Tropicallife sep dec 2014

Perk up the day with Nespresso Grand Crus and an assortment of teas Chill out and grab some refreshments from the in-room minibar Get connected with high-speed internet access on multiple devices Inhale the fresh air in our 100% smoke-free hotel Keep fit in our 24-hour gymnasium Asia Pacific’s Best Independent Hotel since 2007

by TTG Travel Awards Best Buffet Restaurant since 2009 • Carousel

by AsiaOne People’s Choice Awards Certificate of Excellence 2014

by TripAdvisor Best Employer 2013

by Aon Hewitt

mystery deal

Scan to enjoy the best rates

25 Scotts Road Singapore 228220 www.royalplaza.com.sg Tel: (65) 6737 7966 Fax: (65) 6737 6646 Email: royal@royalplaza.com.sg

We Wesearch searchfor forfamiliar familiarflavours, flavours,totomake makeyou youfeel feelatathome. home.

AAwarm warmwelcome. welcome.It’s It’sthat thatspecial specialfeeling feelingofofsipping sippingyour yourfavourite favouritetea, tea,served servedjust justthe theway wayyou youlike likeit.it.

ItItcomes comesfrom fromthe thethought thoughtthat thatgoes goesinto intoeverything everythingyou youtaste tasteand andtouch. touch.Because Becausewe weunderstand understand that thatthere’s there’snothing nothingasascomforting comfortingasasenjoying enjoyingthe thethings thingsyou youlove, love,without withouthaving havingtotoask. ask.

It’s It’sjust justone oneofofthe thelengths lengthswe wegogoto, to,totomake makeyou youfeel feelatathome. home.

MEMORABLE MEMORABLE MEMORABLE HOTEL HOTEL HOTELDE DE DEL’OPERA L’OPERA L’OPERAHANOI HANOI HANOI OPERATIC OPERATIC OPERATICGLAMOUR GLAMOUR GLAMOUR IN IN INTHE THE THEHEART HEART HEARTOF OF OFHANOI HANOI HANOI

EDITOR’S NOTE

6

From My Desk

o

ne of the problems face in selecting holiday destination is the over whelming choice at one fingertips. Places to stay, good restaurants, attentive service, access to nature and scenery as well as point of interest are all standard prerequisites for a successful holiday. Of course accommodation is one of the most essential parts in having a fine vacation.

In these days of modernity, high tech facilities are obviously expected if not always required. However, most of the thrill of getting away on a well-earned holiday to foreign parts is the feeling that you are really in a different part of the world. I don’t want to travel overseas to end up in a room, albeit a luxury room, that I can find close to my own place of residence. I think, hotel or resort design should be influenced by the culture of its environment or at least the property utilizes some elements of the traditional style to its architecture or interior.

In this edition, we feature some exciting resort destinations that really do bring their local culture into play for visitors.

The Reef on Gili Meno blends perfectly with nature while offering all the comfort and amenities one expects.

TROPICALIFE.NET | SEP / DEC 2014

Pandawa Cliff Estate with its clever Balinese design features and tropical gardens has incorporated modern facilities and comfort with all this.

The “5 Best Beach Getaway” presents some truly remarkable destinations of attractive scenic environments. Destination choices here offer some unforgettable holiday experiences.

As we all aware Bali has become a holiday destination that has now reached new heights with its culinary choices. Restaurants for all tastes flourish here. Style, presentation and just good food have brought Bali to the attention of world gourmets. Featured in this issue are Cut Catch Cucina at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, Kayuputi at St. Regis Bali Resort, Locavore and Urchin Spas are also highlighted in this issue including The Spa at Bulgari Hotels & Resorts for an experience of pure pamper.

Enjoy this edition, travel safe and have a happy holiday!

Olaf Purvis olaf@mixmedia.co.id

EDITOR’S TEAM

8

On the cover Boracay, Philippines

PUBLISHER Olaf Purvis MANAGING EDITOR Yerina Margia EDITOR Billy Bagus Aprillianti Trimaya Sari Mahendra SF Woro Agustin

CREATIVE DEPARTMENT CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ikonoa Prasetya SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Retno Wulandari Henrych Chrystyan Pramono Hadi Wijanarko Kikit Riksa Senior Photographer Gus Dharma Photographer Cok Gd. Agung W Anggityas JournalisT Nadia Ayu Jayanti Finance Putu Ary Duryantini Nik Purnama Dewi Gilang Delima

CONTRIBUTORS Henry Snowden Mark James Caroline Lee Ann Claire AREA MANAGER Dian Yustikarini ASST. AREA MANAGER Sulistyawati TECHNICAL ADVISOR M. Amirullah

SALES DEPARTMENT Marketing Manager Aditya Rama Account Executive Budiarta Suamba Debby Dwi Elsha Glenda B Anita Operation Staff Imam Fahmudi Gede Suardika Nengah Ariastika Moh. Farouq

MANAGING DIRECTOR Published By Olaf Purvis DIRECTOR OF REVENUE Lanny Manulang-Sahanaya ASST. ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Head Office Anna-Lina Paris

Pertokoan Citra Bali No.23

DIRECTOR - PRINT By Pass Ngurah Rai, Kelan, Tuban MEDIA DIVISION Bali 80361 Kadek Budiartawan Phone: +62 361 8957 791 DIRECTOR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA DIVISION Fax: Avianti M

+62 361 8957 792 +62 361 703 294

Branch office

MANAGING EDITOR Surabaya Yerina Margia GENERAL MANAGER MAKASSAR & PALU A. Tadampali GENERAL MANAGER SEMARANG Joko Krisna

Yogyakarta Semarang Makassar Cilegon Palu Serang E-mail: info@mixmedia.co.id

GENERAL MANAGER www.mixmedia.co.id CILEGON Ali Muchtar GENERAL MANAGER SERANG Maman TROPICALIFE.NET | SEP / DEC 2014

ge ifique Voya My Magn DUA NUSA BALI FITEL

RT

O H RES

BEAC

SO

ESCAPE ANTING E CHARM AN ENCH BALINES TS EE CE M TREAT ELEGAN ONT RE FR FRENCH CH VISH BEA DUA, IN A LA N5, NUSA

T BTDC, LO 9 2888 361 84 WISATA L: (+62) AN PARI SIA - TE KAWAS NE .COM DO USADUA 363 IN IN 80 AL LI LB BA FITE INFO@SO

Swim m ing

ill esi Clu b M

me

p oo l

Luxury room with pool access

A taste of tropical luxury on the magical island of Bali BOASTING MAGNIFICENT VIEWS OF THE SHIMMERING SEA, SOFITEL BALI NUSA DUA BEACH RESORT’S SPACIOUS ROOMS AND SUITES OFFER SOPHISTICATED STYLE AND EXQUISITE COMFORT. REVEL IN A WORLD OF REJUVENATION WITH A SAVANT MIX OF WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES, FRENCH COSMETOLOGY AND

TRANQUIL

SURROUNDS.

www.sofitel.com

DISCOVER

ALL

OUR

MAGNIFIQUE

ADDRESSES

ON

JOIN OUR GLOBAL LOYALTY PROGRAM AT ACCORHOTELS.COM

CONTENT

10

//Next Stay The Reef on Gili Meno

24

Tucked away on Gili Meno, The Reef offers guests with a perfect blend of luxurious accommodation with stunning view of the sparkling azure of ocean.

//Next Island Gili Meno

50

A natural gem with spectacular vista that should not be missed when traveling to the Gilis.

//Next Destination Perth

76

This city is home to some of the magnificent heritage buildings attracting many visitors from across the globe.

//Five Best

44

TROPICALIFE.NET | SEP / DEC 2014

Phuket, Thailand One of those places that would give a ‘wow’ factor.

A must visit!

58

Boracay Island Experience a true tropical heaven in Boracay Island where pristine beaches and unspoiled scenery will greet you.

CONTENT

11

MAY / SEP 2014 | TROPICALIFE.NET

CONTENT

12

//Spice Putih 79 Kayu A perfect blend of elegant restaurant and delectable dishes that will sure satisfy your taste.

//Spice

80 Lovacore A new restaurant in Ubud offers innovative and enjoyable dining experience.

//Unwind The Spa at Bulgari

89

One of the most impressive spas on the island, which is perfect for spa enthusiasts to rejuvenate and indulge themselves in a beautiful surrounding.

//Sumertha Gallery

92

TROPICALIFE.NET | SEP / DEC 2014

Sumertha Gallery This is one gallery worth visiting while you’re in Ubud.

GLANCE

Introducing Vietura Aesthetic Lifestyle New Aesthetic Clinic At Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort

Opened to the public in August 2014 Vietura Aesthetic Lifestyle is the very first aesthetic, wellness and lifestyle clinic to open within the privacy of a luxury resort hotel. Vietura was launched 18 months ago in the Philippines capital of Manila and is owned by the well-respected Dr. MJ Torres. This International company is regarded for its safe and results driven aesthetic treatments that cater to a client list of men and women of all ages as well as teenagers.

Vietura offers a range of 100% non-invasive, non-surgical holistic treatment that attends to anti-aging concerns by providing instant and long lasting results. New technology treatments include power cell lift, a non-surgical facelift, platelet rich plasma fillers, carbon laser skin whitening and resurfacing plus lipo cryo body sculpting.

Vietura’s signature treatments are carried out with apparatus that includes a brand new platinum shot facial booster and their Lipo Cryo equipment that freezes the fat cells ef-

fectively reducing body size by up to 3cm in a single treatment. Vietura offers detoxifying packages with a top of the line colonics machine, not available elsewhere in Bali.

The clinic also provides personalised nutrition, lifestyle and wellness coaching.

THE YALE WHIFFENPOOFS RETURNED TO BALI The St. Regis Bali Resort and The Laguna Bali OrganizeD Annual Charity Night of Music and Cuisine in Support of UNICEF The continuing 18-year partnership between UNICEF and Starwood Hotels and Resorts has raised over US$25 million for UNICEF through its Check Out for Children program.

The Yale Whiffenpoofs performed on Friday August 1st in the Balai Raya Ballroom at The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. On their 4th annual charity evening, the Yale Whiffenpoofs presented a customized arrangement of jazz standards, classic bal-

14

TropicaLife.net

lads and recent popular hits. After the unforgettable concert, a VIP buffet dinner was held at Banyubiru. The day following this concert the Yale Whiffenpoofs held another concert exclusively for guests during an elegant culinary journey at Boneka, the signature restaurant of The St. Regis Bali Resort. All returns from the Rp.100,000 ticket sales are to be donated to UNICEF. Founded in 1909, the Whiffenpoofs continue Yale University’s 100-year tradition

by selecting 14 of their most accomplished male singers to make up one of the world’s most widely revered musical groups. Bali is just one stop amongst the group’s 200 annual concerts held at a wide range of venues around the world that recently included a performance at The White House for President Obama and a concert at Broadway’s Lincoln Centre to benefit the Elizabeth Glaser Foundation for the of raising awareness and funds to fight paediatric AIDS.

TropicaLife.net

15

GLANCE

TABLE8 Chinese Restaurant Opens in Bali Table8 is the newest addition to The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali offering authentic Cantonese and Szechuan delicacies, home-inspired cuisines and a tea corner with imported varieties of premium leaves from China. The menu at Table8 features a rich selection from their team of culinary experts, including signature a la carte meals such as Buddha jump over the wall, Australian five head whole abalone braised with wild mushroom, roasted suckling pig, and many more. Diners can also experience an array of heart-warming Dim Sum

in addition to a delectable Chinese buffet with regional favorites.

Diners will be mesmerized with the combination of classic and contemporary elements that harmoniously blend together to create an elegant and soothing atmosphere. At night, Table8’s contemporary and artful lighting emphasizes the restaurant’s warm colours. The restaurant seats 100 guests and features the Ci Xi Suite, an elegant private dining room inspired by China’s Empress Dowager Ci Xi and decorated with her artworks.

Le Duo Parisien Dinner at Ju-Ma-Na

Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean on Bali’s southernmost cliff, Ju-Ma-Na, Banyan Tree Ungasan Bali’s signature restaurant, presented “Le Duo Parisien” with tantalizing French cuisine cooked by star-studded duo, Christophe Schmitt and Gaëtan Fiard, Chefs from Michelin-starred “Le Diane” restaurant – Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière, Paris. This award-winning pair returned to

16

TropicaLife.net

Ju-Ma-Na for a second year earlier month of August, where guests indulged in the duo’s bold creations including Le Choux Fleur – “crème dubary”, smoked salmon, crème fraiche, avruga caviar; L’agneau – grilled marinated saddle of lamb with thyme, turnip, almond & barberry jus and many more. It was another round of exciting experience for both the Ju-Ma-Na team and Chefs.

ExclusivE living

discErning guEsts

Business and leisure travelers seeking the many up-market comforts of a top-quality hotel will find all these and more at Hotel Santika Premiere, as our four star hotel where world-class standards of ser vice are seamlessly combined with a uniquely Indonesian touch.

