Asia Dreams / May - June 2016

TJIPJANTO SOERJANTO MARKUS KALISS ARUN KUMAR

G E TAWAY S

FROM BIG CITY GETAWAYS TO ISLAND RETREATS, CONSIDER YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY PLANS ALL WRAPPED UP

A FASHIONISTAS GUIDE TO SHOPPING IN ASIA IDR 50,000 SGD 9 RM 25 USD 6 HKD 60 AUD 7 ISSN 2089-872X

INSPIRATION

Luxury Holiday

ASIADREAMS

1

A taste of tropical luxury on the magical island of Bali

2

ASIADREAMS

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

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

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

1

2

ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS

3

OPEN DAILY 3PM - 10.30PM RESERVATIONS : reservations@doublesixrooftop.com | +62 (0)361 734 300 DISCOVER MORE: @DOUBLESIXROOFTOP | #DOUBLESIXROOFTOP

DOUBLE-SIX LUXURY HOTEL, NO 66 DOUBLE SIX BEACH, SEMINYAK, BALI | WWW.DOUBLESIXROOFTOP.COM

You just know it’s going to be special

Your hidden paradise awaits Immerse yourself in the luxury 5-star resort services of the world-class Peppers Seminyak.

Contemporary and spacious villas include a private pool flowing into a tropical garden and tranquil rock pool. Restore balance in your life with indulgent treatments at The Spa at Peppers Seminyak, one of the top 10 Wellness Resorts in Asia rated by CNN Travel. Reflect on the day’s highlights and tantalise your tastebuds at The Laneway Restaurant and Bar, the latest little luxury at Peppers Seminyak.

An indulgent escape to Peppers Seminyak will be one you will cherish forever.

Experience Peppers. Call +62 361 730 333 or email info@peppersseminyak.com PeppersSeminyak

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Holidaying in

Style

T

he summer season is just around the corner and so it's that fabulous time of year to start planning a luxurious holiday getaway! So for this edition of Asia Dreams, we've travelled around the region to bring you our pick of the finest Luxury Getaways in Asia. From the big city lights of Jakarta, Singapore and Hong Kong to the paradisal shores of Bali, Thailand and the Maldives, we've hand-selected the very best destinations to indulge in this summer. And if you can't choose between the bunch, we also set sail on the Ovation of the Seas state-of-the-art cruise ship to voyage throughout the AsiaPacific region in utmost style.

Needless to say, with any luxury getaway must come a fabulous new wardrobe, so for our secondary cover theme we've also put together a complete Fashionistas Guide to Shopping in Asia. We've rounded-up the hottest spots to shop in Jakarta, Bali, Singapore and Hong Kong, and we take a look at the world's most iconic brands alongside the signature styles found in each city. Asia is the new catwalk of the world so we also meet some of the local designers taking on the fashion world's biggest names to see what it takes to become the next Gucci.

With holiday shopping on the brain, our regular Luxury, Style and Fashion features take a peek at this season's hottest trends, including statement timepieces from Bvlgari and Longines, and summer scents from Montblanc and PoudrĂŠe. Ted Baker has just launched its Spring/Summer collection, so we also showcase the sunshine-inspired signature pieces that you'll certainly want to pack in your suitcase.

No summer fashion feature would be complete without a trip to Europe, so we are delighted to introduce you to the inaugural edition of our newest feature, Escaping Asia.

Here we swap the summer sun of Asia for a slightly cooler climate in a fly-by trip to Paris and Rome. We soak up Paris' shopping culture at Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, followed by an all-encompassing tour around the magical Colosseum city. All this together with our regular Inspiration interviews, Gourmet reviews and latest goings-on in our News, Calendar and Society pieces.

No doubt this edition will keep you well and truly satiated over the coming months, and we hope we've helped to finalise your summer getaway itinerary, complete with a dazzling new look.

Happy holidays!

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

I12 ASIADREAMS

BOROBUDUR | BROMO | CANGGU | CILANDAK | DHARMAWANGSA | KOMODO MENJANGAN - WEST BALI NATIONAL PARK | MENTENG | PRIVATE CRUISES SUMBA | TUGU - PUNCAK | UBUD | WIJAYA

MAY - JUNE 2016 PUBLISHER Lenny Marlina Tanu MANAGING EDITORS Refa Koetin Louise N. EDITORIAL TEAM / CONTRIBUTORS Jake Fredericks Amanda Luxford Christian Galbraith Michael J. Divya Kishore K. Pridhani

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS Dely Waty Cameron S. SALES & MARKETING MANAGERS Putri Desianti Heidy Zainuddin GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sahid Darma Kusuma Aulia Karya Nugraha CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER Evy Mariana Tanu

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

5793 9423 Hotline : (+62) 851 0515 6622

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

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

Advertising ENQUIRIES sales@exquisite-media.co.id EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@exquisite-media.co.id DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES circulation@exquisite-media.co.id Front Cover Courtesy of www.shutterstock.com

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@exquisite-media.co.id

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

ASIA DREAMS Magazine is published under license for EXQUISITE MEDIA. Opinions and information expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. EXQUISITE MEDIA takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the statements from our advertisers in any section of the magazine. The publishers and the printers accept no responsibility for the contents herein. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior permission

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

II14 ASIADREAMS

of the publishers. EXQUISITE MEDIA reserves the right to modify or develop additional or revised statements to our disclaimer at any time as deemed necessary to better serve our demographic.

The 1st Supper Club Series: Pullman x Cuca Bali Awe-inspiring evening of Chef Kevin’s Swig & Nibble at the chic rooftop setting Early Bird until April 30, IDR 550,000++ | 11-13 May from 6.30 pm | UNA on 15th fl | RSVP (021) 3192 1111

OUR WORLD IS YOUR PLAYGRO UND AN

BRAND

PULLMANJAKARTAINDONESIA.COM

CONTENTS

34

18 |

MAY - JUNE 2016

FAST LANE An Iconic Line Refined

NEWS

30 |

CALENDAR

Keeping you up to date with the latest goings-on in the region.

Check out the star-studded opening of Padma Resort Ubud in Bali, the indulgent Penfolds-paired wine dinner at Noosa Restaurant and the Java Jazz Festival at the illustrious Hotel Borobudur.

A roundup of the hottest upcoming events in Asia, including a sumptuous cheese and wine dinner at Alaya Resort Ubud, the annual and highly anticipated Ubud Food Festival 2016 and our pick of indulgent guest packages at five-star resorts in Jakarta, Singapore and Koh Samui.

42 |

49 |

FASHION

Ted Baker brings six-star glamour with the launch of its Spring/ Summer 2016 collection. Designed with the holiday season in mind, these signatures pieces are already hitting Asia's island retreats and tropical cities

A Fashionistas Guide to Shopping in Asia

Read on to find out about the hottest spots to shop in Jakarta, Bali, Singapore and Hong Kong. From the world's most iconic brands to the signature styles found in each city, Asia is the new catwalk of the world.

58

16 ASIADREAMS III

Shopping IN Singapore

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

Bali Office Jakarta Office

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

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

CONTENTS

68

ISLAND GETAWAYS The St. Regis Bali Resort

66 |

Luxury Getaways

MAY - JUNE 2016

101 112 |

CITY GETAWAYS THE MULIA JAKARTA

INSPIRATION

It's time to plan that summer getaway. We visit the finest locations in Asia from the big city lights of Jakarta, Singapore and Macao, to the paradisal shores of Bali, Thailand and the Maldives, before setting sail on the Ovation of the Seas.

We meet some of Bali and Jakarta's most successful hospitality players. We talk about the desire for success with The Westin Jakarta's GM Arun Kumar, lifelong careers with Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Jakarta's GM Markus Kaliss, and we discuss The Indonesian Dream with Padma Hotels' Director of Operations Tjipjanto Soerjanto.

127 |

134 |

GOURMET

We dine at one of our favourite restaurants in Bali, Mejekawi, to taste the degustation delights of this ultra-fine dining destination, before jetting off to Jakarta to dine on the bespoke cuisine of Anigre.

108

We swap the summer sun of Asia for the cooler climates of Europe in a fly-by trip to Paris and Rome. We soak up Paris' shopping culture at Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg, followed by an all-encompassing tour around the magical Colosseum city.

LUXURY EXPERIENCE Turkish Airlines

112 18 ASIADREAMS IV

ESCAPING ASIA

INSPIRATION Living The Indonesian Dream

NEWS

Mr. & Mrs. Satria Darmawan

Refresh your senses The Padma Resort Ubud threw open its doors for its formal Grand Opening on Saturday, February 27th. A select group of guests and VIPs were invited to stay at the newly opened resort to enjoy a sumptuous Gala Dinner and Wellbeing Programme.

Situated north of Ubud, the resort has a stunning location with, as noted by General Manager Reza Sunardi, sweeping “multimillion-dollar views” of tropical forest.

Padma Resort Ubud makes the most of this gorgeous setting and it is a prime feature of all the facilities. From the divine Puhu Restaurant & Lounge on the top floor, to the Wine Lounge and through every guestroom,

20 ASIADREAMS

the verdant rainforest view is king.

The eye-catching centrepiece – the 89m long, heated infinity pool – must be the jewel and offers a myriad of spots for that perfect photograph of you lounging in the water with a cocktail in your hand against a backdrop of lush, tropical greenery.

Executive Chef Ketut Sumerta and his kitchen team pulled out all the stops for the guests with an incredible international feast of house-made treats for a lunchtime buffet, a wonderful fine dining menu for the Gala Dinner and an extensive breakfast the following day. They wrapped the weekend up with a super fresh range of pan-Asian and Mediterranean fare at The Pool Cafe & Bar.

Guest wellbeing was assured with massages in the quirky spa, sunrise and sunset yoga and the use of the 3.4 km jogging track that meanders through the resort grounds towards the river valley. A range of other activities were available by request.

The generously appointed, stylish rooms, with high-quality amenities, a choice of pillows and comfy beds, ensured that all the guests were well rested.

The Padma Resort Ubud’s Grand Opening was a huge success and the resort is sure to rapidly become one of the must-visit places in Bali. www.padmaresortubud.com

Spa and afternoon ‘tea-tox’ package Indulge in a little personal time with Spa at Maya’s afternoon tea package. the package begins with a relaxing neck and shoulder massage followed by a detoxifying body scrub. ‘tea-tox’ high tea is served during a purifying flower bath. the menu is inspired by our conscious cuisine practices for guilt free indulging. from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm daily

Menu crudité with chickpea, tahini and turmeric puree chilled tomato and ginger soup in cucumber cup Smoked salmon, herbed ricotta, capers on gluten free grilled cornbread chamomile pudding, honey tossed strawberries Beetroot and cranberry jelly, mango pineapple salsa Vegan chocolate mousse Iced or hot rosella and lemongrass tea published rate : Rp 1.289.000 net Special price this month : Rp 945.000 net

for reservation and further information, please contact spa at maya - 0361 977888 spa@mayaubud.com mayaresorts.com

NEWS

The 12th Java Jazz Festival 2016 at Hotel Borobudur Jakarta To commemorate the 12th Java Jazz Festival, the official hotel partner of Java Festival Production, Hotel Borobudur Jakarta, hosted a spectacular Gala Night one night before the festival on Thursday, March 3rd for the seventh year in a row.

Guests were treated to a scrumptious buffet dinner and endless wine in the Toraja-themed Flores Ballroom, accompanied by a special performance presenting the serenading sounds of famous international and local Java Jazz Festival artists such as Ron King Band, Brian Simpson, Berget Lewis and Eric Benet.

This elite annual event was held as a token of appreciation to the loyal companies and individuals who have supported Hotel Borobudur Jakarta and Java Festival Production, such as embassy personalities, media partners, sponsors and other parties, as well as all the musicians who were to perform at the festival, including David Foster, Robin Thicke, Sting, Chris Botti and many more. www.hotelborobudur.com

An Inspired Pairing Renowned Chef Hiroyuki Meno of Noosa Restaurant teamed with Penfolds wine, using his tremendous skill and highly attuned palate to showcase momentous flavours.

Raviolis Lobster and Porcini, Creamy Bisque Sauce Kenny Erawan Tjahyadi, Heryanto Tjahyadi & Hiroyuki Meno

Though born in Japan, Chef Hiroyuki Meno is widely recognised as a master of French cuisine. Now right at home at Noosa Restaurant, he constantly draws inspiration from the restaurant’s tropical ambiance and fresh Jimbaran seafood to create a truly unique resort style dining experience. His culinary passion and flair were on full display as the flavours of Noosa met the acclaimed wines of Penfolds’ sunny

22 ASIADREAMS

Australian vineyards. The dishes, enhanced by the spectacular wines, including some rare vintages, directed a symphony of tastes and textures. This six–course experience included an unforgettable dish that melded the seemingly unlike delicacies of scallop and foie gras, uniting them on one plate accompanied by a magnificently creamy sauce of morel mushroom. The meal closed with a sumptuous dessert: gateau

raw chocolate “Valrhona”, accompanied by flower petals preserved in a glass-like sugar and topped with an arrangement of edible gold leaves. The bitterness of the raw chocolate in this incredibly presented dish was balanced by the presentation of Penfolds’ Grandfather Raw Tawny and was a delightfully indulgent conclusion to a glorious culinary experience. www.noosabali.com

NEWS

Bringing the golden age ofNew York Jazz to St. Regis Bali Throughout the first golden age of jazz, the Rooftop Ballroom at the iconic St. Regis New York saw some of the finest jazz musicians give performances that have since been etched into jazz folklore. Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Buddy Rich, to name but three, were regulars at one of New York’s most influential venues and today this rich musical legacy remains part of the St. Regis brand.

In tribute and recognition, the St. Regis Bali presents “Jazz Weekends”, an intimate set of jazz performances every Friday, Saturday and Sunday running from the second week of March onwards.

Celebrating contemporary jazz, as well as bringing a modern interpretation to the jazz standards played at the brand’s flagship hotel in New York in the 1930s and 1940s, the exclusive performances will be led by celebrated French jazz musician, Jimmy Rougerie, and supported by the soulful voice of the delightful Grace Nathalie.

The weekends offer a perfect blend of legendary dining, relaxed music and sublime service with Friday Jazz Dinner at Boneka, Saturday Jazz Legends at King Cole Bar or Sunday Jazz Brunch at Boneka. Check out the website for more details. www.stregisbali.com/en/jazz-weekend

New Weekend Chic Brunch at Cut Catch Cucina The Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Resort's signature poolside restaurant Cut Catch Cucina once again sets the standard with its new Weekend Chic Brunch extravaganza.

Named in last year’s awards as one of the best brunches in the world by Conde Nast Traveller, it would have been easy for Executive Chef Daine Gilbert and his exceptional kitchen team to sit back and bask in the accolades for a year or two.

But they haven’t and, in line with the Sofitel’s concept of trend-setting and eager to once again be seen as the weekend brunch standard, the team has just launched its revamped and restyled Weekend Chic

24 ASIADREAMS

Brunch buffet extravaganza at Cut Catch Cucina (CCC), the resort’s luxurious awardwinning poolside venue.

The Weekend Chic Brunch is an exploration of international cuisine and takes diners on an expedition from Bordeaux to Bali calling in at just about every other gastronomic stop on the way. Fabulous cold cuts, the freshest oysters, grilled meats and fish, salads and cheeses and sushi grapple for your attention.

The French influence remains a core element with a host of classic French dishes to tempt; and add to that roast lamb, honey roast ham, beef or salmon Wellington and Bali’s famous suckling pig and much more. For the kids there’s pizza and a chip station and a stunning dessert and sweet selection. On first impression, one feels the CCC weekend brunch has again set the standard.

The restaurant itself, just a short walk from the gorgeous hotel lobby, is comfortable and airy and ideally suited to relaxed family dining. The food stations are designed to help create separate but expansive dining spaces that can easily accommodate large groups, couples or family groups as required.

The plush contemporary design and seating extends outside, where guests can dine alongside the pool.

The Weekend Chic Brunch is available at CCC on Saturday and Sunday from 11AM to 3PM and is priced from only IDR499,000++ per person, which includes a range of soft drinks.

Kids under 12 years of age eat free. There is also a choice of two alcohol packages and the price includes pool access - so don’t forget your swimming gear! www.sofitel-bali-nusadua.com

NEWS

High Tea

Food Festivities Join Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta for the exciting and interactive new dining programmes that are sure to be fun for the whole family.

Get personal with your food at Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta with some fun and interactive programmes. Pizza lovers will rejoice as they and their children can create their own Italian masterpieces with Papa! I Made a Pizza. Engage with the kitchen's pizza chef and toss your own dough, place your toppings and watch your pizza cook to perfection in a woodfired oven.

Woodfired Pizza

Another soon-to-be-favourite is the Grill & Chill hosted by Executive Chef Paul Maurici. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6 to 11PM choose between two delicious meats, or sustainable seafood, including fresh crab, tiger prawn, squid, snapper, green sea clam and mahi-mahi fish cooked exactly to your specifications. Then choose from a variety of sauces as your selections are personally pan-sautĂŠed, wood-fire grilled, or delicately fried before your eyes.

Those who enjoy a taste of the finer things will certainly enjoy the About Me & Tea programme that serves a unique afternoon tea each Monday and Wednesday at the lobby level venue: Wrapped. Bring your closest friends after a day of shopping and socialize over some sweet treats, including carrot cake, oreo-baked cheese cake, baked brownies and a range of delicious savoury choices. www.fourpointsbalikuta.com 26 ASIADREAMS

Grill & Chill

Plantation wins them all!

ASIADREAMS 27

SOCIETY

Social Spirits and a World of Wines

Darma, Lukas, Yap siawling, Michaels, Iwan & Lenny Marlina Tanu

Wilyana Saujana, Alexi Daste & Lenny Marlina Tanu

Valisoa, Yodi Mootoosamy & Harald Wiesmann

Mandif Warokka, Ayu Citra & Argha Sueb

The evening began in the ballroom where wines from alluring destinations from around the globe were presented. Guests were then invited to circle the room and, in doing so, take a trip around the world tasting the subtle differences between regions. Wines from France, Italy, Australia and even South America graced the palates of the privileged guests and facilitated a

night of friendly mingling. Outside near the beach, bartenders displayed their skill by blending spirits to create delicious and creative cocktails for all to enjoy.

other organisations. Over 30 different brands of wine, beer and spirits were showcased in this very special evening hosted in the Grand Gamelan Ballroom of the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort. www.pt-dsp.com www.paniaga.com www.sofitel-bali-nusadua.com

28 ASIADREAMS

This event was presented by PT. Pantja Artha Niaga (PAN) and PT. Dwimitra Sukses Perkasa (DSP) and celebrated years of loyal support from invited media friends, customers and

Ethan Liu

Adam, Manda Sicilian Hartono & Wahyu P. Waskito

Kishore Kumar & Andrei Stepanov

Samantha, Greg Harrison, Frederic Boulay & Bojan Petrovic

Freddie Kho, Cindy Della, Sashi Rajan & Christopher Northam

Rossi, Jaime & Amy

Arnold, Olivier Salvetti & Damian Salvetti

Steve Kiang & Kabir Suharan

Craig Firman & Nail Firman

Manuel Llamas Velasco, Ngurah & Edi

ASIADREAMS 29

HSBC ADVERTORIAL

HSBC Wealth & Beyond Personal Economy Forum 2016 At this year’s Personal Economy Forum, HSBC laid out some of the best investment options and shared valuable financial savvy with their prestigious Premier and Advance Customers in one of this year’s biggest financial banking events.

Blake Hellam, Li Cunxin, Sumit Dutta & Steven Suryana

30 ASIADREAMS

HSBC once again holds the HSBC Wealth & Beyond, Personal Economy Forum, one of the biggest annual educative events in the Indonesian banking industry to conduct in-depth discussion on the topic of Wealth Management. The grand theme for this year’s forum is Passions Never Retire. This theme is in line with the commitment of HSBC’s running campaign titled #StartSekarang. The campaign aims to consistently encourage people to immediately start setting up a long term financial plan, imperative for future welfare.

“HSBC Wealth & Beyond, Personal Economy Forum 2016 reflects our best commitment to educate Indonesian people on the importance of a strategic plan in managing and building a sustainable welfare. For more than 130 years of its service in Indonesia, HSBC truly understands that the biggest challenge for people in Indonesia in preparing for their future is delayed planning, which roots from the habit of procrastinating.

We hope that through the HSBC Wealth & Beyond, Personal Economy Forum 2016, we can push for a transformation of culture and improved understanding Wealth Management, including knowledge on the kinds of banking, insurance and investment products that best suit each person’s needs and aspirations,” said Blake Hellam, Head of Retail Bank & Wealth Management, HSBC Indonesia.

As 1,500 Premier and Advance Customers joined thousands of other finance enthusiasts, HSBC presented financial education of unrivalled quality, with speakers from numerous partnering authorities, which include Asuransi Allianz Life Indonesia, Ashmore Aset Manajemen Indonesia, AXA General Insurance Indonesia, Batavia Prosperindo Aset Manajemen, BNP Paribas Investment Partners, Eastspring Investments Indonesia, First State Investments Indonesia, Mandiri Manajemen Investasi, Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia, Schroder Investment Management.

Michael T Tjoajadi, Legowo Kusumonegoro, Muhammad Hanif, Hario Soeprobo, Riki Frindos, Blake Hellam, Vivian Secakusuma, Lilis Setiadi, Paul-Henri Rastoul, Arief Wana & Karin Zulkarnaen

Edhi Tjahja Negara, Margie Margaret, Teddy Oetomo, Ali Setiawan, Trent Muffett, Arief Wana & Steven Suryana

In addition, more than 300 senior financial students from selected universities were invited to gain benefit from the wisdom of HSBC’s 2016 campaign, which was also the title of this year’s Wealth & Beyond, Personal Economy Forum 2016: Passions Never Retire.

The forum raised interesting and relevant topics of discussion, such as “Wealth Management in Indonesia: Opportunities and Challenges”, “Wealth Management: Start Now and Never Delay for a Brighter Future”, as well as “The Best Way to Seize Investment Opportunities in 2016”.

Ali Setiawan, Arief Wana, Margie Margaret, Teddy Oetomo & Trent Muffett

To close off this very financially enlightening day, HSBC invited Li Cunxin, former world number one dancer who became one of the most prominent stockbrokers in Australia, to inspire the enthusiastic audience with his amazing life story.

As the evening came to a close, every privileged guest went home with treasured knowledge thanks to HSBC’s financial experts and a kindled spirit to realise their passions that will never retire.

5 Winners of Grand Prizes Wealth and Beyond Personal Economy Forum 2016 with Blake Hellam, Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management HSBC Indonesia.

ASIADREAMS 31

CALENDAR

Couture Cheese & Wine Lovers of excellent French cheeses are excitedly booking their places for a rare pairing event, “Du Pain, Du Vin, Du Fromage”, at Petani restaurant in Alaya Resort Ubud on May 27th and 28th.

The cheeses for this rare happening are being hand carried by French cheese master Bernard Antony, who handcrafts and supplies cheeses worldwide, including to 19 three-Michelin star restaurants. Opening the event on behalf of Alaya Resort Ubud is famed Indonesian culinary expert William Wongso.

“To have Bernard here at Petani imparting this age-old tradition is something to truly appreciate,” said Wongso. “His cheeses are made with exacting balance and finesse, handmade from raw and unpasteurised milk, each variety embodies a distinctive flavour, being complex and refined.”

Limited seats are available for an evening of pairing cheese with French wine and bread, reservations are recommended.

E: petani.ubud@alayahotels.com. www.alayahotels.com

Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta is offering a Holiday on Us package! Just as the name suggests, stay at Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta for 10 nights within a two-month period to earn a luxury holiday getaway at the world's best beach resort, Mulia Resort, Nusa Dua in Bali. Enjoy this exclusive promotion until the end of November 2016. www.themulia.com

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore Make time for rejuvenation at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore with the Time to Spa package, featuring luxurious accommodations with sensory spa treatments, which include ocean view accommodations, international breakfast delights at Melt-The World Café, revitalising one-hour-and-50-minute body treatments and remedy eye treatments. This package is valid until the end of the year with room rates starting at SGD940++ per night for double occupancy. www.mandarinoriental.com

JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta In welcoming the holy month of Ramadhan, the culinary brigade at JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta will take guests on a unique dining experience at its award-winning restaurants. Known for its famous buffet spread, Sailendra Restaurant will offer its diners four different Arabian cuisines every week throughout Ramadhan. Alternatively, guests may delight in the offerings at Pearl Chinese Restaurant. During the holy month, the restaurant will be transformed to cater to guests who would like to enjoy a spread of authentic Indonesian dishes as their iftar feast. Topping off the festivities, exclusive Ramadhan gift certificate booklets are available to entertain your friends, family and colleagues. www.marriott.com 32 ASIADREAMS

Samujana, Koh Samui Koh Samui’s exclusive private villa estate, Samujana, introduces unique new wellness retreats that partner expert Yoga programmes with the skilled art of Thai Boxing. The retreat will run from 7th to 14th May with room rates of USD2,575 per person for a couple’s room and USD1,480 per person for a single room inclusive of seven nights' accommodations, two yoga and one muay Thai session, island tours, a half-day yacht charter, a two-hour spa session, a Thai cooking class and more. An additional special promotion for this retreat is that for every three guests who book, a fourth guest is allowed free of charge. www.samujana.com

Ubud Food Festival 2016: 27th - 29th May

Following the success of the inaugural Ubud Food Festival in 2015, the highly anticipated gastronomic event returns this year with a lineup bigger and better than before. This year’s three-day event will

focus on the diversity of the Indonesian archipelago and its bounty of culinary riches with a programme built around a “go local” concept. This means there'll not only be local produce and fabulous regional cuisine to try, but also the best of local talent and cooking challenges for international chefs to work with Indonesia's unique harvests.

