MAXX-M Edition 3, 2015

Hideaway Destinations

Hideaway

Hotels

IDR 50,000, SG$ 8, HK$ 48 EDITION III, 2015

Exploring

Bandung

Extreme

Antarctica Edition 3, 2015

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e xperience karma...

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Jalan Villa Kandara, Banjar Wijaya Kusuma,Ungasan, Bali 80362, Indonesia +62 (0)361 848 2200 • events@Karmaresorts.com • www.karmaresorts.com

Karma Kandara pioneered the luxurious private pool villa experience, offering expansive holiday residences with access to five-star amenities including Karma Spa, world-class dining, the most captivating calendar of events in Asia and unmatched venues for bespoke weddings.

Karma Experiences is a unique service offered exclusively to Karma’s guests and owners, from cutting-edge healing retreats to hedonistic wine tastings. We believes that life is a celebration and this cultivated lifestyle is recognized by the industry’s top accolades, including CNN’s “World’s Best Beach Bars”, Best Restaurant in Bali by Tatler and Best Spa in Bali by The Yak.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Editorial Department (maximillian@maxx-m.com) Editor in Chief Melani Semuel (melani@ptmaximillian.com) Senior Editor Ester Pandiangan (ester@ptmaximillian.com) Priscilla Picauly (editor@ptmaximillian.com) Art Director Irfan Hadi (creative@ptmaximillian.com) Sales & Marketing Department Marketing Managers Clarisa Mutriafica (clarisa@ptmaximillian.com) Marlina Agustin (marketing@ptmaximillian.com)

Photo courtesy of Alfian S. Prasetyo

Assistant Marketing Manager Rafidha Najib (sales@ptmaximillian.com)

@traveliciousgal

Sweet Escape My mum has this very sweet ritual that whenever I am away from home she will send me a text message the moment she wakes up and another one just before she goes to bed. A few days ago, I was in my room and I received a text message from mum, “Morning Mel, I love you.” I replied, “Morning mummy, I love you too. But why are you texting me, I am in my room?” To which she replied, “Oh, I lost track of whether you’re home or away.” She isn’t the only one.

My travel schedule the last couple of months was so hectic that the only time I was in town was during deadline. Between travelling and deadlines, I was worn out. There were too many things on my plate and I was exhausted. Then came my always-cheerful colleague Clarisa, who told me, “We’re going to Bandung.”

To be honest with you, the moment I heard “Bandung,” I thought of three things: traffic, more traffic and pisang molen. So I told her I was too exhausted to deal with the traffic and started making my excuses. But Clarisa would not take no, and boy am I glad, because I love Bandung.

Sure, Bandung has traffic, but there is so much more to this city. In this edition, we explore all the hidden charms of the West Java Capital. One of the charms of the city that is not hidden is the food. Bandung is famous as a culinary destination, from street vendors to fancy cafés. The city is blessed with many beautiful places that are Instagram worthy. And if you are like me and love to just relax and do nothing, there are a number of great hotels to choose from, making Bandung the perfect hideaway. And if you are like Clarisa, you will never run out of places to shop. :) Happy reading

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Maxx Media is published every semester by P.T. Maximillian (www.ptmaximillian.com)

President Director Raynaldo Semuel Managing Director Melani Semuel General Manager Arisudana Gunawan INDONESIA OFFICE Jl. Batu Jajar No. 35A Central Jakarta 10120 Indonesia Ph. +62 21 352 4526 Fax. +62 21 344 7203 www.maxx-m.com LEGAL CONSULTANT Boyke Semuel, SH Semuel & Associates Jl. Batu Jajar No. 35A Jakarta Pusat 10120 Ph. +62 21 352 4526 Maxx Media is distributed in major cities in Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore at retail price. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and such, the Publisher does not accept responsibility of the content thereof. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. All trademarks and rights to the name of Maxx – Media are reserved by Melani Semuel, SH.,LL.M, BusSys c 2006

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CONTENTS 38 - 55 360⁰

Let’s escape to magnificent Antarctica, peaceful Tibet and exotic Dili

57 – 99

COVER STORY

Discover hidden treasures around the world for a perfect getaway

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TRAVELLING

Do’s and Don’ts Jakarta Hideaways

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NEWS & TRENDS

What’s Happening Who’s New Fashion & Beauty Editor’s Pick

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CONTENTS 107 – 113 FOOD REVIEW

A cup of tea makes you enjoy life, while a cup of coffee makes you alive. Which do you prefer, coffee or tea?

114 – 119 PROFILE

ET CETERA

Get up close and personal with inspiring people from the hospitality industry, as they share their thoughts and experiences in exclusive interviews

Fun Corner Happy Hour

124 – 125 CAPTURE

Special this edition our CAPTURE present by Maxx-M’s team.

Another stunning pictures taken by our selected contributors.

Hideaway Destinations

Hideaway

Hotels

Exploring

Bandung

Extreme

Antarctica

IDR 50,000, SG$ 8, HK$ 48 EDITION III, 2015

Cover picture courtesy of InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar

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CONTRIBUTORS PAGE

Shirley G

If it’s artsy, Shirley G loves it, from interior design and architecture to the culinary arts and music. She enjoys graphic design and food, travel and lifestyle blogging.

Nicholas Walton

New Zealand-born Nick Walton is an experienced photojournalist and magazine editor. A former travel editor for the South China Morning Post and managing editor of Elite Traveler, Nick continues to manage travel titles Jetsetter, Explorer and The Art of Business Travel, while also contributing to leading lifestyle magazines around the world. When he’s not on assignment in Antarctica or Tanzania, or waltzing at the 80th anniversary of the Vienna Opera Ball, he can be found in the eclectic neighbourhoods of his adopted home of Hong Kong.

Lina Naibaho

Lina lives in Medan and works as a conservation educator for the Sumatran Conservation Foundation.

She is also one of the owners of the travel community Sumatera Wonder Trips and travel is part of her daily life. Her motto is, “Nobody is perfect but everyone has something good about themselves.”

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Alfian S. Prasetyo

Alfian was born in Kebumen, Central Java, and now lives in Bandung, where he studies at Indonesian Computer University. He loves sharing his passion for Indonesia and its natural beauty through his photography.

Lilita Nurdiana

Based in Bogor, West Java, Lilita Nurdiana is a global sourcer and buyer by trade.

Outside of the office, she is a travel blogger and freelance travel writer. She loves beaches, heritage sites and good food. She makes her own travel itineraries and always enjoys city-hopping. An old DSLR and underwater camera are her loyal travel companions.

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news & trends What’s Happening

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve For thousands of years, the mandapas, Sanskrit for temples, of Ubud have offered a sacred space for devotees to rest their mind, body and soul. Visitors today will find a similar escape at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a secluded paradise where lush, rolling hills, the Ayung River and verdant rice paddies create a unique sense of place. Your personal butler, who will remain at your service throughout your stay, will escort you to your villa or suite, one of only 60 available at this intimate property. Showcasing the architecture and craftsmanship of the area, each luxury accommodation features a private outdoor space with views of the river or surrounding scenery.

Guests will find joy in even the simplest activities, whether practicing yoga in a peaceful pavilion, enjoying a good book in the library, riding a bicycle through nearby villages, savouring a leisurely meal at the signature restaurant, swimming in the heated pool or enjoying the spa facility.

Sapori Deli Fairmont Jakarta, the newest hotel in Jakarta, recently introduced Sapori Deli, a new urban café and a relaxing spot to hang out in modern style. Embracing Italian style, Sapori Deli combines barista, gourmet retail, bakery and bistro. Located in the strategic area of Senayan, Sapori Deli is divided into two areas, a deli and restaurant. The whole area can cater up to 110 guests. Homemade sandwiches like Confit Chicken and Muffaletta are among the signature treats on the Sapori Deli menu. There is also a selection of Italian dishes like pizza. In the restaurant area there’s an open kitchen that affords guests the opportunity to be dazzled by the live cooking. Sapori Deli is open Monday to Sunday, from 6.30am to 8pm. The restaurant is open from noon to 11pm. For reservations, email dining.jakarta@ fairmont.com.

SPG Keyless App Now all guests who stay at W Retreat & Spa Bali will be able to ditch the plastic key cards and unlock their rooms with the new SPG Keyless app. The application represents a groundbreaking turning point in the traditional hotel experience by fundamentally redefining the way guests arrive and check in to their room. The keyless system allows guests to use their smartphone as a key. SPG Keyless powered by the SPG app enables guests to bypass the front desk, avoid waiting in line and ultimately unlock their stay with a simple tap of their smartphone. This innovation frees up hotel associates’ time, allowing them to engage with guests and transform the first interaction from transactional to personal. SPG Keyless is first rolling out to W Hotels as well as Aloft and Element Hotels around the world (30,000 doors in 150 hotels), as these brands cater to next-gen, design-savvy and tech-forward guests.

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news & trends What’s Happening

Luxury Club and Villas Following its re-branding two years ago, Grand Nikko Bali has all the essentials for a high-end break with a collection of well-appointed Club Rooms and stylish Villas. These premium

accommodation options are so much more than just a place to stay, they are opulent havens designed to create life’s most treasured moments.

Located in the Cliff Tower, Nikko’s Club Rooms and Suites offer casual luxury with exceptional benefits to indulge and spend quality time with loved ones.

Every room comes with a private balcony and a breathtaking Indian Ocean view. The elegant Club Lounge provides a generous space to relax and recharge in true tropical style. It encompasses indoor and outdoor dining areas together with an infinity pool overlooking the sea and a lush garden environment. Nikko Club guests are looked after with genuine Balinese hospitality, entitled to daily à la carte breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon high tea and sunset cocktails. Families travelling with children will also enjoy the Jungle Camp Kids Club while the parents unwind in the chill-out ambience of the Club Lounge.

Opening of Mayura Karma Royal Group is pleased to announce the opening of Mayura – the group’s inaugural Karma Retreat property in Ubud, Bali – in July 2015. Located in the picturesque island village of Mas, the Retreat is perched on the jungle-fringed riverbanks at the edges of Ubud, and is surrounded by scenic rice terraces, lush coconut groves and mossy stone temples. Mayura, a Karma Retreat, offers exclusivity and privacy with a bijou collection of 32 beautifully appointed deluxe guest rooms, including a sumptuous Imperial Room, all with outdoor balconies offering sweeping views of the Balinese countryside.

Decorated in understated contemporary luxury, the guest rooms are highlighted by traditional, elaborately carved classical Balinese hardwood beds with matching furnishings. The rooms all have flat-screen televisions, DVD players, wireless internet access, well-appointed pantry facilities with tea and coffee making amenities, minibars and microwave ovens, as well as sitting areas and spacious en-suite bathrooms.

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Welcome, Alila Seminyak Alila Seminyak is located on Bali’s southwest coast and cocooned along the region’s pristine beaches. The five-star resort evokes cool and natural sophistication, connected by shimmering pools cascading from a stunning backdrop of vertical gardens. Set in the undeniably trendy side of Seminyak, the resort will be a hub for those who want to explore this lively part of Bali, from high-end designer boutiques, art and antique galleries to nightspots. Alila Seminyak comprises 240 contemporary-styled rooms, as well as one spectacular penthouse, all embracing ubercool and laidback style. The resort also offers a wealth of in-house facilities including Spa Alila, offering Asianinspired spa therapies, a gym and wellness centre, Leisure Concierge to organise signature Alila Experiences and an open-kitchen restaurant with authentic Asian cuisine.

Alila Seminyak is the first resort in Indonesia to surpass the rigorous EarthCheck standards, achieving a 44-point best practice score against the industry norm of five points.

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news & trends What’s Happening

Joe’s Bar, New in Canberra Located on the ground floor of East Hotel, Canberra’s leading lifestyle hotel, Joe’s Bar is a small bar with a grand vision. Joe’s Bar is the brainchild of siblings Dan and Dion Bisa, who set out to create a space that resonated with their own Italian roots and love of modern design.

The wine list at Joe’s is a veritable who’s who of the very finest Italian wines from Piedmont to Tuscany, alongside some of the best wines from the Canberra district. The beverage selection also includes an enviable cocktail list, coupling Joe’s take on the standards with a unique selection of Italian classics. A wide range of imported and local beer is also available. An important feature of Joe’s Bar is its authentic Italian dining options. Joe’s offerings range from a stunning selection of Antipasto options through to more substantial dishes like 48-hour slow-cooked Sous Vide Wagyu Beef Brisket with charred polenta and porcini butter. Those with a sweeter inclination have not been ignored with specialties such as Tramezzino al Gelato – house-made Fior di Latte gelato sandwiched between Sicilian pistachio cookies.

A VIP Experience Explorers, PER AQUUM Niyama takes island excitement to dizzying new levels. At Explorers, run by an international operator and a team of highly qualified carers, children discover activities tailored to their age group and inspired by the out-of-this-world natural beauty of the Maldives. Throughout the resort, family-spirited accommodation, dining and experiences abound. Sophistication meets exploration, with extra-special attention lavished on VIPs both large and small. Children can join one of four tribes, segmented by age and activities. Voyagers aged 5 to 7 and Pioneers from 8 to 12 years enjoy their own purpose-built facilities and challenging fun with activities such as kayaking, dolphin spotting, local island trips, pizza making, mini Olympics and immersions in the underwater playground Subsix with the resident marine biologist, as well as the Great PERAQUUM Niyama Treasure Hunt.

At Explorers’ heart, an outdoor fun area welcomes children with a playground, trampoline, splash park and stage. Munch, the mini gourmet kitchen, offers cooking classes, dining and refreshments catered to the tribes’ different tastes with child-friendly foods.

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A Trip to New Zealand Tourism New Zealand launched its digital and print campaign to entice more Indonesian travellers to choose New Zealand as their next holiday destination. The campaign, Every Day a Different Journey, showcases the wide range of experiences New Zealand has to offer, all within very close proximity of one another, and is told via a series of TVCs in Bahasa Indonesia housed on YouTube, print ads, as well as targeted advertising on social media networks and banner ads on major publishers. You can win the ultimate getaway with Tourism New Zealand’s #NZFAMILYTRIP. One lucky Indonesian family will win a trip to New Zealand through the new social media competition #NZFamilyTrip. Any family can enter the competition by submitting a video outlining why New Zealand is top of their family’s list of must-visit destinations. The video should be uploaded to Tourism New Zealand’s microsite www.newzealand.com/nzfamilytrip using the hashtag #NZFamilyTrip by 8 October 2015.

SEMINYAK’S NEW INTERNATIONAL PLAYGROUND Located in the heart of lively Seminyak, the new Courtyard by Marriott Bali with swim-up Pool Bar, and the coolest new all-day breakfast experience in Seminyak Kitchen. Of course we could go on and on about our location nearby Seminyak’s famous dining scenes, coolest beaches, and endless entertainment, but then again we prefer you to have fun your way!

Room starts from $145++/ night For more information or to make reservations, call 0361.8499.600 or email us at reservations.seminyak@courtyard.com

Courtyard by Marriott® Bali Seminyak Jalan Camplung Tanduk No. 103 SP, Dhyana Pura T 0361.8499.600 F 0361.8499.200 cour tyardseminyak.com

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news & trends What’s Happening

Opening of Inya Wing Sedona Hotel Yangon has announced the opening offer for its soon-to-open Inya Wing, an elegant and iconic tower that features 431 guest rooms and suites and a new high-end retail gallery and luxury spa. Poised to be one of the city’s top destinations for visitors and locals alike, guests are invited to

experience the new Inya Wing with its Inya Experience opening offer, available from 1 November – 31 December 2015. The Inya Wing draws its inspiration from traditional Burmese culture and art interpreted into elegant, contemporary design. The traditional Burmese umbrella is a cultural theme carried throughout the new wing, from the magnificent lighting centrepiece in the main lobby to the fritted glass ceiling. Another popular cultural element, the lacquered rice bowl, is sculpturally incorporated into the lobby art as well as the guest room lamps. Finally, a colour palette of red and gold is woven throughout the interiors, a nod to Myanmar’s traditional Buddhist influences. Championing green practices, Sedona Hotel Yangon’s Inya Wing was designed and built utilising sustainable materials, incorporating energy and water efficiency into the building’s features. For more information about Sedona Hotels and Suites, or to book the Inya Experience package, please visit www.sedonahotels.com.sg.

Alila Solo Experiences Alila Solo, in Surakarta, Central, Java, is set to open in November 2015 as the city’s first luxury lifestyle hotel: a city resort meets urban retreat that is both traditioninspired and technology-driven. Eagerly anticipated for numerous reasons – innovative architecture, exclusive batik design, the city’s largest hotel ballroom and highest rooftop bar – not least of which is the launch of Alila Solo Experiences. Immersive, educative and active, memorable, romantic or invigorating, Alila Experiences are lifestyle encounters carefully curated by the Leisure Concierge team to showcase the hotel’s incredible destination – its history and traditions, cuisine, crafts, environment and architecture. Alila Experiences are grouped according to lifestyle preference: Cultural Learning, Conscious Living, Active Spirit, Culinary Delights, Private Pursuits and Couple Celebration.

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Jim Courier Tennis Clinics Bali may be renowned for its culture, hospitality and exotic charms, but it’s also becoming a destination for active travellers, with an Olympic-distance triathlon, marathon, beach boot camps and yoga retreats. The latest step in this direction is a new Jim Courier Tennis program launched exclusively at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Expanding its international fitness program, the resort has appointed a resident Jim Courier Tennis (JCT) international coaching professional, Ling Chan, to cater for the needs of all levels from amateur to elite. Chan will be inresidence until January 2016 offering daily clinics including Adults Tennis, Kids Tennis and the dynamic and energetic Cardio Tennis for a high-intensity workout that is just as popular with non-players. Private sessions, social match-ups and “sparring” with a hitting partner are also available, and the resort’s synthetic grass court is lit for night play.

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Crowne Plaza Bandung is Now Open

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rowne Plaza® Bandung, the first Crowne Plaza in Bandung, Indonesia, has opened its door. The new hotel offers 270 contemporary and upscale guest rooms and a comprehensive range of meeting facilities close to Bandung’s city centre and Central Business District.

Crowne Plaza Bandung features state-of-theart meeting facilities including an 800-squaremetre ballroom that can host up to 1,000 guests.