Hotel SantIka PremIere - jakarta

|

Hotel SantIka PremIere - jogja

|

Hotel SantIka PremIere - malang

Hotel SantIka PremIere - Semarang | SantIka PremIere DyanDra Hotel & ConventIon - medan Hotel SantIka PremIere BIntaro - tangSel

|

|

Hotel SantIka PremIere GuBenG - Surabaya

Hotel SantIka PremIere kota HaraPan InDaH - bekaSi

reservation center Ph: (62-21) 270 0027 | Fax: (62-21) 270 0350 E-mail: reservation@santika.com | Online Booking: www.santika.com Santika Indonesia Hotels & Resorts

@SantikaHotels

www.youtube.com/santikaonline

TropicaLife.net

17

GLANCE

Marriott International Announces the Second Courtyard By Marriott Hotel Opening Right in the Heart of Seminyak August 1st 2014, Marriott International, Inc, announced the opening of the second Courtyard branded property in Bali, making it the 31st courtyard hotel in Asia. Located in the heart of Seminyak and close to the famous Seminyak Beach, Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak features 290 rooms and suites complete with their own private balcony or garden terrace, a 42” smart TV, comfortable working desk with chair, iPod dock, and modern amenities. Suites offer extra space with their own living room and dining area, along with the convenience of having connecting doors to another deluxe room, perfect for family holidays. Other facilities on offered include an expansive lagoon pool, Kids Club, a 24-hour fitness centre, Zanti – The Retreat, and state of the art meeting and breakout spaces.

SOS Supper Club Receives Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence 2014 SOS Supper Club at Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort & Spa has been recognised for offering one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world with an Award of Excellence 2014 from Wine Spectator.

Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Wine List Awards recognise restaurants whose wine lists offer interesting selections, are appropriate to their cuisine and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers. To qualify for an award, the list must present complete and accurate wine information, including vintages and appellations for all selections, as well as wines available by the glass.

18

TropicaLife.net

Boasting a full display wine cellar, SOS Supper Club’s extensive wine list includes more than 100 labels at any given time.

The state-of-the-art wine cellar features a fully air conditioned and sealed room that is kept below 12 degrees Celsius, providing excellent storage conditions for premium wines. Enhancing the experience for guests, the resort’s resident Wine Guru offers discerning wine tasting journeys, as well as expert recommendations for the perfect food and wine pairings.

GLANCE

TropicaLife.net

19

GLANCE

Ubud Village Jazz Festival 2014, a musical feast for your mind and soul The second annual Ubud Village Jazz Festival 2014 took place recently at Arma Ubud on 8th and 9th of August 2014 and successfully attracted lots of people to visit and enjoy the music. The theme for this year’s festival was “Awakening Indonesia” as the dates for the vent closed to the Indonesian’s Independence Day on August 17th 2014. For two consecutive days, the event featured world-class line-up showcasing the skill of jazz musicians from

all range of age to stage a memorable performance for the audience’s satisfactory. Some of the acclaimed Jazz musician that took the stage at the event were Balawan, Bali Ska Syndicate, Yuri Mahatma and young talented musician from Underground Jazz Movement (UJM). The international line-up included famous names from various countries such as Seiji Endo, Deborah Carter, Gilad Hekselman and Dian Pratiwi.

Sanur Village Festival 2014

Just recently, the Sanur Village Festival (SVF) was being held for the 9th time.

For three consecutive days (21-24 August 2014) with there ‘Morning of The World’, Maisonette Area at Inna Grand Bali Beach, Sanur became the festive ground filled with audiences from Bali, Indonesia and other countries, to witness various arts and creativity performances as well as savoring delicious culinary from local restaurants. Before the closing ceremony, a cultural parade took place around Sanur area, with about 500 participants joining the festivity.

20

TropicaLife.net

The Deputy Mayor of Denpasar, IGN Jaya Negara officially closed the festival and hopes that there will be another SVF next year and the festival will continue being one of the most anticipated events that has attracted million of people.

TropicaLife.net

21

GLANCE

Grand Nikko Bali’s 9th Annual Culture Appreciation Festival

Grand Nikko Bali present the Spiritual Kecak Fire Dance during the Closing Ceremony of its Annual Culture Appreciation Nights. Held on 29th August 2014 at the Kupu-Kupu Resort’s amphitheatre. The pinnacle of the evening was a vibrant performance of the Kecak Dance and a colossal drama taken from the classic Hindu epic ‘Ramayana’. The Closing Ceremony act as the finale for Grand Nikko Bali’s 9th Annual Cultural

INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT PRESENTED GLOBALLY RENOWNED JAPANESE CHEF TAKAGI KAZUO

22

TropicaLife.net

Intercontinental Bali Resort was honoured to present the globally renowned Japanese chef Takagi Kazuo to the public for their first ever 2 Michelin Star chef experience.

The program offered exclusive cooking classes, sake and plum wine tasting and a series of Takagi Kazuo directed dinners at the KO Restaurant, Teppanyaki and Cocktail Lounge from 3rd to 7th September 2014.

Takagi Kazuo is the owner chef of ‘Kyoto Cusine TAKAGI’ in

Appreciation Nights. This events also held to celebrate Bali’s rich cultural legacy and aim to introduce local artists to the audiences through a variety of traditional performances.

Ashiya, a city lying between Osaka and Kobe. He is recognized as a master of Kyo-ryori, a super refined Kyoto style of Japanese food preparation. Chef Takagi Kazuo’s gastronomic dinners at KO included both à la Carte choices along with set menus. Each menu featured his famous soup as well as a platter of assorted appetizers. It is Chef Takagi’s delicate soup that has become a symbolic feature of his cooking.

TropicaLife.net

23

NEXT STAY

THE REEF ON GILI MENO The Reef Tel. +62 370 642 340

If one is ready for a luxury boutique resort break within the picturesque setting of a small tropical island it would be hard to come up with anything better than The Reef on Gili Meno.

Tucked between its larger sister islands of Gili Air and Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno boasts the new Reef Resort of Karma Royal Group’s Chakra Resorts. Here the resort features seafacing lumbung bungalows, each with spacious private balconies opening to a vista of white sandy beach and the sparkling azure of ocean.

Covering four hectors the resort has been built using traditional local materials allowing it to blend harmoniously with its pristine natural environment.

Each bungalow accommodates up to 4 people and comes complete with a private kitchen, en-suite bathroom, flat-screen television and DVD player, tea and coffee making amenities, telephone and air-conditioning, so providing a graceful modern environment within a traditional exterior.

24

TropicaLife.net

The Reef ’s Karma Beach Club offers all day service and specializes in local seafood dishes with a modern culinary twist as well as western choices put together by the club’s international chef. The resort can arrange snorkelling and diving day trips around Gili Meno and the neighbouring islands. A bird park on the island offers an interesting range of local feathered fauna and if one is inclined just to relax, perhaps with an occasional dip, Karma Beach Club provide day beds from which guests can order bar service.

Here on Gili Meno, spectacular views, unspoiled nature, water activities and plush accommodation combine to make The Reef Resort a delightful venue for that well-earned break away from traffic and crowds.

TropicaLife.net

25

NEXT STAY

SEP / DEC 2014

Elite Havens Luxury VIllas Rental Jl. Raya Semer 883, Kerobokan, Kuta, Bali Tel. +62 361 737 498 www.elitehavens.com

Seseh Beach Villa presents itself as an enchanting blend of traditional thatch and timber that encloses a superbly tasteful modern interior. But that’s not all, views from this large villa come with both rural and ocean aspects. First impressions here are simply captivating.

A contingent of well-trained staff under the villa manager is on hand to provide butler services, gardening and security.

Baby sitters and masseuses are available on request.

The two master suites complete with their own indoor and outdoor showers along with rooftop soaking tubs, are located on the second floor with spectacular sea views and their own breezy balconies. The two guestrooms sit at the front of the main building on the ground floor, a third guestroom is close to the rear of the ground floor and is well suited for children.

Seseh Beach Villa features a 16.5 x 5 meter swimming pool headed by a lounge pavilion capable of seating 12 for poolside

This villa promises a dream holiday in a serene and luxurious environment. The indoor living and dining areas are well laid out and equipped to provide guests with every aspect of comfort and entertainment.

A private chef is available to prepare meals at all times and there is room enough for guests here to entertain visitors and friends for meals as well as hold special functions or parties.

26

TropicaLife.net

dining. The rooftop deck provides a great platform for evening drinks through sunsets and balmy nights.

Seseh Beach Villa is well placed to expose guests to some of Bali’s best natural beauty from its opulent base. This is the villa that provides holidays that guests want to return to.

**Photo by : Scott Goldsbury.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean from its site in the peaceful rural village of Seseh on Bali’s southwest coast, Seseh Beach Villa has been well planned with its five bedrooms to accommodate up to 10 guests.

TropicaLife.net

27

NEXT STAY

PANDAWA

CLIFF ESTATE Elite Havens Luxury Villa Rental Jl. Raya Semer 883, Kerobokan, Kuta, Bali Tel. +62 361 737 498 www.elitehavens.com

**Photo by : Christopher Leggett.

Pandawa Cliff Estate is perched cliff top on the Bali’s southernmost tip. Here of course million dollar views are part of the deal. Overlooking THE vastness of the Indian Ocean, acclaimed international designer Popo Danes took full advantage of the site and its aspects when putting the concept together. PANDAWA Cliff Estate is a formation of three luxurious living spaces, pools, a full size tennis court, squash court, gym and spa.

The Pala - This is the Estate’s flagship villa.

With 6 bedrooms on its dramatic cliff top setting The Pala is as suitable for a grand wedding venue as it is for special family holiday or an extravagant hideaway for that romantic weekend.

The interior design here is light and refreshing.

The Pala’s infinity pool with its wooden decking sits above the Indian Ocean as though lying at sea level with it.

28

TropicaLife.net

Villa Rose - With a contemporary twist on traditional tropical design, Villa Rose offers a choice of open-air living or air-conditioned cool with astonishing views of the Indian Ocean.

The villa’s four almost identical bedrooms are arranged in pairs over two floors, with a king size bed and a twin-bed room on each floor, making an ideal set up for families.

Villa Marie - Although it sits just on the back from the cliff top, nearly all of the rooms at Villa Marie, as well as its garden and pool, have tantalising ocean views. Aesthetically speaking, this two-storey villa is the most Balinese of the three Pandawa Cliff Estate villas in terms of style and layout, echoing the traditional compound design of many Balinese homes.

TropicaLife.net

29

NEXT STAY

THE NIRWANA

RESORT & SPA

T Jl. Raya Sengkidu, Amlapura, Candidasa, Bali Tel. +62 363 41136 www.tjendanavillas.com

30

TropicaLife.net

here are a growing number of visitors to Bali that seek a less hectic holiday environment than the iconic destinations of Kuta, and Legian. Candidasa offers a base from which to explore many of the interesting sights in the eastern part of Bali as well as an attractive option for a more laidback holiday experience.

Facilities offered here include The Nirwana Restaurant overlooking the ocean where one can savour local and international cuisine, an infinity pool where one can relax while enjoying bar service attention. The Nirwana Spa offers a wide selection of treatments to pamper and relax body and mind. The Nirwana Spa uses locally sourced 100% organic materials obtained from both land and ocean.

The Nirwana Resort & Spa is an alluring resort in the Candidasa Regency and features 6 units of superior garden view, 8 units of deluxe garden view and 4 units of deluxe ocean view. Each unit has been designed and built to present a Balinese concept in modern style. Surrounded by tropical gardens with a mountain backdrop and a breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean, the resort is a peacefully picturesque choice for family, groups of friends and honeymooners or couples seeking a romantic getaway.

There is a lot to see and do from the Nirwana Resort & Spa. Nearby places of interest include the impressive heritage site of the King Karangasem Taman Ujung, the Tirtagangga water temples, Tenganan Village famous for unique handicrafts and woven fabrics, and the Bali Chocolate Factory by the Jasri Beach. For those keen on water sport activities such as surfing, scuba diving or snorkelling, the resort is more than happy to assist by recommending and/or arranging visits to the best of the many sites in the area.

TropicaLife.net

31

NEXT STAY

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta

A Family Resort with an Exclusive 9-Hole Golf Course

Set in the middle of landscaped gardens, the Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta is located in the scenic outskirts of the city.

The hotel has a lovely 9-hole golf course, a relaxing spa and excellent dining facilities.

Jl. Palagan Tentara Pelajar, Yogyakarta, Indonesia Tel. +62 27486 9123 www.yogyakarta.regency@hyatt.com

w

ith seven storeys housing 269 rooms, the 5-star luxury Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta has been designed around concept of an ancient ruin rising through the mist from tropical jungle surrounds. Building design here presents magical similarities with the world heritage site of Borobudur and the visual aspects from the site include the towering cone of Java’s sacred Mt Merapi. Within the 22 hectares of the hotels gardens and golf course facility structures have been designed to represent traditional village buildings of the area.

