights to behold.
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One day, a group of university students came across the village and were so mesmerised by what they saw that they decided they needed to hear the story. With the pure intention to help Huang keep his home, the students campaigned to save the village, which went viral. The effort resulted in the authorities deciding to preserve the village and make it a destination so that more people could see and enjoy it. If you’re lucky, you will get to meet Huang on your visit to Rainbow Village. SUN MOON LAKE In the middle of Taiwan, in the Nantou district to be exact, is the country’s largest body of water, Sun Moon Lake. Located at 748m above sea level, the area surrounding Sun Moon Lake has a pretty cool climate all year round. The air is fresh, the natural surroundings are lush and picturesque – a great getaway destination for a break from the busy city life. Veiled in verdant vegetation, the neighbourhood around Sun Moon Lake has that small-town vibe. That being said, the area is home to many
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HALAL TOURISM One thing that is outstanding about Taiwan is how welcoming the country is. No matter what kind of background or preference you have, Taiwan has everything for everyone. In conjunction with that notion, not too long ago, the country started to promote halal tourism to cater to Muslim travellers. It’s really impressive to see how many of the public places in Taiwan, including Taipei 101, provide a dedicated prayer room.
interesting destinations and lavish accommodations. Xuanguang Temple offers both wonderful architectural details and magnificent elevated views of the lake. Meanwhile, boasting a polar opposite kind of design, Xiangshan Visitor Center also offers exceptional architecture and views. If you have one day to spare, visit the nearby Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village by cable car. Combining an
indigenous cultural hub with a fun and exciting theme park, the village can be an entertaining destination for everyone in the family. One activity that you should not skip while at Sun Moon Lake is riding a bike around the lake – or halfway around if the full route is too challenging for you. This way you get to really bask in the picturepostcard scenery, while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
Finding certified halal restaurants is very easy in Taiwan. Whitedeerkiln in Nantou district serves a halal and vegetarian pizza selection that is really delicious, while the charming and quaint Hui Guan Restaurant in Taipei offers a wide array of delectable Asian comfort foods. More and more hotels also provide halal-only menus to choose from, such as Suz & Catorze hotel in Taipei, Fullon Hotel Lihpao Land in Taichung, and Fleur de Chine Sun Moon Lake Hotel in Nantou. Speaking of halal food, you can’t visit Taiwan without tasting the signature beef noodle soup made from stewed or braised beef, topped with succulent beef chunks and different toppings depending on where you get it. Jiang Guzi Beef Noodle restaurant in Taoyuan City is one of the most popular restaurants for this dish. eng.taiwan.net.tw
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ESCAPING ASIA
Every day is
CHRISTMAS DAY With the prestigious title of the Official Hometown of Santa Claus®, you must have heard about Rovaniemi by now, and if you haven’t, read on.
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E
nsconced on the Arctic Circle, in the heart of the Barents region, Finnish Lapland to be exact, Rovaniemi is an intriguing destination offering picturesque natural scenery, an enriching and entertaining Nordic culture and an array of urban activities.
SANTA’S HOME The main reason why tourists from all over the world flock to Rovaniemi, however, is the all-year Christmas. The story started in 1927, when Uncle Markus, a good friend of Santa Claus, unintentionally unveiled Santa’s home in Korvatunturi. Curious people tried to
find it, but to no avail. Being the saint that he is, Santa Claus did not want to disappoint his friends, so half a century later he welcomed them to Rovaniemi for the first time. Rovaniemi has been dubbed the Official Hometown of Santa Claus® since then.
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Kids and those young at heart around the world rejoice knowing they can meet Santa every day of the year at the Santa Claus Village, only 8km north of the heart of Rovaniemi. Other than being Santa’s official hometown, Rovaniemi has also established itself as a hub for all friends of Christmas. Visitors can even order a letter from Santa and send their own holiday greetings from Santa Claus’ Main Post Office, complete with a special postmark. YEAR-LONG DELIGHTS Santa Claus isn’t the only year-long wonder that Rovaniemi has to offer. Thanks to its rich and vibrant cultural heritage, as well as its eight seasons, the region offers year-round tourism activities and programmes.
In addition to spring, summer, autumn and winter, Rovaniemi also gives the transition phases and their distinguished characters their own recognition: spring-winter, summer-spring, autumnsummer and winter-autumn. Due to Rovaniemi’s geographical position, visitors can experience the midnight sun
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phenomenon sometime between 6 June and 7 July. The first snowfall even comes early here, in October.
picking and mushrooming are some of the favoured pastimes, as is roaming the many nature trails of the region.