There are 12 multipurpose meeting rooms for a variety of social and corporate events, and a dedicated Crowne Plaza meetings team to ensure all events run smoothly. The hotel also provides complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access for guests to stay connected and an Executive Club Lounge – one of the largest of its kind in Bandung – offering guests seamless personalised service along with a panoramic view of the city. The hotel features complete and modern amenities for ambitious business travellers The guest rooms and suites are beautifully and elegantly decorated, offering stunning views of the city. The hotel also has several dining options

including Mosaic all-day dining restaurant and Mountain View poolside bar for guests to catch up with friends or business colleagues over a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail.

To unwind and recharge, guests can go for a swim in the 25-metre outdoor infinity swimming pool overlooking the city or enjoy a workout at the fully equipped fitness centre. For a more relaxing experience, there is a wide selection of pampering massage therapies and skincare treatments available at the spa, as well as a Kids Club, so that families can keep the young ones entertained.

Crowne Plaza Bandung is offering a special opening rate from Rp 1,368,888nett per night, which is inclusive of breakfast for two, valid until the end of 2015 (except for the Christmas and New Year period).

Crowne Plaza Bandung Jl. Lembong No. 19, Bandung West Java – Indonesia Phone. +62 22 3000 2500

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news & trends Who’s New

Darmawan Darrel Defy Pandoyo Cartwright Syamsumar Drajat

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H Clarity Cihampelas Bandung’s Resident Manager

The Park Lane Jakarta’s General Manager

Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers’ Director of Sales and Marketing

Darmawan Pandoyo Drajat is Resident Manager of H Clarity Cihampelas Bandung. With his mastery of the technical aspects of hotel management, Darmawan is perfectly suited to navigate varied social situations and environments.

In addition to having the ability to meet customers’ needs and expectations, he is able to foster collaborative relationships with peers and supervisors. He focus is on teamwork, and he thrives in accomplishing tasks associated with analysis, planning, organizing, and strategies. Darmawan was the General Manager of Kamandalu Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali for several years and served as Executive Assistant Manager of Santika Hotel Malang and Hotel Graha Santika Semarang.

The five-star Park Lane Jakarta welcomes Darrel Cartwright as the new General Manager of the 280-room hotel. He has 15 years of experience as the General Manager of five-star hotels/resorts and Class A luxury high-rise towers around the world including Japan, Vietnam and Kenya. Prior to his current appointment he was the General Manager of the luxurious Loama Resort Maldives at Maamigili.

With a master’s degree in Hospitality Management from Cornell University, Darrel will overlook the day-to-day operations of the most dynamic hotel in Jakarta and continue its standing as the first five-star certified eco-hotel in Indonesia.

Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers has appointed Defy Syamsumar as Director of Sales and Marketing, effective 1 July 2015. Defy started her career in Sales and Marketing in 1997 at Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers before moving to others properties in East Java.

With her extensive five-star hotel experience spanning more than 15 years, Defy brings a wealth of knowledge to the hotel.

The management is thrilled to welcome Defy Syamsumar back to Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers.

news & trends Who’s New

Esteban Muhammad FernandezYuslan Martin

Sean Mosher

St. Regis Bali and The Laguna Bali’s Director of Marketing Communications

Le Meridien Bali Jimbaran’s Hotel Manager

Four Seasons Bali at Sayan’s Resort Manager

The St. Regis Bali Resort and The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali - complex recently appointed Esteban Fernandez-Martin as the new Director of Marketing Communications.

A Spanish native with more than 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry across the globe, Esteban brings a broad knowledge from operations and marketing to the Starwood Bali complex. He has worked in some of the world’s most luxurious hotels including The Ritz-Carlton Cancun in Mexico and The Chatwal Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in New York City. Most recently, he served in Digital Field Marketing overseeing seven Starwood properties at the Starwood Corporate Office Iberia in Madrid, Spain.

Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran has appointed Muhammad Yuslan as Hotel Manager. He had a broad range of experience prior to joining the resort. He is a graduate of the National Hotel Institute in Bandung, Indonesia, where he specialized in room division management, and studied marketing management and strategic planning at the London School of Public Relations Jakarta.

Fourteen years of experience in the hospitality industry and management experience in his previous roles have prepared him for his current appointment. With strong motivation, leadership and care for customers, Muhammad Yuslan’s skill and experience will further strengthen the resort’s award-winning team.

Sean Mosher has been appointed Resort Manager of Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan. He moves to the mountain retreat from Four Seasons Resort Langkawi in Malaysia, where he held the same position. The Canadian native joined the company in 2002 as Communications Manager for Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver.

His career took him to Toronto and then England where he spent six years at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, working his way up from Assistant Front Office Manager to Rooms Director, before moving with his family to Langkawi in 2012. “After 13 years with Four Seasons, this is a dream role for me,” said Sean.

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news & trends Fashion & Beauty

Etourdissant Cartier Azure glistening in the sun, the ochre of the rocks, the fleeting rays of twilight, the black velvet sea – the Riviera and its ever-changing colour palette have caught the imagination of Cartier, sparking the creation of the Etourdissant Cartier High Jewellery collection.

Lagon

Photos courtesy of Cartier

Romanov

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new world. This precious stone of a thousand facets beats at the heart of a rock crystal and diamond bracelet.

ROMANOV. 197.80 carats in pale blue haloed

PUSHKAR RING. White gold, carved mandarin garnets, carved tsavorite garnets, carved tanzanites, cabochon-cut black opals, brilliant-cut diamonds.

he collection takes shape between light and shadow. The most precious of precious gemstones – diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, opals, corals, tanzanites, garnets and chrysoprasus – all chosen for the richness of their material and their unique way of playing with and transforming the light.

The shapes have been liberated, bold and new, composing a collection of fireworks, a whirlwind of stones cut to sparkle, calibrated to set summer nights ablaze with their intoxicating shine. with pink, an azure fragment fallen from the sky and coming to rest as dawn breaks at the edge of a

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Pushkar Ring

LAGON. A magical, miraculous stone: within

the enigma of its depths, the opal carries the blended shades of emeralds, sapphires and Paraiba tourmalines … a cuff bracelet bearing the reflections of the night, a bracelet between two worlds that forges a link to the promise of daytime.

advertorial

Happiness is travelling the world with a backpack and a toothbrush. Lots of us would agree with that. Who wants to be weighed down and overwhelmed with so much stuff while on the road? Mavala has a solution with these easy to pack, compact products that will not be a burden on your bags. So if you love travelling light but still want to look your glamorous best, check out these Mavala products.

Eye Make-Up Remover Pads • Remove waterproof eye make-up with these practical sphere-shaped cotton pads.

Nail Polish Remover Pads • Remove nail polish without drying the skin with this acetone-free product. These pads are easy to pack and practical.

Mavapen • Keeps your cuticles soft and supple with a blast of vitamins E and F, and it comes in practical packaging.

Nailactan • Vitamins for your nails, this nourishing cream also contains essential amino acids to help your nails grow healthy and strong.

Mini Nail Polish • These mini bottles of Mavala Nail Polish are easy to carry wherever you go.

Hand Cream • This hand cream for dry, sensitive and dehydrated skin contains marine collagen and allantoin to moisturise and tighten the skin.

Correcteur • This pen-shaped product makes it easy and convenient to remove nail polish and correct any mistakes.

@mavala.indonesia

@mavalaindonesia

MavalaIndonesia

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news & trends Editor’s Pick

Fashionable Travel Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Keds, Vacheron Constantin, Rimowa

Travelling is not only about the destination but looking fabulous getting there. We look at all the gear you need to get where you are going with style.

Keds 1989 The collaboration between Keds and multi-platinum singer Taylor Swift is good news for fans with the release of Swift’s Keds canvas shoes inspired by her 1989 world tour.

The sneakers are sky blue with seagull print. The number “1989” is printed on the back of the shoe.

Swift’s Keds canvas shoes were inspired by the cover of her new album, “1989”. As an added bonus, Taylor’s signature is printed on each pair of 1989 Keds.

Keds 1989 are not just fashionable but also comfortable and tough enough to stand up to the wear and tear of long trips.

Topas Stealth by Rimowa Rimowa Topas Stealth is all that its title promises.

Living up to its name by offering the richest black exterior, wheels and framing for the ultimate sleek travel design, the Stealth stands alone in terms of style and composition. Rimowa Stealth is guaranteed to shine when noticed, but is so effortlessly transportable that it may deign to go undercover.

Vacheron Constantin Globetrotters need a gorgeous watch to keep track of the time as they cross time zones. These three Vacheron Constantin models come in two styles: one version with a bezel set with round-cut diamonds (approximately 1.10 carats), available in a 20-piece limited numbered edition; and another featuring a bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds (approximately 1.90 carats) available as a series of five numbered watches exclusively available from Vacheron Constantin boutiques. These watches are all certified by the Hallmark of Geneva, one of the finest distinctions in terms of horological craftsmanship.

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Each Stealth luggage piece is treated with an anodizing process that allows it to garner its signature matte black colour. The Rimowa Stealth’s interior is simple and designed for the heights of streamlined space efficiency. It is a suave trunk style that promises light, manoeuvrable travel, which positively invites excitement at every turn. Whether hopping an international flight or boarding a train, this collection encourages fashionable travel.

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Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers

Elevates the Guest Experience

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ocated in the Central Business District of Surabaya, just 40 minutes from Juanda International Airport and adjacent to the biggest shopping mall in East Java, Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers offers friendly services by talented associates from the moment guests step inside the lobby until they say goodbye.

Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers comprises 348 compelling modern and stylishly appointed guest rooms and suites. Rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi, LCD TV and the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed, a king-size bed custom designed with a plush-top mattress and four pillows to guarantee a great night’s sleep. Located on the seventh to twelfth floors are Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers’ 45 splendid apartments.

For access to the refined lounge facility, guests can upgrade to the Sheraton Club located on the 25h floor, which provides a relaxing and upscale environment for every activity. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, hors d’oeuvres and a variety of beverages at Sheraton Club.

Elevate your stay and create interesting experiences. Start your journey with a sumptuous American breakfast at Kafe Bromo. Enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine at the hotel’s Lung Yuan restaurant, chill out at Kawi Lounge with a selection of local and international beers and wines, or take a bite of the delicious cakes and breads on offer at La Patisserie. Grab a snack, catch up with colleagues or get down to business at Link@Sheraton.

Inspired by global cuisines, worldwide traditions and local culture, the hotel's new signature program is called Paired. Paired couples distinctive flavours to create unexpected taste sensations.

We challenge guests to break the rules and dine

differently. Join us in Kafe Bromo or Kawi Lounge for an innovative, exciting and entirely unique dining experience.

With more than 1,604 square metres of ballrooms, boardrooms and function rooms, the 5-star Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers can accommodate meetings of any kind. Explore our Smart Meeting Offers to make the most of your meeting. We also provide outside catering served by our culinary team who will assist with your every need. For bigger events with more than 1.000 guests, the Pakuwon Imperial Ballroom is the ideal choice for social activities and business events.

Managed by Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Pakuwon Golf & Family Club is a unique and luxurious establishment based on the opulent theme of African Lost City. Guests will find plenty of fun things to do. Swing like a pro at Pakuwon Golf and its 18-hole executive Par 3 day/night golf course and driving range.

Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers Jl. Embong Malang No. 25-31, Surabaya East Java - Indonesia Phone. +62 31 546 8000 www.sheratonsurabaya.com

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travelling Do’s & Don’ts

Yogyakarta

I will never get bored of Yogyakarta, the heart of Java. I always find something new when I visit to this city. For me, memories live in every place I visit in the city, making Yogyakarta special. Here is some advice for your next visit to Yogyakarta.

Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photo by Priscilla Picauly

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Don’ts

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Malioboro is a must, but take the time to visit and explore other areas like Prawirotaman and Tirtodipuran.

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Becak and andong are two types of transportation you must try. Exploring Yogyakarta by becak and andong promises an unforgettable journey.

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Saturday and Sunday are the best days to experience one of the most popular spots in Yogyakarta, Alun-Alun Selatan.

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There are lots of spots in Wonosari to enjoy, including the beaches and Pindul and Jombang caves.

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Even if you don’t have a big sweet tooth, gudeg and bakpia are two local specialities you must try. l

Yogyakartans are known to be very polite and soft-spoken, so you may have to lean in a little to follow the conversation. l

It is an eight-hour train ride from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, but it this once in lifetime rail journey through Java is worth it. l

Ask a street musician to sing “Yogyakarta” by KLa Project in Angkringan, which is famous for its street food. It’s a fun way to enjoy the city; just don’t forget to tip the musician. l

Lots of becak drivers work with batik and bakpia stores in the city; they will give you a good price to drive you around, but you will have to buy something in the stores they take you to. l

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If you visit Yogyakarta during a holiday expect to deal with crowds and traffic jams.

Yogyakarta has plenty of devoted fans, so don’t put down the city in social media unless you are ready for an angry backlash.

Be respectful in how you dress and speak when visiting the many historical buildings, palaces and places of worship in the city.

Luxury hotels are great, but see a different side of the city by staying in a smaller budget hotel or exploring traditional village life.

TransYogyakarta was not set up for exploring the city’s tourist attractions; find a mode of transportation with a more flexible schedule for getting around Yogyakarta. l

Tugu Yogyakarta monument is one of the city’s iconic sights, but as far as tourist photos go, it has pretty much been done. There are plenty of other spots in the city for a great tourist pic, you just have to get out and explore. l

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Jakarta Hideaways Jakartans are overworked, stressed out and, more than likely, stuck in traffic. If ever someone was in need of an escape it was a Jakartan.

In this edition, we take you to four destinations in the city to re-charge your soul and get back to rocking your day.

Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of each property

Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa “Where East meets West” – Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa is an exquisite combination of exotic natural herbs and high-tech spa equipment.

Inspired by the famous Taman Sari Water Castle bathing complex in Yogyakarta, where members of Javanese royal families pampered themselves with luxurious baths of herbs and flowers, the ancient Javanese palace concept provides the authentic feeling of being inside the Kraton of Java.

Salihara Art Gallery Salihara is a centre of art and culture, home to shows, exhibitions and performances. Located in Pasar Minggu, far from Jakarta’s hectic centre, this is the dream destination for the artistic soul. There are almost daily performances at Salihara.

You can check out upcoming shows and performances on Salihara’s website, www.salihara. org, or on Twitter @salihara. There are also art classes organized by Salihara including writing and acting classes, book discussions and more.

And of course there is a small bookshop that sells art magazines, literary books, unique T-Shirts, funky accessories and more. If you just want to hang out try Kedai Kopi Tiam Oey near Salihara. This is a gathering spot for people waiting for shows to begin or for post-performance gatherings and discussions.

Jl. Salihara No. 16, Pasar Minggu Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 789 1202 www.salihara.org

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Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa offers everything from Baby Spa to Post-Menopause packages. All treatments are based on an ancient Javanese philosophy called Women Life Cycle, which teaches that a woman goes through eight different phases in her life, and each stage has its own physical and mental changes that must be treated properly.

Jl. K.H Wahid Hasyim 133 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 314 3585 www.tamansariroyalheritagespa.com

travelling

Museum di Tengah Kebun Located in one of Jakarta’s most fabulously busy districts, Museum di Tengah Kebun is a surprising oasis of green in the midst of congested, crowded Kemang. The museum covers 4,200 metres and contains 2,481 antiques from 63 countries and 21 provinces in Indonesia. The museum is also home for the owner, Sjahrial, so all these fabulous antiques also serve as everyday pieces of furniture.

Carpets from Persia, sculptures from different centuries, antique flowerpots, chairs, tables, mirrors and cupboards add grace and colour to the rooms. The building itself is an artistic treasure, dating back 400 years to the Dutch colonial period. A tour takes about 1.5 hours and there is no charge. You should book in advance, with a minimum of seven guests and a maximum of 10.

Jl. Kemang Timur Raya No. 66 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 719 6907/+62 877 8238 7666

Bikram Yoga Kuningan Sweat out your stress with some Bikram yoga. Physical activity can give you a lift with its endorphin rush. But Bikram yoga is no ordinary physical activity, as you sweat your way through 26 poses in a room heated to 42 degrees Celsius.

The magic of Bikram yoga is that the poses and heat will challenge you and push you to your limits, giving you insight into your inner strength and all you can achieve when pushed. Try Bikram yoga for a week and you will feel the difference, as you enjoy better sleep and a clearer mind. This is the best place to release your stress in a healthy way.

Epicentrum Walk 2nd Floor Jl. HR. Rasuna Said Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 2991 2128 www.bikramkuningansouthjakarta.com

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Going to Frozen Extremes Nick Walton plays polar explorer on an unforgettable adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Photos by Nicholas Walton

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ith steam billowing from my mouth and snow up to my knees, I summit the small hill on the largest of the Aitcho Islands, in the South Shetland chain, to a round of gurgling applause from the local Gentoo penguin colony.

But approval from the residents on this desolately beautiful rock isn’t the only reward for the 30 hours flying and two days sailing it took to get here; the view across the English Strait, which is

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bathed in glorious golden sunlight despite the late hour, is truly magnificent.

If I was an explorer of old, glaring out from thick, round goggles, my beard flecked with icicles, I’d be looking for a good spot to raise my flag. I settle for erecting a tripod instead, as black and white chinstraps and gentoos the size of housecats fuss around my feet, oblivious to the wonder of their home or the captivated imagination of its newest visitor.

3600 Tiny, unassuming Aitcho is our first dry land since our ship, Aurora Expeditions’ pint-sized Polar Pioneer, left Ushuaia, at the southern tip of Argentina, three days earlier. There, the port was busy with ships bound for the Falklands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula as an ever-increasing number of affluent and intrepid travellers make for the White Continent and its unique, awe-inspiring landscapes.

It’s more reminiscent of a day cruise to some secluded picnic spot than the beginning of an expedition as we ply the calm waters of the Beagle Channel, enjoying glorious sunshine and views of the snow-dusted peaks which ring Ushuaia’s harbour. We mingle with fellow explorers from across the globe, pose for photos on the Pioneer’s bow and trace the flight paths of sheathbills and sleek cormorants as they race across the glistening water in formation, their reflections never quite catching up. Just after dinner, our expedition leader, Dr Gary Miller, announces our arrival at the Drake Passage and it’s time to batten down the hatches as we enter some of the most tumultuous waters on the globe.