32

TropicaLife.net

Facilities here include 2 restaurants with international menus, a health club and spa, tennis courts and convention or conference areas that include meeting rooms for 15 to 20 people. A ballroom accommodates up to 1,000 people and can be set up to provide banquet seating for 350 guests. Business services include a 24-hour communication centre where confidential secretarial services are available. All guest services here are designed care for the needs and comfort of individuals as required.

The hotel is a perfect choice for golf lovers as they provide a nine-hole golf course designed

by Fisette Golf Design and landscaped by Tongg, Clark and McCelvey, from Hawaii.

The golf course is par 30 with 6 par-3-holes and 3 par-4 and plays to 1,835 meters. Each hole has three Tee-off areas to accommodate professional, man and lady golfers.

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta in its beautiful setting pays homage to local and Indonesian tradition while providing modern facilities for active family and business guests alike.

TropicaLife.net

33

NEXT STAY

CENTARAGRAND VILLA NUSA DUA

Centara Grand Villa Nusa Dua is one of the latest additions to a now famed list of Bali’s luxury accommodation opportunities in the Nusa Dua resort complex. Here CentAra GRAND offerS a tropical haven for those seeking a serene getaway.

Complex BTDC Lot Nw 2&3, Nusa Dua, Bali Tel. +62 361 773 300 www.centarahotelsresorts.com

S

ituated on the southern peninsula of Nusa Dua this exceptional villa complex is close to the beach and offers 14 luxurious pool villas with 24-hour butler service. Other facilities on offer here are the SPA Cenvaree, a fitness center, the Long Table international restaurant, the richly appointed RU YI Chinese restaurant and the 8 Degree Bar with its plushy interior.

The enticing lobby provides a reassuring introduction for visitors as a prelude to the villas themselves. The villa complex occupies a spacious 300 Sq meters of land and is designed with an enchanting blend of Chinese, Malay and European influence.

My one bedroom luxury villa impressed me with its space and view of the pool surrounded by lush tropical garden. To add to my introduction I was given a welcoming foot scrub massage. Here I found myself comfort-

34

TropicaLife.net

ably relaxed in this tranquil environment with its generously sized bedroom and five star amenities that included an indoor and outdoor bathroom.

The excellent service and facilities at Centara Grand Villa Nusa Dua all went to make my weekend hideaway a most memorable experience.

NEXT STAY

SEP / DEC 2014

PULLMAN BALI LEGIAN NIRWANA

For those looking for beachfront resort with accommodation in the style of urban chic coupled with Balinese hospitality, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana offers this and more.

Set in its own tranquil oasis of lush green Tropicana, Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana features 351 well-appointed rooms and suites, each has its own private balcony and five-star facilities. With its iconic Kuta– Legian beachfront strip location guests can enjoy the beaches at leisure, anytime of the day. Facilities offered here are 3 swimming pools that include a roof top infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean and The Tjakra-7 Spa, a modern spa with a fully equipped treatment centre.

Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana presents 2 restaurants for their guest’s indulgence.

These are Sembilan Restaurants, a contemporary Balinese restaurant and The Deli, an upscale brasserie featuring French and International delicacies. There are 3 bars at

the Pullman, each with their own unique atmosphere: The L Bar, The IP Pool Bar and The Garden Pool Bar. Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana has a 285 square meter ballroom that can also accommodate meetings for up to 250 guests or be divided into 3 smaller meeting rooms.

Equipped with the latest audiovisual systems, wireless technology, LCD projectors, broadband access and full secretarial services. All this provides a flexible venue for a range of events. There are also two small meetings rooms ideally suited for breakout rooms or small meetings for up to 40 guests each. Lastly a meeting room with ocean views to accommodate a more select and smaller venue for up to 30 people.

Jalan Melasti, Legian - Bali Tel. +62 (0) 361 762500 pullmanbalilegiannirwana.com

TropicaLife.net

35

NEXT STAY

HOTEL DE L’OPERA, HANOI Sophisticated, Glamour and Very Convenient Hotel in The Heart of Hanoi

Impressive was the first word to describe the beautiful neo colonial architecture as I arrived at the hotel’s entrance. The foyer convinced me that my stay here at Hotel de l’Opera would be spent surrounded by luxury, tasteful design and an ARTISTIC infusion of BYGONE French era.

As a member of the MGallery Collection, Hotel de l’Opera has been a favourite amongst travellers because of its strategic location in downtown Hanoi – just walking distance to some of the city’s major attractions. These include the Hanoi Opera, Trang Tien Plaza, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi features 107 meticulously-designed guestrooms comprising of deluxe, grand deluxe, suite and grand suite, each has lavish quality amenities and timber floors to compliment the finest Asian textiles and silks that contribute to a room’s vibrant colour pallet.

There are several lavish gastronomic venues at Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi. Café Lautrec offers`a la carte and buffet dining throughout the day, Satine serves classic

36

TropicaLife.net

Vietnamese cuisine with many local favourites, and the exclusive La Fee Verte (or the “Green Fairy”) a hotel bar with a visual twist of bygone decadence provides a wide selection of aged spirits, extensive cocktails and imported wines.

No modern hotel today is without a meeting facility and Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi presents four rooms mimicking elegant French salons with exclusive and flexible tailor-made services to facilitate small-tomedium size conferences, product launches and private events. Other facilities on offered are an indoor swimming pool with open-air terrace, gym, sauna and a business centre.

Overall I was delighted with my stay at Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi as it presents the true attributes of a luxury boutique hotel.

29 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel. +84 4 6282 5555 hoteldelopera.com - mgallery.com

NEXT STAY

SEP / DEC 2014

Naumi Hotel your personal luxury hotel 41 Seah Street, Singapore Tel. +65 6403 6000 www.naumihotel.com

Since reopening in November 2013, discerning travelers have been drawn to this stylish and luxurious hotel and voted it as one of the world’s premier accommodation establishments.

L

ocated in Singapore’s Central Business District, Naumi Hotel has quietly enjoyed its prestige. No need to blow trumpets here, all discerning visitors to Singapore know this “best kept” secret. Here guests are treated to the special service of respect and personal comfort with all the amenities necessary to indulge all needs.

With newly renovated interiors by the multi-disciplinary expertise of White Jacket this quietly luxurious hotel features 73 elegantly appointed rooms of 5 standards. Each is complete with Malin + Goetz designer furnishings, premium bathroom amenities, Apple TV and highspeed Wi-Fi connection.

the heart of the islands attractions. Also close to Singapore’s Art and National Museums, guests of a more worldly nature have easy access to some of Singapore’s more triumphant intellectual achievements.

The hotel proudly features Table by Rang Mahal located in the lobby. Here Indian cuisine is at its best. In addition, Cloud 9 with Naumi’s famous rooftop infinity pool is provides an enchanting evening repose over cocktails and skyline views.

Meeting and event spaces are part of the service here. Bedecked as the old cigar lounges of the past they are very masculine retreats - who’s for billiards?

Strategically sited within walking distance of Singapore’s shopping, dining and entertainment district, Naumi Hotel puts its guests in

TropicaLife.net

37

FIVE BEST

38

**LengkawiTropicaLife.net

Magnificent AND Spectacular Beach Getaway “

A pleasant year-round tropical climate with a charming beach and an impressive array of luxury resorts are the conditions that attract so many to SE Asia for their holidays. Here are some of the distinctive features of those resorts that stand out for their success in attracting holidaymakers. Each of these places has become a major island destination in Asia

“

TropicaLife.net

39

FIVE BEST

40

TropicaLife.net

FIVE BEST

TropicaLife.net

41

FIVE BEST

42

TropicaLife.net

FIVE BEST

TropicaLife.net

43

FIVE BEST

44

TropicaLife.net

FIVE BEST

TropicaLife.net

45

FIVE BEST

46

TropicaLife.net

FIVE BEST

TropicaLife.net

47

FIVE BEST

48

TropicaLife.net

FIVE BEST

TropicaLife.net

49

GILI MENO Most of us are probably more familiar with Gili Trawangan, the largest of the three Gili Islands.

However Gili Meno, lying between Gili Trawangan and Gili Air is a natural gem of seclusion and not to be missed when travelling to this island cluster.

50

TropicaLife.net

NEXT ISLAND

Gili Meno is a light footed 2 kilometres at its widest point and a delightful exploratory walk of less than 2 hours will take one around the whole island. Meno is the peaceful island of the three Gilis and has a reputation for providing that oft sought tranquil get away destination for those looking to a break from life’s routines. This is the least visited island of the group and as such visitors here are spared the clatter and crush of more crowded tourist destinations.

This sleepy island can be reached by speed boat directly from Bali to Bangsal Harbour on Lombok Island and from there, a 10 minute island hopper will get one to Gili Meno. Transportation here on the island is restricted to cidomo (the local horse drawn carriage), bicycle or Shank’s Pony. There are no motorised vehicles on the island.

Snorkelling and diving are the main active attractions and excellent dive sites include the Gili Meno Wall, Sea Turtle Point and Blue Coral Point. There are good snorkelling sites by the plenty. During daylight hours it is not uncommon the see turtles swimming close to shore and the clear water of the area provides visuals of giant gorgonian sea fans that rise up from colourful coral bases and their attendant marine life.

Gili Mano has an interior salt-water lake and here some unique bird species can be viewed during an enjoyable wonder through the area. The island also sports a bird park where a wide range of Indonesian bird life can be seen.

The dining on Gili Meno is mostly through the services of local cafes where seafood is, not surprisingly, a speciality. For more elegant dining facilities the Reef ’s Karma Beach Club at Gili Meno has a menu offering a range of western and Asian dishes with a selection of locally caught seafood. Here at the Karma Beach Club guests may enjoy the use of day beds around a pool where bar and meal service is available or on the beach with a good book, a zephyr of sea breeze and the gentle lap-lap-lap of water on sand.

For a quiet romantic sojourn, a relaxing break, diving, bush walking and tropical island tranquillity, Gili Meno has it all.

TropicaLife.net

51

NEXT ISLAND

FLORES

Komodo Island is considered as one of the best diving spots in the world where you can dive into the clear Blue Ocean, and bath under the sun. At the same time you may contemplate and enjoy your moments uninterrupted providing an unforgettable impression.

There is a beach with pink sand at Komodo, which can be reached by boat from Loh Liang on Komodo Island, which only takes 30 minutes trip. While on the boat, enjoy the warm greetings from the dolphins. These majestic creatures are very fond to human and not a rare sight on the island’s vicinity. If you’re lucky, green turtle and even whale could appear sometime, providing a mesmerizing sight.

The pink beach is formed by the mixture of white sand and red coral fragments that are washed to the shore, creating a romantic bliss of nature you rarely found anywhere else.

Free your mind for an adventure!

Flores is an Island located on the Eastern side of Indonesia archipelago and can take you to a whole new experience, an adventurous vacation, if you please.

52

TropicaLife.net

T

here are several places of interest you can explore in Flores, first is the Komodo Island. This island is located at east of Sumbawa, separated by Sape Strait, and also the native habitat of Komodo dragons, a wondrous animal in the brink of extinction. Flights available every day with the route of Bali – Labuan Bajo Airport or the straight from Bali to Komodo island, each requires approximately 1,5 hours of flight.

With fresh air and magnificent natural surroundings. You can see the Komodo dragon roams freely in the wild. There are other animals inhabiting this area as well, such as horses, wild buffalo, deer, wild boar, snakes, monkeys, and various types of birds. In addition to the fauna, Komodo Island also has a variety of exotic flora, for example the Sepang Wood used by local people as medicine and material to dye clothes, while Nitak tree (sterculia oblongata) is believed to be a good medicine and the seed can also be consumed.

In addition, the coral reef around the island is so amazing. Inhabited by vast variety of colourful fishes, like butterfly fish, and clown fish.

There are a 1,000 fish species, 260 species of coral reefs, and 70 species of sponge inhabiting the ocean area. The pink beach area is a pristine site, mindfully preserved to maintain its original beauty.

Holiday at Flores Island is an unforgettable experience where you can directly meet wild animals in their natural habitat. The scenic panorama and natural ambience will take you away to a travel destination beyond your wildest expectation.

NEXT ISLAND

TropicaLife.net

53

NEXT ISLAND

DERAWAN ISLAND

I

ndonesia is a country consisting of thousand of islands; make it a splendid tropical holiday destination. Some of the places are still under the radar and Derawan is one of them. Here you will be greeted with warm white sand, swaying palm tree and Blue Ocean filled with magnificent creatures. This makes Derawan one of world’s richest areas in biodiversity and third best dive destination in the world.

Located in Berau, East Kalimantan, Derawan is actually a group of 31 small islands. The most popular is Kakaban Island, Maratua Island, and Sangalaki Island. It takes four hours by boat to reach Derawan Island. There is no direct flight to the island, and since the location is quite remote, it is suggested that you bring more cash, as there are only a handful of ATM inside the island’s vicinity.

There is no better way to see the beauty of Derawan Island than to dip into the water yourself, either by diving or snorkelling. The under-

54

TropicaLife.net

water life on this island is wonderfully rich. You can see giant turtles, dolphins, sharks, barracuda, and jellyfish, sometime even whale. The ocean around Derawan is exceptionally pretty with blue and green gradation, and there is a small forest in the middle part of the island, adding up to the whole enchanting nature ambience.