What's On? To keep gastronomes, visitors and budding chefs on their toes, the festival will incorporate a number of different special events and culinary occasions each day.

There will be foodie forums and debates, live cooking demos, hands-on workshops, master classes, book launches, food tours and one-off ticketed events held at some of Ubud’s finest restaurants. At the heart of the festival there will also be a market and

a foodie hub where all attendees can roam, graze and indulge.

Celebrity Chef Spotting Last year's event garnered the attention of celebrity chefs around Asia and this year is set to be no different. Confirmed guest chefs include Eelke Plasmeijer and Ray Adriansyah from Ubud's award-winning Locavore restaurant, Singapore's Julien Royer from JAAN and Odette, Jakarta's own Masterchef contestant Petty Elliott and Cuca's ElBullitrained chef Kevin Cherkas. Attracting the best of the best in the culinary world, expect to also see Streetfood Chef Will Meyrick, Teatro and BLANCO chef Mandif Warokka, Room4Dessert's Will Goldfarb and many more.... www.ubudfoodfestival.com

ASIADREAMS 33

MUSIC

B EATS

VIBES

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

Fifth Harmony “7/27” 7/27 is the upcoming second studio album by American girl group Fifth Harmony, which is scheduled to be released on May 20 th, by Syco Music and Epic Records. After announcing their album artwork for 7/27, Fifth Harmony released their new single "Work from Home", which was performed for the first time at the annual post-Oscars show.

Make sure you don’t miss these upcoming events!

INDONESIA EVENTS

Yuna “Chapters” Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna’s new album, Chapters, will be released on May 20 th . This will be her third fulllength international studio release, following 2012’s Yuna and 2013’s Nocturnal. Ahead of the album’s launch, Yuna has also shared a brand-new single called “Places to Go”.

21st May 2016 - M83 at Lapangan D Senayan, Jakarta

27th May 2016 – Shivering Ground by DJ Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike spins live at Ocean Ecopark – Ancol, Jakarta

I nte r nationa l E vents 1st May 2016 - Les Miserables at the Esplanade Theatre, Singapore

© www.electronicbeats.net

Pusha T “King Push”

34 ASIADREAMS

Last year, G.O.O.D. Music announced that Pusha T would be taking over as president. This also came with the revelation that his previously announced album, King Push, would be delayed until 2016. The muchawaited album will now be released on June 30 th via Def Jam Records. This album is supposed to be Pusha’s first release since his long-in-the making solo debut My Name Is My Name and it promises to be one of the biggest rap albums of the year.

27th May 2016 - Switchfoot live at the Bonifacio High Street Ampitheater, Manila

27th May 2016 – Jason Derulo live at the Mall of Asia Arena, Malaysia

2nd June 2016 – Damien Rice at Central Ladprao, Bangkok

25th June 2016 – Band of Brothers at Arena of Stars, Genting Higlands, Malaysia

MOVIES

M OV I E TI M E Captain America: Civil War | Independence Day: Resurgence | Warcraft: The Beginning | Central Intelligence

Let the Civil War Begin | Release date: May 6th 2016 Following the success of 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger and 2014's Captain America: The Winter Soldier is the upcoming much awaited sequel Captain America: Civil War, in which a feud between Captain America, played by Chris Evans (The Avengers, Fantastic Four) and Iron Man, played by Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock Holmes, The Judge) leaves the Avengers in chaos.

After another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure builds to install a system of accountability

by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new regulation fractures the Avengers, resulting in two factions: one led by Steve Rogers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, while the other follows Tony Stark’s unexpected decision to support the government. The movie features an ensemble cast that also includes Scarlett Johansson (Don Jon, Lucy), Jeremy Renner (The Bourne Supremacy), Emily Van Camp (Revenge), Paul Rudd (Ant-Man) and more.

Back in Action for Independence | Release date: June 24th 2016 Independence Day: Resurgence is an epic, science fiction disaster film, the sequel to the 1996 box office hit Independence Day, starring Jeff Goldblum (Jurassic Park), Bill Pullman (Sleepless in Seattle, Casper), Judd Hirsch (Taxi), Vivica A. Fox (Kill Bill) and Brent Spiner (Star Trek, Aviator), who will be reprising their original roles alongside newcomers Liam Hemsworth (The Hunger Games), Jessie Usher (When the Game Stands Tall), Maika Monroe (The 5th Wave) and more.

This epic chapter delivers a global spectacle on an unimaginable scale. In this movie, the nations of Earth have collaborated on an immense defence program to protect the planet, using recovered alien technology, but nothing can prepare them for the aliens’ advanced and unparalleled force. Can the ingenuity of a few brave men and women again bring our world back from the brink of extinction? See for yourself in theatres this summer.

The World of Warcraft | Release date: June 10th 2016 Based on the Warcraft video game series and novels set in the world of Azeroth, Warcraft: The Beginning portrays the origin story of the initial encounters and conflict between the humans and orcs, when fearsome orc warriors invade the peaceful realm of Azeroth as they flee their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing

sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their families, their peoples and their homes. The film stars Travis Fimmel (Vikings), Paula Patton (Mission Impossible), Ben Foster (The Finest Hour), Dominic Cooper (Need for Speed), Toby Kebbell (Fantastic Four) and many more. The movie shows a spectacular saga of power and sacrifice in which war has many faces and everyone fights for something.

Questioning Intelligence | Release date: June 17th 2016 Central Intelligence, an upcoming action comedy, follows a one-time bullied geek who grew up to be a lethal CIA agent, portrayed

by Dwayne Johnson (San Andreas, Hercules), coming home for his high-school reunion.

Claiming to be on a top-secret case, he enlists the help of the former big man on campus portrayed by Kevin Hart (Think Like A Man, The Wedding Ringer), who is now an accountant

missing his glory days. But before the staid numbers-cruncher realizes what he’s getting into, it’s too late to get out. He gets dragged by his increasingly unpredictable new friend through a world of shoot-outs, doublecrosses and espionage that could get them both killed in many ways.

ASIADREAMS 35

FASTLANE

An Iconic Line Refined

With its sporty dynamics and outstanding efficiency, the BMW 3 Series sets the benchmark in driving pleasure.

Since it was first launched in 1975, more than 14 million BMW 3 Series vehicles have been delivered worldwide, accounting for around 25 percent of total BMW vehicle sales. As such, the BMW 3 Series exemplifies the heart of the BMW brand more than any other model.

such as ambient lighting infused with an enhanced atmosphere. The high quality interior is replete with BMW Individual extended leather trim Merino upholstery, BMW Individual interior trim in Piano Finish Black and BMW Individual headliner Anthracite.

ver since the BMW 3 Series created the modern sporting sedan segment 40 years ago, it has set the pace among its rivals as far as dynamics, efficiency and emotionally rich design are concerned.

The latest-generation BMW 3 Series represents another flawless embodiment of this commitment to automotive excellence.

The 340i is a new model designation for 2016, one that brings mid-cycle updates to the F30 3 Series that debuted in 2012. As its name suggests, it has a 4.0-litre V6 engine under its hood for the first time ever.

Customers opting for the M Sport setup have the opportunity to enjoy other distinguishing features such as the M aerodynamics package, the M leather steering wheel, M adaptive suspension and front sports seats and the Driving Experience Control switch with additional sport+ mode. This setup, as well as the base and the M Adaptive, offers a

E

36 ASIADREAMS

The cockpit’s driver focus is a signature BMW feature and provides optimum access to all the important individual functions,

total of 16 exterior colours to choose from, including new additions such as Mediterranean Blue metallic, Platinum Silver metallic and Jatoba metallic. The Estoril Blue metallic shade is still reserved exclusively for cars equipped with the M Sport package.

BMW was quick to recognise the significance of connecting an automobile with its environment through intelligent networking technologies and is thus able to offer unique mobility services and driver assistance systems. These innovations are available from the Connected Drive product range, which comes standard in the new BMW 3 Series.

With these cutting-edge innovations, the 340i is setting unparalleled standards in terms of safety, convenience and infotainment. Among the highlights are the full-colour 8.8� LCD display, 20 GB of storage for a music collection and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound system. The high-quality sound is created by 16 loudspeakers with 600W output. Navigation system Professional includes maps in 3D and Innovative interface technology that also permits easy integration of smartphones into the vehicles. BMW Apps support the use of the dynamically growing selection of apps available, such as the BMW Connected app that allows the use of ECO PRO Analyser,

Wiki Local and web radio as well as thirdparty apps such as AUPEO! A full-colour, high-resolution Head-Up Display is available in the new BMW 340i M Sport Individual. All relevant information, such as speed, navigation instructions and multimedia information, appears here in an optimum position in the driver’s field of view.

The BMW 340i is a remarkably subtle but capable driving machine that offers one of the best high-performance experiences for driving enthusiasts looking to enjoy a refined driving experience. www.bmw.co.id

ASIADREAMS 37

STYLE

Ultra-Chic Bags & Shoes

Ladies, complete your look with our selection of this season’s stylish, high-end shoes and bags from luxurious world-renowned brands.

• Ted Baker Savenni Step up your game with a glossy patent leather pumped shoe, shaped with an enchanting curvy top line and lifted by a sleek high stiletto heel.

Defined by metallic touches, a glinting brass rand pops beneath the alluring curves, while a signature Ted Baker London bow completes this feminine and sexy shoe. A cut above ordinary, these shoes are available in three colours: black, pink and dark blue. These Savenni shoes are a must-have for women looking to take on the world with some sartorial game. www.tedbaker.com

38 ASIADREAMS

• Ted Baker Tabatha Crosshatch Leather Tote Crafted with a lavish and elegant crosshatch leather finish, the Tabatha tote bag from Ted Baker is the perfect accessory to your overall look. The spacious design is finished with gilt metallic detailing and features a sleek winged silhouette, while the interior is lined with a beautiful monochrome floral print and includes a zipped pocket to secure your valuables. This fashionable and practical bag can be used for an over-the-shoulder or across-the-body look with a slim adjustable strap or be carried by hand. It is available in four different colours: black, mint, peach and purple. www.tedbaker.com

• Ted Baker Lizel Forget Me Not Leather Body Bag

• Hermès Sandal in Calf-skin Presented in the Spring/Summer 2016 collection are the chic and comfortable high-heel sandals from the legendary label, Hermès. Known for its expertise in crafting leather, this unique wide strap sandal is made of refined full grain calf-skin leather with straight cutout edges forming a large Chaîne d’ancre – an iconic symbol of Hermès – on top of the foot. This high-heel sandal is the perfect combination of graceful style and luxurious comfort. www.hermes.com

• Chanel Classic Multi-Coloured Tweed Flap Bag If you are looking for a distinguished piece to add to your closet, you should surely consider getting one of this season's outstanding Chanel classic flap bags in multi-coloured tweed and silicone braid. These bags are handmade by skilful Chanel craftsmen who ensure that every stitch is fashioned with absolute care. The internal and iconic CC logo is then stitched by a sewing machine with the interwoven chains put together by hand. Perfect your look with this classic and timeless bag. www.chanel.com

Introducing a new classic and stylish must-have staple accessory for women: Ted Baker’s Lizel leather body bag. Adorned with the label’s classic floral design known as Forget Me Not and crafted in leather with a textured finish, this bag is fashioned with two spacious compartments, a detachable shoulder strap, a securely zipped interior card slot for your valuables and is finished with gold-tone hardware. The versatile and luxe design gives you the option of putting the bag across the body or transforming it into two clutch bags by detaching the strap. www.tedbaker.com

• Ted Baker Cadeen Flats Finding the perfect pair of flat shoes that fits snugly has become an arduous task for all women. Realizing this distress, Ted Baker crafted a seamless, stylish and, most importantly, comfortable pair of Cadeen flat shoes that has met all expectations. These sophisticated leather flats feature OrthoLite padding for extra comfort, rubber soles for added durability, sleek croc embossing and a gilded metallic heel for added drama. Finished with Ted Baker branding, these flats are a dream come true. www.tedbaker.com

ASIADREAMS 39

INNOVATION

Let's Get

Smart

The smart watch is the mother of all smartphone accessories. Not only can it tell the time but it also beams important notifications and runs applications straight from your wrist. Choosing a smart watch that's right for you is never easy, but we hope to make the process as simple as possible by rounding up our top three choices for the currently best smart watches.

M

any of today's best models can perform a heap of innovative tricks, like searching the Internet with your voice, tracking your exercise, checking out at the grocery store without grabbing your wallet and much more. In addition to being technologically impressive, most of them look stunning and stylish too. Whether you're after a functional, sporty or simply trendy type of product, we may have the choice for you.

APPLE WATCH

SAMSUNG GEAR S2 The Samsung Gear S2 is one of the best smartwatches on the market, with two stylish designs: the standard Gear S2 and the upscale Gear S2 Classic, featuring a rotating bezel and Tizen OS. With the Gear S2, you can switch between apps, refer back to notifications, change volume and brightness, all with the same smooth motion. The 1.2-inch Super AMOLED screen is also a stand-out feature with its retro look, as well as its incredibly sharp, vibrant and fully circular elements. It also features 360-by-360 pixels, which means you can choose to set the font size to your preference and see more messages or notifications on one screen as you scroll through them. The Gear S2 is also adaptable to your lifestyle. If you want to be more active, it can vibrate to remind you that you've been sitting down for a while and also provide the time you've been inactive or active. Other health-related features include step counting, a heart rate monitor, an auto tracker that can estimate daily calories burned and much more. The Gear S2 is definitely worth considering as one of the most intuitive and interactive smart watches released. www.samsung.com

The Apple Watch comes in two sizes and is one of the best looking smart watches made to date, especially when paired with a quality Apple watch strap. The build quality is outstanding and the sizes of both the 38mm and 42mm watches are much smaller than you'd imagine, thus making them look chic. The Apple Watch uses a wireless umbilical connection to display any notification from your phone: anything from texts to WhatsApp messages, tweets, Instagram likes, Facebook comments, Gmail alerts, reminders and more. At the same time it filters out the less relevant ones. You can also make calls from the watch and reply to messages using your voice. The watch allows you to make instant actions, especially when in a situation where grabbing your phone isn't easy. In addition, the line-up of apps is pretty strong, although some big apps are still slowly filtering through: for example, Google Maps. Other key features include tracking steps, standing time, sports tracker and daily activity, which help to remind you to stay fit. The Apple Watch 2 is set to arrive soon with new enhancements, tools and apps, making it faster and more usable than any other smart watch. www.apple.com

MOTO 360 The new Moto 360 is certainly one of the best-looking and comfortable smart watches released so far, featuring two sizes: 42mm and 46mm, or three if you consider the different band sizes available. Using Moto Maker, you can choose between hundreds of different combinations of straps, bezels, finishes and colours, thus customizing the smart watch to fit your exact style. Due to continuous updates, navigating the OS has been made easier, especially with apps, contacts and actions. In addition, the Wi-Fi compatibility has made it easy to wander around away from your smartphone while connecting to networks on the go. Also, the Moto 360 allows you to pair watches, which helps speed up the process of sharing messages, emojis, activities and more with others. This watch is still focused on beginner fitness enthusiasts with its built-in Moto Body and simple sport features such as daily and weekly heart minutes, steps and analysis after 14 days of tracking. However, fitness goers are able to choose the Moto 360 Sport edition, which was announced alongside the Moto 360, for a smart watch that fits their purpose. www.motorola.com 40 ASIADREAMS

LUXURY

Timeless Splendour Longines’ Twenty-Four Hours Single Push-Piece Chronograph

As a tribute to its precious heritage, the latest addition to the Heritage collection is the masterful Longines TwentyFour Hours Single Push-Piece Chronograph. This single pushpiece chronograph houses a caliber, exclusively made for Longines, and is a re-issue of an earlier pilot's watch, which displays the time on a 24-hour scale. It also features a small seconds dial at 18 o'clock plus a date aperture at 12 o'clock, at the bottom of the dial. This magnificent watch is fitted on a black or brown alligator strap to match the colour of the dial, which is available in black or silver. For more information on the Longines TwentyFour Hours Single Push-Piece Chronograph. www.longines.com

Bvlgari's Octo Ultranero

With the Octo Ultranero by Bvlgari, a classic watch gets a contemporary twist. The iconic Octo watch with its unique, strongly structured case, has now been reinvented in an opulent black exterior, which further accentuates its power, its singularity and elegance.

Boasting two magnificent versions to choose from - an all-black watch in D.L.C.-coated steel fitted with a black rubber strap and subtly lit up only by pink gold hands and hourmarkers, or a combination of a black D.L.C.-coated case with a pink gold crown, also steel fitted with a black rubber strap – this watch is powered by calibres from the Bvlgari watch manufacturer established in Switzerland. Dare to flaunt power and sophistication with the remarkable Octo Ultranero. www.bvlgari.com

Watch out for these outstanding, luxurious and must-have watches!

Rado’s Centrix Open Heart

The renowned Rado expands its collection of open-heart timepieces, gladdening the hearts of watch enthusiasts with its latest creation, the Centrix Open Heart - a collection of decorative diamond-studded ladies’ models following the footsteps of the open-heart gents’ Centrix pieces that debuted late last year. This automatic watch has up to 80 hours of power reserved and two of the watches feature polished high-tech ceramic middle links in white, black or brown and a third model has a classic brown leather strap, perfect for a chic or casual look. The dial is enclosed in a gold-coloured case and studded with 12 Top Wesselton diamonds, but the star quality of the watch is its pulsating open heart. An upside-down crescentshaped dial and stylized keyhole at noon on the watchface leaves the bottom half of the timepiece’s mechanics completely exposed, revealing the intricate, mysterious and automatic movement below. www.rado.com

Bvlgari's Serpenti Incantati

Charm your wrist with an elegant and flamboyant serpent from the new and spectacular Serpenti Incantati collection

by Bvlgari. The theme of the Serpenti Incantati collection, which means “enchanting snake” in Italian, has entirely been renewed through a modern, spellbinding design and a radiant Haute Joaillerie interpretation by Bvlgari. For the very first time, the fascinating creature coils around the allnew dial and is accompanied by new versions of the Tubogas bracelet. Two styles of the Tubogas bracelet are offered: a radiant gleam of polished steel and a combination of shimmering chrome and gold reflections. This timeless beauty is available in four choices: rubellite or diamond, each expressed through two different interpretations. www.bvlgari.com

ASIADREAMS 41

BEAUTY

BRedefined eauty Exclusively available in Glow Living Beauty at Beachwalk Bali, the YSL Beauty collection offers a new range of innovative products for make-up lovers, which delivers the promise of luxurious beauty and ultimate feminine strength.

2

TOP SECRETS INSTANT MOISTURE GLOW Every woman knows that it is crucial to start the day with the perfect base for a long-lasting, seamless and healthy complexion. Now, YSL has come up with an advanced solution for skin care called Top Secrets Instant Moisture Glow. This ultra-lightweight moisturiser instantly hydrates the skin for up to 72 hours by penetrating 10 layers deep and carries the blurring effect of an invisible foundation when applied all over the face before make-up.

The Instant Moisture Glow is sure to leave all types of skin soft as satin and looking radiant throughout the day.

TOUCHE ÉCLAT BLUR PERFECTOR Here comes the long-awaited weapon for a seamless radiant glow with the Touche Éclat Blur Perfector. For the first time at YSL, this compact transforms balm to a powder upon application to blur imperfections like an invisible foundation, while creating a light rosy-glow effect. The compact can be used in three ways: alone as an over-all complexion, to set make-up, or to diminish oiliness and imperfections with a matte finish touch-up. Instantly minimizing pores, smoothing skin and evening-out complexion, this musthave compact is available in one shade and is ideal for all skin tones or types. www.yslbeautyus.com

42 ASIADREAMS

The legacy of Rouge Pur Couture lipsticks was born in 1978 when Yves Saint Laurent wanted to dress women’s lips in couture colours as a timeless act of beauty, seduction and empowerment. The new generation of Rouge Pur Couture consists of an iconic colour palette including red, fuchsia, nude and orange. With just one stroke, the lips are elegantly draped in luxurious, rich, captivating colour with intense hydration and antioxidant care.

1 3

ROUGE PUR COUTURE

TOUCHE ÉCLAT BLUR PRIMER

4

Introducing Touche Éclat Blur Primer, the first foundation primer that combines the light of Touche Éclat and the perfecting effect of blur, for long-lasting make-up and radiance.

Formulated with four nourishing oils, the skin is left incredibly soft without greasy residue. With this primer, the pores and fine lines are blurred, thus making the skin look more even, luminous and smooth. The Touche Éclat Blur Primer transparent texture is available in one universal shade with subtle sparkles of golden light, which is suitable for all skin tones and types.

SCENTS

Summertime Scents

This summer, beat the heat, take a little break and gift your significant other one of these hypnotic choices of perfumes.

LEGEND SPIRIT

by Montblanc In 2011, a new chapter began to unfold with the birth of the Montblanc Legend fragrance for men, which became a worldwide classic among masculine fragrances. Now, the legend continues with a new, more casual yet quintessentially elegant version of the Montblanc Legend, Legend Spirit. The two master perfumers Nathalie Lorson and Olivier

Cresp composed a fresh, virile and intense fragrance, which is a concoction of pink peppercorn, bitter grapefruit and bergamot for the top notes, lavender, cardamom and an invigorating aquatic accord for its powerful aroma and the unique signature scent of Montblanc with white woods (sandalwood, cedar and cashmere) and oak moss, softened with white musks.

NARCISO

by Poudrée For Her

NARCISO eau de parfum Poudrée radiates beauty and grace with its intoxicating, soft and powdery musk scents as the heart of the fragrance. A beautiful blend of a velvety smooth floral combination from

For Him

white jasmine petals and Bulgarian rose with signature woody notes of vetiver and black and white cedars, the fragrance emits warmth and a powerful magnetism. When skin and scent become one, this fragrance is sure to leave a deep impression. NARCISO eau de parfum Poudrée is available in 30ML, 50ML and 90ML sizes.

For Him

NARCISO

by Bleu Noir Redefining masculine sensuality is Narciso Rodriguez’s new fragrance for men, For Him Bleu Noir. This enigmatic and seductive scent is enhanced with spicy top notes of cardamom and nutmeg, enriched with seductive woody notes of blue Atlas cedar

and black ebony wood, while preserving musk as the designers’ signature heart of the fragrance. The name Bleu Noir was inspired by the designer’s passion for the profound nuances of the sky at night. This enigmatic and seductive new fragrance captures the epitome of modern men with a unique spirit.

For Her SIGNORINA MISTERIOSA

by Salvatore Ferragamo Signorina Misteriosa embodies a chic girl’s mysterious side and is a daring fragrance recently released by Salvatore Ferragamo.

Perfumers Nicolas Beaulieu, Sophie Labbè and Juliette Karagueuzog created a seductive and irresistible fragrance that is meant to subtly uncover the secrets of

a young woman, while still preserving mystery as her essence. The unexpected and spirited scent is created by a combination of wild blackberry and neroli as the top, the silky nuance of orange blossom, tuberose and sweet black vanilla mousse and an elegant final touch of patchouli. The fresh and elegant aromatic fragrance is guaranteed to linger.

ASIADREAMS 43

S

FASHION

ix— tar tyle

Ted Baker’s Spring/Summer 2016 womenswear and menswear collections have been designed with the holiday season in mind.

Astonishing prints, from artsy to modern with geo detailing and sporty monochrome, have been made to match the warm weather of both tropical cities and six-star island retreats.

For the ladies, The Secret Trellis, Hanging Garden and Layered Bouquet prints use superb interweaving florals on a base of delicate tones, whilst a colour palette of fresh mint, bold orange and red meet neutrals of navy and monochrome. Showpieces include breathtaking printed lace twinsets and a delightful candyfloss-pink statement dress that comes artistically laid out with gold floral embroidery.