There’s nothing quite like five-metre swells and 40-knot winds to bring out the explorer in you, and Aurora’s open bridge policy ensures those who venture up the ship’s narrow staircases feel like part of the Russian crew as they cling to supports and watch whitecaps slam against the hull, a cascade of cold, green sea pounding against the bridge’s windows. That’s what Antarctica cruising is all about; it’s a journey to a remote land wreathed by turbulent seas and capped with inhospitable ice, ensuring only the most willing ever venture this far south. The Drake Passage and the icy environment are not the only detractors; international conventions strictly enforce rules on the number of tourists allowed to visit each season, ensuring it remains pristine.

The atmosphere is positively electric through the ship’s narrow confines two days later as the swells finally relent and Gary announces that we’ve made good progress through the Drake and arrived in Antarctic waters with time for an evening landing in the South Shetlands. Our complement of 50 passengers scramble into thick rubber moon boots

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and bright blue Aurora Expeditions jackets, cameras at the ready as they line the decks waiting for their turn to clamber down the gangway to a waiting zodiac, and the prospect of our first Antarctic landing.

The few hours spent on Aitcho is the first of a dozen such excursions that come part and parcel with an Aurora Expeditions cruise. By night the ship navigates the frozen coastline, through the South Shetlands and then on to the White Continent itself, giving guests a chance to walk, climb and even - in a rare opportunity only offered by a few expeditionary cruise lines - camp a night in the ice.

At the Hydrurga Rocks, two small, snow and icecovered rocky islands in the Palmer Archipeligo, we watch Weddell seals and a solitary leopard seal lounging on the ice, the sensational views of the Buache and Modey Peaks, towering mountains on nearby Two Hummock Island, as a dramatic backdrop. In narrow, sheltered Neko Harbour, on the west coast of Graham Land on the Antarctic Peninsula, passengers who had signed up for climbing follow their guides high above the bay, while the rest of us tour a sea of towering icebergs by zodiac, serenaded by the penguins of a vast Gentoo colony perched on rocks overlooking the

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harbour as the noisy birds warn off dark green skuas hoping to steal from their nests.

After our Russian captain crushes and barges our way through the ice of the mesmerising Lemaire Channel, virtually every passenger stooped over the rail on the ship’s foresail to watch the ice floes crack and capsize in our wake (we were the first ship to pass through this ice gauntlet in over a month), my brother Dan and I board a zodiac driven

by Norwegian expedition photographer and bird fanatic Eirik Grønningsæter.

We leave the ship behind, its profile quickly hidden by icebergs the size of double-storey houses, and follow the reflection of the valley’s snowy peaks on the water towards an endless expanse of ice floes, tracing the wake of an inquisitive minke whale, capturing the turquoise brilliance of freshly turned icebergs, and disturbing the afternoon slumbers of a crab-eating seal, the sunshine setting his fur a brilliant golden hue.

We meet fellow explorers in Port Lockroy, one of the Peninsula’s most beautiful natural harbours and one that is ringed by the jagged, brutal peaks of the Seven Sisters to one side, and the imposing yet magnificent 1,415 - metre high Savoia Peak on

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the other. Here, four scientists work through the summer months, tasked by the British Antarctic Heritage Trust to maintain and restore past settlements on the Peninsula, including historic Bransfield House, where they live.

Bransfield is part museum, part science camp, part gift shop, and we take turns leafing through the kitchen’s cook books, which detail methods of cooking seal stew and penguin pie, and sending letters from passengers on the continent (most of the estimated 40,000 visitors annually arrive by ship, with many on ‘cruise by’ itineraries that never actually land) are regulated by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators and the number of travellers allowed on the ice at any one time, and what they do when they arrive, is all strictly monitored.

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Aurora Expeditions has been cruising to the Antarctic Peninsula, as well as many other remote locations, since the 1990s, and offers a truly authentic take on polar exploration for a lucky handful of travellers. The Polar Pioneer, a former Russian spy ship that’s much smaller than many of the other vessels that venture so far south, is far from luxurious. But instead its hardy crew, comfort cuisine and compact but practical cabins offer a true sense of how the many scientific teams live as they visit the White Continent.

In fact, Aurora’s marine crew is complemented by a dedicated team of polar junkies-naturalists, biologists and photographers-on hand to lead visitors through this truly unique encounter with guided excursions and insightful onboard briefings.

3600 Antarctic seas, the warmth of the sun is glorious and many passengers wander the decks in their swimming trunks, forgetting they’re on the cusp of the Antarctic Circle.

The ice camping is a much hardier experience but one that still seduces 80 percent of the ship’s contingent. Camping under the stars is one of the most popular in a raft of activities now offered by Aurora Expeditions; travellers can climb frozen mountain passes, kayak with specialist guides through fields of blue-white icebergs and even snorkel and scuba dive on selected trips. While other companies offer a camping experience with tents and creature comforts, Aurora guests are encouraged to ‘rough it’ with nothing but sleeping bags between them and the awe-inspiring landscapes of an Antarctic summer night.

The crew ferry passengers loaded up with special sleeping bags and bed rolls across to Useful Island, in the Gerlache Strait. Our little group works up a sweat digging a trench in the wind-hardened ice, piling the snow in a foot-high wall that will help protect us from the whipping polar gusts. Then we settle in for a night under summer skies, inquisitive Gentoos stumbling across the ice to take a peek, great waves of cloud spilling over the mountain tops that ring the island, all of us snug in our sleeping bags basking in the silence of Antarctica.

the only post box in Antarctica. Beyond the tiny camp whale skeletons reach up from the snow, penguins stumble their way across the billiard table-flat sea ice and blue-eyed shags take turns to race across the water and glide through the frozen thermals above the harbour. That night, a duo of humpbacks escort our ship leafing through the mirrorlike waters of the Gerlache Strait.

Finally, it’s our time to play true polar explorer, with two of Aurora’s most popular experiences, ice camping and the polar plunge. The latter takes place on our afternoon in the Lemaire Chanel, where, under a dazzling sun, passengers of all ages leap from the ship’s deck, GoPro cameras at the ready, into the frozen waters, to rounds of applause from crew and guests alike. After the blinding cold of the

We wave goodbye to Antarctica a few days later as the ship slips back into the tumultuous Drake Passage, the first heaving waves arriving midway through dinner. But the ice camping isn’t our last chance to explore the wonders of the deep south; after a rare landing at Cape Horn, where we climb the steep staircases to the top of windwhipped sea cliffs and visit the sole Chilean naval family that protects this last outpost, the Polar Pioneer berths at Porto Williams, the first commercial cruise ship to ever conduct an itinerary turn-around there.

The remote Chilean town aspires to compete with Ushuaia, another 50 kilometres down the Beagle Channel, and our band of now-seasoned explorers make history as the first polar tourists to disembark at its tiny pier. It’s a fitting end to an unforgettable adventure in the world’s last frozen frontier.

Travel Essentials Aurora Expeditions (www.auroraexpeditions.com. au) offers cruises to the Antarctic Peninsula between November and March, with fares from US$8,700 per person, triple share.

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A Dot in the Indian Ocean Isolated for centuries, Christmas Island is a hidden paradise in the Indian Ocean surrounded by coral reefs and famous for its spectacular migration of red crabs.

Text by Priscilla Picauly | Photos courtesy of Christmas Island Tourism

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ooking on the map, the closest neighbour to Christmas Island is Java, but this secluded island is a territory of Australia. What can you expect on a secluded tropical island far, far from the madding crowds? Plenty of peace, relaxation and intimate moments. That is why Christmas Island is the ultimate holiday destination.

Christmas Island Christmas Island was unknown until British and Dutch navigators included the island on their charts from the early 17th century. The anonym island was protected by natural barriers and no one was able to land on it before 1688. The first recorded landing was by the English buccaneering ship Cygnet under Captain Swan. Captain William Mynors from the East India Company named the island when he arrived on Christmas Day in 1643.

Geologists assume that about 60 million years ago the cone of an undersea volcano surfaced, forming a basin on which a coral atoll began to form. More than 20 million years ago, the atoll appears to have sunk slowly and limestone was deposited as the coral began to build up. Ten million years later, this process stopped and an island began to emerge from the sea in a series of uplifts. Each of the island

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terraces was formed by the development of the fringing reef and sea cliff erosion before being uplifted.

The 85-square-kilometre Christmas Island National Park makes up almost two-thirds of the island. In the early 1970s there was concern about the effect of phosphate mining on the flora and fauna on the island, especially the Abbott’s booby habitat. But the park is still ecologically diverse and open to visitors for educational, cultural and recreational purposes.

Interesting Places Christmas Island is blessed with natural sites. For fun days, you can explore interesting places like Flying Fish Cove. Home to a kampong (Malay for village) and mosque, Flying Fish Cove is also great for swimming and snorkelling. Just up the hill beyond Flying Fish Cove is Buck House, also known as Tai Jin House. Inside the house you can explore the history of Christmas Island. The expansive gardens are used for community events and provide excellent views overlooking Flying Fish Cove.

But my favourite is The Grotto. A hidden treasure, the Grotto surprises with a mini-cave that is home to a pool of sea and freshwater. After a day of

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3600 adventure, it’s time to relax and drink in the mystery and romance of the candlelit Grotto at night. The rhythm of the waves, the sounds of nature and the intimate ambiance, it’s all absolutely wonderful.

Beautiful Beaches Christmas Island is home to beautiful beaches where you can hide away, lie back, relax and enjoy the view. Lily Beach offers spectacular views of waves crashing into the cliffs. A boardwalk along the cliff’s edge between Lilly and Ethel Beach is perfect for a spot of bird watching, and you might spot a brown booby or a red-footed booby nesting on the cliffs. Or you can pack a picnic and have lunch in a sweet gazebo on the beach.

Ethel Beach has a sandy channel at the eastern end of the beach that is a good entry point for snorkelling when the water is calm, around October to April.

Drive 30 minutes from Settlement and take a short walk, around three minutes, to Greta Beach, which has interesting flotsam and jetsam washed ashore is home for thousands of tiny hermit crabs. If you want some privacy go straight to Dolly Beach, is one of the prettiest and most secluded beaches on the island. Dolly is a popular camping spot for locals. Near Greta Beach is a marine turtle nesting site, and you can see tracks of nesting adults and

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emerging hatchlings among the logs, coconuts and other debris.

Not to be missed, West White Beach can be reached by driving about 30 minutes and then walking the rest of the way, around 45 minutes to an hour. You should be reasonably fit if you are planning a visit to West White, but this beautiful beach is worth the effort. Winifred Beach is about a 45-minute drive through rainforest. But again you need to walk about 30 minutes to get to the beach. Winifred is a perfect spot for snorkelling or just lying back and relaxing on the sand.

Plenty of Activities No one will be bored on Christmas Island. It may be secluded but there are plenty of activities for families or lovers. A highlight of Christmas Island is the spectacular migration of red crabs. This unique natural journey attracts many tourists in October and November, during the wet season. The red crabs move en masse from forest to coast to breed and release eggs into the sea. The main migration commences on the plateau and can last up to 18 days. Masses of crabs gather into broad “streams” as they move toward the coast, climbing down high inland cliff faces and over or around all obstacles in their way, following routes used year after year

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for both downward and return migrations. The movement peaks in the early morning and late afternoons when it is cooler and there is more shade. If caught in open areas, in unshaded heat, the crabs soon lose body water and die.

If you are not interested in crabs, try diving and snorkelling on the island’s reefs. Christmas Island has some of the biggest drop-offs in the world and about 200 species of coral. The local dive centre will create amazing dive trips and help guests explore untouched reefs, espying hundreds of species of tropical fish, dolphins and whale sharks. For the record, about 600 species of fish have been identified here.

Bird lovers will be pretty busy on Christmas Island.

Because of its close proximity to Southeast Asia and the equator, Christmas Island is home to a diverse range of bird species, and there are 80,000 seabird nests on the island annually. Birds endemic to the island include the inquisitive Christmas Island thrush, with its melodious evening song.

Other species include the Abbott’s booby and the Christmas Island frigatebird. January to August is breeding season for frigatebirds and great frigatebirds, and from April to October is Abbott’s booby nesting season. (www.christmas.net.au).

- Climate Daily average temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius. Wet season is between December and April.

- Currency The Australian dollar is the local currency but major credit cards are ccepted.

- Language English is the official language, while Bahasa Malay, Mandarin and other Chinese languages are widely spoken.

- Getting there Virgin Australia flights operate from Perth

International Airport to Christmas Island several times a week.

- For photographers, here are some of the best spots for shots: - - - - - - - -

Flying Fish Cove Tai Jin House Greta Beach Dolly Beach Island Temples Martin Point Blowholes Hughes Dale Waterfall

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Ultimate Tibet Tibet is a holy land for photo hunters.

Text by Lilita Nurdiana | Photos by Lilita Nurdiana and Tim Hannigan

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ibet is the ultimate destination for adventurous travellers, but getting there takes some planning. The first step is figuring out when to go. April to October is the best time to visit, when the weather is not too harsh. In August, do not miss the Shoton Festival or the Tibetan Opera Festival in Norbulingka and Drepung Monastery.

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Much of Tibetan life still revolves around the yak.

Tibetans eat yoghurt, butter, cheese, yak meat and yak blood. They make clothing, blankets and many other goods from yak hair.

Tibet, with its rich and unique culture, beautiful artwork and magnificent landscapes, bewitched me. I was so mesmerized by the untouched natural

3600 scenery that I could not stop snapping pictures from the time I arrived in Lhasa. If you visit Tibet, bring your camera and as many memory cards as possible.

With Lhasa as its capital, Tibet is governed as an autonomous region of China. Foreign visitors need a Chinese visa before applying for a Tibet Travel Permit. The Tibet Tourism Bureau does not accept individual applications for permits. You can apply for a permit by providing a travel plan, scanned coloured copies of your passport and a visa to a local travel agent. When flying to Tibet, a tourist must carry the original permit.

Tibet is on the Tibetan Plateau, the highest plateau on earth. Lhasa is 3,750 metres above sea level, so there is considerable risk of altitude sickness. For the first two days in Tibet, it is suggested that you drink lots of water, take the elevator for the first few days or go up and down the stairs very slowly.

You can also buy small canisters of oxygen.

What to See? Public transportation is limited and can be difficult to navigate. Your best bet may be to hire a local guide to show you the sights.

1. Potala Palace

Lhasa’s cardinal landmark and a wonder of Eastern architecture has been a palace since the fifth or sixth century and was once home to the Dalai Lama. It is now a museum and World Heritage Site.

Photography is not allowed inside Potala Palace.

2. Jokhang Temple

Another World Heritage Site, this temple is the most revered shrine in all of Tibet and is constantly bustling with devout worshippers. It is located on Barkhor Square in Lhasa. Taking photos in Jokhang Temple is allowed.

3. Barkhor Street

Home to Lhasa’s crowded central market, near Jokhang Temple, this is the ideal destination for shopping. Food, Tibetan souvenirs, traditional clothes, craftwork and accessories can be found here.

4. Yamdrok Lake

One of the three holy lakes in Tibet and the largest habitat of waterfowl in south Tibet, Yamdrok Lake is located between Lhasa and Gyantse.

Ningjinkangsang Snow Mountain and Karola Glacier can be seen in the distance.

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5. Palkhor Temple in Gyantse

Famous for its Kumbum (hall of 10,000 Buddhist figures), this temple covers 2,200 square metres and the stupa has a total 108 gates and 77 chapels, each of which has a dominant religious figure and murals.

6. Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse

Located at the foot of Mount Tara in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, Tashilhunpo Monastery is one of the six largest monasteries in Tibet and covers an area of nearly 300,000 square metres, including the main structures of the Maitreya Chapel, the Panchen Lama’s Palace and Kelsang Temple. The full name in Tibetan means “heap of glory”. Taking photos inside the palace is allowed with a permit.

7. Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC)

It is 5,200 metres above sea level and has the best views of Mount Everest. A Public Security Bureau (PSB) permit is required to visit Mount Everest. The road to the base camp is rough and oxygen bottles

are needed. It is also important to get as fit and healthy as possible before visiting EBC.

8. Rongbuk Monastery

The highest monastery in the world, also known as Dzarongpu or Dzarong, is located at the foot of Mount Everest. It is 5, 000 metres above sea level and the best time to visit is before or after visiting EBC.

9. Sera Monastery

Located about two kilometres north of Lhasa and about five kilometres north of Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery is one of three most famous monasteries in the city, along with Drepung Monastery and Ganden Monastery. It was named Sera, which means wild rose in the Tibetan language, because the hill behind it was covered with wild roses in bloom when it was built. Do not skip the famous debate sessions of the monks in Sera, which was built in 1419 and has always been an important Buddhist seminary.

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3600 How to Get There?

By Plane

There are three weekly flights to Lhasa operated

by Air China. There are also flights to Lhasa from Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Kunming, Qamdo, Shanghai, Xi’an, Xining and Zhongdian.

It is about 60 kilometres from Gonggar Airport to downtown Lhasa. Taxis and an official shuttle bus are available outside the airport, but non-Chinese tourists must take a private car provided by a travel agency.

Flying from Chengdu is the easiest option and many hotels are able to arrange a Tibetan Travel Permit and flight or train tickets.

By Train

Direct trains to Lhasa originate in Beijing, Xining, Lanzhou, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing and Chengdu. Travelling by train is a good way to enjoy the scenery. Prices are classified into soft sleeper, hard sleeper and hard seat classes. Tickets are available 20 days before the train departure date and foreigners must buy tickets with the help of a travel agency.

By Land

There are five highways stretching into Tibet but currently only the Qinghai-Tibet Highway and ChineseNepalese Highway are open to foreigners. Starting from Golmud of Qinghai, the Qinghai-Tibet highway is the only highway with bus service. From Kathmandu, some tour companies offer overland tours to Tibet.

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Padma Resort Ubud Set within the enchanting bamboo forest of Payangan, the 149-room Padma Resort Ubud is the ultimate exotic destination in Bali.

Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of Padma Resort Ubud

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t Padma Resort Ubud, an exciting collection of rooms and suites showcase a panoramic river valley and treetop views, artisan-crafted furnishings, hand-carved wooden detailing, state-of-the-art media, private balconies and spa-inspired ensuite bathrooms. Generous bedrooms and living areas provide maximum comfort and flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of travellers, from honeymooners to large families.