The island has so much to explore. If you come at the right time, you can visit Gusung Island, a sand island in the middle of the sea.

The island only appears when the water level decreases, revealing a beautiful sandy area surrounded by blue ocean.

When the noon fades and the dawn arises, go to one of many piers at Derawan to watch the mesmerizing sunset by the sea. With all the beauty it has to offer, Derawan Island is truly one of Indonesia’s hidden tropical getaways worth visiting.

As a country with enormous amount of islands, Indonesia never runs out of new tourism site to explore. Derawan turns every traveler dream of tropical paradise into reality, a perfect getaway spot with everything you ever wish for a summer vacation.

NEXT ISLAND

SEP / DEC 2014

TropicaLife.net

55

NEXT ISLAND

Da Nang, VIETNAM Da Nang is an area in Vietnam that marks the halfway point between the capital city Hanoi in the north an d Ho Chi Minh in the south. It is the fourth largest city in Vietnam famous for its long strip beaches, shopping and historical sites.

56

TropicaLife.net

Da Nang is easily accessible to visitors arriving into Hanoi. Air connection with Da Nang is good with daily flights to and from all major cities in Vietnam and there are also rail connections to the city. Catering for a growing tourist trade Da Nang has good accommodation facilities at the full range of market prices.

The city is often overlooked by tourists but is popular with backpackers who find to place most accommodating. The roads in the city are among the best in the country, widening out to four lanes in areas where traffic volume necessitates the extra room thus making this a comfortable city to drive about in. Historical sites of interest include the My Son ruins, a remnant of the majestic Cham Empire. Da Nang has been quick to catch on to the shopping centre explosion throughout Asia and here as well as outlets retailing international brands the range of bars, restaurants and entertainment venues is legend.

The main attractions that pull visitors to Da Nang are the beaches. Here there are two famous beaches, China Beach and Lang Co Beach.

Both these beaches have their own characteristic appeal. China beach is the more developed of the two and is where water activities such as jet skiing, diving and yachting are better catered for.

For a more pristine beach, Lang Co Beach is lined with coconut trees, the water is clear and the soft white sand is of a more relaxing nature.

Da Nang beach is the home of the Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa and offers 193 guestrooms and suites, 95 one-to-three bedroom residences and 27 private pool villas.

The resort is carefully designed with a blend of tropical and contemporary style and provides a complete range of facilities and services for its guests. The large resort pool is just steps from the beach. A waterslide, The Vie Spa, Camp Hyatt, a fitness gym, pony rides and many more facilities are here on the resort.

Visitors to Da Nang should not miss the opportunity to visit Hoi An, A UNESCO World Heritage Site just a few minutes away from the Hyatt Resort. This is a charming heritage site that shows off its traditional architecture within its cosmopolitan bustle. Delightful strolls are to be had through the old quarter and here there is a bonanza of opportunity for silks and souvenirs.

Da Nang offers a good starting point from which to explore Vietnam but it is also an excellent destination choice for a tropical holiday break.

NEXT ISLAND

**Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa

SEP / DEC 2014

TropicaLife.net

57

NEXT ISLAND

SEP / DEC 2014

Boracay T Island

his small 10 square kilometre island is in receipt of ‘Travel + Leisure’s” Best Island In The World award of 2010. As well as this, Boracay Island has won numerous awards from travel magazines and agencies for its reputation as a tropical leisure destination. It is not an island to be missed.

Boracay lies about 315 kilometres south of Manila and 2 kilometres off the northwest tip of Panay Island in the Visayas region of the Philippines. I arrived at this

58

TropicaLife.net

lovely island after a 15 minute ferry ride from Catican on Panay Island.

Gently caressing sea breezes over the lap of crystal clear ocean greeted me on to the long stretch of Boracay’s world famous White Beach. Although this was my second visit here I found the visual tranquillity just as overwhelming as my first introduction to the island.

For some, this is the ultimate island destination for pampered relaxation with all the benefits

NEXT ISLAND

I was booked into the Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa situated on a hillside at the northern tip of the Island. Here the resort features 219 spacious guest rooms, villas and the resort’s Tree House Villas. Each is characterised by a blend of local and contemporary design. The Boracay Resort was carefully sited to sit well with its natural surrounds as well as providing guests with the very best of ocean and island views. Room and villa balconies are spacious and equipped with day beds. The villas have their own private pools while the unique Tree House Villas come with an outdoor Jacuzzi. Here at the resort a butler service is provided for the villas and Seaview suite.

Boracay Resort and Spa boasts 2 bars and four restaurants along with 24-hour room service.

For those interested in daytime activities the resort can arrange snorkelling, scuba diving, nature trail hiking, jogging and golf. Rather just sun worship? Boracay Resort and Spa has all the facilities one could want for a lazy day by the infinity pool or on the cotton white sands of the beach while enjoying full bar and meal services.

For an evening drink, the cliff top bar offers the classic vantage point for sunsets and panoramic island views.

White Beach has been recognised internationally as one of the finest beaches in the world with its pristine white sand backed by island features and fronted by the sparkle of a blue sea. This beach stretches along the narrow central part of the island for some 3.5 kilometres. White Beach with its shallow water and ideal swimming conditions is the primary draw for many of the island’s visitors. Water sports off this beach include windsurfing and kite boarding, as conditions off the beach are ideal for these activities.

Overall my second visit to Boracay Island was rather like that second gin and tonic – just as good as the first but with the satisfying sense of anticipation confirmed.

**Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa

of modern hospitality in alluring tropical surrounds. For others the island offers a range of more active leisure pastimes but the keyword for everyone is enjoyment.

TropicaLife.net

59

NEXT ISLAND

KOH KOOD

T

ourists have been flocking to Thailand to get a taste of many small and remote yet stunning islands scattered around the country. Koh Kood located in the gulf of Thailand, easternmost side of the region, just before Cambodia is one of those islands that has its own magnet to draw visitors across the globe.

60

TropicaLife.net

*Soneva Kiri

NEXT ISLAND

SEP / DEC 2014

These days, the more remote the island is the more people chase and head to that destination.

This is the same like the island I recently visited where lush tropical surroundings, white sands, crystal clear water, and natural beauty deliver an outstanding vista with tranquil ambience.

There is no direct flight to this remote island, so first I took a flight to Bangkok, continued on to a region called Trat, then another hour by boat to reach Koh Kood. The trip itself already felt like a journey, and once you disembarked from the boat, smelling the calm ambience in the air and warm sand fondling your feet, you know it’s all worthwhile.

Koh Kood has a population of less than 2000; mostly live on a traditional fishing village embracing its visitors to do nature-related activity and to take you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday’s life into a slow and tranquil way of life. Almost all activities at Koh Kood is related to visiting nature wonders and activities (waterfalls, ancient tree, caves, etc.) and the beaches at Koh Kood is a hidden gem, with minimal human interaction and tropical breeze gently caressing your heart and mind. The island is the fourth largest island in Thailand, but one of the least developed.

Soneva Kiri features Twenty-four villas and eleven private residences on either beach level hillsides or cliff tops, all overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and each has its own stunning infinity pools, impossibly chic furnishings, and personal electric buggies. Guests are pampered with plush facilities, attentive and pleasant services. Dining options are varied and they are more than happy to arrange a romantic, private or exlusive Tree Pod dining, and intimate moonlit dinners on a private beach. Six Senses Spa is also availble to indulge guests with personalized spa journeys, wellness activites, workshios and lifestyle programmes along with astonishing views. If you fancy to just unwind all day, The Beach is the ultimate place get lazy doing nothing or in the opposite you may do some water activities like snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing.

It’s no surprise some say Koh Kood is one of the best islands in Asia delivering one of a kind peaceful and lovely tropical opulent holiday.

*Soneva Kiri

One perfect choice of accommodation is definitely Soneva Kiri situated on the mainland of Koh Kood, northeast tip of the island. All guests of Soneva Kiri are giving the privilege of flying by direct private plane to their own private airport, which is a 5-minute speedboat journey from the pier. Soneva Kiri is the latest Soneva, a world leading environmental luxury resort operator, offering an unrivalled combination of luxury, environmentally friendly design and unforgettable, authentic Thai experiences. The resort is developed with the principles of naturally ecological design and materials selection, and with construction methods adapted to protect the environment.

TropicaLife.net

61

NEXT ISLAND

Redang Island

Dive, swim, explore, hop from one island to another or

just enjoy time on the white sands of Long Beach.

Redang Island is the place to follow ones instincts and take on a tropical adventure.

L

ying off the East coast of Malaysia, Redang is a compilation of the 9 small islands of Lima, Paku Besar, Paku Kecil, Kerengga Besar, Kerengga Kecil, Ekor Tebu, Ling Island, Pinang Islands and the group’s namesake, Redang Island. This charming little island cluster is reached with a 1 hour flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu Airport and from there, a boat trip to Redang Island.

Fast becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia, Redang Island has all the attributes of that dreamed of Tropical Island.

Here green jungle clad hills meet white sandy beaches that fold into crystal clear water.

There are two popular sandy beaches to be visited on Redang Island: Long Beach or Pasir Panjang, situated on the east coast and Teluk Dalam Kecil, a sheltered cove tucked away on the northeast of the island. Pasir Panjang is the very image of the perfect tropical beach as it

62

TropicaLife.net

stretches to over 800 meters through the curve of its bay.

Snorkelling and diving are the big draws here on Redang Island. Colourful coral reefs rich with marine life lie close to the island’s shoreline, in some cases within fifty feet of the water line and further out towards neighbouring islands good diving opportunities are endless.

Redang heads an interesting group of islands in a picturesque setting. One doesn’t need much of an imagination to see Redang as a perfect choice for that next tropical island holiday.

SEP / DEC 2014

TropicaLife.net

63

NEXT DESTINATION

Yogyakarta

It has not surprised me to learn that Yogyakarta is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. My experience with previous visits here has already shown me that these claims are credible. I had arrived off a short AirAsia fliGHt from Bali and was more than ready for my weekend break.

My first visit was to the Keraton, Yogyakarta’s royal palace. The Sultan of Yogyakarta and his Queen still reside in the palace but allow visitors into the grounds to view traditional Javanese dance performances. I am always pleased to see traditional culture maintained in the modern environment of today’s world.

There is something rather delightful about early morning starts at a destination visited for holiday purposes. Once the drug of sleep has been shaken off one is privileged to step out to the quiet experience of an awakening world. It is almost a voyeuristic experience, the odd

64

TropicaLife.net

animal movements, first birdcalls before any light and the proof of human activity as the odd window lights up.

It was my next morning in Yogyakarta that I made this unusually early start. I had planned to see Borobudur that day anyway but it was the advice of a friend that convinced me that an early view of sunrise from the top of this ancient temple would be an extra bonus.

It was dark when I arrived at Borobudur but by now I was enjoying the still quiet cool of the morning while full of anticipation for the sun show to come.

From the temple top I noticed

how early rays from the rising sun lifted mist, caused long shadows to form and exposed some of the Buddha stupa and statues. As the light gathered strength it seemed that I was standing in a moving picture of colour, shade and reflection. Surrounded as I was by the ancient carvings of Borobudur it was not hard to imagine that I was experiencing a form of spiritual awakening. This was an early start well worth making.

I always enjoy holidaying in Yogyakarta, a city that it is conveniently reached by direct flights from Bali with AirAsia Indonesia. For more information, just click www.airasia.com

King Samaratungga of the Wangsa dynasty built Borobudur Temple in 824, 300 years before Angkor Wat in Cambodia and 400 years before the great cathedrals in Europe. This is the largest Buddhist temple or shrine in the world and is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 9th century Buddhist temple consists of six square platforms topped by three circular platforms and decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The Borobudur temple could be seen as a giant puzzle composed of 2 million blocks of volcanic rock, carved in such a way so that each locks in with the other. Two more temples are associated with Borobudur. The temples of Borobudur, Mendut and Pawon are positioned along a straight line suggesting that there must have been some ritualistic relationship between the three.

TropicaLife.net

65

NEXT DESTINATION

SURABAYA

I had just taken an enjoyable tour through Surabaya’s heritage buildings and this followed an astounding scenic drive through some dramatic countryside to my next destination not too far away from the city.

round 4 hours drive from E. Java’s capitol Surabaya, the capital Mount Bromo towers through sky and cloud.

Bromo sits atop the massive 10-kilometre diameter Tengger caldera. Mt Bromo is surrounded by a desert like area of fine volcanic deposits known as the Sea of Sand. Bromo Sunrise Tour was my guide for this trip, recommended to me for its spectacularly powerful visuals of nature in the raw.

A

fied as the entire top blew off in a major eruption many years ago. Bromo is an active volcano and as such its creator regularly belches white sulphurous smoke. At 2,392 meters, Bromo may not be among the highest mountains in Indonesia but its surroundings make up an area of impressively stark beauty. The national park is named after two mountains, Bromo being the most visited and Semeru, Java’s highest mountain. Tengger relates to the people that inhabit the area.

