Our Travel Resolutions for 2016

What’s your 2016 new year’s resolution? Do you have any or do you not care and think that resolutions are just there to be remembered a week after January 1st, max! What we think would be a great resolution for 2016, is a list of new places to travel next. Congratulations to those that have made 2015 a fruitful year, in terms of places to visit. But if you hadn’t been out traveling much in 2015 (or you’ve only gone to Bali for the last five summers!) we give you some ideas of places you can consider for your next vacation:

1. Sumba, Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

The terrain on Sumba is quite different to its neighbouring islands; undulating hills replace the typical volcanic terrain in Indonesia with many areas in the North and East of the island resembling dry savannahs, whilst central highlands are covered in native alang alang grass and the mountains in the South extend down into lush tropical vegetation.

The World Wildlife Fund categorized Sumba as a deciduous forest eco region for its special flora and fauna. Sumba’s isolation has helped preserve one of Indonesia’s most fascinating cultures, particularly in its more remote western half, which is home to about two-thirds of the island’s 400,000 people. It is home to stone-age traditional villages, beautiful hills, and pristine beaches.

2. George Town, Malaysia

The capital and largest city of the state of Penang, Malaysia, George Town is full with very well-preserved historical building and colonial style architecture, making the city listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Here, Chinese, Indian and Malaysian culture blends seamlessly creating a fantastic cultural experience. Although Georgetown’s landscape is dominated by Chinese storefronts, there are also trendy shopping complexes, refurbished Chinese manors, rowdy pubs and artsy boutiques, cafés and studios. Last but not least, it is also known as the food heaven of Malaysia, with popular street food like Penang Kwey Teow making it one of the most famous Malaysian import.

3. Pulau Weh, Indonesia

A beautiful little island located north of Banda Aceh with magnificent beaches and underwater that offers good diving and snorkeling activities. Most popular beach is Gapang and Iboih, about 20km north of Sabang. Although most travelers opt to go to Pulau Rubiah, located 100m offshore, which is a densely forested island 100 m offshore that is surrounded by spectacular coral reefs known as the Sea Garden.

4. Maldives

Any beach lovers in the world would give anything for a night in the Maldives. It is definitely not a budget trip you can spontaneously plan for the weekend, but chilling in the Maldives should definitely make it to your travel goals. Maldives is home to 26 natural atolls that are some of the most complex and vibrant atoll structures found anywhere on the planet. It also boasts one of the richest underwater sceneries on earth, with tranquil surrounding and heavenly palm tree dotted skyline. The open sea and reefs are inhabited by over 2000 species of colourful fish of various proportions. Splurge recommendation: The Anantara Dhigu, Maldives, one of the four Anantara hotels in the island constellation.

5. Patagonia Corridor, Chile/Argentina

“Cuernos del Paine from Lake Pehoé” by Miguel Vieira

Patagonia is an incredibly expansive region located located at the southern end of South America, shared by Argentina and Chile.  Travelers would be blown away by the immensity of the mountaintop glaciers, pristine rivers, and vast beautiful land. You can approach Patagonia in a million different way, as the Chilean side is a maze of inlets, islets and waterways, while Argentinian Patagonia dominates vast empty lands and ranches.

6. Papua New Guinea

A country that shares island with Indonesia’s Papua, we might mistakenly think the country has similar to offer with its Indonesian relatives. But with more than 600 islands and 800 indigenous languages Papua New Guinea is full of interesting attractions, breathtaking natural scenery, and diverse cultural heritage. Papua New Guinea, or PNG for short, holds thick jungles perfect for trekking, long  beautiful rivers like the Sepik river for cruises, and chalenging waves at the New Ireland. Don’t forget to put the fjords of Tufi that is home to one of only four tropical fjords in the world in your bucket list, and of course, dive amongst the coral reef coastline.

7. Morocco

Morocco is a land of mesmerizing contrast that has become a major holiday destination for many reasons for all kinds of travelers: Whether you are just smitten with its culinary delights, looking for real cultural experience, a compulsive shopper, or just an admirer of beauty, you will find it all in this beautiful country. Although Morocco has plenty of Middle Eastern influence, it is actually located in the northern tip of Africa. It is home to breathtaking beaches, bustling souks, vast expanses of desert, imposing snow-capped mountains, wondrous medinas, and mouth-watering cuisine. It is definitely a must visit for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Banda Islands, Indonesia

A cluster of ten beautiful islands that lies at the south-east side of Ambon, with a total area of 55 sq km. The three main islands are Pulau Neira, where the only town Bandaneira and airport is located, the bigger Pulau Banda Besar, and Pulau Gunung Api or the volcano island, which you can climb. in addition to extraordinary dive sites dotted around the island, The Bandas are littered with deserted forts as well as nutmeg plantations and Dutch houses.