Located on the top floor overlooking the resort’s expansive infinity swimming pool and gardens, and boasting panoramic 180-degree views across the bamboo forest and out to the terraced rice paddies beyond, the spacious indoor and al fresco Puhu Restaurant & Lounge showcases an international

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menu of tantalizing dishes including Indonesian, Asian and European specialities.

Padma Spa is a sophisticated sanctuary that welcomes guests to experience inner bliss. The spa’s team of impeccably trained Indonesian therapists is on hand to deliver results-driven treatments and therapies, inspired by authentic Asian rituals. A jogging track is available and is perfect for a prebreakfast workout or a post-lunch walk through the resort’s lush tropical gardens and along the river.

Padma Resort Ubud Banjar Carik, Desa Puhu Payangan, Ubud Bali - Indonesia Phone. +62 361 301 111 www.padmaresortubud.com

Hideaway Destinations Sometimes you just need to escape the routine and try something new. In this edition, we take you to Hideaway Destinations for some much-needed me-time at eight of the most beautiful hotels in the world.

You will revel in the Amankora in Bhutan, a hidden gem that combines tranquil surroundings and gorgeous natural views. If you are a city person, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel in Penang, Malaysia is the ideal destination. The hotel exudes colonial charm with the finest traditions of comfort and service, 20 kilometres from Penang International Airport and located near food havens and entertainment centres. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, Tanzania’s Mantra Resort and its spectacular Underwater Room are not to be missed.

Sometimes the most unforgettable memories come from the most unexpected places. Asia is filled with hidden gems and we take you to some unexpected vacation destinations. Malang is not your ordinary destination; there is culture, mountains and great food, not to mention the magical sunrises and sunsets.

Then there is the ancient city of Hoi An in Vietnam, with its historic houses and temples, Cham Island and the famous Japanese Covered Bridge. The last destination is Dili, formerly part of Indonesia and now a destination for those in search of nature, history and good food. Check out our Asian Hideaway Destinations and start planning your next holiday!

Photo courtesy of The Manta Resort-North Africa

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Hideaway Hotels Around the World Hideaway escapes are all about the perfect hotel. We present eight hideaway hotels where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the world.

Text by Ester Pandiangan & Priscilla Picauly | Photos courtesy of each property

The Peninsula Paris This century-old classic building has been meticulously restored and modernized to create the latest example of Peninsula excellence. As one of the world’s oldest hospitality brands with a heritage dating back to 1866, The Peninsula Hotel seamlessly blends tradition and innovation and unique Peninsula signatures, including the traditional Peninsula Afternoon Tea served in the Lobby, the pageboys, the Chinese door lion statues and the distinctive Rolls-Royce fleet, all underpinned by the supreme quality service for which Peninsula Hotels are known.

The Peninsula Paris guest rooms are amongst the largest in the city and the most technologically advanced in the world. In addition to the bedroom area, living room and bathroom, each room offers a self-contained dressing room and walkin closet, including a seated dressing table, the signature Peninsula valet box for discreet pick-up

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and delivery of laundry, dry-cleaning and polished shoes, a large electronic safe, a luggage rack for suitcases, internet radio, weather display panel and nail dryer.

The Peninsula Paris offers 34 luxuriously appointed suites, including three uniquely designed theme suites — The Historic Suite, resplendent with period decoration, and the ultimate in grand accommodation, The Katara Suite and The Peninsula Suite. Amongst the most unique accommodation in Paris, five suites also command spectacular 360-degree views from their own private roof garden.

The Peninsula Paris 19 Avenue Kleber, 75116 Paris - France Phone. +33 1 5812 6605 www.peninsula.com/paris

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Post Ranch Inn High atop the cliffs of Big Sur, 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, sits Post Ranch Inn, a sanctuary for the soul. Located along California’s Highway One, known as one of the world’s most scenic drives, Post Ranch is set amongst majestic state parks, beaches and waterfalls.

Post Ranch Inn has 41 architecturally innovative guest rooms, suites and private homes placed along the ridge that parallels the Pacific Ocean.

Each guest accommodation offers a unique, luxurious experience with views of either the ocean or mountains.

Sierra Mar Restaurant boasts one of the largest wine selections in North America, with more than 14,000 bottles. A complimentary gourmet buffet breakfast is served exclusively for overnight guests. Complimentary activities include yoga and meditation classes, guided nature hikes and garden tours and nightly stargazing on the deck at Sierra Mar using a computerized 12-inch Meade telescope.

Post Ranch Inn 47900 Highway 1 Big Sur - California Phone. 831 667 2200 www.postranchinn.com

V8 Hotel – Motorworld Region Stuttgart There’s a Mercedes bed in your room. You truly are in for sweet dreams at the Mercedes Suite at V8 Hotel. The suite offers 120 square metres over four floors, including an exclusive rooftop terrace.

Besides the Mercedes Suite, each room in the hotel has personal touches, a unique character and an automobile theme. All rooms are individually decorated and equipped with high-quality materials and are furnished with genuine parts and images from the automotive world.

V8 Hotel oozes the historic charm of its former airport site. Extensively restored in a classical modern style, the hotel not only impresses through its historical flair, but also offers an exceptional setting for your stay. Both the hotel and Motorworld are all about the automobile, from automotivethemed rooms with legendary vintage cars to sporty young timers and classic cars.

V8 Hotel – Motorworld Region Stuttgart Graf Zeppein Platz 71034 Böblingen Phone. +49 (0)7031 306 9880 www.v8hotel.de

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Amankora Amankora is a series of lodges across the central and western valleys of Bhutan. The sole surviving Himalayan Buddhist kingdom, Bhutan is located between the Tibetan plateau and India, making it one of the most remote and pristine environments on earth.

Amankora has five nature-linked lodges nestled along a path of edifying momentum uncovering the richness of a pristine cultural and biogenetic evolution, deeply entrenched in the spectacular Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. The journey begins and ends at Paro, manifesting in a circular pilgrimage of enchanting spiritual reward.

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Descending from 7,000-metre-high peaks in the north to the low-lying plains of the south, Bhutan’s rivers have forged deep valleys separated by high mountain passes. Historically isolated, each valley’s scenic beauty and topography affords visitors an opportunity for unique journeys of discovery.

Activities include trekking, a spiritually enriching experience at Wangditse Lhakhang Temple, Bhutan’s national sport, archery, fishing and rafting.

Amankora Paro, Thimphu Punakha, Gangtey Bumthang - Bhutan Phone. +975 8 272 333 www.amanresorts.com

cover story Giraffe Manor Have you seen “We Bought a Zoo,� a movie based on the true story of a father of two who buys a dilapidated zoo? Who knew living side by side with wild animals could be so fun?

The People at Giraffe Manor, that's who Giraffe Manor is located on the outskirts of Nairobi, on 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest. The building is truly iconic and dates back to the 1930s, and is reminiscent of the early days of Europeans in East Africa.

Eastern & Oriental Hotel

The highlight of a stay here is morning and evening greetings from eight resident Rothschild giraffes, which tend to visit the manor to greet guests and sniff out snacks before venturing out into their sanctuary. How exciting to see a giraffe so close, face-to-face, not terrifying at all.

Giraffe Manor Karen Hardy Nairobi - Kenya Phone. +254 20 251 3166 www.thesafaricollection.com/properties/ giraffe-manor

The Eastern & Oriental Hotel exudes colonial charm with the finest traditions of comfort and service. The property began its colourful history in 1884 as The Eastern. Standing majestically along Farquhar Street and intersecting with Penang Road, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel is 20 kilometres from Penang International Airport in Malaysia and conveniently located near food havens and the shopping and entertainment belts of downtown Georgetown.

the Eastern & Oriental Hotel receives individual attention.

All suites are magnificently furnished, extravagantly spacious and come in eight different types, with either city or sea views. Each suite comes with modern-day amenities and every guest who stays at

Eastern & Oriental Hotel 10 Lebuh Farquhar, Penang - Malaysia Phone. +604 261 6333 www.easternandoriental.com

See amidst lush tropical greenery in a beautifully manicured garden is a swimming pool that faces the sea and the focal point for guests seeking to unwind or to energise the body, mind and spirit.

This is also where the oldest Java tree, which was planted before 1885, still stands (only three other smaller trees of this kind exist in Penang).

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Dunton Hot Springs Before Dunton Hot Springs was a resort it was a small town in Dolores County, Colorado. Most residents left by 1910 and by 1918 the town was deserted. After a string of owners, Dunton Hot Springs was purchased in 1994 by Christoph Henkel and is now a destination for discerning travellers and those in search of the perfect hideaway.

There are natural hot springs, mountain biking, hiking, fitness centre and a screening room in the dance hall. There are additional activities like the spa, art lessons and yoga. The breathtaking sights and soothing atmosphere will re-charge your soul and take you on an unforgettable journey.

The entire town can be reserved for private use for up to 44 people. Accommodation is provided in 12 unique private log cabins that house two to ten guests and one luxury tent. Pets are welcome in some cabins.

Dunton Hot Springs 52068 West Fork Road Dolores - Colorado Phone. +970 882 4800 www.duntonhotsprings.com

The landing deck at sea level has a lounge and bathroom facility. Up on the roof is a lounge area, where you can sit and relax while enjoying the sun or admiring the starlight. Just you, asleep under the stars, with the soft murmuring of the sea. So peaceful. Downstairs is a soft double bed surrounded by panes of glass, affording almost 360-degree underwater views. By night your windows will attract shyer and more unusual creatures like squid, octopus and even the Spanish dancers seen attaching themselves to the glass panes.

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The Manta Resort – The Underwater Room

Manta Resort is situated on Pemba Island, known as the Green Island. Guests will thrill at being part of a genuine African experience. This is the perfect place to escape the routine and experience the magical.

Somewhere in the Indian Ocean a heart-stopping experience awaits you in The Underwater Room at The Manta Resort. The floating structure, Swedish engineered, provides three levels, those above the water clad in local hardwood.

The Manta Resort Psv-Zanzibar Estate Tanzania Phone. +255 776 718 852 www.themantaresort.com

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Historical Dili The beauty and solitude of Dili will soothe your soul.

Text and Photos by Ester Pandiangan

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his was supposed to be part of Indonesia,” my heart whispered as I stepped across the boundary between Indonesia and Timor Leste. It was about a three-hour trip by car from Atambua, in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province.

Timor Leste voted to separate from Indonesia in a 1999 referendum and officially became a sovereign state in 2002. The separation was a traumatic event, with a wave of violence unleashed around the 1999 referendum and many families divided, with some choosing to remain in Timor Leste and others moving to Indonesia. While Timor Leste is now a sovereign country, it retains a very distinctive feel of Indonesia.

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Bahasa Indonesia is common, through Portuguese and Tetun are the official languages of Timor Leste. But it is mostly older people who were alive when Timor Leste was a colony of Portugal and younger people educated at international schools who can speak Portuguese.

Timor Leste doesn’t have its own currency, using the US dollar. Prices can be expensive. My hotel near Cristo Beach was almost US$120 a night with minimum facilities. Other things are less expensive, like grilled fish on Kelapa Beach for just US$1 and a gorgeous ethnic dress for a dollar.

Dili is the capital of Timor Leste but it has more a small-time vibe than the hustle and bustle of a big city. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful escape and sweet solitude.

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Cristo Rei Statue

Get a true feel for Timor Leste with a visit to Cristo Rei, or the Statue of Christ the King.

Located above Cape Fatucama, the statue and its setting afford glorious views of Dili.

The statue was inaugurated on 15 October 1996 by Indonesia’s president, Soeharto.

The statue was unveiled as a symbol of integration between Indonesia and East Timor when it was still a province of Indonesia, a symbol of peace and hope.

Cristo Rei is the second-tallest statue in the world at 27 metres. The tallest is the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at 38 metres.

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The Statue of Pope John Paul II

Pope John Paul II visited Timor Leste on 12 October 1989, before its independence from Indonesia. In remembrance of this visit, the government of Timor Leste commissioned a statue of Pope John Paul II in 2007.

The statue is a pilgrimage destination for Catholics.

From the top of the stairs up to the statue there are views of the sparkling blue ocean and golden beach, with a bracing sea breeze bringing relief from the heat. l

Cristo Beach

Timor Leste is framed by beaches. Travelling to Dili from Atambua or Kupang by bus, you will skirt the edges of virgin beaches. One reason tourists fall in love with Dili is the beaches, and Cristo is one of the best in the city.

There is a range of hotels near Cristo Beach and the area is a favourite for foreign tourists. l

Dili street style can be generalized as old-chic with a touch of Portuguese. It’s a good look and for those who want to cop it, lots of local markets sell secondhand clothes at very reasonable prices.

Aimutin and Manleu are traditional markets and let you mix with the locals and do a bit of friendly bargaining.

What to Eat The cuisine of Timor Leste is very much like what you would find in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province.

There is also a healthy number of restaurants serving Padang and Javanese food. l

Located near the heart of Dili, Cristo is easily reached. Visitors soak up the sun on the sand or take a dip in the sea or maybe enjoy some snorkelling.

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Aimutin and Manleu Markets

Grilled Fish at Kelapa Beach

What can beat a perfectly grilled fish on a gorgeous beach? The price is reasonable and the views are free.

This is the perfect spot to enjoy Dili at night.

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Kebab Club

For a different ambiance, visit Kebab Club on Lecidere Road. It’s a small restaurant but very unique, and a fun place to hang out and shoot the breeze at night. l

Indonesian Restaurants

There are lots of Indonesian restaurants in Dili. They include Starco, located next to the Plaza Hotel, and Mama Resto at Timor Plaza, which offers an Indonesian buffet.

Need to Know Before Dili became part of Indonesia it was a Portuguese colony. After the Portuguese left, East Timor became part of Indonesia in 1975. During East Timor’s entire history as an Indonesian province, an independence movement was fighting for a sovereign state. Fretelin was probably the largest and most well known of the independence groups in East Timor.

East Timor became a sovereign state in 2002 and became known as Timor Leste. It has not been an easy transition to independence, but Timor Leste today is an intriguing destination for travellers interested in Indonesian history, natural beauty and getting off the beaten path.

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Love at First Sight Love at first sight is possible, as you are magically transported to heaven. It happened to me when I first caught sight of the ancient city of Hoi An, Vietnam.

Text & Photos by Priscilla Picauly

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y eyes would not close and my heart pounded like a drum. I could not wait to explore the ancient city of Hoi An, which glows with the light of colourful lanterns every night. I’ve been to Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, but Hoi An is absolutely one of a kind. Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are modern and suffer modern problems like traffic jams. Hoi An is different. Every element unites to create a most graceful and delightful city. It is little wonder that so many tourists declare Hoi An their favourite city in Vietnam, a sentiment with which I readily agree.

of Southeast Asia’s leading trading ports, bringing with it a magical mix of peoples who combined with local traditions, creating a unique and multicultural city.

Need to Know

What to Do?

Hoi An is also known as Fai-Fo and is located in Quang Nam province, near the coast of southcentral Vietnam. A long time ago, Hoi An was one

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The Old Town in the centre of Hoi An is filled with historic houses, assembly halls, temples and buildings. You can explore the area by foot, on bicycle or in a pedicab. Walking is free but a bit tiring, and riding a bicycle is fun and inexpensive.

The pedicab is the most comfortable transportation option, and also the costliest.

Hoi An has been named by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. There is a list of locations in the city that must be seen and experienced. First

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Located at 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, this wooden house remains pristine even after serving as home for seven generations of the family.

and foremost is the Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic symbol of Hoi An. This beautiful bridge was constructed around the 1590s by the Japanese community, to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream. The Old House of Tan Ky is a perfectly preserved house from the 18th century.

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From the outside, the House of Tan Ky is elegant, with large wood door and walls. Built from traditional materials and influenced by Japanese and Chinese architectural styles, the house is small but comfortable. Inside, visitors are greeted by a friendly host who will serve them a cup of traditional tea and explain the history of the building in a fiveminute tour. There are four rooms in the house, one that was used to welcome Chinese merchants, the living room, which is were guests enjoy their tea, the courtyard and the bedroom. Only the bedroom on the second floor is off-limits to visitors You should also take the time to visit Cantonese Assembly. Built in 1885 by overseas Chinese from Guangdong, this enchanted assembly hall has

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an amazing fountain with a dragon in the centre.

Every year, on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the Nguyen Lieu Festival is held at the Cantonese Assembly. Another stop on the tourist trail is Fujian Assembly Hall, which was built around 1690 as a gathering place for the Chinese community.

Culinary Explorations There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Old Town. Cao Lau serves local dishes with Japanese, Chinese and French influences. White Rose and My Quang Noodles are also tempting, and one of the favourite dishes is Pho (read fho), Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. Visitors can also visit Central Market to hunt down local dishes.

For the ideal ending to a long day of exploring Hoi An, relax at one of the riverside cafés. Order a glass of wine or bottle of beer and watch people buy wish candles, light them up, make a wish and let them go in the river. If you buy a candle and make your own wish, wish for another day to explore and fall in love with Hoi An.

Other destinations: My Son Sanctuary Cham Island Tra Que Herb Village

Recommended restaurants and cafes in Hoi An: Mermaid 2 Trần Phú, Hội An, Quảng Nam Morning Glory 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc St Miss Ly Cafeteria 22 Nguyen Hue St, Hội An, Quảng Nam Moon Restaurant & Lounge 321 Nguyen Duy Hieu Mango Mango 45 Nguyen Phuc Chu

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Have Fun in Malang Bali and Yogyakarta? Been there and done that. If you are in search of a new experience, there is a charming city that is off the beaten path but still not too far from Jakarta. Can you guess the name of this little gem?

Text by Priscilla Picauly | Photos by Priscilla Picauly and Tugu Hotel Malang

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t’s Malang. This fascinating city is a melange of culture, nature and cuisine. It is the second-largest city in East Java but still retains its small-town feel and charm. Malang is an hour’s flight from Jakarta or a two-hour drive from Surabaya. It is a modern city that still embraces its history and traditions.

What to Do? It’s easy and fun to explore Malang. I suggest renting a car to visit some of the temples not too far from the city centre. Singosari Temple, a Hindu temple that dates back to about 1300 AD, is 12 kilometres north of

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Malang. Nearby are Jago Temple and Kidal Temple.

Jago Temple is from the Singhasari Kingdom and, according to the history books, was visited by King Hayam Wuruk during his royal tour across eastern Java. Kidal Temple was also built during the Singhasari Kingdom, around the 12th century, and has been restored. For more modern history, visit Ijen Street in Malang, home to well-preserved colonial architecture dating back about 100 years.