For gentlemen of good appearance, Ted Baker's charming shirt prints use florals, botanicals and the finest geos, as well as a Hawaiian holiday shirt that's just the ticket for a tropical disposition. Perfect for sun, sand and sailing across a harbour, lightweight and round-neck layering pieces can be worn with a deconstructed blazer or a butter-soft grey suede bomber. www.tedbaker.com

44 ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS 45

46 ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS 47

48 ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS 49

50 ASIADREAMS

A Fas hionis tas

G uide To

Shop p ing

IN ASIA

Once upon a time, London, Paris and New York were the meccas of the fashion world, but today, Asia's capital cities are helping to lead the way with some daring and downright spectacular collections from the region's most vivacious fashion designers.

So for fashionistas in Asia, we've put together our ultimate shopping guide for the region's fashion capitals: Bali, Jakarta, Singapore and Hong Kong. We reveal the hottest spots to shop, what signature styles you can find at each destination and we also meet some of Asia's up-and-coming designers who are making the world their catwalk.

Read on, and get your shopping bags at the ready.

ASIADREAMS 51

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : J A K A R TA

©www.jetsetters.com

Shopping in Jakarta When planning a trip to Jakarta, consider spending a day at one of the many modern shopping malls the city has to offer.

Why shop here?

J

akarta is home to more than 170 malls offering a wide variety of products from clothing, shoes, accessories, electronics, cosmetics, housewares and more – with a range of low to exorbitant price tags attached. You name it! In Jakarta, whether you are a serious spender or a halfhearted shopper, be sure to immerse yourself in the incredibly vast choice of products, from local crafts to high designer brands. Locals, expatriates and tourists have been known to be overwhelmed by the mind-boggling shopping scene in Jakarta, carrying home numerous shopping bags from various

52 ASIADREAMS

speciality stores – sometimes without even breaking the bank.

Where to shop?

Most of Jakarta’s mega malls are spread around the city, but Central and South Jakarta are home to some of the most extravagant malls and feature a vast selection of affordable, midto high-end international brands, including Valentino, Roberto Cavalli, Bvlgari, Zara, Forever 21, H&M and much more. Moreover, the malls have expansive department stores such as Seibu, Central, Alun-Alun and Galeries Lafayette, the last of which is the only one of four outlets around the world found in Asia.

Located in the heart of Central Jakarta, also known as Thamrin, across the central business district’s midpoint is from Grand Indonesia, the largest mall in Indonesia and one of the largest in Asia. The mall consists of the East and West malls, and spreads over eight levels, making it the best spot for an entire day spent on a major shopping spree. Situated next to Grand Indonesia is one of Jakarta’s oldest, most popular and leading high-end shopping malls, Plaza Indonesia, which is geared towards the crème de la crème of society. The entire first floor itself houses a variety of international luxury brands, such as Versace, Hermes, Christian Louboutin, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton and more. Other malls spread across the city that are worth a visit include

Pacific Place, Plaza Senayan, Pondok Indah Mall, Senayan City and Mall of Indonesia. These malls also offer mid- to upper-class products, including some pocket-friendly options such as Charles & Keith, Bershka, Mango and Pedro, while prominent national brands such as Butik Iwan Tirta, Batik Keris and House of Obin can also be found.

Signature Style

©Pacific Place Jakarta

The streets of Jakarta are crawling with numerous fashion enthusiasts integrating different senses of style and the latest fashion trends, from casual chic to effortless glamour.

The everyday look includes vibrant colours, trendy professional wear, or smart casuals, jazzed up with the use of either a chic tote bag, sexy high-heel shoes or a few glitzy accessories. The nighttime brings out a fancier flair with both men and women incorporating more designer wear and accessories into their overall look, such as Hermes belts, Christian Louboutin shoes or Yves Saint Laurent clutches. Jakarta’s lifestyle encourages a breezy appearance with a dash of chic flair for the general public, while the high fashion enthusiasts express a classier style with a sense of comfort.

High-End Jewellery

©www.stylebyasia.com

Jakarta is home to more than 250 million people and has great standing in the jewellery industry in the region, showcasing a wide selection and the latest trends in precious gems, semi-precious gems, rough stones, gold and silver. In addition, the rapid growth of the Indonesian economy, which has consistently been above 5 percent per annum for the past several years, and the city of Jakarta being the heart of that growth in terms of consumer purchasing power with an ever-growing middle class, attracts big international merchants such as such as Tiffany&Co, Bvlgari, Swarovski, Mondial Jewellery and more, as well as buyers from all around the globe, including from India, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. Jewellery has truly become a praiseworthy and common investment for locals, expatriates and tourists alike. In Jakarta, jewellers are constantly discovering creative ways to combine modern tastes with unique cultural styles.

ASIADREAMS 53

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : J A K A R TA

Meet the designers

TEX SAVERIO

T

ex Saverio is an Indonesian designer whose name shot stratospherically high after his dramatic and ornamental designs were worn by international celebrities such as the legendary Lady Gaga for her Lady Gaga Fame advertising campaign in Harper’s Bazaar 2011, Jennifer Lawrence for The Hunger Games movie publicity materials

and Kim Kardashian in ELLE Magazine, to name a few. Tex Saverio won a national Mercedes-Benz Asia Fashion Award, which qualified him to compete against other Southeast Asian designers the following year and present his winning collection designed for both men and women.

Although known for high-couture, Tex Saverio started featuring a range of modern

ready-to-wear pieces that can be mixed and matched while maintaining drama and intricacy with plenty of quirky detailing and embellishments. Due to his edgy, theatrical and ornate high-end creations, many fashion lovers have described him as the Alexander McQueen of Indonesia. www.texsaverio.com

E PEGGY HARTANTO 54 ASIADREAMS

xposed under the Hollywood spotlight, with her feminine designs showcased by Hollywood starlets and supermodels on the red carpet, designer Peggy Hartanto has come to the forefront of international fame. From model Gigi Hadid and TV star Kaley Cuoco to actress Portia de Rossi, the designs of Peggy Hartanto have dressed a wide array of Hollywood celebrities. Currently based in Surabaya, Peggy Hartanto studied fashion in Australia and has won a variety of awards, including the first prize in the Australian Wool Fashion Awards in 2010. The designer’s success can be accredited to her aesthetic, well-designed, sensual and ultra-feminine pieces, such as geometric cut-out cocktail dresses or streamlined jumpsuits for evening wear. Her relatable, classy and chic designs have won the hearts of many loyal female customers from around the globe.

www.peggyhartanto.com

TOTON JANUAR

W

ithin three years of establishing his label, Tonton Januar’s designs made him a household name on the local fashion scene. Graduating from Parsons New School of Design in New York, Tonton Januar merges visual cues from Indonesian culture with the codes of the modern wardrobe, such as white shirts and straight-legged pants with traditional elements, from striped batik lurik motifs to statement necklaces inspired by the Dayak tribes in Borneo. Currently, Toton showcases his collections at trade shows during Paris Fashion Week every season and has gained numerous international retailers among his clients. Under his own brand, the Jakarta-based artisan creates chic women’s wear collections that offer Indonesia’s traditional elements, including lurik woven fabrics and embroidery, within a modern construction. He also incorporates traditional gems into modern, sophisticated and wearable cuttings, which makes Toton’s collections favourable for anyone looking to European, American and Asian styles.

www.totonthelabel.com

S

elf-taught fashion designer Patrick Owen is already making big waves in the Asian fashion scene with his sophisticated designs, artistic influences, street elements and expert craftsmanship. Patrick Owen creates a readyto-wear label for women that offers bold prints, hand-stitched embellishments and

Patrick Owen embroidery in a definition of romanticism.

One of his signature styles that has reached the Asian borders is his stylish yet easy-towear unisex sweatshirt. Indonesian-born independent designer Patrick Owen debuted his namesake women's wear collection for SS 13, showcasing a keen understanding of current trends, quality fabrics and stunningly

engaging prints. His design reflects the sense of adventure and luxury every man and woman hopes to experience in their daily lives to make the world take notice. Without having any formal training in the industry, Patrick Owens’ designs and philosophy have impressively established a wide fan base in Singapore, South Korea, Australia and beyond.

ASIADREAMS 55

Šwww.cfemea.com

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : B A L I

Shopping in BALI Why shop here?

Where to shop?

n the past decade, Bali has become an epicentre for fashionistas in Asia looking for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces alongside high-end brands and international high-street names. Whilst you'll find plenty of designer labels at the grand shopping malls situated right on the oceanfront and in the heart of Bali's finest wining and dining districts, you'll also find entire neighbourhoods dedicated to luxe boutique brands from the island's growing number of local and international designers, producing intricate,

handcrafted luxury items that you'll struggle to find anywhere else in the world.

Though Bali's first major shopping mall opened only a few years ago, the island has seen a recent boom in high-end shopping hubs. In particular, Beachwalk shopping mall right on Kuta Beach is arguably the most popular mall with some of the hottest highstreet labels on the island, including Victoria's Secret, Topshop, Mango, and Versace, as well as a few of Indonesia's famous local brands including Everbest, Staccato and Bali's own Bamboo Blonde.

I

56 ASIADREAMS

Yet the most recent mall to hit the high-street and one that's garnering the attention of the island's cool kids is the tropical-inspired Seminyak Village. With the tagline, Shop, Eat, Play, here you'll find a flurry of funky boutiques, gourmet restaurants and iconic lifestyle destinations, including spas, salons and a unique marketplace selling boho-chic homeware and retro beach accessories.

For lovers of luxury brands, head to Mall Bali Galeria or to Nusa Dua's beachside Bali Collection for mega-name brands and

international resellers. At Galleria you'll find the DFS duty-free shopping centre full of big catwalk names such as Burberry, Prada, Marc Jacobs and Emporio Armani, whilst at Bali Collection it's local-meets-international with Ralph Lauren and Giordano besides Uluwatu Lace and Bali-based Natasha Gan. Away from the malls, the famous Oberoi shopping strip is a haven for unique boutiques alongside designer labels, punctuated by cool cafes, lunchtime hangouts and five-star restaurants. Keep a look out for Pura Vida for its chic resortwear fabrics, and Uma and Leopold for those swanky nights out on the Seminyak scene.

Signature styles With its warm climate and tropical vibes, Bali's fashion scene sees a never-ending summer wardrobe of loose, flowing linens, luxurious lace and island-inspired prints.

The styles typically seen strutted along the beachfront promenades mix luxury resort wear with boho-chic designs, while the

evening wear and sophisticated brunching attire is undoubtedly glamorous, bringing international fashion trends to the island's five-star destinations.

Creativity abounds amongst Bali's local designers and artisans, so expect to see impressive detailing that pays homage

to traditional Indonesian batik prints, like individually threaded beads and handdyed appliqué to ensure no two creations are the same, as well as intricately woven luxury fabrics, like the fine handcrafted lace at Uluwatu Lace, and delicate silks at Lulu Yasmine.

High-end homeware As a nation of artisans renowned for creating phenomenal furniture pieces with precious local materials, luxury homeware in Bali is big business and the products made here can be found in five-star villas and hotels around the world. The trailblazers leading the trend are Warisan and Lio Collection – Bali's purveyors of high quality antiques that mix contemporary designs with traditional techniques. Not only producing sturdy furniture made from teak and mahogany, the decorative pieces take interior design trends to new heights. Think tree trunk garden swings and ceiling-high standing masks.

©indonesiafurniturenews

For boutique homewares, try HOBO, a shabby-chic response to the luxury villa market, Vinoti Living , a sophisticated range of home and lifestyle products, and SOUQ – a husband and wife collaboration that brims with beautifully-curated homewares, artwork and décor items. Set on the tip of the Seminyak shopping strip, SOUQ is the perfect mix of island cool and industrial flair.

Think hand-painted palm trees on concrete and custom-made rattan hampers with geometric designs.

ASIADREAMS 57

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : B A L I

Meet the designers

BIASA

O Behind the Brand “BIASA offers a truly unique style, suited to bon viveurs, worldly travellers and those who choose to live ‘outside the box’. I conceived the brand as my idea of a tropical lifestyle, made of precious simplicity, natural materials and detailed craftsmanship, rather than commercial fashion.”

- Founder, Susanna Perini. www.biasagroup.com

ne of Bali's longest reigning fashion brands by Italian-born designer and art enthusiast Susanna Perini, BIASA has been gracing the wardrobes of the island's fashionistas since 1994 when this gorgeous resortwear label first came to life. Inspired by the Indonesian lifestyle with an Italian design ethos, BIASA has today grown to become an award-winning and internationally recognised label with an ever-growing following. BIASA’s signature style combines free-flowing creative cuts, artisanal details and natural materials to create sophisticated clothing perfect for tropical cities and shores. The beauty of BIASA lies in the details; handmade, hand-stitched, precisely cut with artistic attributes including hand-loomed fabrics, traditional weaving, appliqué and detailed embroidery.

The BIASA Fall collection is currently in store and features signature styles that are both timeless and avant-garde. The collection draws colour inspiration from the distant lands of Africa, using a warm and natural pottery-inspired palette of cinnamon, khaki, amber, ginger and cranberry. Keep your eyes peeled because the Summer 2016 collection is launching in June with even more effortless styles for both men and women.

Magali Pascal

S

ince its launch in 2004, Magali Pascal has been seen gracing some of the island's most sophisticated and glamorous wardrobes. Inspired by the Parisian "Bourgeois Bohème” effortless chic spirit, the Magali Pascal line provides a quick shortcut to glamour, day or night. The collections combine luxurious silks, laces and organic fabrics with refined embellishments, reflecting an urban vintage mind with a French flair to create a very feminine air.

58 ASIADREAMS

The current Highlands collection sees elegant pieces in red, black or white with dramatic low-cut backs and delicate straps, while the upcoming Picnic at Hanging Rock summer collection uses intricate lace detailing, long and flowing satin and subtle bohemian prints.

Magali Pascal's three signature boutiques can be found in Seminyak - on Oberoi, Petitenget and on the main Seminyak strip - whilst international shoppers can buy online and at the flagship Sydney store.

Behind the Brand “I came to Bali from Paris in 1999 and immediately fell in love with the relaxed island lifestyle, the incredible weather and the amazing people and culture. After a month here, I decided I would return to Bali to live and to late open Magali Pascal - a mixture of French, high-end design yet easy-to-wear pieces.”

- Designer, Magali Pascal www.magalipascal.com

Behind the Brand "When I first started Cantik, I tried to work out who our target demographic would be. I’ve since come to realise that this really can't be boxed into a certain age bracket. Recently we held our first pop-up boutique and it was inspiring seeing women even into their mid to late 60s stepping out in an 80's high-cut one-piece.

Women who are bold, yet feel beautiful and quite humble within themselves - that's the Cantik woman.�

- Designer, Catherine Heenan www.cantikswimwear.com

Cantik Swimwear

B

orn and bred in both Bondi and Bali, the high-cut one-pieces and palm prints of Cantik Swimwear are the product of young Australian designer Catherine Heenan. Bringing strong, daring and directional aesthetics to today's swimwear scene, the Cantik range is designed in Australia, made in Bali and uses luxe Italian fabrics that mix sophisticated custom prints designed to accentuate femininity, with bold Brazilian cuts.

Less than three years old, Cantik Swimwear has already gained a cult following in more than 50 countries worldwide. The brand rose to fame following its debut collection in 2013,

when the signature one-piece and Palms print hit fashion magazines around the globe - including Sports Illustrated and Cleo - whilst international models such as Hannah Davis, Natasha Oakley and Bambi were spotted flaunting the swimwear at the world's hottest locations.

The 2016/17 range will be debuting this summer and will be the fourth collection from Cantik. Bringing the brand's quintessentially chic prints and eye-catching cuts, the collection will be available online and at various stockists worldwide, and also exclusively in Bali at Drifter Surf and at Seven Shores in Seminyak and Gili Trawangan.

ASIADREAMS 59

©www.thousandwonders.net

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : S I N G A P O R E

© www.thousandwonders.net

Shopping IN Singapore

They say don’t judge a book by its cover. In this case, the small red dot known as Singapore is a massive shopper’s paradise!

Why shop here?

T

his tiny island packs in more mega malls than any other country, making it one of the best shopping destinations in the world. With products ranging from hi-tech wares to designer wear, there is something for everyone. Visitors exclusively travel from all over the world to shop 'til they drop here, especially during the much awaited mid-year Great Singapore Sale when almost all prices – from luxury to street goods – come down heftily, sometimes by as much as 90 percent.

60 ASIADREAMS

The range of shopping malls is so vast that visitors are simply spoilt for choice in terms of quality, quantity and style.

Where to shop?

Orchard Road is a world renowned shopping belt, packed with modern malls, dining and entertainment options and hotels. Featuring around 22 shopping malls, local and international department stores, designer boutiques, speciality shops and almost 5,000 high-fashion to high-street brands, this area is the place to go for retail therapy.

Spread across the belt are various types of malls including the glamorous ION Orchard, Paragon Mall, Wisma Atria, Tanglin Mall and the legendary Ngee Ann City Mall, housing a vast selection of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci, Christian Dior, Bvlgari, Chanel, Burberry and many more.

To further enhance the shopping experience, visit the largest mall in Singapore: VivoCity, a one-stop shopping, entertainment and lifestyle destination rolled into one. Spread across seven levels and over 1 million square feet of retail space, this mall is a shopaholic’s

©www.shkp.com

haven with just about every range of brand name imaginable. Furthermore, as part of Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands complex, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is an enormous luxury shopping mall boasting 800,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space that is worth a visit. High-end luxury brands are aplenty, including Hermes, Burberry, Miu Miu, MontBlanc, Salvatore Ferragamo, Chanel, Ralph Lauren and more, as well as some wallet-friendly favourites such as Guess, Miss Sixty and Banana Republic.

Signature Style With four different official languages and a more diverse set of ethnicities, cultures and flavours than the average city-state, Singapore boasts a unifying signature style: comfort. Due to the country’s humid climate and fast-paced lifestyle, the locals opt for more chic practical outfits such as

shorts, flip-flops or cotton skater dresses for everyday wear. However, working professionals and tourists are spotted looking more dressed-up in designer brands. Although comfort is key, the locals occasionally enjoy experimenting with their styles by decking up their looks with a

stylish accessory or a fancy shoe, according to the appropriate circumstances. Given the vast selection of fashionable products – from simple cotton casuals to dazzling body-con dresses and jeans to khaki pants – Singapore’s flair represents a merged style of both casual and glam at the same time.

High-End Beauty Products Singapore is one of the go-to hubs for global beauty products with high spending ranging from make-up, skincare to hair care products for both females and males. There is a vast range and endless supply of high-end brands, such as Chanel, Estee Lauder, YSL and Bobbi Brown, plus more pocketbook-friendly brands such MAC, L’Oreal, Clinique, NYX and Revlon to choose from. Plus,

obtaining these cosmetic products is as easy as strolling into one of the mega malls or even Singapore Changi Airport during your transit. Some of the leading global beauty product manufacturers have made Singapore a hub to supply their product to other neighbouring countries, including Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia. Moreover, local customers and neighbouring countries often pre-order

their products because of the unwavering high demand for best-sellers, latest releases and even limited editions of international big brand products that can be found exclusively in Singapore. Thus, the constant entry of new brands coupled with local and international product launches has created an exceptionally bright future for the beauty products trend in the country.

©www.silverkiss.com

ASIADREAMS 61

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : S I N G A P O R E

Meet the designers

DEPRESSION

C

ontrary to its name, there is nothing sad about the label Depression. The unisex readyto-wear label features minimalist cuts in stark, draped designs, clean aesthetics and monochromatic colours. Founded and created by designers Kenny Lim and Andrew Loh, the label presents each collection as black comedy based on medical themes such as AW 12 Plastic Surgery, AW 13 Dysmorphia and a recent diffusion line called Antidepressant, featuring more colourful, casual and pocket-friendly wear. Depression has become a favourite among celebrities like Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, Adam Lambert, Derrick Home, Michelle Chong and Randy Jackson. The designers have successfully created a collection that contains

dramatic and fun outlooks that are both daring and playful in equal measure. The label is available overseas in more than 20 multibrand shops in Hong Kong, Tokyo, the USA and Paris, among others, and can be found on Orchard Road at the flagship Orchard Cineleisure shop. www.depression.com.sg

Ed Et Al

F

inding a pair of shoes that fits tends to be a gruelling task. However, realising the scarcity of well-made shoes for men in Singapore, Edwin Neo started crafting tailored dress shoes for stylish men. Featuring excellent craftsmanship and quality material, Ed Et Al aims to custom-create shoes sensibly designed to fit snugly on the feet. Moreover, the label produces classic and timeless designs, ones that every gentleman aspires to own. Without straying from this design vision, Edwin is still looking to embrace more current and bold fashion trends to appeal to the modern and younger consumer. Ed Et Al has redefined chic and upscale dress shoes for men in Singapore. www.edetal.sg

62 ASIADREAMS

Hansel

W

himsical, playful, cheeky and flirty are just a few of the words that can describe the style of Hansel. Launched during the Mercedes Australian Fashion Week in 2003, the label, created by Singaporean designer Jo Soh and inspired by her beloved Jack Russell terrier, is now a household name. The casual yet quirky designs have even charmed international artists like Katy Perry. She also launched a diffusion line called Hello Hansel in 2011, which targets young and carefree women in search of everyday casual wear with bold prints and colours. Her general fun and retro take on casual women’s wear, with a striking balance between modern

and vintage designs, has made her one of the pillars of Singapore’s fashion style.

Today, the Hansel collection is available from its flagship store and from multilabel boutiques at the Mandarin Gallery in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and the USA. www.ilovehansel.com

Ong Shunmugam

O

ne of the most original homegrown fashion labels around, with a local twist, is Ong Shunmugam.

This brand is best known for creating modern, local, contemporary and wearable interpretations of traditional women's wear – from cheongsam, sari to samfu – and was founded by Malaysian Priscilla Tsu-Jyen Shunmugam. Staying true to its Asian roots, the label not only modernizes traditional Asian silhouettes and batik prints, but every Ong Shunmugam piece is made in Asia. Most of the pieces are one-offs or produced in limited quantities. However, the collection is relevant for everyday women who value quality, good craftsmanship and fit over aesthetics. Priscilla Shunmugam is a true talent with a mission to challenge the Asian outlook on modern and traditional fashion.

www.ongshunmugam.com

ASIADREAMS 63

©www.paintyourlife.com

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : H O N G K O N G

Shopping IN Hong Kong Shop your way through one of Asia’s most exciting destinations.

Explore extravagant malls and discover Hong Kong's latest fashion trends and pioneers.

Why shop here?

Where to shop?

ibrant and bustling Hong Kong has been a cornerstone of commerce since its beginnings as a prominent British port centuries ago. Today, visitors from every corner of the globe come to find flashy high-tech goods and the hottest in fashion and design. Shopping in Hong Kong is both a social activity complete with classy cafés and a serious competitive outing to be the first to get your hands on that one, highly coveted designer handbag.

In this urban metropolis there is no shortage of things to buy, or fabulous places to buy them. Whether you prefer to stride alongside famous faces in sophisticated malls, or peruse the downtown markets, you will leave Hong Kong triumphant, your luggage filled with prized finds.

V

64 ASIADREAMS

The famous shopping districts of Admirality and Central feature glamorous malls filled with a concentration of high-end fashions

and an abundance of luxury items of all kinds. Begin at the towering Pacific Place outfitted with countless fine retail outlets and frequented by Hong Kong’s high society. In the same area resides The LANDMARK and a myriad of other malls leading to the spectacular harbourfront IFC Mall. These fantastic shopping centres are treasure troves of designer items and branded accessories rising high above the skyline. All connected by covered walkways, these malls keep shoppers out of the

crowded streets below when walking from one to the next.

If you cannot find what you desire in the thriving shopping centres of Admirality and Central, discover the boutique area of SoHo. Filled with antique shops, bohemian art galleries, fashion boutiques and chic eateries, SoHo is every bit as exclusive and upscale, but has a unique flair and a thriving nightlife to explore after a busy day of shopping.

Signature Style Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan and global nature can be seen in its eclectic, but distinct sense of style. With such a large and dense population, many different styles coexist comfortably here. Influenced by international trends and the newest shifts in fashion epicentres such as Paris and London, Hong Kong has adapted many Western styles to its unique way of life. Rapidly changing global trends can also be seen in Hong Kong where European designers like

©www.eu.christianlouboutin.com

Gucci and Michael Kors are always on proud display.

Living in a flourishing centre of business and corporate interests, many of the people of Hong Kong often wear clothing that is appropriate for an office setting, but also

translates well for an afterhours outing. This has given rise to the popularity of dark and grey-toned outfits with a more professional appearance. However, many rebel against these norms with bright red lipstick and gold jewellery and accessories to embellish the outfit.