Mount Bromo is centred in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park covering a massive 800 square kilometers. The volcano is easily identi-

The journey starts from Ngadisari, the closest village to Mount Bromo. From here it is advisable to take a jeep tour up a steep and winding

66

TropicaLife.net

through mud and sand to the Mt Bromo view point on Mount Penanjakan. To walk this trek would take about 2 hours.

After reaching the end of the road, one is met with a 15-minute step climb to reach the viewing terrace. It is best to ascend Mount Penanjakan so that one arrives at the top at about 5.30 a.m. just before the sun rises up from the horizon. The light and shade effect over the dramatic eastern landscape is an action packed show of changing colours and depth. It’s cold up there at 5.30 in the morning so warm cloths are advised but any discomfort is forgotten during sunrise’s amazing picture show.

Shortly after this spectacle one is ushered through a walk across the Sea of Sand to Mt. Bromo itself. Ponies are available for visitors who prefer not to walk up to the crater.

I’m always amazed by nature’s raw power and the disruptive consequences of its turbulence. There is however something really compelling about nature’s lack of apology, for its beauty as well as its brutality. Get to Bromo – feel the heat!

TropicaLife.net

67

NEXT DESTINATION

SINGAPORE Shop and Dine

68

TropicaLife.net

NEXT DESTINATION

T

he recognition of Singapore as Asia’s food capitol is almost certainly an understatement. This dynamic island state is in my opinion a ‘world food capitol’! Not only that, shopping opportunities, entertainment venues and accommodation facilities are all up there with the top ten cities around the world. This is the place for families, gourmets and bargain hunters to really enjoy themselves.

For shoppers, Singapore has to be the ultimate destination. Singapore’s tenacity to turn itself into a modern state after independence has paid dividends on a Microsoft scale. There is not an international brand that has not seen the advantages of being involved at a retail level there. Why? Because the island has provided all the necessary infrastructure and facilities that make shopping visits a pleasure.

As a culinary destination Singapore surpasses anything I’ve seen anywhere else in the world. The choices here are endless. It is the Chinese, Indian, Malay and Western influence within this multicultural state that has produced the island’s smorgasbord of pan-global restaurants and eateries.

Iconic Orchard Road is the premier perambulation for visitors there. Multi story shopping complexes packed with affordable goods, boutiques selling middle to high fashion, coffee shops, restaurants and English pubs share the limelight with five-star hotels and outlets for Hermes, Dior, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton and many more. There is something for everybody through a stroll down Orchard Road.

Science museum, theatres, ‘celebrity chef ’ restaurants, an ice skating rink, two floating Crystal pavilions and the world’s largest atrium casino with 500 tables and 1,600 slot machines. Shops here include designer boutiques and an intriguing range of restaurants from celebrity to affordable will see all seated at the right table.

While in Singapore, don’t forget to make an evening visit to Clark Quay. Restaurants and bars line the waterway here and there is a festive buzz about the serious business of food and evening drinks. Eating should be fun and here one can get whatever one feels like. An evening here is an evening of merry entertainment.

Off to Singapore shortly are we? Be prepared to be dazzled, aroused, inspired and intoxicated with pleasure, and it you can make it there for the Singapore End of Year Sale. Well, say no more!

The Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is a luxurious hotel providing world class accommodation and supports its own convention or exhibition centre, shopping area, an Art

TropicaLife.net

69

NEXT DESTINATION

Kuala Lumpur Great Shopping Destination

Absolutely nobody talks about Kuala Lumpur without using the word ‘shopping’ at least once in every sentence.

This is not surprising really when one considers the reputation this city has as the shopping Mecca of SE Asia.

70

TropicaLife.net

It would not be true to say everybody loves shopping but I certainly like to be there when my better half is at the wheel of a shopping mania trolley. Just to carry the bags you understand. So, if there’s going to be a shopping spree, there can be no better place to have it than Kuala Lumpur. In fact a superdoper-shopping spree will take place there from November 15th this year to January 5th 2015 to mark Malaysia’s Year End Sale. I’ll be there of course as a caddy on which to load untold bargains of high-end merchandise going for ridicules prices. “I don’t need a handbag darling and you’ve already picked up several”. “I know dear, it’s for me not you, it goes with the Gucci I’ve just bought”.

In the event that time is limited to a few days in KL I’ve listed some of the best shopping venues here to help you shoppers take full advantage of your time on the shopping grounds.

One of the busiest and best known malls in the city is Suria KLCC. This is situated in what is known as the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur and also the area where this city’s premier hotels such as Traders Hotel by Shangri-La, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur Hotel and InterContinental Kuala Lumpur. This six level shopping mall is located in its prime location beneath the Petronas Twin Towers. Here luxury international brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Fendi, Prada, Hugo Boss, Marc Jacobs and many more are available from their fashionable outlets. However many more affordable middle market brands are for sale such as GAP, UNIQLO, Banana Republic, Zara, Topshop, Mango, Vincci, and more are on sale at Suria KLCC. Along with its 320 stores Suria KLCC has a large cinema, an aquarium, convention centre an art gallery and a restful park. Even the most tenacious shoppers need some time

to relax and at Suria KLCC a great way to do this is be elevated up to the Sky Bridge or the observation deck of the Petronas Twin Towers.

www.airasia.com and purchase the ticket now.

Don’t forget to upsize your luggage – online, as I’m sure you’ll be back home with so many more bags than you left with.

A short distance from Suria KLCC is the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. This is a 7-story shopping complex with over 500 outlets. Pavilion showcases the finest of local and international fashion brands along with home furnishings.

The Pavilion also offers entertainment as well as a varied selection of good restaurants.

Situated just across from the Pavilion, and adjacent to JW Marriot Hotel, there is another well-known shopping centre called the Starhill Gallery. Here the focus is on practical fashion jewellery such as watches, apparel accessories, handbags and footwear along with beauty products. Boutiques include the Louis Vuitton flagship store, Dior, Valentino, Missoni and many others.

So there you go. If there are no plans for the end of this year you may like to take advantage of the 1Malaysia Year End Sale from 15th November 2014 - 5th January 2015. Just visit

TropicaLife.net

71

NEXT DESTINATION

TOKYO Japan’s vibrant capitol offers visitors far more than high-rise and high-tech modernity. This is a city steeped with the culture of its long history and exploration here will show that the sum of the parts will appear to total more than the whole.

H

ere some 88,000 restaurants make up the city’s dining choices and within them are more Michelin-star restaurants than any other cities of the world. Variety is the spice of life and of course and Tokyo will not disappoint in this regard. Japan has a reputation for immaculate care and presentation for food preparation and it is no accident that Tokyo has been declared the culinary capitol of the world. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to explore the multitude of dining options here.

Tsukiji Fish Market is the largest and busiest fish market in the world and of course where there are fish markets there are seafood restaurants. The markets are the place to go for that much recommended sushi breakfast. The restaurants of note here are Sushi Daiwa and Sushi Dai but for a delightfully less formal breakfast there are countless sushi counters throughout the market from where one can eat while

72

TropicaLife.net

enjoying the busy spectacle of a market in action and one can’t get better fresh fish anywhere than at this market. For those who prefer cooked seafood there is plenty of choice here.

For my stay here I chose to stay at the Conrad Tokyo located a few steps away from Ginza, the exclusive shopping and entertainment area of the city and also close to some major Tokyo attractions.

The hotel has breathtaking views over Tokyo Bay and the historic Hamarikyu Gardens. Conrad Tokyo features 290 spacious luxury rooms and suites with facilities including 4 restaurants, a bar & lounge, a wedding chapel, Tokyo’s largest hotel spa & fitness gym and a 25-metre swimming pool decorated in ‘Sumi-e’ style. Ballrooms and function rooms are also available for events and meetings.

Ginza is recognised as one of the most exclusive shopping districts in the world and here all major international brands including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior

and Gucci. Ginza is also the site of some of Tokyo’s best restaurants. Both Mitchelinstar restaurants Sushi Mizutani and Sushi Yoshitake are to be found here.

Visitors lucky enough to arrive in Tokyo during late March and early April will be treated to the floral spectacle of the Cherry Blossom Season. It is at the Imperial Palace, residence of Japan’s Emperor, and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden that the best displays of this lovely bloom can be seen.

It is the mix of modern life and the serenity of Japanese well-mannered culture that makes Tokyo such a fascinating and enjoyable city.

To experience one of the greatest cities in the world visit www.airasia.com.

With easy connecting flights from Kuala Lumpur, a trip to Tokyo is just a click away.

Holidaying with the whole family? Tokyo Disneyland features fun and great entertainment for everyone.

73 TropicaLife.net 73

SEP/DEC 2013 | TROPICALIFE.NET

NEXT DESTINATION

HANOI Regarded by many as the “Paris of Asia”, Hanoi displays its French colonial past alongside a distinctive localized cultural identity. Here the influence of both can be seen and felt throughout the city’s buildings and restaurant cuisine.

74

TropicaLife.net

NEXT DESTINATION

I landed at Hanoi’s international airport in the early hours of the morning and from there made an almost 2 hour journey through hectic traffic to my hotel.

Vietnam’s capitol city has transformed itself from war ravage to a sophisticated metropolis and over the past years, tourist visitors to Hanoi have increased significantly. Highrise buildings now dominate central Hanoi where modern shopping malls, art and innovative architecture support a range of sensational world-class restaurants. Together with this modernity, ancient architectural and historical buildings have been preserved and in the Old Quarter, pagodas, temples and other historical sites including the Hanoi Opera House and the One Pillar Pagoda have become popular tourist attractions.

Hanoi is the Vietnam’s second largest city and is situated on the banks of the Red River. The city is experiencing a building boom and is one of the most rapidly developing cities of S.E. Asia. This is the city that once served as the capital city of French Indochina from 1902 to 1954. It is as a result of the French presence that Hanoi presents its captivating blend of East and West, combining traditional Sino-Vietnamese styles with French flair.

As Vietnam’s gem, Hanoi offers a host of major attractions that have become draws for holidaying visitors to the city. One of the more popular sites and visited by many tourists is the Hoan Kiem Lake that translates to “Lake of the Returned Sword” or “Lake of the Restored Sword”. Located in the center of town it is within easy walking

distance from the historic Old Quarter. This attractive park around the lake is a popular venue for locals who gather to relax in the afternoon, or practice tai chi in the morning.

The Old Quarter itself is also a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Here, one can stroll through this historical district and find restaurants serving local cuisine specialties as well as clubs and bars, shops and a weekend night market providing a variety of clothing, souvenirs and food. The area has the original street layout and architecture of old Hanoi. At the beginning of the 20th century the city comprised of 36 streets, most of which are now still part of the old quarter.

The Hanoi Opera House is a Mecca for those who appreciate art and architecture and should not be missed. I was lucky to stay at Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi located just steps away from this world famous and beautiful Hanoi Opera House. This mesmerizing building with its art-nouveau exterior is an exquisite example of French Colonial flair.

The opera house is still a performance venue for Hanoi’s high arts and is an attraction for both viewers of performing arts and those with interest in iconic monuments.

One should take advantage of a visit to Hanoi by making a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Here limestone karsts and isles tower out of the bay providing visitors with an unforgettable view of stunning scenery.

I found Hanoi and its surrounds mesmerizing and difficult to leave. I have promised myself a return trip soon.

TropicaLife.net

75

NEXT DESTINATION

PERTH Magnificent Heritage Buildings

Perth has any number of attractions that work to entice visitors to its sunny coastal environment.

With so much to see and do here one could be forgiven for overlooking some of the colonial heritage sites that grace this modern city with the charm and history of its early foundations.

However, moves are afoot to set Perth’s rich heritage well and truly before West Australians and visitors alike.

76

TropicaLife.net

M

ost of the historical buildings in and around Perth have come under the protection of Western Australia’s State Heritage Office and as such are well maintained. Preserving historical landmarks and buildings has been recognised as an important aspect of any city’s development and despite conflict between development and preservation, Perth has managed its heritage well.

Through the 18th and 19th of October this year Perth City will present Perth Heritage Days 2014. This is a free event for people all ages to experience the long held discoveries of the city’s buildings, parks, theatres, museums, libraries, clubs and hotels. Perth Heritage Day 2014 will allow parents to introduce their children to some of the interesting aspects of the city’s past while appreciating the graceful architecture of some of Perth’s iconic treasures.

Here are some suggestions for visitors that may have limited time in Perth.

Perth Mint The Mint was founded in 1899 as one of 3 Australian branches of London’s Royal Mint as a result of the gold rushes of the time. The mint’s purpose was to refine gold and strike gold sovereigns for currency use. Today this is one of the oldest operating mints in the world where gold, silver and platinum is refined and coins are struck for bullion traders and collectors alike. The Perth Mint is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and is worth visiting both for its function as well as the limestone lines of its colonial architecture. Here

visitors can witness the spectacular gold poor, handle a 400 oz. gold bar and browse through the mint’s gold exhibition and retail facilities.

The Old Mill One of the famous historic landmarks and the city’s oldest industrial heritage site is The Old Mill. William Kernot Shenton built the mill along traditional windmill lines in 1835 and it was the first wind-powered mill in the colony.