Nature lovers can choose from beaches and mountains. In south Malang, about a two- or three-

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hour drive from downtown, is a string of beaches.

Balekambang Beach is probably the most popular of the beaches. It is most famous for the Hindu temple Amerta Jati, located on Ismoyo Island, just off the beach. It is a sight not to be missed. I savoured a fantastic sunrise there, the sky changing from dark to an explosion of oranges and reds. Beautiful! Still in south Malang are a number of other beaches that can steal your heart, like Bajulmati, Ngliyep and Goa Cina.

From the beach we head up Mount Bromo.

This iconic mountain majestically looms over the countryside, a plume of sulphurous smoke crowning its peak. Bromo is an active volcano and is situated in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. It is about a 90-minute drive from Malang but you will have to go by Jeep because that is the only kind of car allowed in the national park. Most visitors begin the trek up Bromo in the dark so they can reach the peak in time to catch the sunrise.

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The sunrise starts around 5.30 am and is an unforgettable sight not likely to be forgotten, with views of Mount Batok and Mount Semeru. Not to be missed while exploring Bromo are Pasir Berbisik and Bukit Teletubies.

Abundance of Good Food Food here, food there, food everywhere. Malang has an abundance of quality cuisine, making the city popular with foodies. Set aside half a day or a full day to chase down and savour the city’s traditional dishes. You can start at Toko Oen, a restaurant with colonial flavour. Toko Oen has been around since 1910. Liem Gien Nio, known as Grandma Oen, started the first outlet in Yogyakarta then opened up branches in Jakarta, Malang and Semarang.

Only the branches in Malang and Semarang are still open. Eating at Toko Oen is like entering a time capsule. The food, however, is timeless. I ordered the Ox Tongue Steak, my absolute favourite dish on the Toko Oen menu, with Oen’s Special Ice Cream, a true homemade treat, for dessert.

I left Toko Oen Malang and went in search of Batanghari Street. This small street, really an alleyway, is home to what is said to be the best meatballs in Malang. Before the alley ends, near the railway tracks, is a small spot that is very crowded at lunchtime. Ladies and gentleman, this is the famous Bakso President, open since 1977. Bakso means meatballs, one of the most popular dishes not only in Malang but across Indonesia.

You may wonder how it got its name. Maybe it was named after a visit by Indonesia’s president or a visiting head of state? Nope, Bakso President was named after President Theatre, which was located in front of the restaurant. The theatre is now a shopping centre, but Abah Sugito, founder of Bakso President, is still using the name. Bakso President has an extensive menu but the most popular items are Bakso Biasa, Bakso Urat, Bakso Telur (meatballs with egg), Bakso Bakar (roasted meatballs), Bakso Goreng (fried meatballs) and Bakso Udang (meatballs with shrimp). When a train passes they say it is like eating shaking meatballs. If you still have room for noodles, drop by Depot Pangsit Mie Bromo Pojok on Pattimura Street. They serve a variety of noodle dishes, but you have to save room for their unique dessert, Es Campur Artistik.

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Where to Stay?

With Majapahit and Singhasari influences, Hotel Tugu Malang offers richly luxurious accommodation.

The masterpiece of Hotel Tugu Malang is the Apsara Residence, which brings to life the romantic legend of Prince Jayawarman II and his love affair with an apsara dancer from the heavens. The spacious sleeping area features a massive artisan-carved bed. The Raden Saleh Suite is dedicated to the famous 19th-century Indonesian painter Raden Saleh. And the Babah Suite is dominated by burgundy, inspired by the life of Peranakan society in Malang in the 1850s. (Hotel Tugu Malang www.tuguhotels.com/malang).

You can also visit Batu, a 30-minute drive from Malang. With cool, fresh weather, Batu is home to theme parks, museums and a zoo, making it the perfect destination for a family getaway.

Jawa Timur Park 1 & Human Body Museum www.jawatimurpark1.com Jawa Timur Park 2, Batu Secret Zoo, Museum Satwa www.jawatimurpark2.com Eco Green Park www.ecogreenpark.co.id Batu Night Spectacular www.bnsbatu.net Museum Angkut www.museumangkut.com

Restaurants in Malang and Batu: Tahu Lontong Lonceng Jl. Laksamana Martadinata No. 66 Malang - Indonesia Bakso Geprak Mbah Djo MT. Haryono No. 37 Malang - Indonesia Rawon Brintik Jl. KH. Ahmad Dahlan No. 39 Malang - Indonesia Pecel Kawi Jl. Kawi Malang - Indonesia Ketan Legenda Batu KH. Agus Salim Batu - Indonesia

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5 Places

You Have to See in Bandung Bandung is a popular weekend destination, with throngs of people from Jakarta and surrounding areas descending on the West Java capital to enjoy its many attractions. With its beautiful views, great cuisine, affordable shopping and warm ambience, Bandung is the ideal destination for those in search of good times and great food. For visits during long weekends it is recommended that you book early. Here are 5 destinations you can not miss when you are in Bandung.

Text by Melani Semuel & Priscilla Picauly | Photos by Alfian S. Prasetyo, Ricco Riccheza and Jody Fauziansyah.

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1. Tebing Keraton

Currently the most popular destination in Bandung, Tebing Keraton, or the Cliff Palace, is blessed with natural beauty. Getting its reputation mainly with the help of social media buzz, Tebing Keraton is located inside the Taman Hutan Rakyat Djuanda conservation area. The best time to visit Tebing Keraton is before 6am. Start your day with a magical morning by watching as the sun rises into the

sky and night turns into day. You will be breathless when you see the magical sunrise with the lush forest and hills as the backdrop, the fog creeping between the trees and braches, creating a mystical atmosphere. And you must take a photo while standing at the edge of the cliff, but be careful when taking the picture.

2. Stone Garden

Located near Tebing Keraton, in Padalarang, is Stone Garden, literally a garden with stacks of rocks and stones.

The area used to be a lake a very long time ago and the stones formed naturally. Some say Stone Garden is like Christmas Island in Australia. Similar or not, Stone Garden is a good place to enjoy a different side of Bandung. Bandung has plenty of situ (lakes) and curug (waterfalls), but this must be the only stone garden. While exploring around Stone Garden, don’t miss Pawon Cave.

My guide told me archaeologists found ancient human bones inside the cave.

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3. Pangalengan

When someone asks me about Pangalengan, I think of fresh milk.

Pangalengan is a district located 48 kilometres from Bandung and is famous for its fresh milk. But Pangalengan is much more than dairy farming. Pangalengan has traditional villages, natural attractions such as lakes, ponds, hot springs and waterfalls, and it is also famous for tea plantations. Malabar Tea Plantation, near Mount Malabar, is one of the most famous tea estates and was formerly known as a hill station during the Dutch colonial period.

The modern history of Malabar dates back to 1890 when tea cultivation began to move into the highlands of Pangalengan. In 1896, Karel Albert Rudolf Bosscha established the first tea plantation

Where to Go

on the slopes of Mount Malabar. Later, Bosscha would establish himself as the tea plantation supremo, snapping up all the tea estates in the Pangalengan region. He also set up two tea factories around Malabar, one near his residence-slash-office and called the Malabar Tea Factory. The area of these early tea plantations is known for its breathtaking landscapes and views. And for those who want a taste of the colonial life, Bosscha’s house is open to visitors, where you can enjoy freshly processed tea leaves.

Bosscha, who never married, died on 26 November 1928 and was buried among his beloved tea bushes on the Malabar tea estate, as he had requested. His simple tomb is still there, unchanged and unspoilt.

4. Situ Cileunca

Still in the Pangalengan area is the manmade lake Situ Cileunca. According to local stories, this was a wilderness area until 1918 when it was made into a lake for the water needs of residents.

Cileunca has a depth up to 17 metres and is a popular destination for fans of water sports like rafting. Or you can go camping with your family near the lake. It is peaceful and magnificent.

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5. Situ Patenggang

Once upon a time there was a couple named Ki Santang and Dewi Rengganis. They were so in love and were separated for a long time. Finally, one day they met each other. Dewi Rengganis asked her lover to create a lake along with a boat for them to ride in. According to legend, he formed a small lake called Situ Patenggang.

The lake is set amidst rolling hills, surrounded by carpets of green grass and tea trees. Situ Patenggang is about 47 kilometres from Bandung, and if you visit on the weekend you will have to share the area with young people from Bandung and nearby towns. It is also a good idea to plan your visit to the lake for before noon, because Situ Patenggang, with its elevation of 2,000 metres above sea level, is usually shrouded in a thick fog that comes rolling down the hills in the afternoon. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the area is Pulau Asmara

Around Bandung with Bandros Bandros is a double-decker bus provided by Bandung for tourists who want to see the city. Bandung’s mayor, Ridwan Kamil, unveiled the bus to coincide with New Year’s Eve 2014. It can fit about 30 people on the top deck, while the lower deck only has a few stools and benches.

Operational time: Thursday – Sunday, from 10am to 3pm Ticket booth: Taman Kandaga Puspa (behind Gedung Sate) Ticket price: Rp 10,000 Bus Route: Taman Pustaka Bunga – Jl. Supratman – Diponegoro – Gedung Sate – Sulanjana – Ir. H. Juanda (Dago) – Ganesha – Tamansari – Ir. H. Juanda – Diponegoro – Cilamaya – Ciliwung – Taman Pustaka Bunga (approximately 30-45 minutes)

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(Love Island) – a place where Ki Santang and Dewi Rengganis met – and Batu Cinta (Love Rock), set in the middle of the lake.

It is said that those who step on Batu Cinta and continue to circle Pulau Asmara will be blessed with endless love.

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Where to Eat

Eat Till You Drop Bandung is a place to eat, so leave the weight-watching and the niggling guilt at home. When confronted with a galaxy of gastronomic options like Bandung has, the stars dictate that you should eat with wanton abandon. From the city’s street food to fancy dishes served at high-end restaurants, Bandung surely has something to entice you.

Text by Melani Semuel, Priscilla Picauly and Clarisa Mutriafica | Photos by Shirley G & Bakso Boedjangan

Street Food at Its Best Cireng Cipaganti, Jl. Cipaganti No. 305 (in front of the post office, next to Cipaganti gas station). Cireng Cipaganti is famous as a pioneer of cireng, a kind of snack made by frying a dough mix. Abad Radja, co-founder of Cireng Cipaganti, had been selling this traditional snack since 1990. Just a simple booth on Jl. Cipaganti, Cireng Cipaganti is known for its peanut sauce. Prices start at Rp 15,000.

Soto Bandung Pak Simon, Jl. Cibadak No. 103. Soto Bandung is beef tripe soup that has become one of the signature dishes of Bandung. It's very easy to find soto Bandung around the city. But not to be missed is Soto Bandung Pak Simon. His food stall has a reputation for serving some of the best, most tender Soto Bandung around. Soto Bandung Pak Simon is open from 6-11pm.

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Bakso Boedjangan,

Jl Dipati Ukur No. 1 (behind BCA Dago).

Bakso, or meatball, is one of the most popular street foods in Indonesia, and Bakso Boedjangan is not to be missed. Interesting dishes at Bakso Boedjangan include Bakso Super Urat, Bakso Super Keju, Bakso Super Pedas and Bakso Goreng, all combined with herb noodles. Since the grand opening of Bakso Boedjangan earlier this year, it has fast become popular, with up to 300 customers a day. Opens daily from 9am to 11pm.

Mie Kocok Kebun Jukut, Jl. Kebun Jukut (next to the Kartika

Sari outlet). Another must-try street food in Bandung is Mie Kocok Kebun Jukut. Haji Endah, the co-owner, sells his delicious noodle soup in a simple cart near the Bandung train station, but his mie kocok is absolutely delicious and arguably the most legendary mie kocok in Bandung. A bowl of this scrumptious noodle soup is only Rp 15,000.

Batagor Kingsley, Jl. Veteran No. 10. One of the most popular dishes in Bandung, Batagor stands for Bakso Tahu Goreng (fried meatballs and tofu), and few do it better than Batagor Kingsley. Open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Martabak Nikmat Andir, Jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 413. This

martabak is known for its interesting flavours and toppings, such as red bean with cheese, Japanese peanut with cheese, peas with cheese, plum with cheese, cherry with cheese, even jackfruit with cheese. A must-try flavour is martabak pandan jagung keju (corn and cheese).

Open daily from 4 to 11pm.

Kue Cubit Asiong, Jl. Sultan Agung (next to RM Legoh). I have

been eating kue cubit since I was a kid. It is a traditional snack that usually comes in two flavours, plain and chocolate. But Kue Cubit Asiong is trying something new. From a simple cart in front of Aloysius School, Kue Cubit Asiong sells kue cubit in green tea flavour as its signature offering. Prices range from Rp 7,000 to Rp 10,000. It is open Monday to Saturday during school hours.

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cover story

Fun Dining

Where to Eat

The 18th Restaurant and Lounge This is the number one restaurant in Bandung, according to TripAdvisor. Located on the top floor of The Trans Luxury Hotel, the 18th offers a laid-back setting where you can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Bandung and great food at the same time. I arrived just before sunset and was mesmerize by the view. It is amazing to watch the transformation of Bandung from day to night while enjoying a delicious cocktail (or two).

Boasting indoor and al fresco dining, the relaxing atmosphere makes the 18th the perfect venue to unwind after a busy day at work, for family dinners or romantic escapes. The menu features Western and Japanese cuisine, and I had the pan-seared sea bass infused with miso. The fish was deliciously tender and flavourful. If you like local dishes, the oxtail soup at the 18th is highly recommended.

Not to be missed is the Sky Walk, where the glass floor lets you gaze all the way down from the 18th floor. It is often booked for romantic dinners, a sure way to impress your lover. The 18th Restaurant and Lounge is open from 4pm to midnight Sunday to Thursday, and from 4pm to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays. (MS) The 18th Restaurant and Lounge Jl. Gatot Subroto 289, Bandung Phone. +62 22 8734 8888 www.thetranshotel.com

SODA colourful interior has helped make the restaurant a popular destination, particularly with the younger crowd and groups of friends. This may be the selfie capital of Bandung. Oh yeah, there’s also a swimming pool.

Bandung is a famous culinary town, which means you can find good food almost everywhere. If anyone tells you eating at a hotel in Bandung is a waste of time, they have never been to SODA at The 101 Bandung Dago. SODA means the Soul of Dago and the fun and

The menu is extensive, with everything from snacks and appetizers to mains, with Western, Asian and Indonesian dishes. I tried the Dory Fish Steak, which tasted as good as it looked. And the prices at SODA are reasonable for young people. SODA is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (CM) Soda Jl. Ir. H. Djuanda No. 3, Bandung Phone. +62 22 4222 890

Miss Bee Providore Miss Bee Providore is the happening place in Bandung now. Since opening in May 2015, it has becomes one of the most popular eateries in Bandung. The atmosphere is super-comfortable and homey. The restaurant is filled with antiques and vintage decorations for a classic look. There is also a playground out back for the kids.

The menu skews towards Western dishes but there is plenty to choose from. We ordered the Salmon Rosti and the Meat Lovers Pizza. The Rosti was crispy on the outside and soft inside, with the salmon cooked perfectly. Make sure to leave room for dessert; my recommendation is the Frozen Chocolate. (CM)

Miss Bee Providore Jl. Rancabentang No. 11A Phone. +62 22 203 3613 www.missbeeprovidore.com

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Paradise Found Breathe deeply and inhale the fresh mountain air, embrace the peace and tranquillity as you slip into a world of relaxation. Paradise has been found at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers.

Text by Melani Semuel | Photos courtesy of Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers

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am often asked how important a hotel is for me? Personally, choosing a hotel is very important because I am the type of person who would rather stay in the hotel than venture out into the city. With my hectic schedule, having time for myself has become a luxury, so whenever I have the chance, I love staying in and enjoying a fantastic hotel. That is why I am very picky when it comes to choosing a hotel, and there is one hotel in Bandung that never lets me down. Whenever I stay at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers, I know I am going to have a good time. Here are three reasons I love staying at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers:

1. Feast Fit for a Queen

Trust me, dieting while staying at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers is not going to work. The food here is simply divine. Executive chef Severin Huerlimann

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is a master of the culinary arts. Having been doing hotel reviews for more than a decade, I thought nothing could impress me anymore, until one day I stayed at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers and realized just how wrong I was. There was a welcome chocolate on the dining table, but it was far more than just a chocolate. It was a writing kit with pieces of papers, pencil, eraser and sharpener, all made from chocolate. The genius idea of Chef Severin was for guests to light a candle and heat the chocolate sticks and use them as a pencil to write on a piece of paper made from white chocolate. The best part was eating the paper once I wrote on it. It was so much fun, I kept writing until I ran out of chocolate (I mean paper). Every time I stay at the hotel, I find cute and interesting and yummy treats on my dining table.

cover story Where to Stay

Speaking of yummy, I have to mention the love affair between me and Banchino. It was love at first slurp. Banchino is similar to bandrek – a traditional hot, sweet and spicy beverage native to Bandung. A trip to Bandung would not be complete without a cup of Banchino.

2. Suite Life

I just realized when writing this that I always stay at the same suite at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers. My suite is generously sized and boasts lush views over the neighbouring valley, a real treat to the eyes. It has a large and airy bedroom with separate living room, dining table, coffee table and a small pantry. The room itself reflects the warm hospitality of Bandung. It is airy, contemporary and tastefully decorated with a floral theme and colour palette reflecting the richness and colours of Bandung. The suite has a homey feeling, and the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, plush mattress and cosy pillows and duvet ensure a good night’s sleep.

3. Me Time

I am not a morning person but there’s one thing that I love to do whenever I stay at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers. I wake up early, around 5.30am, put on my bathrobe, and just sit on my balcony

waiting for the sun to rise. It is the best time of the day, breathing in the fresh mountain air, listening to a choir of birds and watching as the sun breaks the dawn and a new day begins. Watching as the sun rises is a magical moment for me. It is the time when I stop and simply smell the roses, a reminder of how beautiful life truly is and how often I take it for granted. Make sure to book a Tower Room so you can enjoy the sunrise.