High-End Handbags The latest in designer handbags from around the globe can always be found in the many malls of Hong Kong. Designer brands like Gucci, Miu Miu, Burberry, Chanel and Salvatore Ferragamo grace display cases across the city. An essential accessory, you simply cannot set out to the trendier

enclaves of the city without a handbag. A mark of status and the perfect companion to any complete outfit, all different sorts and sizes abound – large, spacious handbags, particularly from Moschino and Ralph Lauren, are still popular, though smaller clutches are currently Hong Kong’s

favourite. Chic backpacks are even on the rise in Hong Kong as almost every major designer has released his or her own answer to this trend with surprisingly cute and sophisticated results, making the accessory fashionable once again.

ASIADREAMS 65

A FASHIONISTAS SHOPPING GUIDE : H O N G K O N G

Meet the designers

SAU Behind the Brand “I design classic clothing with a modern and trendy edge so that each piece is unique and fashionable, but still timeless season after season. All my collections have a subtle east meets west aesthetic, with an emphasis on quality that we offer at affordable price in the hopes that women everywhere can enjoy our clothing. Above all I design clothing for independent women to feel sexy and confident in, when wearing SAU".

- Designer, Cheryl Leung www.sauclothing.com

66 ASIADREAMS

C

heryl Leung, creator of SAU, is one of the major minds of fashion in Hong Kong; inspired by the sights, culture and people of her home, she creates endearing designs for her city and the world. After earning a degree from UCLA, Cheryl had the opportunity to get some experience in the fashion industry, having always been attracted to the craft. She found a position within Lane Crawford and gathered the inspiration and experience she needed to achieve her long-term dream of launching her own line. She moved back to Hong Kong and after hours of planning, fine-tuning and frustration, SAU was born. SAU is a reflection

of Cheryl’s personal style that is translated into timeless pieces perfect for today’s modern working woman, who isn’t afraid to stand out for all the right reasons. The collection stresses classic and enduring elements of both Chinese and Western styles, but strives to be modern and avant-garde, all at the same time.

SAU’s distinct sense of fashion displays the multiple facets of the modern woman; the clothing is designed to empower women with styles that can be worn every day, but flaunt a certain subtle flair. SAU was founded on the idea that women can dress not just to impress, but to feel good about themselves and their individuality.

Hei Lau

T

his hot fashion brand continues to be on the cutting edge of fashion in China and Hong Kong. Hei Lau is named after its accomplished founder, who has shown at Australian Fashion Week, put on a catwalk show in Macau and was also selected to show at the Asahi Kasei Chinese Creativity Award Collection at China Fashion Week in Beijing for spring/summer 2015.

Hei Lau’s newest project has been an elegant line named e+ by Hei Lau. Committed to natural, easy-to-wear modern fashion, these designs follow a modest style of design that uses a unique artistic interpretation of the relationship between clothing and the human body. In this way e+ by Hei Lau understands that clothing is an integral part of the wearer’s inner experience and that feeling beautiful can mean something entirely different from person to person. The line makes use of natural materials and an organic charm to create delicate, yet simple designs that free the soul. Effortless chic and distinctly comfortable, the e+ Classic Line by Hei Lau is perfectly suitable for the everyday life of the modern woman. For special occasions, The Elegant Line pursues exquisite and unique designs for a simply stunning presentation.

Behind the Brand “I first discovered my passion for design when I was 11 years old. I always wanted to dress differently from the same-aged girls. I was interested in fashion magazines and vintage fashion and then started my fashion journey. I dressed in my own designs, which are in new shapes and forms created by draping and experiments on dummies.”

- Designer, Hei Lau www.heilau.com

All Menswear: Thomas Pink ASIADREAMS 67

I S L AND G E TAWAYS An escape to an island in the sun has never been so glamorous.

These five-star retreats in Bali, Thailand and the Maldives bring the paradisal postcard pictures to life‌

68 ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS 69

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

The St. Regis Bali Resort

An elegant gourmet breakfast, a signature Bali Mary made from the Jicama fruit enjoyed by the sparkling sea, an exciting evening fire dance – all parts of a peerless tropical escape at The St. Regis Bali Resort.

I

t’s hard to imagine a more perfect holiday – warm golden rays dance on the placid blue waters off the coast of Nusa Dua as you begin your day by throwing back the curtains and stepping out onto the warm powdery sands. With a legendary personal butler service, impeccable dining options and an unbeatable location wrapped in the perfect trappings of paradise, a stay at The St. Regis Bali Resort is full of unimaginable possibilities.

70 ASIADREAMS

Choose between elegant suites that boast inspiring views and stunning villa hideaways, each with a beautiful garden and private pool. Designed to embody the magic, yet simplicity, of traditional Balinese life, these accommodations capture the essence of the island. Rustling palms, glowing sunbeams, an abundance of tropical flora are all part of the experience as you recline in your posh and private space trimmed with traditional, handcrafted Balinese art and accessories.

Between the shady palms and elegant villas and suites, there is much to love about this awarded and highly respected resort. The courteous and dutiful staff will treat you like royalty throughout your entire stay.

Your personal butler will be eager to handle any frustrating travel difficulties you might encounter. With nothing left to trouble you, how you enjoy the gorgeous climate and culture of Bali is completely up to you! You can lounge on the sundeck, or in a swirling

Serene Relaxation The Remède Spa at The St. Regis Bali Resort is a sanctuary of peace and healing. The highly trained staff is extremely attentive, providing a custom treatment to suit the needs of each individual guest. In addition to a menu of treatments, The Remède Spa offers an intriguing selection of rituals providing guests the opportunity to experience hallowed Balinese techniques featuring traditional oils, fragrances and natural elements.

Jacuzzi, near overhanging green gardens at the resort’s meandering saltwater lagoon.

For the more adventurous, take to the waves for an action-filled afternoon of surfing or snorkelling!

To accompany your glorious holiday, some of the finest cuisine in Bali can be found just a few steps away from your accommodations. Climb the stone steps of the Kayuputi restaurant and take a seat

between the thrilling open kitchen and a floor-to-ceiling view of the sea beyond.

Enjoy a sumptuously elegant evening with the restaurant’s delectable and critically acclaimed eight-course degustation menu, paired with beautiful wines handpicked by the restaurant’s own sommelier. Integrating Asian flavours with classic Western influences, Kayuputi offers a simply singular fine-dining experience unlike any other on the island.

The St. Regis Bali Resort Kawasan Pariwisata, Nusa Dua Lot S6, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 300 6786 E: stregis.bali@stregis.com www.stregisbali.com

ASIADREAMS 71

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

The Legian BALI Elegant beachfront hospitality, combining tropical relaxation, sophistication and superb levels of comfort, all within easy reach of Seminyak ’s most celebrated nightlife and dining spots.

A

graceful beachfront hotel, The Legian Bali features just 68 luxurious one- and twobedroom sea-facing suites, a glorious three-bedroom Beach House and a collection of 11 private villas.

With superb views over one of the most famous stretches of beach in the world, the striking boutique hotel is located in Seminyak and is a perfect place for honeymooners or others seeking a tranquil luxury destination within close proximity to the island’s buzzing nightlife and Seminyak's outstanding gastronomic scene.

72 ASIADREAMS

The hotel's contemporary design is a practical yet opulent blend of modern and traditional architecture and decor. Balinese and tropical influences are everywhere, with stone, dark wood and the use of statues and water features throughout. The interiors take the contemporary Balinese feel a step further with a host of traditional paintings, furnishings and artworks set against light stone or painted walls.

All the suites are stylish and spacious, but for those wishing to truly splash out, the sumptuous butler-serviced Seminyak, Sunset and Legian Suites offer the ultimate in privacy and lavish functionality. As an

alternative, the luxurious Beach House, situated within 800 sq.m. of private tropical gardens and overlooking Seminyak Beach, offers guests something spectacular.

The Beach House is a stand-alone family getaway, but it’s also a unique residence for honeymooners since not only does it provide extravagant luxury accommodations, including a 16m infinity pool, kitchen, three bedrooms and a private butler, it can also cater to up to 60 guests for your reception or private party.

The top suites are immense and beautifully appointed, adorned with the quality of linen, hard goods and signature bathroom sundries

The Spa & Wellness Centre With four aesthetically pleasing single- and two-couple spa suites, The Spa at The Legian is a personal space dedicated to the restoration of strength, beauty and balance of the body, mind and soul using the ancient holistic healing traditions of the East.

From relaxation and rejuvenation to pure indulgence, guests can chose body scrubs and wraps, therapeutic and Thai massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, romantic bathing ceremonies, hot stone treatments and facials all designed to pamper and restore.

What would any honeymoon in Bali be without a spa experience?

one would expect. The Legian Suite is 364 sq.m. in total and features an oh-so-private 140 sq.m. terrace with pavilions and sun loungers offering unrivalled ocean and pool views, whilst both the Seminyak and Sunset Suites, each with an equally stunning view, register a meagre 274 sq.m....sigh!

Book any of the top-end suites, the villas, or the Beach House and you will also enjoy an excellent array of Club benefits. These include airport transfers, a chauffeured drop and pick-up service within Seminyak, afternoon tea between 4PM and 6PM followed by cocktails and canapés between

6PM and 8PM – both can be taken in your suite, at The Pool Bar, The Ocean Bar, or in The Lobby Lounge.

The social hub of the hotel is unquestionably the magnificent oceanview infinity pool.

Featuring broad parasols and comfortable loungers and framed by The Pool and Ocean Bars, it’s a dazzling spot to relax, soak up the sun and enjoy drinks or light meals.

On the hotel side of the infinity pool we find The Restaurant, the hotel's signature eatery, where Chef Luke and his team cook up and serve a multitude of outstanding plates from

breakfast until late. The Restaurant terrace is a memorable setting for a dreamy candlelit dinner for two, or perhaps newlyweds might prefer the intimacy of their own private terrace or even the beach, where the gentle rhythm of the ocean beats its romantic melody on the tropical sands.

The Legian Bali Jalan Kayu Aya, Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 730 622 E: reservation@thelegianbali.com www.lhm-hotels.com

ASIADREAMS 73

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

A Haven for Foodies

The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas Visitors to Bali are sure to find the tranquillity they desire somewhere between the palm trees, ocean sands and carefully tended grounds of The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas.

S

ynonymous with a sense of opulent serenity, The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas brings the very best of Bali to visitors seeking to avoid the crowded, anxiety-inducing tourist scene found elsewhere on the island. The perfect place to skip the traffic, the street vendors and the stresses of everyday life, The Mulia, recognized as the number one beach resort in the world by the readers of CondĂŠ Nast Traveler USA in 2014, is as picturesque as it is relaxing. This vast property rests on the spectacular sands 74 ASIADREAMS

of Nusa Dua Bay with views of endless waves and an ancient cliff-top temple in the distance. Recline in the signature Oasis pool with a coconut in hand and revel in the magnificent architecture and service that has made this property famous.

Choose from an abundance of spacious and comfortably appointed suites, each artfully decorated and enjoying a slice of the unadulterated paradise that surrounds the resort. Alternatively, guests looking for more privacy may

Renowned not only for its astounding accommodations, but also for its gastronomic prowess, The Mulia’s many superb restaurants present some of the best cuisine to be found in Bali. Table8 is the resort's signature restaurant serving authentic Cantonese and Szechuan dishes and includes a unique tea corner with imported varieties harvested from across China. Meanwhile, the sumptuous Soleil restaurant serves fine Mediterranean and pan-Asian dishes. The Cafe offers an eclectic but refined and elegant dining experience with stations dedicated authentic global cuisines. Sample fine sashimi, Chinese barbequed duck, succulent butter chicken, fine Western fair and a plethora of desserts.

choose to stay in a luxurious villa. With private pools, lush gardens and complete butler service, these villas are often the choice of visiting celebrities and other dignitaries.

The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas Nusa Dua, Bali Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Kawasan Sawangan, Nusa Dua 80363, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 301 7777 E: info@themulia.com www.themulia.com/bali

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

W RETREAT & SPA BALI - SEMINYAK Fun, stylish and indulgent, fashionistas have everything at their perfectly manicured fingertips at W Bali.

I

f you are looking for an indulgent playground that can take you from pampered primping to party in the utmost style, head to W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak to live out your dreams.

With the signature Whatever/Whenever 24-hour service and a dedicated W Insider, guests don’t need to think of anything other than their glamorous lifestyles. With hot parties and DJs on-site and numerous slick party venues in close proximity, your W Insider has all the Insider Access to the latest and greatest hot spots in town.

Now you know where to go, take full advantage of the gorgeously pampering 24-hour Away Spa for indulgent body treatments, a reviving detox chamber and a hair and nail salon, so you look and feel your dazzling best. One hugely popular

In the Know treatment incorporates a glittery diamonddust body polish, massage and a 24K gold body wrap.

Away Spa is a playful space with silk robes, funky lighting, an oxygen room, hot stone baths and cold plunge pools and the CHILL bar and re-fuel area with light snacks and drinks.

Dress to impress from W The Store with its glorious range of the most fashion-conscious trends from local and international designers.

Finally, watch the sunset over a frozen cocktail at the Ice Bar, or head off to the iconic Woobar for international DJs and signature cocktails, such as the vodkabased Cinnamon Citrus Cake, warming and potent Reserve Sangria with spices, brandy and cointreau or the Chocolate Morgan

Any question, from fashion, music and design, to food and nightlife, the W Insider has the answers and can help create a tailored, unique experience that suits your mood.

with nutella providing sweetness to the spiced rum.

W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak is a place where magic comes alive.

W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 300 0106 www.wretreatbali.com

ASIADREAMS 75

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort Anantara roughly translates from ancient Sanskrit as “without end”; at Anatara Uluwatu Bali Resort you will find endless relaxation, unbridled natural beauty and adventure.

T

he rugged cliffs of Uluwatu rise high above Bali’s pristine southern coast, as the waves ceaselessly crash on the white sands far below. Capturing this natural beauty, Anantara Uluwatu’s prime location offers a unique opportunity for guests to fully experience the beauty of the tropical heaven known as Bali.

Choose from a selection of spectacular accommodations, including luxurious suites with panoramic views of the ocean, pool villas that enjoy secluded gardens and private pools and duplex

76 ASIADREAMS

penthouse for the ultimate luxury getaway. With a 360-degree panoramic view of the azure Indian Ocean and the surrounding peninsula, this two-level spacious penthouse includes a private pool, a romantic outdoor bathtub, wellappointed living and dining areas and special access for a private butler who constantly remains at your service. No matter what your choice, all ocean-view accommodations provide the perfect place to witness the spectacular hues of a famous Bali sunset as the final rays reach over the darkening ocean horizon beyond Impossible Beach below.

For those who crave even more beauty and adventure, Anantara Uluwatu offers a myriad of excursions and options to enrich and enhance your holiday in paradise. Explore the picturesque rolling hillsides and breath-taking landscapes of Uluwatu with bicycle tours that allow you to meet locals and discover the area’s famous features for yourself. Or explore the unforgettable culture of Indonesia by creating a keepsake to take home with the resort’s own batik painting and ceramic creating lessons led by talented and friendly experts more than willing to share their secrets with you.

For Passionate Beachgoers Descend to the beach on Anantara Uluwatu’s direct elevator to the resort’s Surfari Sundeck below. Surfers will love to take on this beach’s famous and challenging waves.

Sunbathers can unwind on comfortable beanbag chairs and sip cocktails with a glorious view of the endless waves.

Amaze both your senses of taste and sight at the renowned 360 Restaurant located on the rooftop of the resort. Gaze out at the waves from this clifftop vantage and choose from a menu of enchanting local and international dishes. The gastronomic creations of this elegant eatery are sure to match the glory of the unforgettable view with such dishes as Bamboo Lobster Thermidor, a dish that features the classic prized succulent crustacean, sautéed

in a sauce of mushroom and butter and creatively fused with tropical Asian flavours.

Additionally, guests who desire a more intimate dining experience are welcome to custom-create an evening of private dining. Perfect for couples, choose anything your heart desires from multiple fine-dining menus, or even collaborate with the executive chef to craft your ideal

culinary sequence. After the menu is set, select the perfect setting from a range of private and dreamy locations on the resort to create the perfect evening.

Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort Jalan Pemutih, Labuan Sait, Uluwatu, Kuta Selatan, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 895 7555 E: uluwatu@anantara.com www.bali-uluwatu.anantara.com

ASIADREAMS 77

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali A stay at The R itz-Carlton, Bali is a perfect escape for pampering, indulgence and, if you choose, experiencing the Island of the Gods.

T

he Ritz-Carlton, Bali offers a wealth of sophisticated experiences with a true touch of refinement and some special Balinese touches that make your stay unique. This stunning resort respects the Balinese Kalpataru, or tree of life, which symbolizes strength, beauty and wisdom, and can offer its discerning guests not only the legendary Ritz-Carlton service but also six gorgeous dining venues and sublime rooms, suites and villas.

For those focused on wellbeing, recently opened at this beachside resort is The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Alongside the full range of spa treatments inspired by the ocean and the bounties of Balinese nature, the spa has two distinct wet areas.

Ensconced within both the male and female

78 ASIADREAMS

locker rooms are the wet rooms, each with a warm whirlpool, cool plunge pool, steam and sauna rooms, ideal for providing that space to move your mind from the outside world into a space of peace and tranquillity and, of course, to relax the muscles and open the pores so they are ready to fully absorb the nutrient-dense treatments.

Meanwhile, on the ground floor of the spa in a semi-outdoor area with wooden decking and tropical plants is the HydroVital pool. This beautiful facility provides five different stations that offer a variety of Jacuzzi-like water jets and bubbles to relax, de-stress and massage. For those who spend too much of their time hunched over a computer – and let’s face it, who doesn’t these days – stand under the swan neck shower or the waterfall shower for a

steady stream of intense pressure on the upper back and shoulders to relieve muscle tension. Another station is the Rejuvenation Zone, where vertical massage jets focus on the entire body to alleviate muscle tension, and improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. End on the massage lounger, where gentle water bubbles soothe and relax – a perfect preparation for your spa treatment.

The focus of The Ritz-Carlton Spa treatments is to provide relaxing, rejuvenating and deeply nourishing treatments that brighten the skin. Party-ready skin is revealed with the luxurious two-hour Iridescent Delight treatment that comprises a gentle skin smoothing Shimmering Pearl Polish to impart lustre and reveal fresh skin, followed by a pure pearl body wrap to

Balinese Experiences The Ritz-Carlton, Bali provides its guests with the opportunity to join Balinese Experiences, ranging from escorted market visits, to learning about traditional Indonesian textiles and taking part in the colourful and deeply spiritual soul purification ritual.

further enhance the glow. A Shine Renewal Massage using Vitality oil with pearl extract releases tension and improves blood circulation to further restore the skin to its natural glory and radiance.

Using ancient Balinese methods and modern techniques, all the spa treatments offer the ultimate way to unwind, revive your muscles, stimulate cell renewal and improve blood circulation.

For those looking for a romantic, pampering interlude, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali has four spa villas that serve as the ultimate retreat. These large villas have elegant furnishings, two massage beds and a bathtub big enough to share the indulgent soaking ritual. With windows overlooking the gardens and an outdoor relaxation pool reminiscent of those used by Balinese royalty beckoning you after your treatment, this is a wonderful way to relax with your loved one.

Away from the spa, the resort’s Sarong Concierge will gladly share a deep love of traditional Balinese textiles and escort guests on a half-day journey to explore the artistry, meaning and history of four fabrics often used as sarongs in Bali. Visiting an artisan workshop renowned for arts and crafts, guests can witness the behind-thescenes production process from threading and spinning to dying and weaving. Guests

can then wear a sarong during a cultural visit to a nearby Hindu temple.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali has several experiences to choose from, so if you are looking for a holiday where you can learn something, dine in luxury on the freshest ingredients with gorgeous views and indulge in amazing spa treatments, head over to the cliffs of Sawangan and dive in.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Lot 3, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 849 8988 www.ritzcarlton.com ASIADREAMS 79

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

All Around Comfort

Double-Six Luxury Hotel, Seminyak Holiday in style at Double-Six Luxury Hotel at the heart of vibrant and sun-drenched Seminyak.

W

itness an unforgettable sunset and recline with a team of butlers to wait on you 24 hours a day.

Enjoy immense luxury in any one of Double-Six’s selection of immaculately comfortable accommodations.

These deluxe suites are equipped with luxuriously modern amenities, including mood lighting and sumptuous bathtubs outfitted with flat-screen televisions above the tubs. Each set of accommodations is equally divine; the only thing left for visitors to do is chose between them. Would you

80 ASIADREAMS

rather enjoy the cool waters of a private plunge pool, enjoy a fantastic view of the famous Seminyak Beach, or step out from your room directly beside the property's own luxurious swimming pool?

For those who want it all, the Double-Six Penthouse offers privacy and indulgence.

With two floors of ample space, the penthouse includes an expansive al fresco terrace that provides a jaw-dropping panoramic ocean view. These exceptional accommodations allow guests to lounge in discreet luxury – enjoying sunshine and

Double-Six Luxury Hotel, Seminyak ensures that the needs of its guests are met every step of the way. A devoted staff of butlers is ready to assist at any hour of the day or night – these professionals are eager to do everything from making arrangements for daily excursions to bringing you a new bottle of champagne.

Additionally, for those who have made their booking, Double Six has an e-butler form on the website to assist with each guest’s unique needs prior to arrival.

a good book on the deck, or soaking in a personal swirling Jacuzzi. Taking luxury to the next level, take advantage of exclusive VIP access to the fabulous Double-Six Rooftop to experience the best of Bali’s entertainment and food.

Double-Six Luxury Hotel, Seminyak Jalan Pantai Double Six No. 66, Seminyak, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 730 466 E: Info@double-six.com www.double-six.com

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Alila Seminyak Bali Upping the ante on tropical cool.

U

nfurling along the pristine Seminyak coastline mere steps from the Indian Ocean, Alila Seminyak Bali ups the ante on tropical cool.

This stunning beach resort opened just a few months ago and already radiates sophistication, vibrancy and vivacity. At the epicentre of Seminyak's Petitenget eat street, matched with luscious lifestyle facilities and refined chill-out spaces, a stay at Alila Seminyak Bali is holidaying in style.

In true Alila fashion, the resort is decked out in a design that wholly soaks up

the surrounding landscapes. Like a lush secret garden, the resort's contemporary architecture is a weaving of vertical greens, wall-hugging plants, green roofs and landscaped terraces. Green spaces abound and, naturally ventilated by ocean breezes, the resort is paradise epitomised.

All this together with a delicious variety of gastronomic experiences, a signature and award-winning spa and five different infinity pools integrated throughout the resort's grounds, it's no wonder Alila Seminyak Bali has already become the hottest new location to escape to in Bali.

For the Eco-Friendly Traveller Strongly committed to its social, cultural and environmental responsibilities, the resort respects and preserves the traditions of local communities and has integrated energy- and resourceefficient systems to minimise its environmental footprint.

Alila Seminyak Bali Jalan Taman Ganesha No. 9, Petitenget, Kerobokan, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 3021 888 E: seminyak@alilahotels.com www.alilahotels.com/seminyak

ASIADREAMS 81

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Vietura – Holistic wellness

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort The Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua redefines the luxury wellness break with So Fit, So Spa and Vietura.

L

ocated in the heart of the Nusa Dua resort complex, on one of Bali’s most pristine private beaches, the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is a magnificent venue offering a charming fusion of elegant French chic and contemporary Balinese style. With worldrenowned dining, outstanding facilities and a choice of luxurious suites and villas set within lush water-rich tropical gardens or on the private beachfront, any stay promises to be idyllic.

Aside from being a luxury resort, the trend towards health and wellness breaks is also well catered for. Customer wellbeing is an integral part of the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua philosophy, from the DeLight menu – featuring healthy calorie82 ASIADREAMS

Facial treatments include an instant threading facelift, natural facial shaping and even emergency acne treatment.

With medical detoxification via colon hydrotherapy, IV nutrition and nutritional advice, body fat freezing and skin-tightening and much more, Vietura sets the Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua apart for those seeking a luxury wellness break.

counted options, to its far-reaching wellness programmes.

Equipped with all the latest gear and free weights, the So Fit gym offers dedicated relaxation and workout areas with regular outdoor activities and separate male and female sauna rooms. For non staying guests, the So Fit Membership fitness packages also include generous benefits, such as up to 15% discounts at Vietura.

Rounding off the wellness approach and with a range of exclusive signature spa and beauty treatments, So Spa is one of the most relaxing and beautifully appointed spas in Bali delivering a unique and very personal experience carefully crafted to ensure maximum benefits.

Ensconced within the beachside resort and catering to guests focused on natural beauty and well-being sits Vietura. With a holistic approach, Vietura offers totally non-invasive tailor-made programmes and the highly trained staff can help you decide on the right treatments and then coach to ensure the benefits are lasting.