The mill was restored in the late 1950’s and listed with the National Trust in 1992. Today this Perth landmark acts as a mini museum with its artefact and photographic displays.

St. Mary’s Cathedral Situated at the centre of Victoria Square, St. Mary’s Cathedral was built on February 8, 1863. It is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Perth. The Gothic style Cathedral was designed by architect and master mason Brother Joseph Ascione and built

by Benedictine monks.

After a period of restoration and reconstruction, this impressive cathedral reopened in 2009.

The modern centre of Perth is full of delightful colonial surprises and one may stumble upon these while under the shadow of a multi-storey office block or calling in for a Fremantle pint.

There is so much more to see besides the glass and shine of this exciting city.

To experience these stunning heritage buildings in Perth, AirAsia has 5x direct daily flight from Bali to Perth. Just visit www.airasia.com to purchase a ticket.

TropicaLife.net

77

SPICE

SUNDAY BRUNCH At CUT CATCH CUCINA

Cut Catch Cucina launched their Sunday Brunch just a few months ago and food enthusiasts have been full of praise about the quality and taste of the restaurant’s succulent meals along with the staff’s friendly and attentive service.

Cut Catch Cucina is one of the finest restaurant at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort with its multi outlet concept combining a seafood grill, steakhouse and Italian osteria in a chic and modern environment that features well designed timber fittings and furniture.

Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort Kawasan Pariwisata BTDC, Lot N5, Nusa Dua, Bali Tel. +62 361 8492888 www.sofitel.com

78

TropicaLife.net

Occupying a spacious area with its tasteful décor, Cut Catch Cucina offers a range of exciting options that include seafood selections of fresh oyster, blue swimming crab, and prawn. Grill and craving stations provide quality lamb, sirloin steak and well-seasoned roast beef. There is also a selection of fresh sushi and sashimi for those who enjoy Japanese delicacies as well as fresh homemade pasta dishes that are cooked right in front of guests ordering from the Italian station.

The real mark of fine dining here is the a la carte menu that can be ordered from to suite ones preferences. Excellent taste and presentation are the notable inducements to this menu. Dessert stations offer a sweet indulgence to end the meal.

Crème brulee, a heavenly chocolate tart, tiramisu and more. Crepe suzette is also available while ice cream and fresh fruit offer a lighter finish. Free flow of non-alcoholic beverages of juices, coffees and teas complement Cut Catch Cucina’s Sunday Brunch.

SPICE

SEP / DEC 2014

KAYUPUTI At The St.Regis Bali Resort

K

nown for Asian Inspired Haute Cuisine, Kayuputi never fails to impress with the relish and savour of its immaculately presented dishes.

Occupying modern space of impressive décor accented with white timbers and overlooking the Indian Ocean, Kayuputi, (‘white wood’) is a fine dining restaurant showcasing the exquisite creation of Chef Agung Gede who uses the best of local and imported produce.

My first delight of 4 courses was a cold entrée of tataki of yellow fin tuna with carpaccio of pineapple, espelette chilli, pickled cucumber, jicama, sea grapes and tamarind vinaigrette This was followed by rougie duck foie gras, which comprises of 3 pieces foie gras arranged delightfully with spherical mandarin orange, agar of vanilla infused fleur

de vin, pistachio crumbles and micro cress. For the third course I chose the Black Angus beef fillet “Rossini” pan seared foie gras together with a composition of mushrooms, red onion jam, and a delicious Perigueux sauce. The tender fillet with its accompanying garnish made this a meal of note. My great surprise was the unique and playful dessert called green apple fog, a compress of green apple, sweet soymilk mousse, green apple sorbet and star anise foam.

This was a refreshing and not over sweetened delicacy to end the meal. These tasty 4 courses came with wine pairing carefully overseen by Kayuputi’s sommelier.

I had a most enjoyable culinary journey and the support of attentive staff added great value to the whole experience. Good fine dining in a sophisticated and tasteful atmosphere is certainly the mark of Kayuputi.

Kawasan Pariwisata, Nusa Dua Lot S6 PO Box 44, Nusa Dua • Bali 80363 Tel. +62 361 300 6782 stregisbali.com

TropicaLife.net

79

SPICE

Locavore Locavore of Ubud offers a tantalizing range of artistically presented dishes that follow a globally popular restaurant trend appealing to a growing body of diners that regard themselves as locavores.

Jl. Dewi Sita, Ubud, Bali Tel. +62 361 977733

80

TropicaLife.net

S

imply put, a locavore is somebody who prefers to dine for numerous reasons on food put together with locally produced products. In this respect Locavore’s credibility is greatly enhanced by their ownership of two vegetable gardens and a pig farm that together provide 1015% of the restaurant’s ingredients. The rest of the restaurant’s fare is prepared from products from around Bali and its sea.

The menu here is primarily of a European nature with changes on a daily basis and has the dynamic of flexibility to cater for seasonal conditions. This has the effect of providing guests with new and creative choices for each visit as well as pushing the restaurant’s reputation to higher levels. Seafood recommendations include octopus terrine, bisque crustaces

and fish of the day that for my visit was an elegant portion of barramundi with a home made tomato ketchup, deep fried potato and crustaces sauce. A different pork dish is on offer every day and on this one I enjoyed pork leg together with the restaurant’s homemade pork sausages, served with gnocchi, onion cream and baby leek.

To wrap up this delightful dining session here, I ordered the dessert sampler consisting of 5 different types of desserts made from quality milk or dark chocolate, and seasonal fruit that included passion fruit. Locavore delivered an innovative and enjoyable dining experience.

SPICE

SEP / DEC 2014

Urchin

Grill & Raw Bar A new addition to Seminyak’s renowned dining venues has arrived in the form of Urchin with its Grill & Raw Bar. Dark timbered furniture and fittings here have been creatively laid out to present guests with the sort of welcoming ambience one would expect to experience on a visit to the seaside holiday home of friends.

U

rchin specialises in Australian style seafood dishes with an expansive entrée menu offering in large part, raw presentations. The open kitchen adds to the welcoming nature of the restaurant as the chef and his staff prepare raw and grilled seafood dishes as well as land based meals for those who may prefer them.

I chose the coral trout Carpaccio for my entrée.

This consisted of a fillet of raw coral trout overlaid with pakis, broccoli, fern fennel pollen and olive oil. For my main course I went for Urchin’s red snapper with its crispy skin garnished with carrot puree, brown almond, sherry vinegar and flower shaped pickled carrot.

I completed my meal with custard apple ice cream served with fresh lychee, pomegranate, mangosteen and iced watermelon and capped this off with a glass of Urchin rock ‘n rye, a bourbon based cocktail with fennel seed, honey and lemon. I was impressed, not only with the food but also the good spirit and sense fun that Urchin delivered with every course. “I think I’ll have another rock ‘n rye. Thankyou,”

Jl. Laksamana No. 22, Badung, Bali Tel. +62 361 904 2000 www.urchinbali.com

TropicaLife.net

81

SPICE

Te.Ja.Co Lounge & Bar Te. Ja. Co is a lounge bar on a spectacular site and is furnished with inspired taste.

This is a rather interesting place to celebrate “Thank God It’s Friday” or any other day of the week for that matter.

T

he interior of Te.Ja.Co features contemporary décor with an expressive use marble and timber adding a bit of oomph to the overall impression created on an initial visit. An open-air area overlooking their artificial lagoon along with the Indian Ocean is covered with rice grass thatching. Swaying palm trees in front of the building add to the bar’s fantasy environment. Here, one can enjoy the company of friends over a drink or two while overlooking a panorama of ocean and evening skies.

The Bar’s name Te.Ja.Co is the Indonesian for Tea, Jamu, and Coffee, the traditional beverages taken by Indonesians while on a work break. There is however a lot more available at this lounge bar.

Cold beers, wine and spirits are here of course together with an exceptional range of cocktails. I indulged myself with a couple of cocktails, first was the bar’s Blue Hawaii; blue Curacao, rum, pineapple juice and coconut cream. The second was a strawberry

82

TropicaLife.net

mojito that was served with a length of sugar cane; it is by biting the cane that balances the natural bitterness of the mojito. Te.Ja.Co also embraces local traditional drinks by serving ‘jamu’, an Indonesian herbal drink. I ordered the jamu kunyit, made from fresh turmeric it was mildly sweet and is believed to have a good health benefits.

A complimentary afternoon tea including decadent sweets, cakes and sandwiches is provided for the guests and can be enjoyed in Te.Ja.Co. This was a marvellous way to enjoy an afternoon tea that was delivered in the true style of this very British obsession.

Te.Ja.Co produces a stylish collection of very pleasant surprises within the eclectic environs of its lounge bar.

Samabe Bali Suites & Villas Jl. Pura Barong-Barong, Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Bali Tel. +62 361 846 8633 www.samabe.com

SPICE

Seminyak Italian Food

Presenting as an integral part of the new and impressionable Double Six Luxury Hotel, Seminyak Italian Food is a trattoria serving the very best of Italian fare in a casual and non-intimating atmosphere. This restaurant is the real Italian thing; sauces and pasta don’t come out of a packet here!

S

ituated on top of the lobby, the decor of Seminyak Italian Food features the lustre of warm timbers and an openair deck that adds a touch of Italian village festivity. The colourful soft furnishings, overall design and menus come from Roberto Marchetti of Australia and could only be improved with a full orchestral rendition of Verdi’s La Traviata. Today’s Italian food is primarily based on the very material that peasants enjoyed in bygone days, albeit with a touch of modernity. Here at Seminyak Italian Food, supplies of meat, wine and the pasta making process are all on display in this goodly honest eatery.

And what did I eat? Well for starters I went for arancini, a deep-fried rice ball with spinach that came in four different types of cheese. I followed this with the granchoi ala venetta; crabmeat and mascarpone polenta. The ‘Everything We Have’ plate came next and is that iconic pick of small goods including salami, proscittuo, beef bresaola and mortadella with cheeses and pickles that provoke taste bud explosions. For salads I’d recommend the restaurant’s salt baked baby beetroot salad with goat milk curds. Meat and fish dishes of course are laid with superb Italian sauces that define the culture this Old Italian Empire. Taste, taste, taste is the fore note-here.

Double Six Luxury Hotel Jl. Double Six no. 66, Seminyak Tel. +62 361 734 300

There is of course no taste without wine and good Italian taste comes with good wine. For feasters in this Italian environment one should make sure a bottle or carafe is at hand throughout the whole meal. One thing the Italians taught the span of their European Empire was how to enjoy the fermented grape. Here at Seminyak Italian Food, the world of wine is yours.

TropicaLife.net

83

SPICE

The Parlour Kitchen, Bar & Lounge

The Parlour Kitchen, Bar & Lounge is one of those places that capture ones attention at first glance.

Located in Seminyak’s swanky dining strip this casual fine dining restaurant certainly deserves its address but not just for design. All aspects of this intriguing establishment meet the class and standards that first impressions indicate.

84

TropicaLife.net

O

pened last July this trendy restaurant adapts moods to compliment the day’s movements from breakfast to dinner.

Early sun shining through the restaurant’s windows herald a new day with post breakfast anticipation, invigorating diners and staff alike. A casual ambience pervades through lunch while the evening brings on a sophisticated class and style befitting this fine dining establishment.

The menu here bursts with choice and the discretion of a forward thinking chef. It is all day dining here of course and I chose to take a breakfast of the Huevos Rancheros; flour tortilla, iberico chorizo, eggs sunny side up, tomato, sal-

sa beans and feta cheese. Other dishes included fragrant Asian rice with a choice of chicken or pork, or a rather healthy looking serves of salmon nicoise salad, a colourful presentation of fresh flavours.

In just two months of operation this exciting kitchen, lounge and bar has already earned itself a reputation for being serious about the food served in its enjoyably stylish environment.

Jl. Raya Petitenget no. 15xx, Seminyak, Bali Tel. +62 361 4734654

SPICE

Commanding a secluded cove on the vast stretch of Nusa Dua Bay, The Bay Bali has developed an inventive and thoroughly entertaining way to dine at one of Bali’s many attractive waterside environments. For its unique deployment of catering services it has become one of the most visited eating venues on Bali. Here a range of outdoor activities, entertainment along with a raft of dining experiences becomes a complete outing. The concept here is great dining while having fun. Here are some of the choices.

- This is the place to experience the life of a pirate, with daily activities that include campfire building, traditional cooking, fishing (with nets), charades of challenging pirates, kite making, pirate dance music, and treasure hunting both on land and sea.

The Pirate Bay

Bumbu Nusantara - The restaurant offers the Hong Xing - This is the place for those Asian finest selection of authentic Indonesian cuisine fusion dishes. Hong Xing is great choice for from all over the archipelago. Here experi- fine dining in a garden atmosphere. enced chefs form the locations from whence the chosen dishes originated are on hand to ensure originality.