The region’s varied natural scenery and weather means visitors can partake in an extensive selection of sports and outdoor activities. In a warmer season, berry-
When it comes to sport, the town has no less than 380 sport facilities, including skating rinks, swimming pools and snowmobile routes. Rovaniemi’s green
oasis, Ounasvaara, turns white in winter, providing a getaway for skiers and snowboarders. WINTER WONDERS While Rovaniemi opens its doors for yearlong enjoyment, it’s undeniable that winter in this region is simply exceptional. Whoever said that winter is time to hibernate obviously has never been to Rovaniemi.
For starters, dog lovers can have a blast with Rovaniemi’s own breed of husky – sledding with them is an unforgettable pastime. You can also visit the husky farm and play with the piercing-eyed furballs all year long. If you want to put yourself in Santa’s shoes, opt for the reindeer sleigh ride across the snow and through Lapland’s wondrous
nature. The reindeer farms are also open for visits in summer, and you can choose from several cool activities, including aurora borealis hunting with the reindeers, feeding the reindeers, and more. Of course, the one thing you should not miss while in Rovaniemi is the northern light tours. Sure, you’ve seen the majestic northern lights in pictures and videos, but it’s nothing compared to witnessing the phenomenon first-hand. To make sure you capture the experience, take up one of the northern light photography tours that the region has on offer. The town also offers unique accommodations that let you view the northern lights from the comfort of your room or balcony. ROVANIEMI TOURIST INFORMATION Lordi’s Square Maakuntakatu 29-31 Rovaniemi 96200, Finland T: (+358) 16346270 E: info@visitrovaniemi.fi visitrovaniemi.fi
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©MASON ADVENTURES BALI
“When all the dust is settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family, and friends. ” BARBARA BUSH
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EXQUISITE MEDIA is a media group focusing on the Affluent, Luxury & High-End Market. Established in 2010, we have NINE successful ONLINE & PRINT publications, Websites and Applications, as follows: ASIA DREAMS, a Quarterly High-End Lifestyle, Travel & Property magazine covering luxury lifestyle and travel. Asia Dreams is written for an affluent, international audience with a strong focus in the Asia-Pacific region (www.asiadreams.com) BEAUTIFUL BALI, an annual program for Bank Central Asia (BCA) that provides exclusive privileges for BCA’s Affluent Credit Cardholders across more than 280 selected merchants in Bali (www.beautiful-bali.com) EXQUISITE TASTE, a Quarterly High-End Gourmet, Food & Wine magazine featuring the Best Restaurants and profiles of the Best Chefs in the region, and the leading F&B publication in the Asia-Pacific region (www.exquisite-taste-magazine.com) EXQUISITE REAL ESTATE, an Online and Printed REAL ESTATE booklet with properties to buy, sell and rent (www.exquisite-realestate.com) CELEBRATE INDONESIA, with exclusive privileges for AMERICAN EXPRESS cardholders for Dining, Shopping, Spa & Wellness Centres, as well as Activities and the After-Hours scene in Indonesia’s growing cities of Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta and Surabaya (www.celebrateindonesia.com) DREAM & DINE, an annual handy guidebook presenting the best Hotel, Resort and Dining options in Jakarta, Bali and Surabaya with exclusive privileges for BANK DANAMON customers across more than 180 selected merchants (www.dreamndine.com) JELAJAH INDONESIA by BANK BRI, an annual unrivalled privilege program for Bank BRI Cardholders featuring over 320 High-End Hotels, Restaurants and Spas from seven of Indonesia’s big cities: Jakarta, Bandung, Bali, Surabaya, Semarang, Medan and Makassar (www.jelajah-indonesia.co.id) TERRASSE Magazine by BANK BRI, a quarterly High-End Banking, Lifestyle & Travel Magazine for Bank BRI (Bank Rakyat Indonesia) Priority customers across Indonesia FIRST YOU Magazine by BANK MEGA, a quarterly print and online High-End Banking, Lifestyle & Travel Magazine for BANK MEGA priority customers across Indonesia EXQUISITE MEDIA AWARDS honour the best of the best, from hotels and spas, to restaurants, bars and after dinner nightlife spots in Jakarta and Bali. The awards are bestowed at exclusive prestigious events in the two cities, attended by VIPs and the movers and shakers of the industry.