The Tower Lounge is accessible only to Tower Room guests and is a great spot to enjoy time accompanied by a good book. In my personal opinion this is the most comfortable executive lounge in the city; the atmosphere is so serene and relaxing. Evening is my favourite time here, and obviously most guests feel the same, as they unwind over a cocktail after a busy day. There’s a fireplace (yes, it’s a real one) that is lit during the evening, adding to the romantic ambience and the perfect addition to Bandung's cool weather.

Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No. 390 Bandung - Indonesia Phone. +62 22 2500 303 www.sheratonbandung.com

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A Little Slice of Heaven We all need a little break from the daily routine, to slow down and realise how beautiful life is. Padma Hotel Bandung is a little slice of heaven for those in search of a life more beautiful.

Text by Melani Semuel | Photos courtesy of Padma Hotel Bandung

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aving time for myself has really become a rare luxury. It seems like I am spending more and more hours in the office, leaving little time for anything else. I long to escape the daily grind, to stop and smell the roses. I know that my colleague, Clarisa, feels the same way. Our hectic schedules have drained us, so we decide to look for a place where we can unwind, chill out and lavish some well-deserved pampering on ourselves; a place where time stands still and we can do anything we want, or simply do nothing at all, while being well

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and truly pampered by serious professionals. So, at Clarisa’s suggestion, we head to Bandung.

As I catch my first glimpse of the sumptuous Padma Hotel Bandung, I know I am in for a special stay. My eyes eagerly take in the lush surroundings, as my ears catch the enticing chorus of the wind rustling through the leaves and the chirping of birds.

The tropical warmth is thick, wrapping me in its comfortable embrace and filling my senses.

We are staying at the Gallery Suite, on the first floor of the hotel, which funnily has the best views.

cover story Where to Stay

At Padma Hotel Bandung the first floor is the highest floor in the building. Our room is all about pampering, a spacious and modern 56-squaremetre room with wood floors, a spacious bathroom with combined bathtub and shower, and a kingsize bed with plush duvet. What I love most about the room is the unobstructed view of the luscious green valley. The atmosphere of the room is one of utter serenity and relaxation, and the 24-hour butler service means you can spend your entire stay without ever leaving your room, with all your needs, wants and desires taken care of.

We take a stroll around the hotel and relax in one of the cocoons dotted around the pool, the ideal place to laze away the day accompanied by a good book and surrounded by beautiful hill views. The cocoons are laden with plush pillows and cushions and offer a comfortable retreat from the sun.

We then head to The Restaurant for a traditional afternoon tea, just as afternoon turns to dusk and the whole ambience of the hotel changes. Located

above the green valley that provides a refreshing breeze, The Restaurant’s romantic setting will give you a different vibe as you enjoy the finest of Asian and European cuisine. Every dish is beautifully crafted into a piece of art, delivering astonishingly exquisite flavours. The Restaurant is where you can enjoy a wide range of roasted coffees, select teas, freshly pressed juices, wines, cigars and light snacks surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Staying at Padma Hotel Bandung is an unforgettable experience. With the tremendous beauty of the property, scenic views of the lush green valley and the calm, relaxing atmosphere, we found a little slice of heaven at Padma Hotel Bandung.

Padma Hotel Bandung Jl. Ranca Bentang 56-58 Ciumbuleuit, Bandung West Java – Indonesia Phone. +62 22 203 0333 www.padmahotelbandung.com

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The Luxurious Trans In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Bandung, find a sanctuary of uncompromising luxury, comfort and sophistication at The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung. Experience the finest things in life as you escape to this oasis in the heart of the city.

T

Text by Melani Semuel | Photos by Valdi Hidayat

he moment I stepped foot inside The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung, I knew I was in for an opulent stay replete with the most delectable pampering. With minimalist chic becoming cliché at hotels these days, no one seems to speak to our inner brat anymore. Not The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung, though. Opulent pampering is the modus operandi here, and you’ll see it from the moment you step through its doors; the lobby offers a welcome fit for royalty, with its gorgeous carpets, plush couches with luxurious upholstery and giant flower centrepieces. That grand stairway that leads from the second storey to the lobby is perfect for making an unforgettable entrance.

After I was done oohing and aahing over the awesome views, it was time to run amok in the palatial surroundings. I ventured to the third floor and found myself at the hotel’s pool. This outdoor beach setting is as pretty as they come; take your pick from the sea-blue shapes set amidst the lush landscaping. A sandy beach, lap pool, Jacuzzi and kids’ pool with water slide add to the leisure feel. The best thing about swimming at The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung is that the pool is heated to a nice warm 32 degrees, so pack a swimsuit and soak in the sun. I really needed some pampering so I headed to The Spa. What I like the most about The Spa is the calming and relaxing sensation you instantly feel the moment you enter. It is literally a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I tried a massage, the treatment focussing on the tension-filled areas, mainly the back, legs, arms and neck. It is perfect way to relax after a tough day of shopping or working.

After The Spa, I went to the 18th floor for sunset cocktails and dinner at the famous The 18th Restaurant and Lounge. My eyes were pampered by the scenic view of Bandung. It is so magical to watch as the sun sets behind the mountains and the city transforms from day to night. In the evening, as you drink in the twinkling lights of the city, you can get the feeling that the city is set in a bowl, surrounded

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by mountains. The food and signature cocktails at The 18th Restaurant and Lounge are simply delicious and the ambience is chic and relaxing; it is no wonder that The 18th Restaurant and Lounge is the number one restaurant in Bandung, according to TripAdvisor.

After a long day of pampering and relaxation, I sauntered back to my room in a state of satiated bliss. Entering my room on the 15th floor, I found myself staring out a large window affording a view of Trans Studio Bandung, one of the biggest indoor theme parks in the world. It was quite a sight to behold. Even better was waking up in the morning and taking in this same glorious view while lolling in my plush bed, revelling in the comfort and luxury of this magnificent hotel. The Celebrity Suite that I stayed in was lavishly decorated in richly opulent interiors, with quality furnishings and almost all the creature comforts that a mobile, modern business traveller could want. You will enjoy a blissful sleep in your king-size bed caressed by the finest 320 thread count Egyptian cotton and 100 per cent goosedown bedding. The room also boasts a full marble bathroom with separate bathtub and shower with Acqua di Parma luxury amenities.

The Trans Luxury Hotel is located in the Integrated Trans Studio Bandung Complex adjacent to Trans Studio Bandung and Trans Studio Mall, offering an unparalleled dining and shopping experience.

Covering 100,000 square metres of land, the complex is packed with world-class meeting facilities and entertainment options. With all of these facilities, visitors to the resort can rest assured that they will have plenty to do. The Trans Luxury Hotel Bandung is the perfect destination for guests, whether they are in Bandung for business or pleasure.

The Trans Luxury Hotel Jl. Gatot Subroto 289 Bandung, West Java – Indonesia Phone. +62 22 8734 8888 www.thetranshotel.com

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Lights! Camera! And...

ACTION! We couldn’t think of any better people to appear in a special feature on Bandung than some of the most powerful players in the city’s hospitality industry. We are honoured that the General Managers of Bandung’s best hotels have agreed to grace the pages of this very special issue.

Venue: Saung Angklung Udjo | Photos by Valdi Hidayat

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cover story Who’s Who

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Akhmad Fadholi (Byang) General Manager Sheraton Surabaya Hotel & Towers

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Christian Kronast General Manager Crowne Plaza Bandung

Bobby Renaldi General Manager The Papandayan

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Simon Douthett General Manager InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar

4 Nandang Suryana

General Manager Padma Hotel Bandung

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The People Person An aficionado of the hospitality industry, Akhmad Fadholi (Byang), the general manager of Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers, sat down with Melani Semuel and shared his passion for the hotel, Bandung and mountain trekking.

Photos by Valdi Hidayat

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cover story Who’s Who

Can you tell us the story behind the name Byang?

I got that name before I started working in hotels. In the ’90s there was a local TV series called “Opera Tiga Jaman,” and one of my friends thought that I looked like one of the characters, Byang. From that moment on I’ve been called Byang. Even when I first started to work in hotels, my general manager at the time insisted on calling me that. So to this day people call me Byang.

Tell us how you got your start in the hospitality industry?

I had no hospitality background at all, so when I first started in the industry, I was confused by all the different names and terms. I had no idea what doorman or concierge meant.

When I took my first job, I was offered a front office position.

I asked my friends what a front office position was and they told me it could be doorman or it could be reception. When I started, I dealt with some different tasks. The hotel gave me a key – a key to a laundry truck. Sometimes I had to drop off the laundry every morning at 6am and then pick it up in the afternoon.

Other times I had to do airport pick-ups and dropoffs. I didn’t even have an office, so they set up a table and chair for me next to the general manager’s secretary. But it was a good experience as I had a very good boss and he taught me a lot and I was put in different departments.

After a few months as general manager of Sheraton Bandung, how do you feel?

I never thought that I would be positioned in Bandung, it was such a new environment for me. I most previously came from W Hotel and now I’m in Sheraton, which are two very different brands. Thank God I am surrounded by great and supportive people, not only the staff but also the management team. Plus, a great mentor, my former general manager! The good thing is I can easily adapt and blend in with my surroundings. It’s been fantastic.

What do you think about Bandung?

There are two things that I love about Bandung. First, the scenery. There are a lot of hills and mountains here and

everything is beautiful. The second thing, which I am sure many people will agree with, is the food. Bandung is blessed with an abundance of tastes and interesting food. Man, there are so many foods to eat and explore here, more than you imagine. I also think [Bandung mayor] Ridwan Kamil makes Bandung a better city. Bandung is known for its heritage and he is really concerned about preserving that. And I think he is trying to come up with solutions for the chaotic traffic in Bandung.

What do you think is the perfect hotel experience?

A perfect hotel experience is where you feel not like a stranger but like you are among new friends. The experience you get when every single detail is thoughtfully attended to.

Sometimes, you have a favour to ask of the hotel staff, but they can’t do it for you. The thing that matters is not the can’t but the attitude shown by the staff when you ask for the favour.

You work long hours as general manager, how do you manage to balance family and career?

I wake up early in the morning and sleep late at night. Everything I do must be efficient and effective and fit into the day. I don’t want to have something to do and postpone it. Everything that can be done now must be done now. If I delay doing some task that means I am taking away time for my family.

Do you have ‘me time’?

What do you do?

Sure, I have me time. Some days I wake up early in the morning and go to Tebing Keraton, I just sit on the cliff and enjoy a peaceful morning.

Then I go down, grab some traditional snacks, and back to the hotel at 7 in the morning. I am also a movie addict.

Sometimes I go to the cinema and have a movie marathon by myself.

Do you have a favourite quote in life?

Yes, I do. Some words from my ex-general manager, who said, “I will do things that others will not do today, so tomorrow I can do things that people cannot do.” It is very simple but has a deep meaning. I have remembered those words for all these years.

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Discipline, commitment commitment and and honesty honesty are are the the keys keys to to success success for for Discipline, the longest-reigning longest-reigning five-star five-star hotel hotel general general manager manager in in Bandung.

Bandung. the Nandang Suryana Suryana has has been been the the General General Manager Manager of of Padma Padma Hotel Hotel Nandang Bandung for for more more than than 15 15 years. years. He He recently recently took took the the time time to to Bandung speak with with Melani Melani Semuel Semuel about about his his passion passion for for the the hotel. hotel. speak Photos by

by Valdi Valdi Hidayat Hidayat Photos

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cover story Who’s Who

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I started my career in the ’90s as a doorman. At that time, it was the only position available, so I took it. My general manager at the time was a Frenchman and he was fierce, but I learnt a lot from him. And I told myself that one day I would be a general manager. It was such a huge dream for someone who was in a lower staff position like me. My friends made jokes about it and told me that it was impossible. So I made a promise to myself that one day I would be a general manager.

And now I thank God for making my wish come true. It was not only because I dreamt it that I got this position, but because I have discipline, am committed and have a huge passion for the work. I worked hard to be where I am now, and even today I never stop learning.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve encountered in your career?

The biggest challenge in the hospitality industry, especially as a general manager, is managing people. As a leader, I have to manage a team filled with many different characters. Of course it is not an easy job to collaborate and handle everyone, because everyone is different.

Nowadays, most fresh graduates have high expectations to be in the top position instantly.

They think because they graduated from an overseas university and interned at overseas hotels that they are overqualified for an entry-level position. I approach them in a special way, telling them that there is a process to get them where they want to go, tell them that they have potential and encourage them to always do their best.

You’ve been the general manager of Padma Hotel Bandung for 15 years now. What was Padma like back when you started?

At that time, Padma was a four-star boutique hotel and it had a different name. We only had 50 rooms. We struggled to compete with other hotels as we only had a small quota of rooms. Then we realized that we had to change the hotel for better results. So, with the support of the owner, the hotel was closed for a full renovation in April 2008. It was a massive renovation. We expanded from 50 rooms to 124 rooms and expanded the area. A year later we opened with a new look and a new name, Padma. But the challenge was not over, as we had to introduce the market to the Padma brand. It was

not easy, but as we have a very good team and good support from our owner, we are now the number one hotel in Bandung, based on TripAdvisor.

What makes Padma Hotel Bandung different from other hotels in Bandung?

It’s the people, especially the front liners, who make Padma Hotel Bandung different. We train our people so they have the ability to please each guest even in the small things. Yes, it is not always easy to satisfy and make each guest feel comfortable and at home, but it is also very satisfying when we can achieve that. The other thing is, look around you … Our hotel only occupies around 10 per cent of the four hectares of land that we have.

Some of our competitors feel like it is a waste that we are not making the most of the land that we have, but we have a different vision. Our main goal is to create a green ambience, with a perfect atmosphere and no pollution. During your stay at the hotel, your eyes will be pampered by the greenery around you, the freshest air from the hills, and the sound of birds singing from the top of the trees. Our hotel is close to the centre of Bandung, yet while you are here, you will feel like you are way out of town because of the serene ambience that we have.

We are a business hotel with a resort atmosphere.

What are your plans for the property?

For the last two years, Padma Hotel Bandung has been rated the Best Hotel in Bandung by TripAdvisor, which is such an honour for us. The title means a lot to us, yet at the same time we would like to increase our services, ensure that everything is the very best quality. We also have a plan to further expand our rooms. We want to add 75 more rooms, build up the ballroom, more restaurants and also the swimming pool. We hope that in the future, when guests see the new features from Padma, they will know that we are fully committed to satisfying all of our guests.

What is your philosophy in life? What rules do you go by in life?

We must have passion and 100 per cent commitment for everything we do in life. Honesty is also very important.

I always remind my staff to be honest with our guests.

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Living the InterContinental Life Originally from New Zealand, Simon Douthett, the General Manager of InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar, has spent the last eight years working across Asia. He sat down with Maxx-M to discuss his passion for Asia, the newly opened InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar and life in the West Java capital.

Text by Priscilla Picauly | Photos by Valdi Hidayat

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cover story Who’s Who

What do you like most and least about Bandung?

Bandung is an amazing city. I really like the people. The climate here is very nice compared to Thailand and Malaysia, where I was stationed before. Bandung is a little bit cooler. What I don’t like, well, I think it’s the common answer; I don’t like the traffic, especially on weekends.

Can you tell us more about InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar?

This brand-new hotel opened on 31 July 2015 with 225 rooms, including 19 villas. There are two restaurants, Damai Restaurant, a fine-dining restaurant, and Tian Jing Lou, which means sky dining, the hotel’s Chinese restaurant, situated on the top floor. The hotel has many facilities for families, including the swimming pool, kids’ club and beautiful views of the golf course from the rooms.

There are six meeting rooms and a very large ballroom that can accommodate more than 3,000 people. We also have a Wedding Chapel or Wedding Hall. This iconic chapel is able to cater for up to 150 guests, maybe more. On top of that, the chapel has a panoramic view of Bandung.

With so many hotels in Bandung, what makes InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar different?

There are two things that make this hotel special. The first is the location. Bandung does not have any other hotel like us. We are located on a hilltop, with cool and fresh air. Our guests are constantly being pampered with scenic views of Bandung. It is very beautiful and also very peaceful here. Most of our guests come from Jakarta, and the hotel is absolutely the perfect place for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

Second, InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar offers different types of services, and our strong point is the concierge service. We want to treat our guests the best we can. We want to give them a memorable experience starting the moment they arrive. We know who they are, we know what they need and we give them what they need before they even ask. We provide them the best service we possibly can.

Personally, what do you want to accomplish at this hotel?

I want to further develop the reputation of the hotel within Bandung, within Indonesia and beyond. I be-

lieve that this hotel is unique and what we are doing here cannot be found elsewhere in the city. I want to attract the international market to see and experience what we are offering. But above all, I want to make InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar the number one destination in Bandung by developing products, services and facilities in our hotel.

What brought you to be part of the hospitality industry?

When I was a kid, I never thought of working in the hospitality industry. I wanted to be a pilot, but unfortunately it turned out that I was not qualified. When I was 16 years old, we were on a family vacation and were staying at a hotel in Australia. I started to like the industry, how a hotel works and operates. I thought that this is work that I can do and is good for me.

Do you think working in the hospitality industry is for everyone? Does it take a certain kind of person?

I don’t think that working in the hospitality industry is for everyone. It is not a career, it’s a lifestyle choice. With long working hours and being away from family, working in the hospitality industry is very different from other industries. But the very interesting thing about this industry, after working in hospitality for so many years and in so many different countries, I realized that you meet the same type of people. No matter where you are in the world, people working at hotels tend to have a very similar character, have a real passion for life. They spend hours at the hotel not because they are paid to but because they want to, they love their job.

Do you have a philosophy in life?

For me, life is an opportunity to go out and experience so many things. The opportunity is always there. Embrace it and also enjoy the moment. Try things you haven’t tried before. For example, if I’m travelling and have never done something, I’m going to do that if I have a chance. I think if you take chances, you’re going to have a happy life.

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Business?

Pleasure? Both Five-star dining pleasures, gorgeous swimming pool. Sounds like a great resort, but it’s Hilton Bandung, where Melani Semuel and Clarisa Mutriafica discovered that business can be a real pleasure.

Photos courtesy of Hilton Bandung

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or business travellers visiting Bandung, the third-largest city in Indonesia and the capital of West Java, Hilton Bandung is the perfect venue for meetings, conferences or seminars. Of course the hotel is not all about business, and is the ideal venue for relaxing with family and friends.