De Opera - Here opera lovers can enjoy their Bebek Bengil - One of the household names in the Bali culinary world, Bebek Bengil passions while dining high on a quality selec- (the authentic crispy duck) is the place where crispy duck is prepared with traditional tion from the menu. De Opera invites guests Indonesian herbs and spices and served with vegetables and the famous ‘sambal matah’ (Balito be their own chefs if they care to in this fine nese chilli sauce). dining environment. What could be more fun than being a professionally encouraged ‘chef of BTDC Area Lot C-0, Nusa Dua – Bali Tel. +62 361 8948200 the moment’ while sipping wine and absorbing www.thebaybali.com opera while for example, preparing one’s own Thai meal.

TropicaLife.net

85

SPICE

Sushi Hana has expanded and refurbished its dining area in true Japanese style. This popular sushi restaurant has taken the presentation and delivery of meals to new levels with the affirmation that Japanese food is so much more than the iconic California roll.

L

ocated on Sunset Road in Kuta, Sushi Hana offers a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes along with Pan Asian fusion.

As well as the main dining area this restaurant has 4 Tatami rooms, 3 VIP rooms, a Samurai room, function room and an outdoor dining area. Sushi Hana is well equipped to cater for personal for private functions, parties, meal conferences as well as taking excellent care of personal diners.

The sushi bar delivers the full variety of traditional sushi fare to diners and should be explored before jumping into the main menu. A recommendation from the bar is their baked scallop, whole scallop presented in shell with the addition of a portion of marinated scallop, ‘chuka hotate’ style. The

86

TropicaLife.net

main menu is extensive and provides those with a penchant for Japanese food with the choice to explore and experience new and exciting tastes. The style and delivery of everything here is typically ceremonial and one is led to enjoy the whole experience as a piece of theatre as much as taste.

Jl. Sunset Road, no. 239, Kuta – Bali Tel. +62 361 210 1919 / 849 6501 Email. sushihanabali@hotmail.com

ADVERTORIAL

Bali Nusa Dua Hotel & Convention Every Event - A Five Star Experience

Synonymous with luxurious living and trendy lifestyles, the Nusa Dua region of southern Bali is packed with opulent hotels and resorts. Pristine beaches and calm waters make the area one of the hottest destinations for tourists visiting this Island of the Gods.

Conveniently linked to the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC), the brand new Bali Nusa Dua Hotel & Convention (BNDHC) is an ideally practicable choice for event delegates and participants. Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC) is a fully integrated world-class facility built to accommodate business conferences of any size and has hosted numerous international summits and events. The hotel really does offer a perfect sanctuary after a long day of meetings, here guests can relax in luxury as well as enjoying the unique combination of Balinese charm and traditional service.

Bali Nusa Dua Hotel & Convention features a total of 96 plush rooms and suites including 30 Deluxe Rooms, 48 Premiere Rooms, 6

Deluxe Suites, 8 Premiere Suites, 3 Executive Suites and 1 Presidential Suite. Other facilities on offer are an international restaurant, lobby lounge, swimming pool, upcoming spa & fitness center, free Wi-Fi internet access and a free shuttle service to local shops. All these facilities are designed to make guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot NW/1 (ITDC), Bali Tel. +62 361 849 8833 www.balinusaduahotel.com

TropicaLife.net

87

UNWIND

BANYAN TREESPA Built to compliment its surrounding exotic landscape, Banyan Tree Spa at Banyan Tree Ungasan Bali is an alluring sanctuary for those looking to enjoy the bliss of retreat and pamper in a luxurious environment away from the fast tracking of our busy world.

88

TropicaLife.net

Here at the spa’s opulent treatment pavilion with its spectacular big window surround over a wrap of lush tropical plants in their natural setting, It was recommended that I take the Serenity program.

This is a 90 minute treatment consisting of 60 minutes of massage followed by a 30 minute relaxation sojourn.

First up was a foot bath where my feet were scrubbed with a blaming green tea, rice grain and yogurt mix. The body massage followed with a series of gently soothing palm strokes with the spa’s ‘peace oil’ – a combination of geranium, black pepper, lavender and sunflower oil. To complete this spa journey, a friendly professional therapist applied a blend of jojoba oil and vitamin E to my face and proceeded with an express face massage to in-

crease circulation and relax facial muscles. This stimulating treatment ended in comfortable surrounds with a serve of fresh fruit, yogurt and ginger tea.

I have to say the whole experience was unbelievably satisfying and comforting. My competent therapist was most attentive and gentle. For those who don’t like strong massage pressure, Serenity has to be the very best of soothing and body rejuvenatory therapy.

Banyan Tree Ungasan Jl. Melasti, Banjar Kelod, Ungasan Bali Tel: +62 361 300 7000 banyantree.com

UNWIND

THE SPA AT THE BVLGARI RESORT BALI

Bali is home to an abundance of excellent and lavish spas, and among the most impressive of these is The Spa, located at The Bulgari Resort Bali. This oceanfront spa is aesthetically designed with a blend of traditional Balinese elements and contemporary style. The Spa accommodates 6 fully equipped treatment rooms and 2 royal pavilions with outdoor gardens, outdoor rain showers and plunge pools.

The philosophy at The Spa is based on their unique concept of space and services using traditional Asian traditions and techniques that are combined and enhanced with modern practices.

The Spa menu features a complete range of Balinese, Asian and European therapies using natural ESPA products. Perhaps one of the most alluring treatments here is the Summer Essential, specially created to indulge the senses with a pace and stillness that only a breathtaking cliff-top spa overlooking the ocean can offer.

The Summer Essential is a head to toe twohour treatment including foot wash, detox seaweed bath, ESPA hip and thigh treatment, together with an express facial. After one is given a detoxifying salt scrub and bathed in detoxifying seaweed bath for 10 minutes, the therapist begins a combination of regular massage techniques, finger knuckles and two fingers pressures to create a deep tissue massage aiming to eliminate and burn the cellulite around the hip and thigh. The express facial uses ESPA and is finished off with a lift & firm mask and it was this that completed my Summer Essential.

Before leaving The Spa, I was indulged at the open-air relaxation lounge in front of the swimming pool with a calming background of the Indian Ocean. A lemongrass tea and special homemade ginger and coconut cookies accompanied me through this relaxing time. It was all just so sublime!

Jalan Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Uluwatu, Bali Tel. +62 361 8471000 www.bulgarihotels.com

TropicaLife.net

89

UNWIND

MANDARA SPA SHERATON IMPERIAL

KUALA LUMPUR The award-winning Mandara Spa has established a well earned reputation for delivering both physical and peace of mind wellbeing from its luxurious facilities.

Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel. +60 3 2717 9900 www.sheratonimperialkualalumpur.com

S

ituated in the Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur, Mandara Spa features a comprehensive menu of world-class signature treatments that are designed with a holistic approach to rejuvenate and revitalize.

Here the facilities feature four single ladies treatment rooms and four single men’s treatment rooms, separate male and female steam rooms, a jacuzzi, sauna and relaxation lounge. Together with all this, two double spa suites with steam shower, outdoor bath, shower and relaxation area are available for guests.

The Spa Sampler was my choice as it

90

TropicaLife.net

combines Balinese massage and foot massage in one treatment. During the Balinese massage, a skilful therapist used a combination of skin rolling, stretching, thumb and strong palm pressures techniques and firm strokes to relieve stiffness, improve blood circulation, reduce stress and calm the mind. Following this an energizing foot massage released toxins and restored my body’s energy flow.

The treatment produced a sense of relaxation along with a revitalized sensation of energy. I found it a most delightful indulgence to take this break in the middle of a tight schedule recently in Kuala Lumpur.

UNWIND

The Spa at Four Seasons

Resort Bali at Sayan

Ubud is one of Bali’s better-known cultural centres and so it is no surprise that it plays a highly recognized part in the island’s reputation for the provision of quality spa treatment services. The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has become a popular destination for spa aficionados. Here treatments are directed towards physical relaxation and internal peace of mind.

Embracing authentic Balinese healing traditions the treatments at this spa focus on balancing the body’s chakras. Regularly cleansed chakras, it is believed, will operate at optimum levels so creating harmony between physical and emotional states.

One of their spa’s signature treatments is Muladhara, which is based on the notion that the root chakra, located at the base of the spine, anchors us to the earth. To have a good balance in this cakra is especially beneficial to those who travel frequently, experience relocation or have moved to a new chapter in life. Muladhara is all about creating a profound inner peace and freeing one to their full potential.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan Sayan, Ubud – Bali Tel. +62 361 977577 www.fourseasons.com

This 120-minute treatment combines several steps and is started with a foot wash. This is followed by a treatment known as body tapping, a treatment designed to eliminate the negative

and enhance the positive. A Balinese sacred kemenyan smoke is then released to cleanse the spine while a soothing singing bowl is played before the body massage starts. The body massage involves slow and deep massage techniques using locally grown ginger and cinnamon with a blend of vetiver, patchouli and jatamansi oils. It is recommended that a shower does not directly follow the massage as the oils used continue to have a beneficial effect on the skin.

Most of signature treatments are held in a spa villa complete with outdoor shower and bath.

The spa villa, surrounded by a pond creates an aspect that contributes to a sense of peaceful tranquillity. My treatment was pleasurable and well attended to by professionals and left me with an enhanced vitality.

TropicaLife.net

91

GALLERY

Sumerta Gallery Entrenched in Peliatan Village, Ubud, Nyoman Sumertha Fine Art Gallery has a passion for quality paintings. Built by Nyoman Sumertha, a publicfigure and well-known art collector in Peliatan area, this gallery houses over 2000 of paintings from different types.

92

TropicaLife.net

F

rom the stylized puppet figures of Kamasan, pleasant pastoral scenes of Ubud, mysterious mood of Batuan to colourful village life, the gallery put enthusiastic efforts in collecting every Balinese style of painting into a prominent art space. There is a special section displaying the distinct individualism of modern Indonesian painters.

Talented artists occasionally demonstrate their skill at the gallery’s spacious ground. This innovative gallery also features sculptures produced by the talented local community around Ubud village.

GALLERY

SEP / DEC 2014

Banjar Teges, Peliatan, Ubud Tel. +62 361 975 267 www.sumerta-gallery.com

TropicaLife.net

93

GALLERY

ART GALLERY

S

ince first established back in 1968, Tonyraka Art Gallery has been accumulating, displaying and selling collections of fine woodcarvings artwork. It was established by AA Gede Raka Wirayuda, a former woodcarver, under the name of ‘Raka Gallery’. The name was changed after his son; AA Bagus Tony Hartawan took over the business back in 1997, and has been successfully broaden the range of displayed items in the gallery.

Nowadays, Tonyraka Art Gallery also showcases modern and contemporary arts as well, from painting, sculptures and installation.

The owner, Tony Hartawan, envisioned the gallery not only for commercial purpose, but can also act as a cultural entity, embracing the growth and development of local artworks, especially on the island of Bali. The gallery opens for public from Monday to Sunday.

Jl. Raya Mas No. 86 Mas, Ubud, Bali Tel. +62 361 781 6785 www.tonyrakaartgallery.com

94

TropicaLife.net

GALLERY

SEP / DEC 2014

TropicaLife.net

95

LIVING

Villa in Jimbaran VJ-IR-TL 002 The new villa is located not too far from GWK, MaxOne, Aston Hotel, Harris Bukit Jimbaran. It is fully furnished with indoor living and dining room complete with kitchen. The outdoor area includes swimming pool and gazebo. It also has a maid room with toilet.

2 bedroom villa Land size: 2.2 are (220 m2) Build size: 1.6 are (160 m2) Price: Rp 2.900.000.000 Title: freehold

For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Villa In Padang Padang VPP-IR-TL 005 The estate sits on 3370 m2 beautiful gardens consisting of 4 buildings with a swimming pool as the centrepiece. Main building: living, dining, and 2 large suites, second building: guesthouse, third building: a bale and fourth building: staff house. The view from the villa is spectacular.

A great investment!

Land size: 33.7 are (3370 m2) Build size: 5 are (500 m2) Price: USD 2.200.000 Title: freehold For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Villa in Canggu VC-EK-TL 010 This beautiful villa is located only 800 meter to the beach, 500 meter to Canggu Club and surrounded with stunning view of rice fields. The villa is fully furnished, has 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, living and dining room, kitchen, lovely garden, and 10x4 swimming pool.

3 bedroom villa Land size: 3.2 are (320 m2) Build size: 2 are (200 m2) Price: Rp 4.725.000.000 Title: freehold For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

96

TropicalLife.net TropicaLife.net

LIVING

Villa1 in Umalas VSU-EK-TL0011 This newly developed villa located in Umalas Dua is close to Seminyak’s hip boutiques, spas, restaurants and some of Bali’s most popular surf beaches, Canggu and Echo Beach. It offers two large bedrooms with ensuite bathroom; swimming pool, kitchen, and large open plan living area and luxurious outdoor lounging area.

2- bedroom villa Land size: 3.7 are (370 m2) Build size: 2.2 are (220 m2) Price: AUS 420.000 Title: Leasehold 25 years For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Residence in Umalas RU-EK-TL1005 Tucked away in Umalas area, this residence has 2 units of 4-bedroom villa, each with its own swimming pool.