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HI Kempinski Jakarta participates in TUI Cruises

Joining TUI Cruises as Guest Chefs to their culinary team, Chef Miati and Chef Prasetyo are excited to show their creativity and unique style of flavoring Indonesia cuisine touch in TUI Cruises outlets. Miati is the queen in cold kitchen and Widodo specialty in main dishes will bring a wealth of Indonesian experience and an undeniable passion for food lovers that will surely enhance TUI Cruises culinary journey.

As Chef de Cuisine at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, Chef Widodo is specialized in Indonesian authentic food and skilled for Middle Eastern cuisine. He is responsible for Signatures Restaurant (hotel’s all-day-dining buffet restaurant, that come alive with variety of buffets and open show kitchens concept : Western, Asian, International and best European bakery products ),

Chef Miati has been trained under chefs at many top-rated Michelin Star restaurants/hotel and experienced as a guest chef at the Kempinski Beijing in 2001. She is responsible for the hotel’s banquet and catering, which can cater for up to 3000 people  for  high – profile corporate and social events.

In addition, both Chef Miati and Chef Widodo will pamper TUI cruises guests with Indonesian traditional food such as gado-gado, asinan buah Bogor, asinan sayur Betawi and beef rendang “A rich beef stew cooked with 12 traditional Indonesian herbs” and other most vibrant and colorful Indonesian specialties.

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Ladies Night Out at Bacchus

Starting in January 8, 2016, It’s Ladies Night every Friday at Bacchus Bar with a free specialty cocktail or chilled glass of Sababay wine presented on arrival. This is a great opportunity for gals to meet up for some well-deserved indulgence at the end of their busy working week. Ladies will be entitled to 50% discount on their total alcohol consumption and delicious light bites will be served all throughout the evening.

Location:
INTERCONTINENTAL JAKARTA MIDPLAZA
Jl. Jendral Sudirman Kav. 10-11
Jakarta 10220
Tel:   + 62 21 2510888 ext 6626
Fax:  + 62 21 2512807
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Hilton Worldwide Celebrates Culinary Talents at F&B Masters Competition

Hilton worldwide recently held their country level F&B masters 2015/2016 held at DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta – Diponegoro. Twenty-five finalists from Hilton’s chain of hotels including Conrad Bali, Hilton Bandung, Hilton Singapore, Conrad Centennial Singapore and Double Tree by Hilton Jakarta represented their hotels to compete and to further continue to the next regional phase.

The 2015/2016 F&B Masters is aimed to develop and celebrate the food and beverage talent within Asia Pacific. Individuals from Hilton Worldwide hotels throughout diverse region were given the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete against team members from other Hilton hotels in Asia Pacific region.

Blind Testing Judging Process, F&B Masters Sommelier Cup Category 

The competition has five categories: bar, barista, culinary, pastry, and sommelier with hotel, country, and regional level of competition to compete in. All 36 hotels within Hilton’s network across South East Asia and India took part in the competition.

On the first day of competition, the hotels’ culinary representatives showed off their skills of creating delicious and beautiful dishes in the Culinary and Pastry competition. For the Culinary Cup, the winner is Tan Jia Xin from Hilton Singapore, with Ahmad Nurseha from DoubleTree and I Wayan Artiyasa from Conrad Bali followed in second and third place. For the Pastry Cup, Marinah of DoubleTree Jakarta took first place followed by Khoo Li Shan of Hilton Singapore at second place and I Made Suyanta claiming third place.

Finalists of the 2015 F&B Masters, Bar Cup category

On the second day, come the turn for Bar Cup and also the Sommelier Cup, where the baristas’ skills of making drinks and the sommeliers’ knowledge of wine are tested. For the Bar Cup, Ajendi of Hilton Bandung came first, with his romantic chocolate dessert cocktail drink, followed by Dendi Nugraha of DoubleTree Jakarta with his Earl Grey Cocktail, followed by Suresh Kumar of Hilton Singapore. The Sommelier Cup saw Su Chin-Yen of Hilton Singapore claiming first place, Deri Rivana of Hilton Bandung at second place, and Ketut Arta Wijaya at third place.