Because we were staying in an Executive Room, we checked in at the Executive Lounge located on the 11th floor. We were greeted by glorious views of the city and a friendly receptionist who made sure our check-in was fast and easy. The lounge is spacious, with a contemporary minimalist design, and offers a great panoramic view over Bandung, with its brilliant afternoon skyline.

With rooms starting at 45 square metres, the 186 guest rooms and suites at Hilton Bandung are among the largest in the city. The Executive Room where we were staying boasted a luxurious minimalist look. Located on the 10th, 11th and 12th floors, the spacious Executive Rooms feature beautiful marble bathrooms complete with rain shower. Business travellers will appreciate the large work desk, ergonomically designed chair and high-speed internet access. All guest rooms come complete with a sofa where you can relax after a

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full day of exploring Bandung. The highlight of the room is a king-size bed awash in fluffy pillows.

But what’s a vacation without a relaxing spa? So we headed to Jiwa Spa for some pampering. Situated on the fifth floor, Jiwa Spa offers first-class services to soothe and relax body and soul. Jiwa Spa provides a tranquil escape from the stresses of everyday life, a place to restore and replenish your body’s precious energy. We both opted for a massage. It felt so good as the skilled therapists worked on our tired muscles, sending us back to our room relaxed and ready for a well-deserved nap.

In the evening we went back to the Executive Lounge for evening cocktails. The lounge has comfortable sofas, a modestly elegant decor, a selection of pastries and snacks, a wide-screen plasma TV and a tailored wooden floor. In other words, it is the ideal spot to sit back and relax over an evening cocktail or two. I could not stop gazing out over the brilliantly lit city skyline.

Later that evening, we went to Fresco for dinner.

The restaurant serves international cuisine and there are numerous mouthwatering dishes to choose from. I had the best pizza ever at Fresco. It was during one of their seasonal promotions and

CHECK IN authentic tapas dishes, and relish in the fact that you’re in one of the best destinations in Indonesia.

After dinner, we were so full and our room was so comfortable, we decided not to go out and sample the hotel’s many entertainment options. For this night at least, we preferred simply to relax and enjoy the views of the city.

We started the next day with a relaxing swim at the rooftop pool set amongst tropical foliage high above the city. The pool features beautiful views of Mount Tangkuban Perahu, a sundeck and cabanas.

If you want to enjoy the cabanas, come early, as they are popular with guests.

After swimming, we headed over to the lounge for breakfast, which included a selection of freshly squeezed juices, seasonal tropical fruits and an array of pastries and breads. We sat by the window so we could take in the view of the city and the nearby mountain once again.

they had pizzas with Indonesian flavours, so we ordered the rendang pizza and it was the most delicious pizza I have ever had. Meat lovers will relish dining at Fresco. The New York strip loin is delicious and the lamb chops are juicy and will tantalize your taste buds.

You can rest assured that your stomach will be well taken care of during your stay at Hilton Bandung.

The hotel’s four dining outlets will satisfy even the most demanding palate, and ensure you will never have to go far when the urge strikes for some great food. The welcoming Caffe Cino, located off the hotel’s lobby, offers a selection of freshly baked pastries, crisp salads, a variety of delicious cakes and grilled gourmet sandwiches. Experience the freshest flavours from Asia and around the world at the hotel’s all-day dining venue, Purnawarman Restaurant. Savour a fresh breakfast buffet, à la carte lunch and buffet dinner, and experience the theatrical, interactive kitchen. Dine on contemporary and traditional Asian delicacies such as sop buntut and Purnawarman fried rice in this warm and welcoming restaurant, which features both indoor and outdoor seating. The stylish Magma Lounge offers a variety of cocktails and fine wines. Sip an expertly mixed cosmopolitan or Manhattan while you choose from a selection of

It was finally time to say goodbye, taking with us a relaxed body and a refreshed mind. A stay at Hilton Bandung reawakens the senses with its luxuriously dramatic style, unbeatable comforts and impeccable service. The hotel always offers new services and facilities to make every stay as enjoyable as possible. Hilton Bandung is a destination for business or pleasure, where every stay is memorable for the pleasant service and unbeatable comforts of a true oasis in the heart of the city.

Hilton Bandung Jl. HOS Tjokroaminoto No. 41-43 Bandung - Indonesia Phone. +62 22 86066888 www.bandung.hilton.com

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PEERLESS L o c a t i o n MODERN L u x u r y INDULGENT L i f e s t y l e

n exclusive and intimate setting for guests seeking privacy and luxury in the centre of all things uber cool. Just steps away from the sandy beaches of Indian Ocean and located directly in the heart and soul of vibrant Seminyak. C151 Smart Villas is located amongst the throng of fashion boutiques, sophisticated nightlife entertainment and fine dining restaurants where the beautiful people take pleasure in the chilled and laid back environment of Bali’s famed sunset shores.

Entertainment Room

The Entertainment Room features a home theater with surround sound, 42� LED TV, library, desk, and business centre and a remote controlled double massage and theraphy bed overlooking the pool and garden.

En-suite bathrooms with iSpa Jacuzzi spa-bath tub with overhead LCD TV with spacious granite top vanity units, saparate automated Toto sanitary-ware with overhead LCD TV, and saparate shower enclosure and dressing areal beatifully marbled with exclusively designed amenities.

En-Suite Bathroom

| JL. KAYU AYA NO. 151 SEMINYAK BALI - INDONESIA 80361 | PH. +62 361 739151 | FAX. +62 361 737256, 730312 | WEBSITE. MAXX-M 104

BREATH-TAKING V i e w s IMPECCABLE L u x u r y ULTIMATE R e t r e a t

Ocean-Views Bedroom

Entertainment Room

ommanding unrivalled personal views over large swathes of the majestic Indian Ocean, C151 Luxury Villas Dreamland comprises five ultra-modern four-bedroom villas perched atop a sheer cliff overlooking the shimmering ocean. A new era of elite luxury awaits the privileged from around the world to this most prestigious location for the ultimate vacation experience.

Upstairs, in true penthouse style, a magnificent grand master suite, incorporating double bedroom, living room, extensive terracing and water features including shallow ponds and waterfall, and employs the latest in bathroom technology and entertainment system, all with sweeping dramatic views of the ocean The vast subterranean recreation area and bedroom is enveloped by an emerald hue from a dominating center window cut into the base of the deep blue swimming pool, the first of its kind in Bali, pool table, bar, wine cooler, sound and entertainment systems, truly a rich person’s den.

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WWW.C151.NET | E-MAIL. RESERVATIONS@C151.NET | JL. PEMUTIH, LABUAN SAIT, PECATU, ULUWATU, BALIEdition - INDONESIA 3, 201580364 |

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food review

Coffee versus Tea A cup of tea makes you enjoy life, while a cup of coffee makes you alive.

Which do you prefer, coffee or tea?

Text by Ester Pandiangan & Priscilla Picauly | Photos by Priscilla, Ester, TWG Tea Salon & Boutique, Lady Alice Tearoom and Bradley's British Tea House

Keep Going with Coffee

We drink coffee in the morning or whenever we start to drag and need a pick-me-up. Coffee is like a charge and a mood booster. And coffee is not merely a drink; it is also a lifestyle. Coffee shops are now the place to see and be seen by the beautiful and the movers and shakers of Jakarta.

I remember when I was a kid and a cup of coffee was just something old people drank. Lately, everybody loves coffee, and it shows in all the new coffee shops popping up around the city. So sit back and enjoy a nice cup of coffee!

Legendary Tea

No one knows when exactly people started to drink tea, but the first references to tea date back to around 600 BC in China. At the time tea was mostly used as a medicinal beverage. One legend has it that the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong was the first person to drink tea, in 2737 BC, when some tea leaves fell into his pot of boiling water. It is also said

that tea was discovered in China’s Yunnan province around 1,000 BC. During the Tan Dynasty, tea was spread to Japan by Japanese priests studying in China. In Japan, tea was associated with priests because they drank it to stay awake and meditate.

In the 17th century, tea arrived in England, starting when King Charles II married a Portuguese princess, Catherine of Braganza. The queen made tea the drink of royalty and soon tea became a popular import to Britain via the East India Company. In North America, tea was brought in by the Dutch during the 17th century. Boston and Philadelphia adopted the English style of tea drinking and their use of fancy silver and porcelain tea products symbolized their wealth and social status. Tea plants first entered Indonesia in 1648. Andreas Cleyer brought in some Japanese tea seeds and grew than as ornamental plants in Jakarta. Here are some of best options for anyone looking to experience a high-tea experience in Jakarta.

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food review

Tanamera Coffee Roastery

What makes good coffee? Is it the bean or how it is roasted? Or maybe it is the surroundings in which you enjoy the coffee? Tanamera Coffee Roastery is the best coffee shop I have ever visited. It is not just about the best cappuccino, but the me time afforded by Tanamera, which offers quiet comfort far from Jakarta’s crowds.

The owner believes no matter where it is located, a good coffee shop will make people come back again and again. People come and make Tanamera

their second home, a place to hang out and a place to learn about coffee at one of the coffee short courses that Tanamera provides.

Since opening in 2013, Tanamera has been one of Jakarta’s top coffee shops. Just a tip, if you visit Tanamera, try the Banana Caramel cake, which is like a slice of heaven.

Tanamera Coffee Roastery Jl. Kebon Kacang Raya Thamrin City Office Park Blok AA 07 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 296 25599 www.tanameracoffee.com

One Fifteenth Coffee

The more you know coffee, the more you realise that the flavour and aroma depend on how you roast and blend the beans, their plantation and origin. So many details waiting to be discovered in a cup of coffee. That is something I learned from One Fifteenth Coffee.

I tried the cappuccino and their signature Rojali coffee, made using a cold brew method with some lime and soda.

The atmosphere of One Fifteenth Coffee is comfortable and it is a good spot to catch up on work or your reading over a good cup of coffee. Many friends of mine, especially coffee addicts, say One Fifteenth Coffee is one of the best coffee shops in Jakarta, and it is hard to argue with that.

One Fifteenth Coffee Jl. Gandaria 1 No. 63 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 722 5678 www.1-15coffee.com

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food review Crematology Coffee Roasters

One of the owners of Crematology, Alexis, told me the name came from the cream layer on an espresso, the crema. A good crema makes a good coffee.

She said Crematology was built by three friends with different tastes in coffee. Alexis likes long black and Americano, her partners love latte and espresso.

I tried the cappuccino with two ristrettos, and it was one of the best cappuccinos I have ever tasted. Very smooth, the bitter sensation filled my mouth, and the smell made feel so alive. Crematology collaborates with Beau, the bakery of pastry chef Talita Setyadi, resulting in a selection of delicious breads and pastries.

Crematology Coffee Roasters Jl. Suryo No. 25 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 727 80012

Filosofi Kopi

Honestly, part of the reason this coffee shop is so popular with youngsters and coffee lovers is that it has famous co-owners, the actors Rio Dewanto and Chicco Jerikho, who also happened to star in the movie Filosofi Kopi. Angga Dwimas Sasongko, who directed the movie, said after making Filosofi Kopi the three of them decided to try their hand at real-life coffee shop.

“We want to let the audience experience where Jody and Ben [the characters in the movie] made their coffee. That’s the reason we didn’t change the look from the movie,” Angga said.

That explains why, when I visited Filosofi Kopi, it felt like I had been there before. The venue is decorated with quotes from Ben and Jody in the movie.

The place where they make the coffee is in the centre of the room, so you can watch them prepare drinks. I was so happy to try the Perfecto, the legendary coffee from the movie. I will never forget the sexy taste of Ben’s Perfecto or Rio Dewanto’s smile. Yes! If you are lucky, you can get your coffee straight from Rio Dewanto’s hand.

Filosofi Kopi Jl. Melawai 6, Melawai, Blok M Jakarta - Indonesia

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food review TWG Tea Salon & Boutique

TWG Tea was established in Singapore, co-founded by Tahan Bougdib, Maranda Barnes and Rith Aum-Stievenard in 2008.

It combines unique and original retail outlets, exquisite tea rooms and an international distribution network.

TWG Tea offers 800 different single-estate teas, the largest collection in the world. 1837 Black Tea is TWG Tea’s renowned signature tea. It is a unique blend of black tea and fruits and flowers from the Bermuda Triangle, which leaves a lingering aftertaste of ripe berries, anise and caramel. My favourite is Silvermoon Tea, a TWG blend of green teas accented with a grand berru and vanilla bouquet; suave with just a hint of spice, an absolutely perfect tea for special moments. Pai Mu Tan is an excellent tea for the end of the day. A fine TWG white tea known as White Peony yields a jonquil-coloured cup accented by notes of white blossoms and the flavour of fresh, raw buds.

TWG Tea Salon & Boutique Pacific Place Level 1 Unit 30B, SCBD Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 5797 3272

Lady Alice Tearoom Established in 2013, Lady Alice is all about mesmerizing taste buds with their signature high-tea and beverages. Located in one of the most strategically shopping malls in South Jakarta, Lady Alice is an elegant and classic venue offering a choice of teas, such as camellia, chamomile, Earl Grey, English breakfast tea, green tea, Lady Alice tea, peach tea and rose tea.

Lady Alice also serves homemade teas like honey spiced tea, ginger milk tea, lemon hibiscus tea and lemon tea.

Specialising in afternoon tea and high-tea parties, Lady Alice also introduced the first Chimney Cake in Indonesia. They serve a variety of foods, from sweet desserts to pleasurable light meals like salads, soups and pastas. Set for two, the Lady Alice Tea Party serves an assortment of finger sandwiches, buttery scones with fruit preserves and whipped cream, chimney cake, puff-pasty fruit tarts, chocolate pralines and cookies, a choice of tea bag and a choice of any homemade cake on display.

Lady Alice Tearoom Let 211, Level 2 Gandaria City Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 2923 6376 www.ladyalicetearoom.com

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food review Bradley’s British Tea House

A pioneer of British tea houses in Indonesia, Bradley’s British Tea House is absolutely authentic and inspired by tea houses in London. Bradley’s have a mission to provide a proper tea experience for tea lovers in a homey atmosphere.

Bradley’s Tea House provides a variety of teas, including Nayara White, a pure tea from Java. What makes Nayara White different is the soft texture, and it is also a decaffeinated tea. Or you can try the Malabar Black, a black tea with caffeine. For tea packages, Bradley’s use a teapot and three-tier tray unique to the tea houses of London. And, of course, it offers scones, which is the primary companion for tea. In addition, Bradley’s offer various pastries such as tres leches and panna cottas.

Bradley’s British Tea House Jl. Kertanegara No. 72 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 720 3098

Cacaote Patisserie, Brasserie & Bar

From the moment I entered Cacaote, I felt like I was in France. Its neoClassical design, with lots of golds, dusty pinks and pastels, evokes femininity. Very cosy and very elegant. The second floor is marked by reds and blacks, giving it a more masculine and bolder feel. Cacaote focus as intensely on their patisserie menu as on their brasserie menu.

Both kitchens use French preparation techniques, incorporating ingredients and flavours from France and western Europe.

Though Cacaote is better known as a dessert place, this pretty restaurant also offers an Afternoon Tea Party set for two. Customers can enjoy the package from 3pm to 5pm, with a reservation one day before. Cacaote has a variety of teas, from French vanilla, Earl Grey, Darjeeling, English breakfast, chamomile, jasmine green tea and white tea.

Cacaote Patisserie, Brasserie & Bar Jl. Senopati Raya No. 80 Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 2930 6127

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food review

Prestigious Taste Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photos courtesy of ilLido

O

ne of Singapore’s most iconic and longstanding Italian fine-dining destinations, ilLido, has arrived in Bali.

IlLido Bali’s extraordinary selection of classic Italian cuisine, world-class wines and craft cocktails makes it a welcome Italian addition to the buzzy Seminyak enclave of trendy restaurants.

Stepping into ilLido Bali, the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere transports diners to an enchanting summertime in Italy. Having taken over the iconic location of Kafe Warisan, ilLido is an all-new vision of contemporary Italian luxury blended with traditional Indonesian architecture.

The first real Italian restaurant in Bali, ilLido Bali is about staying true to the quintessential Italian soul while breaking away from the stereotypical perception of what an Italian restaurant should look like or have on the menu.

Italian food is about exalting the natural flavours of the ingredients. The main focus in ilLido’s kitchen

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is produce, freshness, provenance and seasonality.

In true Italian tradition, all the pastas on the menu are homemade daily, including the Ricotta Cheese Tortelli with home-style amatriciana sauce.

An impressive selection of appetizers is presented in sharing portions, emphasizing the restaurant’s convivial and unpretentious environment. For the main course, the Black Cod with Prawn Cacciucco is a scrumptious homage to the emblematic fish soup of the Tuscan coast. All appetizers served sharingstyle are available from 11.30am, with main courses served only for lunch and dinner. Additionally, a three-course set menu is available daily for lunch for Rp 180,000 per person.

ilLido Jl. Raya Kerobokan No. 38 Bali - Indonesia Phone. +62 361 731 175 www.illidobali.com

food review

Truly Japanese The perfect restaurant for an authentic taste of Japan Text by Ester Pandiangan | Photo courtesy of Hotel Borobudur

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he five-star Hotel Borobudur Jakarta is home to several restaurants that are a source of pilgrimage for the city’s foodies.

There is Bogor Café, Bruschetta, Teratai, Singosari, Churchill, Pendopo and the restaurant I visited, Miyama.

Miyama is the hotel’s exciting Japanese restaurant, mixing a modern design with authentic Japanese dishes. The menu is filled with fantastic dishes, including the can’t-miss Tarabagani Stake, Rainbow Sushi Roll and Hamakaze Sashimi.

Tarabagani Stake promises a heavenly combination of Alaskan king crab and asparagus with spicy black pepper. There is also the famous Rainbow Sushi Roll and Rainbow Maki. Just imagine the fresh raw salmon, tuna, tomato sauce and vinegared rice

wrapped in nori. Delicious! It is the same original taste you will find in the Hamakaze Sashimi. And don’t forget to order the Yukimi Daifuku for dessert.

It is green tea ice cream with red beans; so milky and delicious.

Miyama can accommodate 160 people, including four private Tatami Rooms, one Private Room and one Private Teppanyaki Counter. Miyama offers a large selection of dishes, divided into its lunch and dinner menus.