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort Kawasan Pariwisata BTDC, Lot N5, Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 849 2888 E: H9078@sofitel.com www.sofitel-bali-nusadua.com

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta For those who don’t want to miss one beat of the action in Bali, this property offers the best of both worlds: a central location and secluded comfort.

L

ocated in the heart of Kuta, Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta offers a unique and relaxed escape all within walking distance of Bali’s famous beaches, exciting shopping attractions, electrifying nightlife and more. Viewed from the outside, the hotel’s unique façade blends the urban with the natural as overhanging vines dangle from a massive flat roof supported by stone columns. Equally striking is the hotel’s semioutdoor lagoon pool. Permitting guests to practically swim the length of the property, the entire hotel is built around this feature,

Family-Friendly A great place for families with children of all ages, even the littlest guests can have a great time splashing in the children’s splash pool, swinging and laughing in a whimsical playground, or playing all day in a comprehensive Kids’ Club specially designed for children.

allowing the sun above to dance upon the waters and gently kiss sunbathers relaxing on one of the lagoon’s mini islands. Wake up in a special lagoon-access suite, open your sliding glass door to a private deck area and dip your toes in the cool waters while enjoying a delightful breakfast. Why stop at breakfast? Join The Eatery, Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta’s own all-day dining restaurant that features a wonderful poolside setting offering a relaxed atmosphere and some seriously delicious dishes. For more tasty morsels, head to The Best Brew, an energetic and social beer

garden that reinvents pub favourites and features a wide selection of international beers alongside crafty cocktails, handmade gourmet coffees and authentic Indonesian drinks.

Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta Jalan Benesari Banjar Pengabetan, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 849 6606 E: fourpoints.balikuta@fourpoints.com www.fourpointsbalikuta.com

ASIADREAMS 83

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Couples seeking a romantic interlude need look no further than the sophisticated luxury of this secluded hideaway.

F

rom the moment you are both gently ushered into Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, you are ensconced in a sophisticated, other-worldly utopia. Standing in the open welcome hall, gazing out across your hideaway, you are surrounded by spacious elegance, stunning Asian antiquities and sublime service, all set in a lush river valley featuring working rice fields, a Hindu temple and exquisite facilities nestled into nature’s contours.

Your personal patih, the term used for butlers in Balinese palaces, will take you by buggy down to your suite or pool villa and leave you to explore your artistically arranged home-away-from-home.

84 ASIADREAMS

A stroll through the grounds can lead you to the spa and wellness area, where you can slip into the heated outdoor vitality pool and lounge in the bubbles on the Jacuzzistyle bench, or let the strong massage jets ease your neck and shoulder muscles.

Perhaps follow this with an indulgent, nurturing couples’ treatment at Mandapa Spa. As evening sets in, book a romantic dinner in your villa. The staff will create a magical setting with red rose petals artfully scattered on the floor by your candlelit table and a personal waiter, who remains discretely on hand, to serve you both as your dinner is brought to you, course by course, for an elegantly orchestrated experience.

Making Memories Ask your patih to arrange a gourmet picnic for you at the rice barn, join in with the rice planting, or partake in the full moon blessing ceremony at the temple and learn how Balinese Hindus pray.

If you prefer, Kubu, the reserve’s riverside fine dining restaurant, also offers private bamboo cocoons for couples looking for a quiet, intimate tête-à-tête.

The reserve is peaceful, enchanting and picturesque. The service is discreet, while highly attentive, making this an ideal location for some quality time cementing your love for each other.

Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve Jalan Kedewatan, Banjar Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 479 2777 www.mandapareserve.com

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa A beachside oasis far removed from traffic, crowds and daily hassles, The Laguna brings you five-star service and accommodations in one of Bali ’s most cherished and highly sought-after settings.

E

legant and timeless luxury emanates from every aspect of The Laguna. Located in the pristine province of Nusa Dua, this resort features not only the spectacular sands of a famously beautiful beach, but also the first bathing lagoon in Bali. The property’s namesake, the waters of the lagoon amble through the entire resort.

Waterfalls, eddies, pools and sand-filled beaches create the ideal place to unwind, cool off and perhaps enjoy a mixed cocktail.

Woven into the experience of the resort, the turquoise lagoon and its calm waters flow past guests staying in signature lagoonaccess rooms. Step out from your tastefully

Honeymooner Sanctuary The Laguna Bali offers an exclusive dining experience designed specifically to create the perfect romantic evening for two. Enjoy an intimate multi-course meal with wine pairing served on The Laguna’s Nusa Bagus Island. Surrounded by candlelight and water on three sides, your private waiter will present each dish as you and your loved one savour the evening together.

appointed bedroom onto the deck of the lagoon; dip your toes into the cool water and enjoy a good book along with the warming rays of the tropical sun. The lagoon has a sublime calming effect paired perfectly with distinct Balinese touches that accentuate the harmony of the resort.

The Lagoon Spa further emphasizes this therapeutic property of water. While enjoying a relaxing koi pond and the calming sound of a waterfall overhead, choose from a menu of options ranging from restorative treatments to multiple-day wellness programs. The courteous and talented spa experts will leave you feeling repaired and restored, easily

erasing the stresses of daily life or the tensions of a long flight to Bali.

All of this and more adds to the simply incomparable Balinese experience offered by The Laguna. Experience the simple, relaxed and elemental lifestyle of the Balinese that is perfectly captured by this resort sanctuary.

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot N2 Bali 80363, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 771 327 E: laguna.reservation@luxurycollection.com www.thelagunabali.com ASIADREAMS 85

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

RK

d

om

m your room by an ‘Elephant Chauffeur’ or waking up to the making their way to play and bathe in a lake. That’s just what nly Elephant Safari Park Lodge, situated north of Ubud in the ed on 3.5 hectares of pristine tropical parklands and unspoilt atran elephants will act as personal valet, picking you up from ous meal at Mammoths Head Bar Terrace. Or try an elephant forest, with yet another gourmet feast awaiting you at The Park ping the elephants with their bathing rituals or feeding and m safari style lodge offers a very rare opportunity to interact n elephants while beautifully appointed accommodations and he Safari Wellness Spa and top notch dining venues, make for phant Safari Park & Lodge is also idyllic for destination events eddings.

Elephant Safari Park & Lodge For the ultimate elephant experience, gorgeous countryside and divine lodgings, head north of Ubud to Bali ’s elephant sanctuary in Taro village.

F

e opportunity interact elephant-back through the local rainforest, or anyone who likesto elephants, to stroking the babies, there are plenty of there is no better place to visit their Sumatran elephants.” hands-on opportunities. on the island than Bali’s Elephant Safari Park & Lodge. Having started almost 20 years ago with a rescued herd of nine abandoned elephants, the park is now home to 30 Sumatran elephants. Some, like the adorable young Fajar, were even born there.

The elephants have a great sense of humour and during playtime – after your ride – they will cheekily steal the food you are offering to one of the others, put flower garlands over your head and generally provide you with copious photo opportunities to share with friends and family.

The elephants have relaxation pads in a central area of grassland and the lodge The lodge accommodations are luxurious the park have been built to will afford receive: gnature,and infinite and world and spacious, with a feature you won’t find guests up-close and personal views of the in many places: a gate at the top of the stairs elephants at work, and sleep. lease inform us the bcaplay deal... by your front door. So when your private elephant chauffeur arrives to take you to The close interaction between the guests dinner, you just open the gate and slide on! and elephants is a highlight of any visit, from bathing an elephant in the morning, riding Back at the lodge after your adventures, one through the waterhole, watching the before an excellent dinner, you can unwind elephants play football and paint, trekking ASIADREAMS *Terms86& Conditions Apply

Adventures Galore!

The Elephant Safari Park & Lodge is part of Bali Adventure Tours, so you have access to safe and reputable whitewater rafting, kayaking and trekking if you need a greater adrenaline rush.

at the Safari Wellness Spa, which also overlooks the elephant relaxation area and park. All you have to do is focus on the fun.

Elephant Safari Park Lodge Jalan Elephant Park Taro, Taro Village, Tegallalang, Ubud, Bali 80561, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 721 480 E: info@elephantsafariparklodge.com www.elephantsafariparklodge.com

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

The Royal Purnama Art Suites & Villas Bali's boutique beachfront retreat that's just remote enough.

A

boutique and artsy retreat resting beside the glittering black crystal sands of Pantai Purnama on Bali’s southeast coast, The Royal Purnama Art Suites & Villas is a holiday destination unlike any other on the island.

Just minutes from Sanur and Ubud in either direction, The Royal Purnama is designed with the sophisticated traveller in mind, together with a no children under 12 approach. Wrapped in contemporary architecture with effortlessly elegant interiors, the resort lends a concept dedicated to local Balinese culture and arts.

The creators of this just-remote-enough beachside hideaway have carefully preserved the raw nature of the beautiful surroundings and ensconced it within a tranquil setting of lush plantations bordered by the Indian Ocean.

The luxurious resort comprises 48 stylish one-, two- and four-bedroom villas and suites, all with their own private pools or balcony Jacuzzi tubs. Bedrooms beckon with canopied king-size beds whilst the bathrooms present semi-open-air monsoon showers and decadent soaking

tubs. Fine Balinese ceramics, local textiles and delicate detailing are matched by handcrafted artistry and high-tech mood lighting to create the perfect ambience.

Perched on the oceanfront and recognisable by an ensemble of towering megalithic stones, the resort's semi-al fresco restaurant, Standing Stones, not only serves up a menu of gourmet, home-style cuisine, but is also open for both lunch and dinner to outside guests, too, with the added benefit of being able to take a dip in the magnificent oceanview infinity pool Celebrating the bountiful harvest of the island, an ever-changing menu of Balinese, Asian and Continental cuisine makes use of high quality produce from the surrounding plantations, the fresh seafood from village fisherman and vegetables and herbs from the resort's own garden. Signatures from the sea include the tuna carpaccio to start, a flame-grilled mackerel and a kemangi leaf squid that's been stir-fried in a red chili paste and sweet citrus basil. From the farm, try the Asian duck leg, crispy roasted pork belly, or the unique Beef Rendang Ravioli.

Rounding off the luxury resort experience on a relaxing high, the spa incorporates a 3

Home Comforts in Paradise More than just a dazzling five-star resort, The Royal Purnama Art Suites & Villas makes sure each guest feels right at home with luxurious comforts like a modern gym, comfortable library, a homeware boutique and an inspiring art gallery.

range of ancient remedies that embrace the healing elements of the Earth, the sea and the black volcanic sand of the astonishing coastline. The signature Black Sand treatment is our editor's pick, polishing and reviving tired skin in the restful treatment rooms and incorporating curative therapies synonymous with the mystery and magic of Bali.

The Royal Purnama Art Suites & Villas Jalan Pantai Purnama (Purnama Beach), Sukawati Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 849 3706 E: reservations@theroyalpurnama.com www.theroyalpurnama.com ASIADREAMS 87

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Padma Resort Ubud The Padma Resort Ubud is a luxurious hidden gem and just perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation, but it’s also the ideal base for getting out and exploring the central and northern areas of Bali.

D

eep in rural Bali and built on a vast 11-hectare site, there is something truly magical about the Padma Resort Ubud.

Located some 20km north of Ubud above the cascading Bresela River, it has stunning views over the lush tropical forest of Payangan and offers outstanding accommodations, facilities and dining.

The design concept reflects contemporary Balinese luxury and features an abundance of stone, carved wood and specially commissioned contemporary local art. The facilities are geared towards relaxation with the resort's superb 89m long and 7m wide heated infinity pool being both the social and chill-out hub. With spectacular never-ending views, the pool is kept cool during the heat of the day, but is gently heated in the morning and evening for guest comfort.

88 ASIADREAMS

The kitchens are helmed by Executive Chef Ketut Sumerta, who makes dining a dream, be it poolside, in-room or at the fantastically situated Puhu Restaurant and Lounge.

All of the spacious and comfortable rooms and suites are appointed to a very high standard and all feature uninterrupted views over the forest below. With state-of-the-art room equipment, baths, rains showers and either terraces or balconies, comfort and relaxation are assured.

Padma Resort Ubud Banjar Carik Desa, Puhu, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 752 111 E: reservation.ubud@padmahotels.com www.padmaresortubud.com

Ready for Action?

For the adventurous and within easy reach, guests can ride elephants at the Elephant Safari Park or go white-water rafting, mountain biking and trekking. It’s only a short journey to several waterfalls and only 20km. to Kintamani where, the night trek up Mount Batur to watch the sunrise from above the clouds is as exhilarating as it is extraordinary.

For the less adventurous, the hotel arranges daily transportation to Ubud and walking tours in the local villages. There’s also a fabulous 3.2km. nature trail and jogging path that runs along the river.

ISLAND GETAWAYS

BALI

Presidential Service

Peppers Seminyak

As part of the new Presidential five-bedroom villa at Peppers Seminyak, guests can lavish in luxury perks like butler services, private drivers and the option of a visit from a talented chef who'll cook up sumptuous cuisine in the comfort of the villa’s fully appointed gourmet kitchen.

A world-class resort hidden among lush gardens and lotus ponds in the heart of Seminyak.

A

lthough Peppers Seminyak boasts one of the most sought-after addresses in Bali – right in the heart of the happening Seminyak neighbourhood – the resort is superbly tucked away among lush, tropical gardens and lotus ponds for total privacy and tranquillity.

Made up entirely of stunning private pool villas – each one with a gorgeous garden setting and sundeck – the resort manages to match the privacy of a villa holiday with the benefits and services of a resort

stay. Each villa has its own fully equipped gourmet kitchen, together with open-plan living and dining areas and wonderfully appointed bedrooms with marble en-suites and generous sunken tubs, while outside the villas guests can enjoy the resort's wellness spa and gourmet dining at The Laneway restaurant.

greet, whilst the interiors boast an exquisitely furnished living room reminiscent of a residential estate with a rustic teak dining table complemented by a chic collection of clear arm chairs. It's a stunning location for an extravagant occasion, an intimate wedding, or, of course, a very luxurious island getaway.

For the ultimate stay, Peppers Seminyak has just launched its Presidential Villa – an expansive 1,100 sq.m. two-storey fivebedroom villa accessible via a regal, handhammered bronze door. Tranquil koi ponds, soothing waterfalls and tropical gardens

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

ASIADREAMS 89

ISLAND GETAWAYS

THAILAND

Conrad Koh Samui Whether a honeymoon, a renewal of vows, or just a luxury break, create memories that last a lifetime, at the Conrad Koh Samui.

S

tunningly located on the Phang Ka peninsula, Conrad Koh Samui is no stranger to accolades and, late last year, added another notable feather to its cap by being named Asia's Leading Honeymoon Resort at the prestigious 22nd World Travel Awards 2015.

Nestled on 25 lush tropical acres above the Gulf of Thailand, Conrad Koh Samui features just 81 private pool villas with a choice of one, two or three bedrooms, each with magnificent ocean views. There are three outstanding restaurants, including Jahn, where Executive Chef Amporn

90 ASIADREAMS

Choeng-Ngam serves up some of the best contemporary Thai cuisine in the region in one of its most beautifully situated and chic restaurants.

With two bars supported by an impressive private wine cellar and, of course, its famous world-class spa, Conrad Koh Samui is a haven for relaxation. The Conrad Spa Koh Samui, winner of the Best Luxury Wellness Spa 2013 and 2014 at the World Luxury Spa Awards, offers an experience that focuses on personal attention and sensory engagement via a combination of skilfully delivered traditional and contemporary treatments.

The accommodations are superb whichever you choose, but for newlyweds or those who really do not want to be disturbed, the extremely private Conrad Royal Oceanview Pool Villa with its gorgeous 22.5m infinity pool would be the perfect choice.

Claimed to be one of the finest luxury villas on the island, the Conrad Royal Villa is the largest villa at the Conrad Koh Samui with just over 200 sq.m. internally and 164 sq.m. in the external living areas. With oversized round soaking tubs and rain showers, the marble-rich bathrooms, complete with sumptuous toiletries, are modern, spacious

and functional. The living space within the villa features an airy dining space and, like the bedroom’s oversized circular bed, has spectacular panoramic views of the sea and islands beyond.

Samui offers a luxury tour and activities centre where guests can book tours or bespoke packages that allow them to discover the best of Koh Samui and the nearby surrounding islands.

Outside, the 22.5m infinity pool, with views west over the rocky islands of Koh Nok Taphao, Koh Chuak and Koh Som, is one of the most remarkable sunset views imaginable. Built within the decked area is a cleverly designed sunken dining and relaxation space and, along with the poolside loungers, it’s the perfect place to make the most of the resort's noted hospitality.

Throughout the resort, the Thai-inspired design offers guests an exceptional level of luxury and comfort and with a variety of gourmet choices, fabulous location and the world-class spa experience, it’s no wonder the Conrad Koh Samui captures so many awards.

With excellent in-villa and general facilities, you might not want to leave the resort, but for those who want to explore, Conrad Koh

Conrad Koh Samui Hilcrest Road, Taling-Ngam, Koh Samui, 84140, Thailand T: (+66) 779 15888 E: Conrad_Koh_Samui@conradhotels.com www.conradkohsamuiresidences.com

Something Special in The Cellar The very best Chef Amporn Choeng-Ngam and the sommelier have to offer is brought together in a unique location. Whether of a honeymoon, a renewal of vows, or just a luxury break, special moments create memories that last a lifetime.

At Conrad Koh Samui one such moment is an ultimate in-private dining experience at the Wine Cellar Dinner. With only one dining table, this exclusive culinary destination is open only by reservation.

ASIADREAMS 91

ISLAND GETAWAYS

THAILAND

Four Seasons Koh Samui A haven for fine dining, relaxation and recuperation, you might never want to leave Four Seasons Koh Samui.

S

et on a tropical, coconut palmcovered cliff overlooking the white sands of the resort’s private beach and the Gulf of Thailand beyond, the all-villa Four Seasons Koh Samui is one of the island’s most popular and prestigious destinations for a luxury getaway.

Whichever you chose, all of the 73 villas and private residences situated on this gorgeous piece of paradise are airy and spacious, feature state-of-the-art media and modern amenities, have pools and are tastefully decorated in designs and colours inspired by the southern Thai culture.

With a choice of hillside and beachfront villas and one- to five-bedroom private residence villas, there are properties to suit everyone, from couples to family groups of up to 15.

The jewel is the five-bedroom private residence villa – a paradise within paradise.

At a massive 1,503 sq.m. it features four king bedrooms and one twin bedroom

92 ASIADREAMS

all with full bathrooms. The interiors are a gorgeous blend of comfort and island chic and feature sweeping views of the tropical landscape beyond. Outside, there are two private infinity pools and a huge pool deck ensconced in manicured tropical greenery.

It really is the place for those who love to eat in style with a formal dining room and open-air dining pavilions with beautiful views over the palm groves and the Gulf of Thailand.

Moon Treatments at the Spa at Four Seasons The Spa’s nurturing treatments rely on centuries-old healing techniques and herbal and holistic remedies deeply rooted in Thailand’s rich spa heritage.

The belief that the energies of the moon and its impact on human behaviour is held widely across many cultures and in Thailand, like in many Southeast Asian cultures, the lunar calendar helps determine the most auspicious time to start something new, including the best time to rejuvenate your body.

With that in mind the rituals and treatments offered at the spa vary during the new, waxing, full and waning phases of the moon. So if you are planning a luxury spa retreat at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, you might want to consult your astrologer before booking.

In fact, the Four Seasons Koh Samui is heaven for food lovers who appreciate the finer things in life and is where Executive Chef Alex Gares oversees two of the island's finest restaurants, the elegant Koh Thai Kitchen and Bar and the airy beach seafood restaurant, Pla Pla. In-villa dining is, as one would expect, superb and Chef Gares has recently added the bucket barbeque to the options on the menu for those who fancy a quiet night in

with a glass or two of wine and the gentle rhythm of the night.

Set away from any distractions, the spa at Four Seasons Koh Samui is a haven for tranquil relaxation and rejuvenation and includes a separate treatment pavilion for facials, waxing and other beauty treatments. The private treatment rooms each feature two indoor and two outdoor Thai-style massage beds, an outdoor shower, an outdoor bathtub and a steam

room or indoor rain shower. Selected treatments are also available in the beach pavilion.

Four Seasons Koh Samui 219 Moo 5, Ang Thong, Koh Samui, 84140, Thailand T: (+66) 220 78900 E: reservations.Thailand@fourseasons.com www.fourseasons.com/kohsamui

ASIADREAMS 93

ISLAND GETAWAYS

MALDIVES

AnaNtara Kihavah Maldives Villas Fall in love at first sight with a luxurious romantic escape on serene shores with tranquil private villas and timeless natural beauty at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.

S

ituated on Kihavah Huravalhi Island at Baa Atoll – one of the pristine islands in the Maldives archipelago – are the Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, a dream spot for honeymooners to explore their love while surrounded by the magnificent Indian Ocean.

Reachable by a breathtaking 30-minute seaplane flight from Male International Airport across a string of dazzling coral islands set in turquoise waters, the resort 94 ASIADREAMS

houses 79 expansive, private, coconutthatched roof pool villas – ranging from 260 sq.m. to 2,730 sq.m. in size – that are either perched over the water with panoramic sea views or settled along a stretch of secluded white sand beaches.

At the resort, couples can simply spend the day lounging in their private pool villas, only a few steps away from the warm sand, or over the crystal clear lagoon to the huts, which feature an infinity pool adjacent to a glass-bottom bathtub for two. Couples can

swing on a hammock suspended over the waters or take in the horizon on a wooden sundeck with chilled glasses of champagne from the in-suite bar.

After a moment of laid-back luxury, adventure-seeking couples can indulge in a day of exploration and memorable activities together, either above or below sea level.

The resort offers various activities including water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, jet-skiing, surfing, kayaking and others, overnight or hourly private yacht

A Lovers' Retreat Set on a secluded island, surrounded by clear blue waters and lush tropical greenery, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas at the Baa Atoll is the ideal spot for couples looking for some alone time. The hotel also provides several unique and enthralling activities that are exclusively designed to pamper newlyweds or longtime lovers during their stay.

sailing, exploring untouched islands, deep sea fishing, sea-bobbing water sleds and much more. Finally, succumb to some R&R at the award-winning Anantara SPA, which features over-water suites with built-in glass panels underneath the treatment beds – exposing the peaceful and kaleidoscopic underwater world – for a more blissful treatment.

Meanwhile, explore the resort’s array of gastronomic journeys with your significant other, starting from the underwater Sea

restaurant and moving on to the sizzling teppanyaki at Fire, the Asian-inspired food at Salt, the Sky rooftop bar, the Manzaru pool bar and restaurant, Plates for some Maldivian seafood and an outstanding romantic Dining by Design experience, in which couples personalize their dining experience, including the menu, time and location: from a private yacht during sunset or a secluded sandbank beneath the sparkling stars to anywhere else of their choosing.

Immerse in this surreal hidden paradise with your significant other for an unforgettable journey of a lifetime.

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Kihavah Huravalhi Island, Baa Atoll P.O Box 2014, Republic of Maldives T: (+960) 660 1020 E: kihavahmaldives@anantara.com www.anantara.com

ASIADREAMS 95

ISLAND GETAWAYS

MALDIVES

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa Experience the Maldives with your family in the most luxurious way, featuring white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, memorable activities and exceptional services at the ultimate tropical island resort.

H

op on a speedboat from Male for a short ride to a vibrant garden island married with Maldivian village allure at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. The resort occupies the 12 acres of an entire island in the North Male Atoll, which is one of the primeval islands in the Maldives archipelago.

beach bungalows have their own plunge pools in private garden settings, while the one- and two-bedroom villas step down into the lagoon and both are complete with large sundecks.

In addition, kids aged 12 and under can stay in the same room for free and are provided with special amenities – with prior notice – such as on-site babysitters, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa child-size bathrobes and slippers, boasts luxurious accommodations and complimentary baby and children’s facilities, perfect for families. The spacious toiletries, beach essentials for children 96 ASIADREAMS

aged 12 and under, children's menus, or free meals for children under six and more.

The resort offers a wide range of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, including coral reef building, surfing lessons, dolphin cruising, sunset fishing, an interactive and educational experience at the Marine Discovery Centre, island hopping, a snorkelling shark safari and other water sports such as scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, jet-skiing and more, permissible for children above the

A Family Getaway required minimum age. Families can also explore the Maldives further aboard the Four Seasons Explorer, a luxury threedeck catamaran that sails between Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

However, every family vacation needs some adult time too. Thus parents can peacefully leave their little ones entertained under the watchful eyes of the Kuda Mas small fish Kids’ Club, which opens daily for children 4-12 years old and offers a range of fantastic facilities, including the Kuda mini day spa, cooking

classes, scavenger hunts, indoor games, fish feeding and island exploring while relishing the adult facilities on the island such as The Island Spa, the Serenity pool or private yacht sailing.