Ajendi of Hilton Bandung who won 1st place showing his bartending skills to the judges

Despite the competition, the participants were seen enjoying each other’s company while learning new skills from their fellow F&B associates. “We see this competition not just a platform for us to proof our skills, but also a place where we get to meet friends from other Hilton hotels. It is a great experience” Deri Rivana from Hilton Bandung stated, with unison nods from his fellow competing sommeliers. “This is my first time competing, after being a bartender for over 10 years. I finally know what it’s like, and will definitely enroll myself again next year”, said Suresh Kumar of Hilton Singapore that took third place in the Bartending Cup.

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Affordable Japanese Crave Fix at Kamiya Restaurant

Who says a good quality Japanese food must be expensive? As one of the most popular imported cuisine in the country, and one of the very firsts too, there are literally hundreds of affordable Japanese food in Jakarta.

The latest addition to the list is Kamiya Restaurant, located in JS Luwansa Hotel. The newly established restaurant offers a unique and definitely budget friendly Tokyo style Japanese food, prepared by an experienced Japanese chef.

To sample what the restaurant has in store, it is recommended to try their set lunch promotion that will get you a rice dish— which you can choose from: Honjitsuno Maksushi (sushi roll of the day, white rice, or fried rice), hot or cold ocha, miso soup, and 3 out of 27 personal sized a la cart menu. Yes you read it right, twenty-seven Japanese favorite dishes such as sashimi, yakitori, salmon yaki, tori karaage, chicken katsu, tempura moriawase, agedashi tofu, and many others. Simple yet accentuates the restaurant’s freshness of ingredients.

Personal lunch set with Maguro Tataki (lightly seared raw tuna with sweet & tangy sauce), Tori Kuwayaki (grilled chicken), and Grilled Saba

My personal favorite is the simple yet flavorful grilled saba fish, simply served with Japanese soyu and grated daikon. The succulent texture of the fish signifies the freshness of it. There is also the agedashi tofu; lightly fried Japanese tofu with sweet and salty soyu sauce, served with katsuobushi shave and grated daikon. For a little bit of crunch, I tried the deep fried chicken cutlets or karage and the mixed tempura. A satisfying contrast of texture compared to the other ‘healthier’ items such as the grilled fish and salad.

Personal lunch set with sushi roll, tempura moriawase, menchi katsu (deep fried beef cutlet), and beef yakiniku

Personal lunch set with agedashi tofu, chicken karage, grilled salmon, and fried rice. 

I also like the simple yet ‘very Japanese’ touch of a small portion of pickles served when you opt for the white rice or fried rice. Each meal will also get you a bite size serving of dessert options; cheese cake cream puffs, and the likes.  If the mini portions don’t cut it for you, you can choose from the many a la carte menu with prices ranging from Rp. 35,000 to Rp. 180,000. Also try their Ramen that starts from Rp. 55,000/portion.

Located at the lobby of 4-star JS Luwansa hotel in Kuningan area, this restaurant is perfect for you that want to have a quick lunch when you happen to be in the area, by yourself or with your business colleagues. Definitely a satisfying treat!

more about JS Luwansa:
located in a strategic business district, JS Luwansa Hotel has 244 rooms with facilities of Spa and fitness center, swimming pool, business center, and restaurants. In addition to Kamiya, guests can find Olam All Day Dining that offers both local and international. For meetings and events, JS Luwansa also holds a grand ballroom that can hold up to 1,500 guests with 14 meeting rooms.

For more information & reservations, call : (62) (21) 2954 3030 ext 6699

JS Luwansa Hotel
Jl. HR. Rasuna Said Kav. C-22, Jakarta Selatan, DKI Jakarta

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 10.00 to 22.00 pm

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Top 11 Hotspots to Plan Your Christmas Celebration and New Year’s Eve

by MakanLuar.com 

It’s The Time of the year, where we all want to be with our cherished ones, be it family or friends and create beautiful memories to last long the next year. With Christmas a day apart and New Year’s Eve in a week’s time, let’s all plan our celebrations and reserve the tables now, lest we want to miss out on the fun! Below are the top 11 hotspots with Christmas and New Year eve specials.

1. Amuz

Amuz Gourmet Restaurant is one of Jakarta’s few fine dining restaurants where you can step into a main dining hall and find a chic Parisian ambiance. Romantic interiors and setups complement great selections of French dishes prepared by a culinary team from an open kitchen, led by well-seasoned chef and restaurant founder Gilles Marx. Enjoy the special Christmas menu on December 24^th and 25^th at Rp.895,000++ per person or Rp.1,500,000++ including wine pairing per person.