Miyama Japanese Restaurant Hotel Borobudur Jakarta Jl. Lapangan Banteng Selatan Jakarta - Indonesia Phone. +62 21 380 4444 www.hotelborobudur.com

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Profile

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profile

The Unstoppable Man “What makes a hotel successful is not the brand or nice uniforms or the products, but it is how the hotel makes guests feel happy, satisfied and wanting to come back. Happy guests are the best ambassador any hotel could have,” says Alexander Jovanovic, Director of Development – Hotel and Resorts and the General Manager of The Trans Resort Bali.

Text by Melani Semuel & Ester Pandiangan | Photo courtesy of The Trans Resort Bali

I

f you stay at The Trans Resort Bali, you will most likely meet Alexander Jovanovic, the General Manager of the resort. Despite his hectic schedule, Alex always makes time to greet his guests and most mornings you can find this charming and friendly gentleman talking with guests during breakfast.

How long have you lived in Indonesia?

It has been 10 years in Indonesia and 24 years in Asia.

How have you found living in Indonesia and Asia?

Did you have any trouble adjusting to the culture?

I have lived in eight different countries, most of them in Asia, like Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Malaysia. I guess each country has its own challenges for a foreigner; it depends on their habits and the environment. But it was not difficult for me to adapt to Asian culture. And I think once you have a social network, you will get the balance and easily adjust to life.

Do you have a favourite city in Indonesia?

Bali is my favourite because of the professionalism in its hospitality industry and at the same time the environmental work that is framed in this beautiful, relaxing island. The island is so beautiful, with the beaches, the people, the culture; it is hard not to like this island.

What makes The Trans Resort Bali different from other hotels in Bali?

It’s the location. Our resort is located in the heart of the shopping, entertainment and dining in Seminyak. We have wonderful accommodation, business travellers will love our meeting facilities and ballroom, while guests who come here for holiday can enjoy our pool, our restaurants and also a relaxing visit to the spa. Other than the hotel, we also have villa-type accommodation. We have everything that business and leisure travellers want.

How do you handle the competition from all the surrounding restaurants?

I admit that our hotel is surrounded by many restaurants, but not many restaurants can match our international standards and spectacular ambiance. I get lots of compliments from guests who love our ambiance combined with the lighting and entertainment. Guests say they really enjoy spending their evening at the hotel’s restaurant, especially after travelling.

What is most challenging about being a General Manager?

Most probably managing time and people. Every person is unique and you must understand and appreciate each of them. I’ve worked in many countries and met many people, so it helps me to understand people from different backgrounds. Running the hotel also requires long working hours, which sometimes is not easy.

Do you ever have a holiday?

Holiday? Once you are in the hotel industry, you have to be dedicated because you realise you never have enough time for yourself. The more successful your hotel, the more you must keep your service consistent. For me, a holiday is trying new things, travelling, trying a new restaurant, exercising and getting outside my work environment.

After 30 years in hospitality, do you think this industry is for everyone?

If you can deal with guests, are outgoing and able to really engage with people, then this industry might be for you.

What can’t you live without?

I think I couldn’t live without being able to go and see the world, because that is a passion of mine. And for me it’s not just a dream but a reality to see the world. The spirit of freedom and getting to communicate with people are things I can’t live without.

What is the most rewarding thing in your life?

I have a lot of fond memories working in Hong Kong. The most incredible moment was during the Official Hand­ over from British to China Souvriety. We accommodated Se­venteen Heads of State including the US President with his family. I have also had the opportunity to meet famous musicians and entertainers such as Elton John, Mariah Carey, and The Three Tenors including Pavarotti himself.

However, the greatest thing for me was collecting the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Award for The Trans Luxury Hotel and The Trans Resort Bali. This make me very proud to be rewarded as one of Indonesia’s first luxury hotel brands and to be appreciated on an international level as well as to be recognised as the best in class of luxury hospitality.

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Service From the Heart

Masri, the General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta – the first Four Points in Indonesia – talks about his passion for this newly opened gem in Kuta.

Text by Melani Semuel | Photos courtesy of Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta

I

n more than a decade as editor in chief of Maxx-M, I have met numerous hotel general managers, and Masri is one of my absolute favourites. Since I first met him many years ago, I don’t think I have ever seen him fail to flash his contagious smile. Talking to him about his journey to the position of General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta – the first Four Points in Indonesia – was pure pleasure.

I met you a few months ago at Sheraton Bandung, and now here you are at Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta. Has it been hard making the move from Bandung to Bali? From the mountains to the ocean?

Actually, coming back to Bali has not been too difficult for me.

As you know, I come from Lombok, so moving to Bali was a bit like coming home for me. And also I am quite a flexible person who finds it easy to adapt to new environments. What makes a big difference is the market. Most of the Bandung market is domestic visitors who love to enjoy the city, so a hotel is just a place to spend a night for them. What they do is they drop the bags and go exploring the city. Here in Bali, our diverse and a big bowl of mix; domestics and overseas from different countries, and most of our guests are spending most of their time at the hotel. They enjoy the lagoon pool, relaxing at the bar, and there’s so much more contact with guests here in Bali. This is the part that I like the most, getting to know my guests better and making new friends.

Even today, I am still excited about the design and trying to understand the philosophy. I go to all the rooms to get the feeling. The design is more of a rustic style, an industrial kind of look. And there are so many unique and beautiful pieces adorning the hotel. The point is that this building will never bore you.

Who has been your most important teacher?

Definitely my mother. My mother is the one who made me the person I am now. I am not a university graduate, but I was able to become general manager of an international hotel because of my mother’s support and her constant belief in me. In terms of formal education, maybe I wasn’t too smart, but it was my mother’s spirit that kept me going.

What surprising things have you learnt about yourself over the years as you have worked in the hospitality industry?

You won’t believe it, but I was actually not a people person.

I didn’t have many friends. When I started working in the hospitality industry, I had to fight myself to make friends.

Sometimes it was quite hard as I am a shy person, but I was determined to do it. This is the place that I’ve chosen to work and earn my living, so I have to be the best at what I am doing. Now, as you can see, I really love meeting people and will go and say hi to other people. I really enjoy meeting new people now.

As the first of Four Points to open in Indonesia, what makes Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta different?

In your opinion what are the keys to being a great general manager?

We are different because we are Four Points. The Four Points brand is very well known worldwide. It is the brand that goes everywhere, and the best thing about Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta is the soul of this hotel, which is honest, uncomplicated and comfortable. And of course the most important part is our team and their dedication to our guests.

I am the kind of person who doesn’t like to show my stress to the team. If you show your team that you are stressed, they tend to be more stressed than you. And they start to filter the things they want to tell you because they don’t want to give you more stress. I don’t want that. I want my team to be able to talk to me about anything at any time.

And contrary to many beliefs, I don’t think as the general manager that you have to know everything and have to have an answer for every question. It’s more important that your team knows you are there to support them.

How challenging it is to be part of the pre-opening team?

It is very challenging. You have to set everything up from zero. Starting from finding vendors, ordering equipment and furniture, recruitment. It is very challenging, yet at the same time it is also very exciting; every day I find something new.

Something that wasn’t here before, and now it is here. I can see how things are shaping up.

What do you personally like most about the hotel?

Honestly, I love the design. As you can see, this hotel has a unique design, which is something totally different for me.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Hmmm, I think people would be surprised to know about my taste in music. I share the same taste in music as my 17-year-old daughter. So my musical taste is very up to date. And I think people would also be surprised to find out that I have a 17-year-old daughter.

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It All Started with Food The transition from food and beverage to sales and marketing was a turning point in Roberto Kotambunan’s career. Now at the helm of the Sales and Marketing Department at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers, Roberto looks back on his journey.

Text by Melani Semuel | Photo courtesy of Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers

T

alking to Roberto Kotambunan, it is easy to tell just how passionate he is about his job. Starting as a waiter 15 years ago, Roberto’s passion, skill and dedication quickly moved him up the corporate ladder to his current position as Director of Sales and Marketing at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers.

You started your career in the Food and Beverage Department, so what do you think of the culinary scene in Bandung?

Bandung is a haven for food lovers; there is so much, and I mean so much, good food here in Bandung. No matter what you like, there is something for you here. The culinary industry in Bandung is moving very fast, and there is always something new. I never run out of options for new dining places here in Bandung and most of them are delicious.

What do you think of the food at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers?

I have to say that the food and beverages here are awesome.

I know Bandung is a culinary destination and most people who come to Bandung probably aren’t interested in dining at a hotel. But our food is really something to be proud of.

From the very start, with breakfast, guests can see just how serious everyone at Sheraton Bandung is about our food.

Other than the food, what do you think makes Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers special compared to other hotels in Bandung?

As part of an international chain, Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers adheres to the very highest international standards, which is something that our guests can count on. The hotel can accommodate both business travellers and leisure travellers. Our location is very strategic, as we are located not too far from the centre of Bandung, yet at the same time far enough for our guests not to get caught in the famous Bandung weekend traffic. I would say that the hotel décor is also a bit different, as it is more of a resort than a hotel. The ambience here is very serene and our guests can enjoy the greenery of the neighbouring hills.

What is the difference between sales and marketing?

Sales and marketing complement each other. Sales is all about selling and you can see the results in the numbers,

whereas with marketing we are talking about the image in the long term, how to market our products, and the results may not always be quantifiable.

What do you think makes a good salesperson?

The person must be a people person. Someone who knows what the customer needs. A good salesperson must always be able to modify products to cater to the wants and needs of customers.

You’re from Jakarta, so how do you feel about living and working in Bandung?

It is very nice. I actually enjoy living and working in Bandung more than Jakarta. Besides the good atmosphere, working in Bandung really challenges my creativity. Bandung is growing so fast, there’s always something new. If we don’t want to be followers, we have to be very creative and create new things.

What is the perfect hotel for you?

It’s a combination of good service, complete facilities and also flexibility. What I mean by flexibility is a hotel should be able to accommodate the needs of each guest. Your needs are probably different from mine. A hotel needs to ensure that guests have a good stay with you and that they will come back to your hotel.

What is your greatest achievement in life?

Being what I am now is the greatest achievement in my life. And also when I can give my family something that they are happy about. It doesn’t always have to be tangible. It can be as simple as having a great time with them.

Do you have anyone in your life you look up to?

Definitely my parents. I wouldn’t be who I am without them. My parents have the biggest hearts. They never expect anything. They gave me the freedom to be who I wanted to be. They were always there to support me, and the power of that support and unconditional acceptance gave me the strength to be the person I am today and to keep moving forward.

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The Fashion Festival Bali Following the success of The Fashion Festival Bali in 2013 and 2014, the team returned with a diverse range of designers and collections from across Asia.

Text by Ester Pandiangan Photos courtesy of The Fashion Festival Bali

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he Fashion Festival Bali 2015 began in midAugust with a preview launch at Peppers Seminyak, teasing the audience with a sneak peek of the designers’ collections.

The previews continued with more off-site events at the hottest spots around Bali including El Kabron Spanish Restaurant and Cliff Club, Kilo Kitchen, and Prana Spa Bali, before The Fashion Festival’s official opening at The Trans Resort Bali.

The Fashion Festival Bali 2015 added a wide range of women’s wear, men’s wear and accessories designers to the line-up, including both emerging and established talents from Indonesia, Australia, Singapore and India. The Trans Resort Bali witnessed fashion-forward runway collections from Danjyo Hiyoji, ISIS, Ikat Indonesia, Fern, Dimas, Betty Tran, Pleatation, Heads of State Millinery, Xi Zhu, Dragonfly and Queenmark.

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The Fashion Festival is headed by a globally recognized and sought-after brand service agency, MGroup. MGroup is made up of an influential showcase of visionaries who are shaping the realms of fashion, design, business and culture, inspiring and entertaining fashion-savvy consumers from around the Pan Pacific region.

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Nature and Culture in Harmony Enjoy Sundanese culture at Saung Angklung Udjo

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ocated in east Bandung, Saung Angklung Udjo is a one-stop cultural workshop, with a performance venue, bamboo handicraft centre and a bamboo instrument workshop. Saung Angklung Udjo was established in 1966 by the late Udjo Ngalagena, known as Mang Udjo or Abah Udjo, and his wife, Uum Sumiati.

Angklung is a traditional musical instrument made from conjoined pieces of bamboo. The instrument, which dates back to ancient times, is played by swaying and shaking the pieces of bamboo. In 1938, Daeng Soetigna created diatonic angklung, and since then angklung has received wide international attention and has been used for educational and entertainment purposes. In November 2010, UNESCO designated angklung as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage.

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In addition to being an art studio, Saung Angklung Udjo functions as an educational laboratory and training centre to preserve Sundanese culture, angklung in particular. Saung Angklung Udjo is dedicated to realising the ideals and expectations of the angklung legend Mang Udjo, who said that angklung was the art and cultural pride of the Sundanese.

There is a daily performance from 3.30pm to 5pm.

Saung Angklung Udjo Jl. Padasuka 118, Bandung West Java – Indonesia Phone. +62 222 727 1714 +62 22 710 1736 www.angklung-udjo.co.id

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CAPTURE

Photographer: Priscilla Picauly (@liapicauly)

Photographer: Rafidha Najib (@derpipi)

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Photographer: Rafidha Najib (@derpipi)

CAPTURE

Photographer: Khairul Anwar (@Awang5)

Photographer: Khairul Anwar (@Awang5)

Photographer: Khairul Anwar (@Awang5)

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Mandar Text by Lina Naibaho | Photo by Yulin Masdakaty

and wearing traditional clothes. The men and boys wore black shirts and long pants, while the women were dazzling in their colourful costumes, a blaze of pinks, greens, blues and reds.

The view inspired Yulin and me to buy colourful clothes and do our best Hmong impersonation, something we saw other tourists doing. On the way back to our hotel, Yulin and I talked about ethnic symbols and how they were picked up and spread by tourists.

We imagined if tourists visiting Lake Toba in North Sumatra picked up the mandar, a traditional cloth that Batak women use for a skirt, or the saong, traditional headgear used by Batak farmers.

We were optimistic the mandar was cool enough for tourists. Hoang Ha, a Vietnamese friend, complimented Yulin and me on the mandar we used while we slept.

We decided to wear our mandar for dinner one night, wrapping the cloth around our hips. The colours were a little faded but we walked out of the hotel with our heads held high. We chose a busy restaurant that was bustling with diners. We walked in and scanned the room for seats when I spotted a table of Westerners. I turned around and walked out of the restaurant, followed

by Yulin. Outside, we stared each other and started laughing.

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everal years ago, I travelled to Vietnam with a friend, Yulin. We visited Dong Van village in Ha Giang province. One day we walked around the traditional market in Dong Van and saw something unique, which reminded me of my roots as a Batak, an ethnic group in North Sumatra, Indonesia.

We saw some Hmong people (Hmong) at the market with their heads covered in ethnic cloth

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We took off our mandar and folded up the cloth and walked back into the restaurant. We couldn’t stop giggling. It was a funny experience, but at the same time a shameful one. We had talked so confidently about the mandar, but we didn’t have the confidence to wear it in front of some Western tourists.

I felt guilty over this embarrassing experience, like I had betrayed my Batak roots. I promised myself that when I travelled abroad in the future, I would wear the mandar and do so proudly!

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Wild

Director : Jean-Marc Vallée Cast : Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Gaby Hoffmann “What if I was a liar and a cheat and there was no excuse for what I’d done other than because it was what I wanted and needed to do? What if I was sorry, but if I could go back in time I wouldn’t do anything differently than I had done?” Based on true events, “Wild” is the story of Cheryl Strayed, a daughter and wife, played by Reese Witherspoon, who looks incredible here; no wonder she received an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

Cheryl Strayed has lost all hope. Her marriage has failed and her mother has died. It seems that everything is out of control. With no solution, Cheryl sets out to hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail alone. With no experience, she conquers her doubts and at the same time tries to heal her soul. “Wild” offers a true story to inspire us, especially those who have lost hope. (PP)

Tracks

Director : John Curran Cast : Mia Wasikowska, Adam Driver, Lily Pearl Leave everything behind! For Robyn, she only needs four camels and a faithful dog for her journey. Her dream is to cross the desert in Western Australia by foot. At more than 1,700 miles, this may be an impossible journey, especially for a single woman. But everything is possible in this world and anything can happen.

Robyn isn’t a fictional character. The real Robyn Davidson finished her long and wild trek in the late 1970’s. “Tracks” is also a visual treat, capturing the rugged beauty of Australia.

The cinematography is stunning, with the desert sands and glowing sunshine. This is a movie as gorgeous as it is inspiring.

(PP)

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Jakarta Jive, Bali Blues Author: Jeremy Allan 354 pages Published: YellowDot This book reminds me of Julia Suryakusuma, one of the best authors from Indonesia. She writes on social and political themes that are very Indonesian. It is the same ground covered by Jeremy Allan, but from the point of view of a Western man who has lived in Indonesia for 30 years.

Allan casts his eye on Jakarta and Bali, capturing the special rhythms of life in the two locations. “Jakarta Jive, Bali Blues” is a compilation of “Jakarta Jive” and “Bali Blues,” which were published several years ago. Though some of the events covered here are old, the themes remain relevant.

The economic crisis of 1998, traffic jams, religious belief and tension, Indonesian culture, women’s rights, the East Timor referendum, the Bali bombing, life in Kuta and much more receive the attention of Allan and add colour to the book.

As I turned the pages, I often found myself laughing at some of the typical Indonesian habits like the ritual of returning to the village for Lebaran and Indonesian-style dating. It’s never too late to read this book. (EP)

Save Me Author: Lisa Scottoline 451 pages Published: Smart Blonde, LLC If you love Jodi Picoult, you will love this book. This is the story of a mother, Rose McKenna, whose daughter, Melly, is being bullied at school. It’s not the first time, and Rose has moved Melly to several schools because of bullies.

Until one day, when Rose is volunteering at the school cafeteria during lunchtime and there is an explosion in the kitchen. Rose must decide whether to look after Melly or save Amanda, one of the girls who has been bullying Melly.

When Amanda is injured the town blames Rose and soon her life is falling to pieces. Amanda’s mother decides to sue, Rose’s marriage is put to the test and worse, when her daughter returns to school, the bullying only intensifies. Rose must take matters into her own hands and get to the truth of what really happened that fateful day in order to save herself, her marriage and her family. (EP) Books are available at Periplus bookstores

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