Feeding the hungry tummies are four superb upscale restaurants: Baraabaru, Reef Club, Café Huraa and Kandu Grill..

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa North Malé Atoll, Maldives T: (+960) 664 4888 fourseasons.com/maldiveskh/

Four Seasons Resort Maldives truly knows how to cater to a family with members of all ages, given the wide selection of enjoyable and special facilities it makes available. This also strongly encourages family bonding time, which allows everyone to return home with the memory of many unforgettable experiences together.

Even the little lads and lasses – who are younger than 12 years – have their very own oasis called the Kuda Mas Kids’ Club, which provides a variety of interactive, educational and fun island activities every day.

ASIADREAMS 97

ISLAND GETAWAYS

CRUISE

Of The Seas Ovation

The latest cruiser from Royal Caribbean International brings the world's most advanced cruise ship to the Asia-Pacific with a number of state-of-the-art, first-at-sea features onboard.

98 ASIADREAMS

C

ruise ship holidays were once reserved for families and mature travellers, but the fleet of highly advanced, ultraluxurious ships from Royal Caribbean has now caught the attention of younger, savvier explorers looking for a luxury adventure unlike any other.

Cue Royal Caribbean’s latest cruiser: Ovation of the Seas. Dubbed the most advanced cruise ship in the world, this 18-deck, 4,905-person vessel comes complete with high-tech amenities and experiences that

have never before been seen on the ocean, as well as 18 different restaurants including Jamie's Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Sailing throughout the Asia-Pacific, Ovation of the Seas is perhaps the most luxurious cruise ship on the water. With accommodations that range from multistorey Loft Suites resembling stately homes, to groundbreaking Virtual Balcony staterooms that feature large digital screens displaying real-time ocean views, an Ovation cruise rivals some of the world's finest fivestar resorts.

Not only equipped with multiple swimming pools, dining destinations and casinos, the ship is famous for its exhilaratingly advanced experiences like the Ripcord by iFLY, a state-of-the-art skydiving simulation that lets guests fly through 160-kilometreper-hour winds, and The North Star, an aerial observatory offering breathtaking 360-degree views more than 90 metres above the sea from a jewel-like capsule.

Elevated high into the sky by a robotic arm, The North Star allows guests to take in the sights from a bird’s eye view wherever in the Asia-Pacific the ship happens to be.

ASIADREAMS 99

Another first-at-sea feature on Ovation of the Seas is The Bionic Bar – a robotic bar that lets guests place an order for their favourite cocktail via a tablet, before two incredible bionic arms create the perfect mix in tune to the resident DJ, shaking and stirring great cocktails without any human assistance.

Ovation of the Seas then goes above and beyond with its entertainment destinations.

Two70⁰ is a multipurpose, transformative lounge boasting 270-degree ocean views by day and an immersive, multimedia entertainment spectacular at night, fusing technology with entertainment using video screens, dramatic digital projection

100 ASIADREAMS

and high-flying aerialists and performers.

This futuristic entertainment hub joins the cruiser's 1,300-seat Royal Theatre, with aerial acrobatics, next-gen choreography and superb vocal performances straight from a Broadway stage.

If that wasn't enough to keep guests of all ages entertained, the cruiser also takes care of sporty travellers, too. Flowrider® is the ship's 40-foot wave surfing simulator, whilst SeaPlex is the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea and features a basketball court, tennis, roller skating, a rock-climbing wall, bumper cars and circus school.

Ovation of the Seas' maiden voyage set sail in April as she made her way from England to Asia on a fabulous 52-day Global Odyssey expedition. Her first homeport sailing season in China began at the beginning of June, cruising through Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, before she docks in Australia at the end of the year to start the Pacific Ocean 2016/17 season.

Ovation of the Seas Royal Caribbean International T: (+62) 21 319 9312 E: management@rcclindo.com www.royalcaribbean.com

Cocktail O'Clock Ovation of the Seas' Bionic Bar is a cocktail lover's dream. This unique and innovative robotic bar can create up to two cocktails per minute with practically endless combinations available. The bar is stocked with 30 different spirits and 21 different mixers – shaken, stirred, muddled or strained – making a toast to the perfect ocean getaway that much more magnificent.

ASIADREAMS 101

CITY GETAWAYS With exclusive, five-star hotels in the heart of worldclass wining, dining and shopping districts, these city getaways in Jakarta, Singapore and Macao are as luxurious as they come...

102 ASIADREAMS

CITY GETAWAYS

J A K A R TA

Culinary Oasis

Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta Rated among the top 15 hotels in Southeast Asia by 2015’s Conde Nast Traveler USA and the Reader’s Choice Award, this five-star hotel offers 994 sizeable, grand and classy rooms to ensure a highly refined staying experience.

O

ne of the most prestigious luxury hotels in Jakarta, Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta is the epitome of high-end hospitality. Business and pleasure travellers alike will appreciate the hotel’s lavish rooms, which come with stunning views of the iconic Senayan Golf Course or the magnificent skyline of Jakarta.

Guests staying in the Mulia Executive Room, or all the way up to the hotel’s most prized The Duke Suite, can enjoy exclusive personalized services at the Mulia Executive Lounge, as well as other amenities such as refreshments throughout the day, afternoon

tea, evening cocktails from 6PM to 8PM and access to an exclusive designated breakfast area at the Café.

Contributing to a blissful stay is the modern and chic Mulia spa, which offers widespread tailor-made massages that blend Oriental and Western techniques, as well as other body and soul treatments that include foot reflexology, pedicures and manicures. The spa is open until midnight.

Overlooking a 360-degree panoramic view of the city’s skyline, guests can enjoy a quick or extensive workout at the Mulia Fitness Centre, equipped with modern fitness training and a

Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta offers some of the best globally and locally inspired dining experiences in town.

Head to Orient8 for delectable French and pan-Asian delicacies in a very welcoming ambience and an interior that has a touch of French colonial style, while Table8 offers authentic Cantonese and Szechuan cuisines made from premium ingredients imported from the mainland. Head down to CJ’s Bar to strip away your weariness and satiate your thirst with a variety of wines and spirits accompanied by hip music in a comfortable, sumptuous ambiance.

personal trainer to help pump your routine up to the next level.

Enjoy the fitness centre saunas and steam rooms and keep things well balanced with yoga or pilates classes. For a post-workout relaxation, the poolside offers soothing drinks and light refreshments.

Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta Jalan Asia Afrika Senayan Jakarta Selatan 10270, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 574 7777 www.themulia.com/jakarta

ASIADREAMS 103

CITY GETAWAYS

J A K A R TA

Sights & Shops

Grand Hyatt Jakarta Strategically located in the heart of the bustling metropolitan, Grand Hyatt Jakarta offers top-notch services for travellers looking to find a finely cultured home base.

G

rand Hyatt Jakarta is a five-star luxury hotel providing guests with excellent customer service and hosting some of the city’s most extravagant venues. The hotel is home to 427 hotel rooms and suites, large event venues and a grand ballroom.

The Club Olympus Fitness Center is a comprehensive fitness studio complemented by a 43m lagoon-shaped swimming pool, tennis courts, a 480m jogging track, whirlpool baths, a sauna and steam rooms.

The hotel is also a mere 40 minutes away from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport,

104 ASIADREAMS

which means easy access for international travellers coming and going. Grand Hyatt Jakarta’s longstanding name and reputation have established the hotel as one of the most prominent hospitality facilities in Jakarta.

Dining at Grand Hyatt Jakarta is a delightful experience for the discerning traveller. In addition to 24-hour in-room dining service, enjoy Indonesian fare and international cuisine at Grand Café, al fresco dining at Seafood Terrace and a traditional Japanese dining experience at Sumire. Seafood and steak lovers will be thrilled at the dining experience offered by award-winning C’s steak and

First-timers in Jakarta might want to check out the many historic sites, buildings and museums situated conveniently close to Grand Hyatt Jakarta in order to explore the city’s vast history. These travellers can utilise the free-ofcharge Jakarta City tour bus, which stops at the iconic roundabout just outside the hotel, to explore nine famous historic and cultural sites in Jakarta. If you’re still up for shopping afterwards, Grand Hyatt Jakarta is adjacent to the city’s most comprehensive and sophisticated shopping mall, Plaza Indonesia, and within walking distance of another of Jakarta’s stylish shopping malls, Grand Indonesia.

seafood restaurant as they enjoy the freshest seafood and prime cuts, as well as a unique farm-to-table dining experience. When all your responsibilities are handled, head on over to Fountain Lounge, one of the city’s favourite spots for an afternoon tea or evening drinks or to burgundy, the hotel’s wine bar, for a chill-out evening.

Grand Hyatt Jakarta Jalan M.H. Thamrin Kav. 28-30 Jakarta 10350, Indonesia, T: (+62) 21 2992 1234 E: jakarta.grand@hyatt.com www.jakarta.grand.hyatt.com

CITY GETAWAYS

J A K A R TA

A Familys Treat With rich Indonesian aesthetics, supreme facilities, a mind for comfort and exceptional butler services - while adjacent to one of the largest malls in the city - the magnificent Raffles Jakarta hotel is the ultimate choice for you and your family to experience during your luxurious getaway.

Raffles Jakarta

Beyond the busy streets of the vibrant metropolis is a soothing and luxurious haven that combines glamour and style with leisure and services, all under the roof of Raff les Jakarta.

S

ituated at the core of Jakarta's golden triangle, Raffles Jakarta is a celebration of artistry and an homage to the iconic Indonesian artist Hendra Gunawan as some of his most imperative works are scattered throughout the elegant interiors with trademark vibrant colours and strong flowing lines. The hotel is equipped with 173 expansive and luxurious rooms that are some of the largest in Jakarta with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the energetic capital city.

At the hotel, guests can kick back and relax while being taken care of by the gracious Raffles butlers with their impeccable service, who will attend to their every personalised need and ensure that every activity planned proceeds seamlessly for the entire family.

Meanwhile, guests can enjoy a shopping spree at the Ciputra World mall that is directly connected to the building, or reward their palates at one of the fantastic restaurants established in the hotel. From Arts Café to The Writers Bar and Navina pool bar, each one with its own unique atmosphere and superb

world-class cuisine, the restaurants offer a delightful range of international culinary experiences suitable for the entire family. Also, indulge in more special delicacies, presented differently at each restaurant, during the Culinary Weekend Feast.

Raffles Jakarta Ciputra World 1 Jalan Prof. Dr. Satrio Kav. 3-5 Jakarta 12940, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2988 0888 www.raffles.com/jakarta

Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta Having reopened its doors in October 2009 after a comprehensive renovation, Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta is an excellent choice for a luxurious 21 st century getaway.

I

n 2016, Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta received its fourth consecutive TripAdvisor Award as one of the Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Indonesia and was the only city hotel on Java to be listed and given an award based on guest reviews.

This lavish hotel comprises 272 spacious guestrooms, state-of-the-art meeting and banqueting facilities and a relaxing retreat, with exemplary personalised service in luxurious surroundings. In addition, the hotel offers a variety of exciting and upscale dining concepts, ranging from Asian to European cuisines, which includes Lyon; an authentic French restaurant; Cinnamon, serving Asian

and international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual setting; The Mandarin Cake Shop, presenting the finest homemade pastries, breads, cakes and premium chocolate in the city, and one of Jakarta’s most fashionable nightspots, the MO Bar, overlooking Jakarta’s main thoroughfare.

Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta Jalan M.H. Thamrin, Jakarta 10310, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2993 8888 E: mojkt-reservations@mohg.com www.mandarinoriental.com

A Bon Vivant’s Oasis Located in the heart of Jakarta’s central business district, in addition to the four award-winning restaurants, the Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta is within walking distance to extravagant buildings and malls that house some of Jakarta’s very best dining and entertainment establishments. Thus it is the perfect spot for travellers who have a big appetite for the finest consumables.

ASIADREAMS 105

CITY GETAWAYS

J A K A R TA

Keraton at the Plaza, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta A beautiful place to relax as well as a prestigious business spot in Jakarta, Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta offers superb facilities and the utmost quality in service standards for travellers with all kinds of needs.

T

his five-star hotel, which is located in a strategic area on Jalan M.H. Thamrin, is connected directly to Plaza Indonesia, one of the most luxurious shopping centres in Jakarta, and The Plaza office building and business centre. Each of the hotel’s 140 spacious and ultra-luxurious guest rooms and suites are crafted with luxury and authentic Indonesian designs.

New Heights of Luxury Luxury pleasure seekers looking to be completely pampered will be more than satisfied knowing that Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jakarta always provides greatly satisfying firstclass services. One of the hotel’s most distinguishing services is the 24-hour butler who is constantly ready to tend to all your needs and wants.

stress and tension at Keraton Spa, a place that promises body and facial treatments at the skillful hands of the spa’s experienced therapists. A wide selection of treatments The hotel has two restaurants where you can chill and enjoy an extensive selection of dishes and massages, including a spa package for couples, is available to pamper your body and beverages. Bengawan Restaurant is the and mind. hotel’s signature restaurant that serves fivestar authentic dishes and probably the best Keraton at The Plaza, a Luxury Sunday brunches in town. As for afternoon Collection Hotel, Jakarta tea, cocktails and wine, you can find them at Jalan M.H. Thamrin No. 15, Menteng, Keraton Lounge.

Jakarta Pusat 10350, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 5068 0000 After a long day of meetings or outdoor www.keratonattheplazajakarta.com activities, guests can be relieved of all their

Fairmont Jakarta

With elegantly appointed accommodations in one of Jakarta’s hottest business and entertainment areas, Fairmont Jakarta is more than just another home for travelers.

O

pened in January 2015, Fairmont Jakarta has grabbed the limelight. With unrivalled views of the Jakarta skyline, the stunning property is strategically located in Senayan Square, a one-stop complex in Jakarta's Central Business District that combines high-end shopping, entertainment, offices and apartments.

Fairmont Jakarta offers plenty of options in terms of dining facilities. Aside from Spectrum, the hotel’s spectacular all-day-dining restaurant that uses a buffet concept, the hotel has now opened its highly anticipated K22 semi-outdoor bar on the 22nd floor. The trendy venue elevates the evening hangout experience for guests. Just across from K22 is VIEW Gastrobar, offering the best of creative drinks and culinary fusion with the Sapori Deli, Peacock Lounge and Barong Bar. highest level of ingredients. Other dining Peacock Lounge, Barong Bar, 1945, House of establishments guests can enjoy include Yuen, Senshu and Motion Blue.

106 ASIADREAMS

All-Out Urban Fun Fairmont Jakarta is strategically located within walking distance of the gorgeous fairways and neat greens of Senayan National Golf Club, as well as of the Gelora Bung Karno sports arena, where you can do a myriad of sporting activities. If shopping or mall trotting is more your thing, Plaza Senayan is located just next door and Senayan City is only a 10-minute walk away. Between these two malls, you will not run out of things to buy or cool places to hang out for the duration of your stay.

Fairmont Jakarta Jalan Asia Afrika No. 8 Gelora Bung Karno Jakarta 10270, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 2970 3333 E: Reservations.Jakarta@Fairmont.com www.fairmont.com/jakarta

CITY GETAWAYS

SINGAPORE

For Culinary Aficionados

Resorts World Sentosa A cornucopia of adventures, cuisines and accommodations, Resorts World Sentosa actually does have it all.

O

ccupying 49 hectares on the island of Sentosa on the southern coast of Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa is practically its own universe of diverse pleasures and experiences. Accessible by monorail or a heart-stopping cable car ride, the massive properties of this resort include six unique and intriguing hotels, a destination spa, an action-filled casino, a Universal Studios theme park, an Adventure Cove Water Park, the globally acclaimed S.E.A. Aquarium and some of the finest culinary sites in Singapore.

This staggering assortment of activities and adventures will leave even the most seasoned traveller agog at the sheer number of possibilities. A good place to start would be to choose from the famously fantastic accommodation options and explore which would best suit your needs.

Those on a romantic getaway would do well to choose a Beach Villa and enjoy a private pool, wonderful views of the ocean and the surrounding tropical flora, private butler service and exclusive access to the simply singular, world renowned, ESPA spa. For an unforgettably unique holiday, an Ocean Suite, adjacent to Resorts World Sentosa’s

Recognised as one of Asia’s finest restaurants, L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, brainchild of celebrity chef Joël Robuchon himself, is just one of many fantastic culinary options available at Resorts World Sentosa. L'Atelier's spectacular dishes constantly enjoy the praise of food critics and culinary connoisseurs from around the globe and will dazzle you with delicate flavours and astonishing presentations.

S.E.A. Aquarium, can be your window to a wondrous undersea world. Designed as a two-level townhouse, you can soak in a bubbling Jacuzzi on the upper level, while below there is a perfect view of diverse undersea life as each suite is equipped with glass undersea viewing vistas that get you face to face with the many colourful creatures of S.E.A. Aquarium.

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

ASIADREAMS 107

CITY GETAWAYS

SINGAPORE

Fashion-Centric

W Singapore - Sentosa Cove Relax, dine, socialise and let loose – all on the resort island of Sentosa, only minutes away from Singapore’s most exciting attractions.

N

estled in a quiet corner of Sentosa Island, overlooking a small peaceful marina and surrounded by lush tropical flora, sits W Singapore – Sentosa Cove. Just as the surrounding landscape is blooming with life, this vibrant property explodes with excitement. As you first walk in you will be taken in by the spectacular design.

Walk up the grand staircase and marvel at the contemporary layout, furnishings and artwork that are integrated flawlessly into the interior design. Witness a spectacular view of the sprawling cove from the balcony of your truly unique accommodations. Take a holiday from mundane hotel rooms and upgrade to one

108 ASIADREAMS

Those who appreciate fashion and design will be dazzled by The W Singapore – Sentosa Cove. The hotel sports an artfully modern design with chic accoutrements. Every room, suite, hallway and ballroom is filled with dazzling mood lighting and arresting artwork that is woven into the design of the hotel itself.

of W Singapore’s fantastically designed and outfitted rooms and suites.

creatively crafted cocktail or some delicious poolside bites.

Escape the heat and crowds of the city and indulge in an acclaimed signature luxury spa treatment at AWAY® Spa. The rainforest design of the spa soothes visitors and entices them to descend gently into complete relaxation as trained therapists make use of the latest spa technology to ease every tension.

SKIRT, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a completely reimagined steakhouse that prepares only the choicest cuts cooked on a South American-style parilla grill. With succulent seafood, thick steaks and the skill of world-class chefs, SKIRT has been receiving rave reviews and delivering fiery evenings of beautifully prepared cuisine.

Another way to stay cool during the day is to enjoy a dip in WET®, a relaxing and modern pool area surrounded by beautiful landscape and shaded canopies. Enjoy the sun, wade in the water and swim up to WET® Bar for a

W Singapore - Sentosa Cove 21 Ocean Way, Singapore, 098374 T: (+65) 6808 7288 E: whotels.singapore@whotels.com www.wsingaporesentosacove.com

CITY GETAWAYS

MACAO

The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central R ich history, premier retail experiences, excellent dining options and a vibrant entertainment scene sum up the exciting city of Macau, where The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central stands to redefine the meaning of a luxury stay experience.

T

he Cotai Strip, also affectionately known as Asia’s Las Vegas, is the dazzling city centre for the elite. The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central is located in the middle of this coveted strip with a gathering of the world’s most illustrious brands in retail, gastronomy and world-class entertainment. By establishing your home base at The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central you gain complete freedom to roam the city in search of excitement and adventure, since you know that everything else will be well taken care of afterwards.

The hotel offers 400 guest rooms and suites from which guests can enjoy the captivating views of the city, while enveloped in the comfort of their sumptuously appointed accommodations.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, luxurious Remède bathroom amenities and plush bedding, these residential havens are a sanctuary of luxuriant comforts.

Balancing refined décor and elegant comfort, the Deluxe Rooms at The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central provide a luxurious sanctuary of sophistication with a choice of king bed, expansive windows offering alluring views of the swimming pool or the vibrant Macau city skyline, connecting rooms for accompanying travellers and other first-class privileges.

For a truly luxurious stay experience, the whopping 477sq.m. Presidential Suite exemplifies refined living, complete with beautifully crafted oriental-inspired furnishings, a wealth of modern comforts and captivating views of Cotai. The epitome of ornamental opulence, this expansive suite features three bedrooms, including an exquisitely appointed master bedroom, four bathrooms, separate spacious living and dining areas that comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests and a private Entertainment Room equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Guests won’t have to neglect their fitness regime when they can visit

the private exercise room fitted with TechnoGym® technology, while a separate private massage room offers guests a pampering Iridium Spa experience in the comfort of their lavish accommodations.

The St. Regis Macao, Cotai Central Estrada Do Istmo, S/N, Cotai, Macau T: (+853) 2882 8898 www.stregismacao.com

Resplendent Personalised Service Whether it’s unpacking and packing, beverage services, garment pressing or anything else, the signature St. Regis Butler Service will ensure an unrivalled experience. While in residence, you can let this bespoke service tend to your detailed needs as you go about your pleasure cruise in town.

ASIADREAMS 109

LUXURY EXPERIENCE

Widen your world with Turkish Airlines Turkish Airlines flies to 284 destinations in 113 countries, so wherever you are heading there is sure to be a wonderful experience waiting.

110 ASIADREAMS

W

hen you are facing a long-haul f light, it is reassuring to know you are f lying business class with Turkish Airlines. Recipient of Best Airline Europe by Sk y trax five years in a row and Airline of The Year 2016 by Air Transpor t News Awards, Turkish Airlines has one of the youngest f leets in Europe and truly spectacular lounges,

recognized in the 2015 Sk y trax passenger rankings as Best Business Class Lounge and Best Business Class Lounge Dining.

So if your route places you in the vicinit y of Istanbul, or any airpor t ser ving Turkish Airlines, indulge yourself and f ly on this award-winning airline.

ASIADREAMS 111

On Board Having undergone the smooth check-in and indulged in the incredible lounge at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, it’s time to explore the business class cabin and, prior to departure, enjoy a range of welcome drinks.

The cabin has an elegant, calming blueslate colour palette and wide seats that are adjustable all the way to fully flat, making it easy for everyone to find a comfortable position. There is the added benefit of a fixed ottoman, a boon for all those looking to sit back, stretch their legs out and read in comfort. You can also store a bag underneath, making it easily accessible without having to get up.

Turkish Airlines has thought carefully about what passengers are looking for during a flight and provide a USB port by the seat, as well as a port to plug in your own headphones – if you prefer those to the free ones. In-flight entertainment is provided on wide touch-screens with a range of movies, games and music.

Super-soft Bohca sleeping sets are available, with pillows, a seat/mattress cover and a fluffy duvet or blanket, so you can pull up the slide partition for privacy from your neighbour and sleep, or just snuggle down

112 ASIADREAMS

with your Kindle or iPad and while away the time resting.

The amenity kits are designed by Crabtree & Evelyn or Porsche Design and include all the hygiene and comfort products you could need – from eye mask and ear plugs, to body lotion and lip balm, Turkish Airlines has thought of it all.

Gourmet Cuisine All passengers are welcomed on board not only by the cabin crew, but also by the Turkish Airlines Flying Chefs, who together create that unique atmosphere of Turkish hospitality above the clouds.

These sky-chefs help the cabin crew with the preparation and presentation of the award-winning menus that are surely a treat for all gourmands. Ensuring restaurantquality service, the presentation is premium with custom-designed porcelain dishes, appropriate glassware, nicely weighted cutlery, tablecloths and cloth serviettes.

A pleasant touch for evening meals is the LED tea light, setting the mood for a truly “elevated” candlelight dinner.

Following Turkish tradition, a delightfully rich selection of hors d’oeuvres is served from a cart, followed by a soup service and a selection of Turkish and international

entrées, fruit, cheese and dessert, all of which are beautifully presented and laid out for your sensory pleasure. The chefs are happy to advise and accommodate special requests.

It is clear that Turkish Airlines works hard to achieve its goal of ensuring that passengers experience well-prepared and served innovative cuisine to create pleasant memories of the flight.

The drinks menu is extensive and the full bar includes soft drinks, juices and cocktails, as well as an assortment of Turkish and international beers, wines and champagne.

Turkish coffee is, of course, available, alongside a range of health-centric hot and cold teas, which all have their health benefits listed to aid your choice.

Breakfast is similarly excellent. You just check off any food and drink items listed on your customised form and it will be brought to you at breakfast time.

The Lounges Turkish Airlines has gone above and beyond with the design and facilities of its lounges at Istanbul Atatürk Airport. The food and drink are catered by Turkish Do & Co, which also looks after the in-flight service, so high quality is assured. Passengers can indulge in innumerable tasty delights, including

traditional Turkish snacks, as well as a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Arriving passengers can use the 250 sq.m. arrival lounge that allows busy business people the opportunity to shower, have their clothes ironed and send and reply to e-mails after their flight. The Wi-Fi is free, printers and computers are available and if you have time to relax before you head out for your meetings, there is a library, TVs and food and drinks.