Book your tables at: http://ift.tt/1JueCwb

2. B’steak Gading Serpong

If you are looking for great comfort food at reasonable prices, look no further than B’Steak Grill & Pancake. As you may be able to guess from the name, the restaurant is famed for its steaks. The ambiance is polished and sleek, with soft, warm and minimalist accent – perfect for a date night, as well as versatile enough for a family day out.

From Dec 15, 2015 to Jan 10,2016, B’steak is offering a special 4 course menu for IDR 285 ++. Reserve online at http://ift.tt/1JueCwd

Between Dec 15,2015 and Jan 10,2016 and dine at B’steak grill and pancake and you could be the lucky winner to win a free ticket to Bali. That’s not it, two other winners get voucher worth 250,000 and 500,000 IDR. T & C apply.

3. Colonial Kemang

Located at Lippo Mall at Kemang Village, this establishment stands out with its 1930’s-esque theme blended in with modern design. Even the hat-and-‘stache restaurant logo seen all across the restaurant catches your eye, reminiscent of its ‘colonial’ theme. Colonial also offers a gorgeous outdoor seating area with a panoramic view of the Kemang area.

Enjoy 3 course Christmas joyful dinner with a surprise drink on the 24^th and 25^th of December for IDR 375,000 ++ /pax.

For New Years Eve, celebrate in style with Casino theme at IDR 525,000 ++ / pax with live DJ music, games and lucky draw.

Grab your tables now: http://ift.tt/1GyxsQ7

4. GIA Italian restaurant

As Ismaya Group’s flagship Italian restaurant, Gia is one of the standout semi fine-dining restaurants in the CBD area. Celebrate Christmas Eve dinner with a special 5 course set menu by their Executive Chef, Tuscany’s own Tommaso Gonfiantini for IDR 750,000++/person.

Also indulge yourself with GIA Christmas Specials from 25 – 30 December 2015. For New Years Eve, experience GIA’s 5-course festive menu with live band performance by LBAT all for IDR 900,000++ inclusive of access to Dragonfly, Blowfish & SKYE lounge.

Book your tables now: http://ift.tt/1L3YAsy

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Parador Hotels & Resorts Wins Indonesia Travel & Tourism Award 2015/16 Category Indonesia Leading Local Hotel Chain

Tangerang, Indonesia December 2015, Parador Hotels & Resorts came with another great achievement at the end of 2015. Parador wins Indonesia Travel & Tourism Award (ITTA) 2015/16 category Indonesia Leading Local Hotel Chain. The award ceremony took place in Grand Ballroom Ritz-Carlton Hotel Mega Kuningan Jakarta on Monday, 14th December 2015.

The event opened by an opening speech from Panca Rudolf Sarungu as President of ITTA Foundation. He said, “this remarkable award has been chosen by BINUS and Board of Advisors which holds (75%) and Online Voting (25%).” Indonesia Leading Local Hotel Chain Award was given by the representative of ITTA 2015/16 accompanied by Miss Tourism 2015, Dikna Faradiba. Ricky Theodores, COO of Parador Hotels & Resorts who received the award.

By winning this award, it proves that Parador have successfully put the product right in fromt of the Indonesia’s tourism industry. It is a solid proof showing that throughout the year, Parador has shown the leading qualities in terms of service and the satisfaction of its customers, which are two of the most important aspects. At Parador we believe that quality services and manpower play a crucial role in creating one of the best new hotel operators. This award is a testament to the efforts of all the

hardworking team members at Parador and reflects our ultimate aim of providing the best Modern Asian Hospitality services.

Ricky Theodores, COO of Parador, said, “We are very honoured by this award. We are confident that Parador will continue to grow with Indonesia’s tourism industry and once again we are proud that we have become a domestic hotel management player attracting some of the nations most prestigious awards. These awards are a reflection of our customer’s satisfaction with the exceptional services we provide.”

The local hotel operator which just celebrate the 3rd anniversary on 12th December 2015 has won some prestigious awards before, such as:

 Good Corporate Development Award 2014, category Best New Hotel Management 2014

 World Achievement Association (WAA), category The Best New Hotel Operator of The Year 2015

 Obsession Awards 2015, category Best Regional Achievers

Some of unit hotels under management of Parador also successfully won some awards, Certificate of Excellence from Tripadvisor for Atria Hotel Gading Serpong, Atria Hotel Magelang and Atria Hotel Malang. Besides that, Atria Hotel Gading Serpong won Indoesia Business Award 2015 category Best Hotel in Service Excellent of The Year 2015 and on ITTA 2015/16, this first 4 star hotel in Gading Serpong, Tangerang won Indonesia Leading Design Hotel.