Each villa is spacious with minimalist design and beautiful garden.

2 units of 4-bedroom villa Land size: 2.7 are (2700 m2) Price: USD 3.000.000 Title: freehold For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Yoga Retreats in Ubud YRU-EK-TL006 Situated in the famous Ubud area, this compound has 9 full furnished bungalows with view of the beautiful paddy fields. Other facilities on offer include yoga shala, spa, and restaurant. If you’re looking for a property in Ubud, this is your chance to own it.

Land size: 25 are (2500 m2) Build size: Price: USD 1.200.000 Title: 30 years extendable For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500 TropicalLife.net TropicaLife.net

97

LIVING

//LIVING

Villa in Bumbak Umalas VBU-AY-TL007 This beautiful villa is located only 400 m off the main road of Umalas, 30 minutes from Petitenget Seminyak, and 15 minutes to Berawa beach Canggu with view of rice field. The villa is fully furnished, 4-bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms (Master bathroom overlooking rice field), 1-study room, open-air spacious living & dining area, dining table for 10 seats capacity, large fully equipped kitchen with western standard, wet kitchen with cool storage, pantry, 3-refregerator & freezer, entertainment & bar room with home theatre, big pool with Jacuzzi, big garden, patio with dining table, staff & service area, carport fits for 2-cars, and 32,000 kwh power capacity.

4- bedrooms villa Land size: 17.4 are (1740 m2) Build size: 6 are (600 m2) Price: USD 2.000.000 Title: freehold

For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Villa in Kerobokan VK-AY-TL008 This villa just 10 -15 minutes from Seminyak area. The view is rice field and designed by Osiris Hertman. Fully furnished with 4-bedrooms, powder room, storage, closed and spacious living & dining area, fully equipped kitchen with western standard, swimming pool with salt water & pool deck, large gazebo with day bed, garden, staff area & service area, Flat TV in living room & each bedrooms, Wi-Fi, water filter, 23,000 watt power capacity.

For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

4- bedrooms villa Land size: 6.6 are (660 m2) Build size: 3.8 are (380 m2) Price: USD 895.000 Title: right of use

Villa DM in Umalas VDU-AY-TL009 A beautiful villa with stunning view located 150 m off the main road; 4m-wide lane, 10 -15 minutes from Petitenget Seminyak, and 1 hour from Ngurah Rai International Airport. The villa offers everything you would expect from 3-bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, closed living & dining area, fully equipped kitchen, private pool, gazebo, carport fits for 1-car, receptionist, and 24-hours security.

3- bedrooms villa Land size: 4.2 are (420 m2) Build size: 2 are (200 m2) Price: USD 490.000 Title: under cost of the owner For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

98

TropicalLife.net TropicaLife.net

LIVING

Villa in Kayu Tulang, Canggu VKT-AY-TL0100 The brand new villa is located about 5 minutes to Echo beach and 15 minutes from Seminyak area. It is fully furnished, has 4 air-conditioned bedrooms (3-bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms), roof top terrace with sun-beds, 1-powder room, closed living & dining area, fully equipped kitchen, large swimming pool, large day bed, big garden, staff quarter (2-bedrooms, bathroom & kitchen), service area, storage, 16.500 watt power capacity, electricity stabilizer for the whole house, solar hot water system, deep water with water filter system.

3- bedrooms villa Land size: 10 are (1000 m2) Build size: 5.88 are (588 m2) Price: Rp 12.000.000.000 Title: freehold

For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

Villa C in Umalas VCU-AY-TL0110 The villa is located in the secured villa complex about 150 m from the main road of Jalan Bumbak, 10 minutes from Petitenget, and 10 minutes to Berawa beach. It is fully furnished, has 3-bedrooms with e-suite bathrooms, powder room, closed living & dining area, fully equipped kitchen, private pool, gazebo, staff & service area, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour security.

3- bedrooms villa Land size: 4.1 are (410 m2) Build size: 20.9 are (2090 m2) Price: USD 6.500.000.000 Title: freehold

For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

New Villa in Ubud NVU-LX-TL012 This brand new villa in Ubud area is 2 storey, fully furnished with large swimming pool, kitchen, pantry, large living room + dinning room, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, big yard, and service area; 2 maid rooms + 1 bathrooms, 2 cars garage, 2 cars carport.

3- bedrooms villa Land size: 6.06 are (606 m2) Build size: 4.9 are (490 m2) Price: USD 5.500.000.000 Title: freehold For more info contact Tropical Agent Tel. +62 8123850900 +62 8123851500

TropicalLife.net TropicaLife.net

99

PICK UP POINT In Room

Bridges Jl. Raya Campuhan

Karma Resort Jl. Uluwatu

Sardine Jl. Petitenget

The Laguna Resort BTDC

Brasa Jl. By Pass Sanur

Kopi Bali House Jl. By Pass Sanur

C151 Smart Villas Jl. Laksmana

Café Degan Jl. Petitenget

Kori Restaurant Jl. Poppies II

Ramada Bintang Bali Jl. Kartika Plaza

The Royal Santrian Jl. Pratama

Café Batu Jimbar Jl. Danau Tamblingan

Komaneka Resort Jl. Bisma

The Haven Jl. Raya Seminyak Grand Mirage Jl. Pratama New Kuta Condotel Jl. Raya Uluwatu, Pecatu Sentosa Private Villas Jl. Pura Telaga Waja, Seminyak TS Suites Bali Jl. Nakula Gending Kedis Jl. Karang Emas Sejahtra, Jimbaran Kanishka Villas Jl. Kunti The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa Jl. Kayu Aya, Seminyak

Café Moka Jl. Raya Seminyak Casa Gourmet Seminyak Square Canggu Deli Canggu Chandi Jl. Laksmana

Kudeta Jl. Laksmana Kuni’s Jl. Laksmana Kuta Paradiso Hotel Jl. Kartika Plaza

Club Bali Mirage Jl. Pratama

Kupu-Kupu Jimbaran Suite Jimbaran

Conrad Jl. Pratama

Lanai Double Six

Dejavu Kitchen Jl. Arjuna

LV 8 Resorts Jl. Discovery, Canggu

Discovery Kartika Plaza Jl. Kartika Plaza Dulang Café and Bakery Kuta Square Downtown Villa Jl. Raya Seminyak

Amadea Resort Jl. Laksmana

Faces at The Bale Nusa Dua

The Elysian Jl. Sari Dewi

Flying Fish Double Six

The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali BTDC

Chez Gado Gado Jl. Dhyana Pura

Lumut Jl. Danau Tamblingan Made’s Warung Jl. Pantai Kuta Jl. Raya Seminyak Mamasan Restaurant Jl. Raya Kerobokan Massimo Restaurant Jl. Danau Tamblingan Melia Benoa Jl. Pratama Metis Jl. Petitenget No. 6

Ramada Beach Resort Jl. Pratama Rumours Jl. Laksmana Serba Antik Kuta Galeria Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort Jl. Pantai Kuta Sheraton Laguna BTDC Sentosa Seminyak Jl. Pura Telaga Waja

Suka-Suka Jl. Batu Belig

The Lombok Lodge Jl. Oberoi - Tanjung

Sushi Tei Jl. Sunset Road Tarita Gallery Jl. By Pass Teckococo Jl. Petitenget The Bistrot Jl. Kayu Aya Dijon Setia Budi

Mezzanine Jl. Danau Tamblingan

The Orchard Jl. Laksmana

Griya Santrian Jl. Danau Tamblingan

New Kuta Golf Pecatu

The Village Jl. Danau Tamblingan

Hard Rock Hotel Jl. Pantai Kuta

Grand Nikko Bali Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan

The Villas Jl. Kunti

Hard Rock Café Jl. Pantai Kuta

Novotel Nusa Dua BTDC

Sofitel Luxury Hotels BTDC

Hotel Niksoma Jl. Padma II

Panonpoe Jl. Laksmana

Ultimo Jl. Laksmana

Hu’u Jl. Petitenget

Pandawa Beach Villas And Spa Jl. Pantai Gumicik

Villa Dedaun Jl. Legian

Ayodya Resort Bali BTDC AYANA Resort & Spa Bali Jl. Karang Mas Sejahtera

Bali Deli Jl. Kunti Blue Ocean Double Six

International SOS Jl. By Pass

Piment Rouge Jl. Serangan, Kerobokan

Jenggala Keramik Jl. Uluwatu

Prana Spa Jl. Kunti

Jemme Restaurant Jl. Petitenget

Puri Santrian Resort Jl. Danau Tamblingan

Junction Jl. Laksmana Karma Kandara Jl. Uluwatu

TropicaLife.net 100 TropicalLife.net

Sector Jl. Pantai Shindu

Vis A Fis JW Marriot Jl. Embong Malang 85 - 89

The Santosa Villas & Resort Jl. Raya Senggigi

Grocer & Grind Jl. Laksmana

Peninsula Resort Jl. Pratama

Teatro Gastroteque Jl. Kayu Aya, Kuta, Badung,

St. Regis Jl. Pratama, Tanjung Benoa

Alilla Villas Ubud Melinggih Kelod, Payangan

Intercontinental Jimbaran Jl. Karang Mas Sejahtera

Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran Jl. Bukit Permai

The Taman Dayu Golf Club PT. Golf Taman Dayu, Jl. Raya Sub - Malang KM 48

Hotel Tentrem Yogyakarta Jl. A. Mohammad Sangaji

Grand Hyatt Bali BTDC

Amanusa Nusa Dua

The Platinum Grill Graha Famili Golf

Yogyakarta

Ahimsa Jl. Kunti

Amandari Jl. Raya Sayan

Maya Ubud Resort & Spa Jl. Gunung Sari Peliatan

Somerset Jl. Raya Kupang Indah

The Oberoi, Lombok Medana beach

Merah Putih Restaurant Jl. Petitenget

ARC Sunset road

Mozaic Jl. Raya Sanggingan

Lobby Lounge JW Marriot Jl. Embong Malang

Lombok

Bali

Alaya Ubud Jl. Raya Pengosekan

The Bay Bali Jl. Nusa Dua, Kuta Selatan

Miracle Aesthetic Clinic Jl. MH Thamrin 40 - 42

Sienna Villas Jl. Raya Seminyak Gg. Keraton 5

Gill Wilson Jl. By Pass Sanur

Alila Villas Uluwatu Jl. Belimbing Sari, Desa Pecatu

Mantra Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Sawangan

W Retreat & Spa Bali Jl. Petitenget The Legian Jl. Kayu Aya, Seminyak

Novotel City Centre Kuala Lumpur Pacific Regency Hotel Suites Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur The Westin Kuala Lumpur Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur Best Western Premier Dua Sentral Park Royal Kuala Lumpur Park Royal Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur

Qunci Villas Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi

The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta Jl. Jendral Sudirman

Pacific Regency Hotel Suites

Hotel Vila Ombak Gili Trawangan

Singapore

Jakarta

Hotel Borobudur Jakarta Lapangan Banteng Selatan

Warisan Jl. Raya Kerobokan

Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur

Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur

The Oberoi Jl. Laksmana

Villa Lumbung Jl. Petitenget

Parkroyal Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur

Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa Jl. Laksda Adi Sucipto KM. 8,7

Shangri-la Hotel Jend Sudirman Kav.1

Villa Jodi Jl. Laksmana

Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Hotel Novotel Lombok Mandalika Resort Lombok Tengah

The Corner Store Jl. Laksmana

Vila Jerami Jl. Kunti

Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa Dusun Tanjungan, Borobudur

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Hotel Intercontinental Jakarta Midplaza Jend. Sudirman Hotel Pullman Jakarta MH. Thamrin Hotel Pullman Jakarta Cerntral Park Harum Manis Indonesian Restaurant Pavilion Apartment Reatail Arcade CASSIS Pavilion Apartment Reatail Arcade The Media Hotel & Towers Jl. Gunung Sahari Raya 3 OPUS CAFE Plaza Indonesia

Novotel City Centre Kuala Lumpur

The A Loft Kuala Lumpur Sentral

Hotel Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen

Starhill Galery

The Connoisseur Emporium River Valley Road

Shook @ Starhiil Gallery

The Queen & Mangosteen Vivo City

Enak KL

Starhill Tea Salon Frangipani Restaurant

The Connoisseur Divan

Twenty one Kichen + Bar

Holiday Inn Express Singapore Orchard Road

El Cerdo, Cangkat Bukit Bintang

Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay

The Pullman KL Bangsar

Costa Coffee Intercontinental Singapore

Prince Hotel KL

Avani gold coast sepang resort Bangkok Thailand

Sheraton Towers Singapore Hotel

Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok

Ibis Singapore Bencoolen

Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok

The Queen & Mangosteen Vivo City

Hotel Muse Bangkok Langsuan

The Scarlet Hotel

Mercure Siam Bangkok

Surabaya

Park Royal Plaza

Kawi Lounge Sheraton Hotel Jl. Embong Malang 25 - 31

Naumi Hotel

Hanoi - Vietnam HOTEL de l’opera Hanoi Hoan Kiem, Hanoi