However, it is the departure lounge that is truly breath-taking. The design is magical, making the vast space that accommodates 1,000 guests a welcoming, palatial sanctuary with arches and delicate, lacy dividers separating the areas, a small tea garden and plenty of plants. The two-storey lounge has a spiral staircase that sweeps between the floors, representing the connectivity that Turkish Airlines provides to its global customer base.

With a live pianist, neck and shoulder massages, a cinema, teleconference room, golf simulator, sleep facilities, all the obligatory business connectivity and a stunning kids’ playroom that has a Scalextric race track, among a myriad of other facilities, spending time in the departure lounge is an absolute pleasure. www.turkishairlines.com

ASIADREAMS 113

INSPIRATION

Living

The Indonesian Dream

114 ASIADREAMS

Although Indonesia has, in recent years, seen an influx of big-name international hotel brands flocking to the archipelago, Padma Hotels is one of only a few Indonesian-born luxury chains that's staying at the head of the pack and upholding The Indonesian Dream.

A

lthough Indonesia is renowned for its rich culture and age-old traditions, the hospitality industry is slowly progressing towards a more modernistic approach, often favouring contemporary, universal designs over the unique interiors and manual crafts found here in Indonesia.

more about the secret of the Padma Hotels reign. We were lucky enough to talk to Padma Hotels' director of operations, Tjipjanto Soerjanto, about the brand's legendary history. We talked about the ongoing strive for perfection, the value of respecting the land and the importance of preserving The Indonesian Dream.

Standing up against this trend, Padma Hotels is the Indonesian-born brand that pays homage to its homeland. Established more than 25 years ago when it launched Padma Resort Legian in Bali, still to this day Padma Hotels remains at the forefront of the region's hospitality industry.

Q: Today you're the director of operations for one of Indonesia's finest hotel brands, but how did you first enter into the hospitality industry?

Following the most recent opening of Padma Resort Ubud in February, the group's third location, we wanted to learn

A: When I was studying for my MBA in the US, the opportunity to join Padma Hotels arose. At that time I didn't have any hotel experience so I moved back to Jakarta to the Hilton to work as duty manager and later as sales executive to gain a couple of

years' experience. After that I joined the Padma group when Padma Resort Legian was still being constructed. We didn't even have an office so it was my duty to establish the office, begin the sales and marketing and start building the team from the ground up. I went from director of sales and marketing to financial controller, then to general manager and now I stand as director of operations.

Q: You oversee the three Padma resorts in Bandung, Legian and Ubud, as well as the Padma-managed hotel in Karawang.

What signature Padma touches can guests find at all three locations and what is totally unique to each?

A: What you can find in every Padma hotel is a local and friendly team. In every resort

ASIADREAMS 115

we incorporate the local culture according to the location itself – we are a wholly local brand so we are proud of our nation. In Bandung we have a lot of West Javanese touches, whilst Legian and Ubud are both very Balinese in terms of architecture and interiors. I started to get into gardening about 15 years ago, so we also really work on the landscapes as this is an important element for a resort. I've brought lots of exotic plants from around Indonesia and they just keep growing! In terms of difference though, the atmosphere at each location is unique. In Ubud the view is pure nature with larger, more airy rooms, whilst in Legian guests can enjoy the surrounding buzz of restaurants and bars, yet experience total serenity once inside. In the city of Bandung, we're all about treating our weekenders and business travellers to magnificent meeting and conference facilities.

116 ASIADREAMS

Q: With hotels in different cities, how you you manage your time between the three?

A: I spend most of my time in Bali, especially at Padma Resort Legian, and I go to Jakarta once a month with side trips to Bandung and Karawang. It's still manageable at this time, but as we continue to expand we will need to also grow our team. It's definitely a challenge for us as we're a local team that's going national.

Q: So what does a typical working day look like for you?

A: In the morning I do the usual hotel checks, but since I also handle the corporate matters, I'm involved in lots of renovation projects too. This means dealing with architects, interior designers, landscapers and consultants, so it's not really the typical

day you might expect from a director of operations. Either way, I always make sure I end my day with a good one-hour swim to stay healthy and balanced.

Q: Padma Resort Ubud recently opened this February. Can you tell us more about the concept and what guests can look forward to when staying at the resort?

A: The concept is about total relaxation for our guests: not only luxury accommodations, but also going back to nature. We believe in preserving the land so the total area of the hotel is 20 hectares but the built-up area is less than 10 percent. It's surrounded by lots of natural greenery and resembles a botanical garden with plenty of space for our guests to enjoy. If guests don't want to leave the resort, they don't have to because within the property we are able to

“I am never afraid of competition, competition only makes us stronger.” offer lots of outdoor activities like trekking and cycling around the forests and rice fields, as well as luxury facilities like our spa and gourmet dining destinations.

Q: You have fabulous artwork pieces in each Padma location, but what's your favourite aspect of Padma Hotels?

A: I love the artwork too, especially the sculptures we have in the garden of Padma Resort Legian, like the signature Balinese dragon in the garden. I happen to know a lot of the artists as all of them are Indonesian – we haven't purchased any art internationally.

Collecting art is so addictive – once you see a great piece it's difficult to resist.

Q: It seems that with every hotel you open, success follows. What's the secret?

A: It's all about evolving and maintaining a continued dedication to quality. Our mission is to always create the most memorable experiences for our guests and to create the best resort possible.We might never achieve perfection – as no one really ever does – but we always aspire to it.

Q: So how do you see Padma Hotels faring over the years within Indonesia's competitive hotel industry?

A: I am never afraid of competition; competition only makes us stronger. We just do our best to always reinvent ourselves and think about what we will do next.

Q: What's next on the horizon for you?

Do you have any other projects you're working on?

A: We have plans to expand further. We will continue the Indonesian dream for now and open more four- and five-star hotels in major cities around the archipelago, especially within Java. The resorts will stay in Bali for now, but city hotels in Surabaya are certainly on the horizon.

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

A: You've got to have passion – otherwise forget about it! www.padmahotels.com

ASIADREAMS 117

INSPIRATION

Building on Your

Strengths Once the Hilton Group's youngest general manager in Southeast Asia and now the general manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta - Diponegoro, Markus Kaliss is an approachable person who appreciates potential and celebrates family values.

Constantly working with a clear vision in mind, Markus showed us why it is important to have a solid foundation to build a lifelong career.

118 ASIADREAMS

Q: Could you start by relating the highlights of your career so far and how you ended up here at DoubleTree?

A: In the beginning I always wanted to study hospitality, which I never really did. In order to learn English I moved to the UK and tried to get a job for around six months before going to one of those fancy schools in Switzerland. I went to five interviews in London and got five offers, one of the offers was to be an assistant night manager at Hilton London at Heathrow, and I was quite excited about it. Airport hotels are very different – they're quiet during the day, but fully booked almost every single night.

Everybody who’s somebody stays there too, from royalty to A-list celebrities. It was an interesting time, but a bit difficult because it was pretty hard to have a social life.

After a while Hilton moved me to Cardiff, Wales as a front office manager. It was a lot quieter place with lots of sheep and well connected with nature. A very different experience, after which I wanted to do something else – I wanted to do revenues – so I had the choice

of the Maldives or Toronto as revenue manager. It was an easy choice and I became the first revenue manager in the Maldives property.

I enjoyed the three years there, but I was happy to wear shoes again when I was appointed director of business development at Hilton Kuala Lumpur.

After a good while I decided to go back to operations at Hilton Hefei, China, as director of operations. We were running at 90 percent occupancy most of the time, although it was the time of the crisis. Hefei was completely unaffected and business was booming while other hotels in the region were struggling. I was there for 18 months, before moving to our property in Lingshan for my first general manager position. It was a very exciting post where we had to somehow manage massive overcrowding – at one point we had to accommodate close to 2,000 guests in our 500 rooms.

When I moved to Jakarta afterwards it felt like going on a honeymoon. In China, most people don’t speak English.

Guests rarely ask to speak to the general manager and when they do its always

to complain. Here in Jakarta, almost everyone speaks English to some extent and some actually ask to speak to me to say “Thank you”. And so here I am, happy as ever.

Q: I noticed how you went through pretty much every single department in the industry earlier on. I gather this solid foundation you’ve built is crucial in shaping your career.

A: That is right. I was in housekeeping.

I’ve been a breakfast chef, doing the omelettes and manning stations. I was in reception, which I enjoyed. I was also in finance, banqueting, purchasing – really every single department on the rank-and-file level. This really gave me a solid foundation to build on. In all of my briefings and orientations I can really say that I’ve been in their shoes. People seem to think general managers grow on trees, but that’s not the case with me. I’m happy to now understand the entire aspect of the business from top to bottom.

Q: You’ve been in Jakarta for well over a year now. To what elements of the city do you feel most connected?

A: The people and food. The thing is, Jakarta is not Asia for beginners. That would be Singapore, where everything is clean, organized and you can find whatever you need. I wouldn’t say Jakarta is messy, but it's more full of adventure, so to speak. For me, it's more originally Asia than the other modern cities, but on the other hand there’s so much development going on in a lot of industries including F&B and hospitality. Overall, I’m really enjoying Jakarta – not to mention other cities like Jogja and Lombok, where there are so many things to see.

Q: What do you think is DoubleTree by Hilton’s distinguishing feature that sets it apart from the rest in terms of offering a unique experience?

A: The main point we have is a resort feel in an unexpected destination. If you come on the weekends, you will see families enjoying time together in the pool and it really doesn’t feel like a

120 ASIADREAMS

hotel in an urban setting at all. We have a kids’ club and a pool bar in addition to our family connecting rooms that guarantee access to ensure the whole family will not have to be separated.

Another strong point is we’re a very strong MICE hotel. It is very convenient to get to us for meetings and such because the immediate area is never too congested. We even had to convert our business centre to another meeting room to accommodate demand.

There’s also a plan for an extension to build more meeting facilities. These features give us a unique competitive edge over competitors because at the same time, as I said, we are also very attractive for families looking for the whole package. In this sense, we have our own niche and I’m very happy with that.

Q: Could you please tell us about your leadership philosophy around the hotel?

A: It all depends on the situation, I suppose. I clearly communicate what I want. People know what my vision is for the hotel. Being the second general manager, who was brought in to turn the hotel around from a rather shaky start with only three months to work with, of course I had to come in with a very clear picture of what I want this hotel to be.

I also like to work with young people who have promising potential, to whom I usually give promotions. Why? First of all, I was lucky to get the same chance when I was in their position. Second of all, in my experience, if you give capable people a chance, they will work hard and impress, so it’s a win-win for all. I was never really let down by them.

So, do I run a tight ship? Yes, I prefer to know exactly what’s going on, but I also give plenty of room and opportunity to grow. There’s nothing better than seeing people develop into

their full potential, even if sometimes it means they leave the hotel.

Q: You were determined about what you wanted to do since way back, but what do you imagine you would have become if you didn’t get into the hospitality industry?

A: Probably something creative like an architect. I’m quite creative – some even say crazy – when it comes to creating concepts or ideas. I would say practically crazy. Crazy with a reason.

Like the time just recently during our Easter promotion: They were taking a picture with the Easter bunny on the grass, but I had them move the whole thing to the swimming pool on this floating bed and it turned out really cool. That’s why I love my job.

I have this complexity, creativity and controlling sides, and I can focus on either side as necessary.

Q: We know there are a lot of young hoteliers out there striving to make it in the industry. Markus, what advice would you give to these individuals?

A: For me, a foundation is really important. A lot of my younger staff back in China were really ambitious and thirsty for promotions. I said, “If you want a high building, you need a strong foundation.” I spent around six years on team-member level before moving up to assistant manager level and this gave me a really strong base to go forward. I think people should be ambitious, but at the same time be realistic. It won’t be realistic, for example, to be a general manager in this type of hotel at 25 years old with only a high school degree that mama and papa paid for. Education is important, but a step-by-step approach and planning is important. Also, never stop learning because it’s a vast industry and you need to work on your own development.

Q: What do you do to unwind?

A: Play with the kids and travel.

Obviously, it It is not easy for kids to grow up living in a hotel. I take them to eat at our restaurants only once a week because I prefer if we just eat at home with food coming from a normal kitchen. Recently we went to Australia where we stayed at a farm because I want my kids to understand that milk comes from cows, not from room service, for instance.

Q: Any final message for our readers?

A: I suppose my message goes to anyone who has not yet really seen how different we are in Jakarta. We have all the best elements of the city, such as convenience and innovation, but the product that we have – a resort experience in the middle of the city – is unique. www.JakartaDiponegoro.DoubleTree.com

ASIADREAMS 121

INSPIRATION

Unyielding

Desire To Succeed

In exclusive, never-before-seen coverage, Asia Dreams visited the highest hotel in Indonesia, The Westin Jakarta, for an up-close and personal chat with General Manager Arun Kumar. An approachable and humble leader, Arun likened the industry to filmmaking – a combination of complex ingredients and processes that seems simple, but only on the outside.

122 ASIADREAMS

Q: Please can you briefly share your journey so far career-wise and how you ended up here?

A: I started as a management trainee in Mumbai with Accor and grew through various positions in sales, F&B and front office. Then I moved on to open the Hyatt Regency Mumbai, after which I started my long journey with Marriott in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Jakarta and the US Virgin Islands. My last position was managing the operations of the iconic Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in St. Thomas before I returned to Indonesia with Starwood, to open The Westin Jakarta.

The journey has taken me about 20 years and has given me the opportunity to see many parts of the world, but Jakarta has always had a special place in my heart. When I was transferred out from Jakarta after almost four years here, me and my family were leaving for the airport and there were about 200 associates lining up from the elevator landing to the driveway to say goodbye to me and my family. That side of Indonesia and the people is something that words cannot express. So when I got this opportunity to come back to open The Westin Jakarta, the only answer was, “Absolutely yes!”

Q: I understand you lived in Jakarta from 2008 to 2011. What has changed between now and then in terms of the hospitality industry?

The Westin Jakarta, the tallest hotel in Indonesia.

A: Jakarta has always been a very dynamic city, full of life. The hospitality industry has always been an integral part of the culture of the city and still is. In terms of hotels, the city has many more hotels in all segments and the market is now beginning to be more consumer driven. The huge inventory addition in the four-star and three-star segment, the downturn in the oil, mining and banking industries has taken the cream away from the five-star segment. However, like everything else it is a matter of time before it comes back, as it is a normal cycle in many new world markets. All the new efforts to upgrade the city's infrastructure will help position Jakarta as a world city.

Q: Would you kindly tell us how you feel about joining The Westin Jakarta and how important these early stages of development are?

A: Earlier in my career, I opened hotels or had been a part of a task force opening hotels in

many capacities. However, this will be my first opening as a general manager. As such it is a little more special to me. Is it difficult? Yes. Challenging? Yes. Exhausting? Yes. I walk around the hotel every day, seeing every little detail, slowly coming together and falling into place. I can tell you, it will be a beautiful product and a great hotel. To express this feeling or coin the emotions into words is very difficult. We have very understanding owners who encourage us to go for quality. The team is growing quickly as we stage ourselves to open the hotel on Quarter 3 this year.

This early stage is very important and critical to the long-term business model establishment of the hotel. Selecting the team members carefully and taking the time to meet all the applicants is also important, it sets the tone for the correct positioning of the brand. This is the time to start working

as a team and building relationships among the team members. It is also very important to keep the team together by creating a common time for the full team. We sit together for lunch every day and chat, joke and laugh together.

Q: So what are some of the things The Westin Group has to offer that will ensure a competitive edge?

A: As a brand, the Westin is very powerful and well-known for its innovative edge and very clearly defined brand programs. For instance, when we launched the Heavenly Bed, it was a game changer in the industry in the way hotels looked at a good night’s sleep, which is actually the very basic of what we offer – a place where people sleep. Wellness is a big part of our brand pillars, which are Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, Play Well. All this, coupled with the power of the

ASIADREAMS 123

Starwood Preferred Guest Program (SPG), will make us a brand to reckon with.

“For a Better You” is our mission statement.

Q: What about The Westin Jakarta itself in terms of its distinction and what it will have in terms of F&B outlet?

A: The Westin Jakarta, the highest hotel in Indonesia, is set in the tallest building in Indonesia. This is already a huge statement for us. We have 272 guest rooms and suites, a ballroom and banquet facilities. The Heavenly Spa, Fitness Studio and the swimming pool are on level 50 – again, the highest wellness facilities in Indonesia. Seasonal taste will be our main stay all day dining restaurant at level 51. The Henshin will be a game changer in the Jakarta's food scene spread over 67, 68 and 69 level that have a rooftop alfresco bar, lounge, dining area and private rooms.

Q: Some people seem to think general managers live high and comfortable lives, but can you tell us what it takes to become a general manager and a good one at that?

A: I don’t know about the high and the comfortable life, but speaking from my experience and what I have seen over the years, it is simply about hard work, more

Westin King

124 ASIADREAMS

hard work, long hours, hard conversations, constant learning, adapting to change, failures, mistakes, learning from mistakes, making more mistakes and learning again.

Much like making a movie, where the process is a lot more difficult and complex than actually seeing the movie. There is a lot of effort involved behind the scenes to make it look like a high and comfortable life.

To share a personal story, when I was a front office manager in a large complex with two hotels, the GM would challenge me every day in the morning briefing about the figures.

This encouraged me to research and prepare answers to his questions and be ready for whatever else he may ask. I met this GM in Hong Kong for a drink about five or six years later and thanked him for challenging me, which taught me so much about the business and made me understand the power of numbers. I cannot express in words the pride and joy I saw in his eyes that day.

In short there is no short cut to success or for becoming a GM. If you get it easy, it was not because of you!

Q: Where do you imagine yourself being if you hadn’t started a career in the hospitality industry?

A: This is an interesting question. I come from a family of engineers; my father and many members of my extended family are all engineers. Even my wife is a software engineer. If I was not in hospitality, the only question would have been which university I would choose to study engineering in.

Q: What advice can you give to young hoteliers trying to make a break in the industry?

A: Nowadays we have all the information we need, literally in the palms of our hands through our devices. Sadly this often means that younger hoteliers don’t have the patience to wait for anything. They have to get position, money, growth, title, fast and now. The order in which they acquire this matters little. So my advice would be to grow the desire to learn, desire to excel, desire to be the best in what you do. Everything else will come looking for you. Take the time to learn as much as you can about the business.

Success is a matter of time, and the only thing standing between success and failure is the 'desire' to succeed. www.westin.com/jakarta

WINE INSPIRATION

EXPLORING o f W ine

Exquisite Media had the exclusive opportunity to explore the full depth of the history, complexity and cultural impact of wine with ambassadors representing three brands from Treasury Wine Estates – easily one of the largest wine producers in the world. Letting their passion for wine flow, these adoring experts, authorities in wine, but especially their respective brands, shared their vast knowledge and experience in a face-to-face interview with our editor.

ASIADREAMS 125

Kristen Araoz Gridley Ber inger A mbassa dor, Sou thEast Asi a Q: What is it about wine that made it your passion?

download wine tasting at home, or wine tasting 101 guides to get an idea of what to look for. Then once you get familiar with the A: From the beginning, wine just spoke to me terms and with the smells and tastes that are all associated with wine tasting you start to differently than other drinks you just would order in a bar – wine is more than that. It is so notice them on your own. interesting to me how wine is different. Every glass is a different experience for everyone; a Q: What does it mean to be a wine very personal experience. A glass of wine is a ambassador and what is the most rewarding part of your job? different glass of wine at the beginning than it is at the end, where vodka is just vodka.

A: As a wine ambassador, our focus is on Your vodka soda is going to taste the same, education. We are the resident expert on if not a little watered down by the time you certain brands. I am particularly passionate are done with it. Wine just changes through about education and making sure that the every experience you have. Wine changes staff at a restaurant or hotel know what with different regions and climates where they are selling. For example, when I was a grapes are grown. You can taste different server in high school or college and people varietals and each class is going to be would always ask, “What red wine do you different. It was always intriguing to me how recommend?” I just didn’t know. Today after I a simple beverage can be such a personal talk with the staff, they have actually tried this lifetime journey – there is no way that you wine before and know which dishes it pairs will ever experience every glass of wine that perfectly with – they may even remember is out there. that there were some toasty oaky notes or maybe the flavour of bright red berries that Q: What would be your advice to someone new to wine – where would be a were present. Generally staff can tell you about the food menu, but they should also good place to get started? be able to tell you about the wine menu.

A: Talk to people that do drink wine. Whether it’s a friend or a sommelier, a properly trained Q: So tell me a little bit about your brand, Beringer. wine expert should ask the consumer what they like to eat, what they like to drink. Do A: Beringer is the biggest US brand that we they like sweet things? Sour things? Tart fruity things? From there they would be able have here in Southeast Asia. Beringer is one of the oldest wineries in Nappa Valley and is to steer them in a good direction of where its oldest continuously operating winery. It to start. Another fun thing to do is to have stayed open during the years of prohibition a wine party with friends. Instead of going when the sale of alcohol was illegal because out, have everyone go to a wine store, pick it produced altar wine. When no one could a bottle of wine each and try two or three produce or sell alcohol, the sacrament wine different things. Then you can talk about for churches was still allowed to be produced. it and see what everybody likes and what The company was founded by two German they don’t like. You can easily go online and

126 ASIADREAMS

immigrant brothers, who really came to California during the gold rush, but saw the beautiful land and with it, the possibility of making great wine. Beringer to this day is a California wine icon and they still say they want to stand for American optimism and the American dream shared by its founders.

Q: What do you believe the role of wine is in the culture of Southeast Asia today?

A: I think that wines are getting more press, popularity and interest here. A lot of this has to do with the younger generation that has either lived in Europe or in the US where wine is produced and consumed on a daily basis. People are seeing that wine is not just for special occasions, or just for the elite, or just for the rich. Everyone can drink wine; everyone should drink wine! I think that it gets carried over from the old days where wine was fancy and only for the elite.

Sometime wine definitely can be – there are certainly special occasion wines! But there is now room for wines from every region because every region has its own growing capacity. Every region has a different climate, different soil, different wine-making styles, and they should all be given respect. Think about your food. You don’t eat the same thing every day. That would be boring! The same thing goes for wine. If you only have wines available to you from Australia or France, sure there are great wines there, but you are going to find different characteristics in wines from South America, or wines from New Zealand. www.beringer.com

Stuart Rusted Wolfblass A mbassa dor, Sou thEast Asi a Q: Can you tell me where your interest in wine started?

A: Growing up in the UK I was always interested in wine once I grew to a certain age, but as a young child I remember that my father used to make his own wine. It was always kind of a magical thing. We actually had, in England, a small vine grow up on our farmhouse and my father would make wine from this. Thinking back on this, it probably wasn't the best wine, but there was just this magic about it – the juice would bubble and ferment. That was a very early memory. Later I worked in an investment bank in the UK and through that I was exposed to drinking some good wines. Then I really hit a point in my career where I wanted to do something more tangible and more tactile – that was when I turned to wine making. It allowed me to bring a European palate to Australian wine making, which has been interesting.

Q: What is it that sets one wine apart from another? What makes one exceptional?

A: Wine is really the sum of many things: place, climate, the grape variety and the winemaker’s skill. When all of those things come together in harmony, the wines really sing. Wine is at its best when it evokes memories and images of other places and other times. For me as a winemaker, we talk about four distinct parameters: balance, length, intensity and complexity. That is a clinical way of looking at a wine, but if a wine exceeds at all of those it is a great wine.

Q: You talked about your European palate. Is there a region you prefer the most?

A: Not necessarily. I think there are great wines from many countries around the world.

I just look for more elegance and balance in wines. Australia, with its warm summers, can produce very rich, full-bodied wines, but there is always a fine line when that becomes too much. I think, for me, the best wines also have a life to them, an energy. Sometimes, if the grapes are left too ripe, you lose that and it can become quite dead. That is how I see that elegance expressed in wines.

Q: So what drew you to Asia in particular?

A: I have been making wines for Wolf Blass for the past seven or eight years and part of that role requires some ambassador work as well. From Australia it is quite an easy hop up to Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia, all with a similar time zone. For the past two or three years I have been spending more and more time in the region. It is very exciting to bring wine culture to countries that haven't historically had this culture, and what an exciting and vibrant culture to bring wine to.

Q: What is it that makes Wolf Blass unique?

A: Wolf Blass wines is celebrating 50 years this year – it was started by Wolfgang Blass in 1966. He was a German migrant who came to Australia and started making wines on his own. From the beginning he tried to make wines that were approachable and that could be enjoyed by large groups of people.

From those early days on he was driven to make wines that have quality, character and consistency. That is very much the same philosophy we use today. We still make wines that are soft and durable, but at the same time, offer a complexity to interest people.