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Penganugerahan MICE Excellence Award 2015 by AccorHotels

On 16th of December 2015, 30 AccorHotels from Jakarta and surrounding area (Jakarta-Tangerang-Bogor) which include Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis Styles, ibis and ibis Budget brands conducted the “MICE Excellence Award 2015” in
Pullman Jakarta Central Park’s ballroom.

The MICE Excellence Award 2015 is given to 30 companies from various industries that gave the biggest contribution in 2015 with their MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, and Exhibiton) in each hotel.

These companies include Tupperware, Pertamina, Panasonic, Bank UOB, and Ministry of Tourism. This awarding night is also a form of appreaciation for the hotel’s combined business clients of more than 400.

Jakarta’s AccorHotels in Jakarta, Tangerang and Bogor are equipped with state of the art MICE facilities, with ballrooms that can cater to thousands of participants, as the Ballroom in Pullman Jakarta, which hold up to 5,000 people, Grand Mercure Jakarta Kemayoran (2.000 people), Novotel Tangerang (1000 people), and Pullman Central Park (1000 people). While the more budget friendly Ibis offer meeting and conference rooms that can cater 10 to 500 people.

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What to Do in Jakarta This Christmas

Planning to stay in town in Jakarta this Christmas? Here are some ideas we have for you to make the best out of your holiday in the city!

1. Gingerbread-houses Hunting

A number of five star hotel sports a full size ginger bread house that makes their lobby smells like Christmas all the time it’ almost dangerous for your appetite. Check this one out by JW Marriott:

And this scrumptious looking one by Shangri La Hotel:

2. Meet a giant nutcracker

Pullman Jakarta signifies the jolly year-end celebration with a 5 meter all Christmas tree guarded by two gigantic nutcracker statues. The legend says that a nutcracker represents power and strength and serves like a trusty watch dog guarding your family from evil spirits and danger. A fierce protector, the nutcracker bares its teeth to the evil spirits and serves as the traditional messenger of good luck and goodwill.

3. Christmas Feasting

For a proper Christmas meal sans the stressful cooking and the dishwashing and head to someof Jakarta’s experts in Christmas feasting, including scrumptious buffet by Raffles Hotel Jakarta, Amuz, & Shangri-La hotel, which offer not just Christmas Eve dinner but also Christmas day brunch, with an option of free flow alcohol.

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Get Rewarded for Dining Till Countdown 2016

by www.makanluar.com

With Christmas round the corner and New Year’s Eve a week later, lets plan our days and reserve the tables now, lest we want to lose out on all the fun!

December, the month Sharing, Caring and Celebrations; as it is the spirit of giving and the season to be merry, we would like to offer our Fellow foodie diners a chance to get FREE dining voucher worth of IDR 50,000 to be used later on.

You get rewarded for reserving online with makanluar.com and dining at your favorite restaurant. Till the countdown for New year 2016, i.e. 31^st Dec, 2016, book online and dine at the below mentioned restaurants and you get Free Makanluar dining voucher worth IDR 50,000 to be used later on.

Front Page, Amigos, Yeu Saigon Cafe, Ganesha Ek Sanskriti, The Restaurant @ Trans Bali, Grain Espresso Bali, Sasa Ristorante Bali, Envy Bali, The Parlour Bali, Grocer & Grind Bali, L’Assiette French Restaurant Bali!

Just reserve online, dine at the above-mentioned restaurants, email/ whatsapp/ sms a copy of your dining bill and get rewarded. (info@makanluar.com)

*Terms & Conditions Apply

* Valid when you book and dine between Dec 21,2015 – Dec 31,2015

*Min. spend: IDR 150,000

*Book your tables now! Happy HOLIDAYS!

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2016 From WNJ

Dear Jakartans,

It is hard to believe how quickly this year has passed and we are just days away from the end of 2015! A lot has happened this year; events, celebrations, ups and downs. Throughout the year, we saw accomplishments and inventions though blemished by a number of unfortunate tragedies surrounding us.

It definitely has been a busy and incredible year for us at What’s New Jakarta. One of our most important milestones is our upgrade from the old to the brand new What’s New Jakarta website. We would like to thank you our readers and audience, for making us your trusted source for everything Jakarta related.