Even though we are one of the major global wine labels, the characteristics that gave us initial success really haven’t changed from the early days.

Q: What message would you like to spread to educate people about wines?

What is the most important thing you want everyone to know?

A: The key thing is not to get too scared by the terminology or the mystique of wine. I think that places like France and Italy have capitalised on these things for a long time, whereas in Australia we think wine should be simple, enjoyable and something that should bring people together. I would tell people to try many wines and to try not to get lost in the technicality of it. Wine really should be all about enjoyment and bringing people together.

Q: What do you see as the mission for your brand going forward?

A: I think that we are making some amazing wines in Australia, and now it is my job to get those wines in front of people and to convey that sense of enjoyment and approachability.

That should be the key message. Who wants to drink wine by themselves? Drinking, socializing – these are the things that make life worthwhile. www.wolfblass.com

ASIADREAMS 127

Patrick Dowling Penfolds A mbassa dor, Sou thEast Asi a Q: First off, what led to you enter the wine industry?

A: Good question; I initially got my diploma in general hospitality, but when I left school, I didn’t exactly know what I wanted to do. I have always enjoyed cooking, so at the start I was cooking focused with a small interest in wine. But it was in that first year when wine took my interest more than the food.

Even though I did still love to cook, I asked around and managed to get an interview in Melbourne, Australia. There I just happened upon one of the greatest wine experiences in my life and I was very lucky to begin my career where I did. I had some great mentors and it just went from there. Wine became more than just a job, it became my passion.

Q: So what advice would you have for someone who would like to get into the wine trade?

A: My advice would be, you need to have an interest in whatever you do in order to succeed. You have to want to learn more. So ask yourself, is this something you are really interested in? If so fantastic! I would do some wine courses first, but you should probably augment that with a part-time or a full-time job at a local wine store or a supermarket with a fine wine speciality. Also travel. I would suggest to travel and to get out to as many vineyards as you can. Go to them, meet the winemakers, ask them questions and taste the wines. If you show up interested they will give you the information you need.

Q: More about travelling – do you have a region that you like to visit, just for the wine culture?

128 ASIADREAMS

A: Look, for me France is still the pinnacle when it comes to wine. As far as travel goes, there are some regions in Italy that I simply adore. But if I had to choose one region, it would be probably Champagne in France, just for the beauty of the towns, the people and being amongst one of the great products of the world.

Q: So what do you look for in a bottle of wine? What do you look for when you go out and select your own?

A: I do like my wine to be different. I look for consistency in brands that I trust, but when I am branching out and trying new things, I am looking for a point of difference. It might be the way that wine is being made, and I can tell a little about that just by tasting and smelling it. I look for a different variety, or for a wine made in a country I have never been to before. But really at the end of the day what I am looking for is balance. Balance between fruit, acidity and alcohol – all of the parts of the wine need to be balanced so that nothing sticks out. I don’t ask for much, but balance is the big thing, and balance can be found in a USD20 bottle of wine or a USD5,000 bottle of wine.

Q: So it is not all about the price?

A: Not at all! In fact, some of the best wines I have had in Australia haven’t cost more than AUD15 a bottle and they are beautiful examples of balance. Conversely, I have had some very expensive bottles of wine that I have thought to be out of balance.

Q: You were discussing brands you trust; can you tell me a little bit about Penfolds?

A: We are 171 years old, one of the oldest Australian wineries with a continuous winemaking history, started in 1844 by a man named Chris Penfold and his wife Mary. Chris was a doctor from England and started his practice at what would later become our home winery, where we still crush about 100 tonnes a year. We are sold in a lot of different countries and we are very much a premium wine brand. We don’t play, so to speak, at the bottom end of the market. Penfolds is very much aimed at the luxury market, for someone who appreciates the finer things in life. That is not to say that we don’t have affordable wines, we absolutely do, we have been producing amazing wines from the beginning and some of our wines are over 50 years old and still look fantastic today.

Q: What is it that makes wine so special?

A: What I see, which is a constant in wine throughout the ages, since civilizations planted their first vineyards, is that family and togetherness are huge. Family is everything – enjoying life with the family is more important than anything. And as far as I am concerned, that is exactly what wine does. It brings people together. Wine is a showpiece, it is an addition to a meal, it allows for conversation to start – it is enjoyment, it is togetherness. Wine is more than just an alcoholic beverage, it is something far greater than that. I think that wine's future is very bright. If people are just starting, I would say experiment – don’t just find one wine you like and keep drinking it; don’t just get one brand. Just drink across the world. There is something for everyone’s price point in every country. When somebody recommends something, just try it. www.penfolds.com

GOURMET

Avocado Beetroot Mouse

ASIADREAMS 129

B

oasting a minimalistic, modern interior design featuring floorto ceiling windows looking out on clear skies, contemporary lighting and art displays, rustic wooden furniture and a sleek marble island bar, Anigre is the place for a remarkable dining experience to be enjoyed with your partner, friends, colleagues or family.

during special occasions or upon request.

For an even more exclusive experience, guests are offered the opportunity to customise their set menus according to their preferences and have them personally tailored by Executive Chef Tomasz Borucki – whether seafood-based dishes or a combination of Asian and European set menus, the choice is limitless.

Relish the classy ambience with an array of exceptional food from the buffet or à la carte menu, serving popular Western and Asian dishes. Anigre also offers a degustation set menu, which includes a unique selection of innovative dishes served

I was given the opportunity to enjoy these special dishes first-hand at Anigre. Starting off my gastronomic journey, the beetroot orange soup with beetroot foam was a sheer delight to both the palate and eyes.

Revamping a Polish delicacy, the baked

130 ASIADREAMS

beetroot is fused with Asian spices such as ginger and shallot, then blended with fresh orange juice, creating one stunning soup.

This creamy concoction is guaranteed to tickle your tongue with a burst of flavours, from sweet and spicy to tangy, and is the perfect tease before indulging in a heartier meal.

Bringing in the main course with a bang was the tantalizing “72” braised beef short, paired with vanilla pumpkin puree and sautéed vegetables. The dish earns its name from a distinctive sous-vide cooking method that entails the boneless meat being locked in a vacuumed bag then slow poached in a

Beetroat Orange Soup with Beetroot Foam

bath for 48 to 72 hours in its own natural juices and simple seasoning. As a result of masterful patience, the well-done meat remains beautifully pink and tender, much like the consistency of butter.

Of course, there is always room for dessert! The combination of two unusual ingredients, avocado and beetroot, with a dash of chocolate, was beautifully crafted and transformed into an absolutely divine mousse. Every bite revealed an exquisite balance of sweet and slightly tangy flavours, while the light and cloud-like texture was

easy on the mouth as well as the stomach.

Experimental gourmands can also choose to try other unique yet delicious combinations of desserts at the restaurant such as durian cheesecake or white mousse with durian meringue.

Anigre – an African tree – features 165 seats with a semi-private room seating up to 50 people, ideal for business, family and social gatherings. For great food paired with great service in a great ambience, visit Anigre to indulge in the all-day à la

carte menu, the buffet breakfast, which opens at 6AM. or the buffet lunch from 12PM. Sheraton Grand Jakarta Gandaria City Hotel Jalan Sultan Iskandar Muda Kebayoran Jakarta 12240, Indonesia T: (+62) 21 806 30888 E: sheraton.jakartagandariacity@sheraton.com www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton

Braised Beef Short , Vanilla Pumpkin Puree

ASIADREAMS 131

GOURMET

Mejekawi at Ku De Ta

Enter the culinary laboratory of Mejekawi at KU DE TA and experience true artists at work inventing fresh original masterpieces before your eyes.

132 ASIADREAMS

O

btaining rave reviews from casual visitors to food critics alike, KU DE TA in Seminyak, Bali, is quite the captivating beachfront destination. Set on the southern coast of Bali in one of the most stylish neighbourhoods, KU DE TA offers a tranquil tropical setting where sunshine, a spectacular outdoor pool, palm trees and clean ocean air can be enjoyed throughout the year.

While KU DE TA can be enjoyed as an unspoiled beach paradise, Mejekawi has become a fine-dining mecca. Receiving many highly regarded international awards, this restaurant is truly a worldclass attraction. After witnessing the brilliant hues of a colourful sunset on the beach, what could be better than to

enjoy a fabulous dinner at this acclaimed restaurant?

More than a simple restaurant, Mejekawi is a self-described “lab” serving creative gourmet cuisine with a unique creative flair.

Busily operating state-of-the-art equipment in the central open kitchen, Mejekawi’s talented staff of culinary professionals, led

by Executive Chef Ben Cross, serves eyecatching dishes from delicately designed multiple-course tasting menus. Carefully constructed employing the latest in culinary technology and culinary artistry, guests can watch as the dishes are prepared before them only steps away. The surprising creations will surely excite with the very modern approach to traditional local classics, like the babi guling served with a smoked potato puree.

Additionally, Mejekawi hosts cooking demonstrations, interactive cooking classes, sophisticated wine tastings and more. This kitchen and laboratory concept highlights the delightful culinary experience to be found in KU DE TA Bali in a more exclusive, modern and creative way designed to cater to each individual personally. With a doubly impressive view of the open kitchen and famous Seminyak beach below, this acclaimed eating attraction is a restaurant of the highest calibre and should be at the top of the list of all devoted foodies.

KU DE TA Jalan Kayu Aya No. 9, Seminyak Bali 80361, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 736 969 E: reservations@kudeta.com www.kudeta.com ASIADREAMS 133

DESTINATION

A Harmonious

Holiday Immerse yourself in relaxation, culture and the natural world in this sanctuary of serenity.

134 ASIADREAMS

T

he Ubud Village Resort and Spa rests peacefully amongst the unbridled green of Ubud; surrounded by leaning palms and dense tropical canopies visitors will find a reserve of tranquility and the welcoming arms of Balinese hospitality.

Although the property feels like a faraway realm of peace, it is actually located quite near Ubud’s centre and popular attractions, like the famed monkey forest. The resort’s friendly staff offers regular shuttles for those looking to explore Bali’s cultural heart.

However, you don’t have to leave the property at all to properly enjoy a holiday filled with restful relaxation and a unique Balinese experience. The private villas are each equipped with private plunge pools, pavilions

and outdoor tubs filled with flower petals.

Bask in the sunlight surrounded by the sounds of chirping tropical birds in the villa’s private garden.

been an integral part of the Balinese lifestyle for generations and can be found on every residential and commercial corner of the island.

During the day The Ubud Village Resort and Spa comes alive with activity that brings guests closer to the culture. Begin your morning with an energizing and enlightening rice paddy trek with beautiful views of idyllic agrarian tableaus of village life that have become an icon of Ubud. Then perhaps participate in a yoga and meditation class led by the resort’s resident expert and become one with your surroundings. If you are still looking for more, a friendly staff member will teach you and your family the time-honoured Balinese tradition of creating handmade offerings to the gods – something that has

If the heat proves too much, relax under a thatched roof with a three-tiered afternoon tea, or dive into the cool waters of the resort’s beautiful new cascading infinity pool that stretches across the central area of the property. For spa lovers, a visit to the Karma Karana Spa, that employs natural products of the highest quality, provides an unbelievably calming and rejuvenating experience on two levels surrounded by nothing but the soothing sounds of nature.

As night falls, treat yourself to a candlelit dinner at The Ubud Village’s own Angkul Angkul

Restaurant. Taking its name from the Balinese word for entrance or gate, this romantic and intimate eatery will serve as your gateway to delicious Balinese cuisine. Watch as the lights go up across the spanning rice paddy and taste for yourself the kitchen’s dedication to culinary integrity that emphasizes the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Feel free to return for a comprehensive cooking lesson to take home some local cooking secrets along with your memories and a complete sense of relaxation.

The Ubud Village Resort and Spa Jalan Raya Nyuh Kuning, Pengosekan, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia T: (+62) 361 978 444 E: reservation@theubudvillage.com www.theubudvillage.com ASIADREAMS 135

DESTINATION

Magnificent Beauty

in Sport and Leisure Peaceful and prestigious, the Bali National Golf Resort is a magnificent place to stay, play and revel in the tropical beauty of Bali.

136 ASIADREAMS

Luxurious Villas Seven sprawling villa estates now overlook the incredible greenery of the 17th and 18th holes.

These fabulous multi-level villas feature ample living space, full kitchens, dining space and hand-crafted furniture, making them the perfect hideaways, comfortably accommodating even four or more people. Relax amid well-appointed opulence as you soak in the villa’s soothing rain shower after a day of golf, or enjoy a tropical cocktail served by your private butler outside on the deck of a stunning pool.

While the interiors provide refined, modern comfort, outside the green and carefully manicured grounds exude quietude with a unique tropical atmosphere that only Bali can offer. As lavish and well designed as the golf course itself, these villas offer a secluded and uniquely relaxing stay.

World Class Course Perfect for passionate experts of the game and casual golfers alike, Bali National Golf Resort is the destination course in Bali featuring a top-class designed and constructed course measuring 7,166 yards from the back tees. Tranquil and refined, the 18-hole championship course is laid out amid a serene tropical setting. Tee off with a stunningly majestic view of Gunung Agung and the sounds of tropical birds in the mature palms overhead.

Your caddy will help you navigate the course’s winding creeks, craggy canyons and lush native vegetation at each hole.

Almost every elegantly sculptured fairway boasts a wonderful view of the placid waters off the Nusa Dua coast, adding to the

sublimely beautiful tropical experience.

Impeccable maintenance ensures yearround championship playing conditions, while the gorgeous course and surrounding natural beauty promise a tropical golfing experience that far surpasses any other available on the island.

Last year, Bali National Golf Resort hosted its first professional golf event, The Bali National Golf Championship, part of the Asian Development Tour. The resort plans to host similar large scale events in the future – there is much more to come from this exciting property. Bali National Golf Resort is earning respect of players and the golf industry recently winning several awards including Best Renovated Golf Course Asia Pacific 2014, 3rd Best Renovated Golf Course

in the World 2015 and 5th Best Golf Resort in Asia Pacific 2015.

After a long, but satisfying game, relax at The Golfers Lounge and Terrace.

Overlooking the 18th hole, this restaurant offers a delicious menu, including local specialties, international cuisine and a range of healthy juices and snacks. End the experience with a cocktail in hand as the sun slowly sets.

Bali National Golf Resort Kawasan ITDC, Lot S-5, Nusa Dua, Bali 80363 T: (+62) 3617 71791 E: info@balinationalgolf.com www.balinationalgolf.com

ASIADREAMS 137

ESCAPING ASIA

R o m e

— The — Eternal City 138 ASIADREAMS

†A sprawling cosmopolitan city built upon 3,000 years of globally influential art, architecture, learning and culture, Rome is one of the most inspirational and romantic city destinations in the world.

ASIADREAMS 139

©www.mejplacehostel.com ©www.static.panoramio.com

©www.kulturakademiet.no

Sights

T

he Eternal City is a magnet for international pilgrims and travellers, who bask in its glorious, often bloody history, visit its collection of museums and galleries, soak up the sun in its ancient piazzas and dine at some of Europe’s top restaurants.

The legacy of the Roman Empire has left a lasting impression on modern society, but nothing evokes the feeling of that ancient power than beholding Rome’s abundance of timeless ancient buildings and ruins first hand. Welcome to Rome!

140 ASIADREAMS

It is to the centre of the old city (centro storico), where the majority of the medieval and Renaissance architecture can be found, that tourists flock. Edged by the meandering River Tiber, there is a neverending collection of fountains, piazzas and churches, as well as plenty of excellent bars, cafés and restaurants.

At its heart sits the mighty Pantheon.

Completed by Emperor Hadrian in around 126AD, it is one of Rome’s best preserved buildings and still functions as a Catholic church; it is also the last resting place of the artist Raphael.

From the Pantheon, cross the river and discover St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City. Designed principally by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian

Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peter's Basilica is probably the world’s most famous work of Renaissance architecture and is where the Pope delivers his sermons to the masses.

The Vatican City is home to the Pope and a treasure trove of art, artefacts and architecture amassed over the millennia.

The Vatican Museum, meanwhile, is one of the world’s most visited destinations and houses sculptures such as the Laocoön, a vast collection of Renaissance frescoes in the Raphael Rooms and, of course, the Sistine Chapel, celebrated for Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling.

Head south and find the Roman Forum ruins, where returning generals would hold their victory parades. From the Forum, it’s just a ten-minute walk to the Colosseum.

Completed in 80AD, the mighty Colosseum is a true symbol of Imperial Rome and for centuries seated up to 80,000 Romans who

©www.vjv.com ©www.shop.dorchestercollection.com

©www.thetourexpert.eu

bathed in the blood and gore of gladiator games, executions, re-enactments of famous battles and dramas.

For more peaceful beauty, visit the Trevi fountain. Designed by Salvi and completed in 1762, the fountain, which has featured in countless films, took 30 years to build and stands over 26m high.

With so much to see, guided tours are an excellent option; so why not check out the city’s official website for more details.

Stylish A List Cuisine For the well-heeled gourmand, Rome offers an abundance of Michelinstarred restaurants serving international, Mediterranean and traditional Roman cuisines. Whatever you desire, stunning rooftop terraces, opulent historical buildings or chic modern venues, Rome will have it!

A favourite with international celebrities, the city’s only three-Michelin starred restaurant, La Pergola, is situated in the lavish Rome Cavalieri Hotel. With a backdrop of rare art and antiques, Heinz Beck serves up creative Mediterranean dishes backed by a 60,000 plus bottle wine cellar. Through the panoramic windows or from the candlelit terrace, the dome of St. Peter’s seems close enough to touch.

With breathtaking views over the city, the restaurant offers a delicious menu focused on fresh, seasonal produce crammed with locally caught fish and seafood, plus Romanstyle meats.

Michelin-starred Imàgo, at Hotel Hassler, is another A list restaurant offering superb Italian cuisine. Helmed by award-winning Francesco Apreda, who presents a sophisticated seasonal menu, Imàgo’s sixth floor location gives a spectacular rooftop panorama of ancient Rome.

But Rome’s gastro scene is not just about fine dining; the elegant Piazza Navona and Piazza del Popolo are legendary for café culture and coffee, while the city has a multitude of excellent family options.

Chef Fabio Ciervo, helms the sumptuous one-Michelin star all-day eatery La Terrazza dell’Eden situated on the top floor of The Dorchester Collection, Hotel Eden.

For those seeking traditional yet sophisticated Roman flavours and dishes, the Michelin-starred Agata e Romeo is the place to go.

For socialites, the place to see and be seen is the The Stravinskij Bar at the Hotel de Russie, one of Europe’s oldest cafés, where the espresso served with candied walnuts is as legendary as its patrons.

ASIADREAMS 141

ESCAPING ASIA

Parisian Chic

Explore Paris, its shops, styles, dishes and culture while relaxing in the opulence of Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg. The entire city awaits as these five-star luxury accommodations introduce you to the world capital of art, fashion, gastronomy and culture.

S

hoppers hurry past toting armfuls of shopping bags, tourists pose beside famous landmarks, open-air cafes line the streets and there's perhaps a celebrity or two. Home of the Mona Lisa, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and more, Paris has long since established itself as one of the most attractive, romantic and cosmopolitan traveling destinations of the world. Right at the heart of this vibrant city is Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg – it has a façade resembling any charming Parisian café or business, but inside a veritable palace awaits.

142 ASIADREAMS

Centrally located in this storied city, from this hotel you can easily explore the heart of Paris, the famed international hub of fashion, luxury and culture. You can simply walk to the city's most prestigious attractions. Visit Faubourg Saint-Honoré, from which the hotel gets its name, and discover luxury boutiques and contemporary art galleries. Stroll down the fabled Champs-Elysées and experience Parisian life at its finest, only taking a break from shopping to nibble on a croissant in a quaint café. Journey to the banks of the Seine or marvel at the wonders housed at the Louvre. Endless shopping, sightseeing

and more are well within your reach at Sofitel Paris Le Fauburg – and as you return to your room laden with the day’s shopping bags, you know that you will be met by the city’s absolute finest in service and accommodations.

Appointed by famous designer Didier Gomez, Sofitel Paris Le Fauburg is grand, modern and distinctly Parisian. Luxurious accents of black, white and gold mark the hotel’s sophisticated, contemporary interior style that draws from original 18th century designs. Each of the 111 richly appointed rooms and 36 suites embody

the height of opulence. The walls are filled with inspiring artwork and the beds are covered with regal golden covers. Inspired

by Paris’ long history and thriving culture of haute couture, the majestic Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg also provides a spectacularly romantic view of the city’s rooftops from its exceptional Couture Apartment. This luxury penthouse, located at the rooftop level of the hotel, is outfitted with a glorious balcony that offers a breath-taking view of the famed Sacré-Coeur.

Any trip to Paris deserves to be accompanied by fine French cuisine.

Guests at Sofitel Paris will delight in the fabulous dishes created by the renowned Yannick Alléno. The chef first imagined Stay Faubourg, the hotel’s signature restaurant, as a modern brasserie – a French concept of a relaxed eatery open to all, emphasising creativity and wonderful pastries; it is a place to meet and interact.

Cuisine has always been a cornerstone of the French lifestyle and this is honoured by the extensive menu of Stay, featuring a large selection of authentic French dishes, elaborate and beautiful, honouring traditional techniques and the elegance of raw ingredients. Enjoy the French lifestyle with a glass of the world’s finest wine alongside locally farmed oysters from the restaurant’s own oyster bar.

Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg 15, Rue Boissy d'Anglas, 75008 Paris, France T: (+33) 1 44 94 14 14 E: H1295@sofitel.com www.sofitel-paris-lefaubourg.com

ASIADREAMS 143

Subscribe Now! And win a two-night stay at a One-Deluxe Pool View Room including breakfast for two persons at The Stones Hotel-Legian, Bali-A Marriot Autograph Collection Hotel.

Located on the southern tip of Legian Beach, The Stones Hotel - Legian, Bali is Marriott’s first Autograph Collection Hotel in the Asia Pacific region, offering you the perfect vantage point to experience Bali in a stylish way. Conveniently situated within easy access to all the vibrant activities of Kuta and Seminyak, you will find a vast selection of shopping, dining and entertainment options. The hotel’s iconic architectural design fuses with Legian’s eclectic sophistication, providing a haven of elegance with dazzling vertical gardens, an oversized main swimming pool, chic entertainment deck, on-site day spa, three innovative restaurants and luxuriously appointed guest rooms. Guest accommodation includes 308 guest rooms and 22 suites, all offering modern, in-room amenities including a 42” LED television, a Bose iPod docking station, a luxurious rainforest shower, an espresso machine and a fully-stocked mini-bar. Celestine Spa features five treatment rooms with a spa menu that offers authentic Balinese massage as well as personalised treatment packages. Enjoy a customised, half-day wellness program while the kids play happily in Club Jasper, the hotel’s Kid’s Club.

144 ASIADREAMS

Name : Mr/Ms/Miss ..........................................................................................................

Address : .................................................................................................................................. ..........................................................................................................................................................

City : ............................................................ Postal Code : ..............................................

Country : ..................................................................................................................................

Phone : ....................................................... Fax : ..................................................................

E-mail : .......................................................................................................................................

INDONESIA • Half year (3 issues) • Full year (6 issues)

IDR 140.000 IDR 270.000

SINGAPORE • Half year (3 issues) • Full year (6 issues)

SGD 26 SGD 50

HK, MALAYSIA & OTHERS • Half year (3 issues) • Full year (6 issues)

USD 35 USD 70

Please send the completed subscription form for payment instructions by scanning and emailing to: info@exquisite-media.co.id

Scan and email the payment proof to info@exquisite-media.co.id Subscriptions can also be made by telephone to (+62) 361 759 180 or by email to circulation@exquisite-media.co.id The fund transfer should represent the full payment amount, excluding any applicable bank charges and deductions.

ASIA DREAMS is a bi-monthly publication distributed throughout the Asia Pacific region. Please note that our minimum subscription term is 3 issues (6 months).

EXQUISITE MEDIA

Jalan Raya Pantai Kuta, Br. Legian Kelod T: (+62) 361 300 5888 E: reservations@stoneshotelbali.com www.stoneshotelbali.com

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

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

www.facebook.com/Exquisite Publishing @Xquisite_Media exquisitemedia_bali_jakarta ASIADREAMS 145

LAST WORD

“Once a year, go some place you've never been before.”

- Dalai Lama

The July/August 2016 Issue of Asia Dreams Magazine will feature "Family Travel: Perfect Places for All Sizes".

146 ASIADREAMS

ASIADREAMS 147

bang— o l uf s e n.co m

BeoLab 90 is our most advanced loudspeaker to date featuring groundbreaking new technolegies.

Bang & Olufsen Pacific Place Pacific Place Jakarta Mall Ground F, 12190 Jakarta Phone: (021) 5797 3134

Bang & Olufsen Bali Jl. Sunset Road no.55 Seminyak, Kuta, Badung