This is going to be our last newsletter in 2015, so for those spending the holiday in the city, don’t forget to check out our Christmas and New Year category in our website.

Finally, with all the unrest and intolerance in the world, all of us at What’s New Jakarta hope you and your friends and family find peace and have a safe, healthy and happy holiday season. Let’s all hope for a more prosperous year next year. We’re facing a new year, a new set of challenges and opportunities, and a clean slate for the year ahead.

To share your opinion about this week’s topic, comment below and don’t forget to keephttp://ift.tt/1xfYjhf bookmarked for the latest events, deals, and more exciting articles.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2016!

Cheers,

Deisy Wong Will 
CEO/Founder
deisywongwill@gmail.com | Follow instagram

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Indonesia’s Best Diving Spots

The Indonesian archipelago has more than 17,000 islands spread throughout the country with another world of underwater wonders waiting to be explored and crucial to be conserved. Here are some dive sites with underwater scenery you should check out!

1. Bunaken Marine National Park

Bunaken Marine National Park is one of the most beautiful marine park in the world, famous for its beautiful coral formation. This marine park is home to more than 3000 species such as the lolosi yellow tail fish (Lutjanus kasmira), fish gusumi horse (hippocampus and horses), goropa (ephinephelus spilotoceps), white oci (seriola rivoliana) and many others as well have a diversity of endemic aquatic species such as dolphins, dugong, and also beautiful ornamental fishes.

2. Wakatobi National Park

Since 2005, Wakatobi has been listed as a tentative World Heritage Site.  Located right in the heart of the Asia-Pacific Coral Triangle, in the province of South East Sulawesi, the Wakatobi Islands offer crystal clear pristine waters and a rich bio-diverse underwater life, a true paradise for divers. Wakatobi alone is said to have 942 fish species and 750 coral reef species from a total of 850 of world’s collection.

In addition to diving and snorkeling, you can also enjoy the attractions of dolphins with Dolphin Watching or see panoramic sunrise and sunset at Hoga, one of the best panoramic view of sunset and sunrise. An expanse of deep blue sea. White sands. Crystal clear water. Pristine coral reefs. Stunning underwater scenery. These are the images that define the richness and the beauty of the Wakatobi Islands in Southeast Sulawesi, which have become a new paradise for sea lovers and divers.

More info, visit www.wakatobi.com

3. Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat Islands is one of the 10 best diving waters around the world.Raja Ampat Islands are in the triangle coral reefs of the world, so not surprisingly, this region is rich with coral reefs and fish species are unique and rare. Raja Ampat, like an unpolished gem, and once to this place, forever, you will never forget its beauty. Of the hundreds of species of coral reef, seven species of which are new findings to science, and has never been found in other areas.

4. Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park has some of the most exhilarating scuba diving in Indonesia. It’s a region swept by strong currents and cold upswellings, created by the convergence of the warmer Flores Sea and the cooler Selat Sumba (Sumba Strait) – conditions that create rich plankton soup and an astonishing diversity of marine life. Mantas and whales are drawn here to feed on the plankton during their migration from the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea, while dolphins are also common in the waters between Komodo and Flores.

5. Liberty Wreck, Bali

The 120m long wreck rests on a 90 degree angle with the deck facing the open sea and used to be an American supply ship. Anchored off the coast of Lombok, the ship was hit by a Japanese torpedo during World War II, and sent 30 meter off the coast and sinking into the black sand after a Gunung Agung Volcano eruption. This wreck dive offers not only the chance to get a fascinating glimpse into history, but also to meet a variety of invertebrates, angelfish and glowing flashlight fish that live in the wreck.

6. Banda Islands

A cluster of ten beautiful islands that lies at the south-east side of Ambon, with a total area of 55 sqm. The three main islands are Pulau Neira, where the only town Bandaneira and airport is located, the bigger Pulau Banda Besar, and Pulau Gunung Api or the volcano island. There are nearly 50 extraordinary dive sites around the islands, including Selamon, near the northern tip of Pulau Banda Besar where you can see stunning sponges and oral in clear water, just 50 meters off shore, and Sambayang around Pulau Gunung Api where you can find tabletop coral and brightly colored fish, acessible by boat from Bandaneira. Best time for diving: October and March.

7. Pulau Rubiah (Pulau Weh)

A little island north of Banda Aceh with magnificent palm-fringed beaches and great diving and snorkelling spots. The main city of the island is Sabang (popularly known as the most western city in Indonesia) and the two main beaches are Gapang, and Iboih, located about 20 km north-west of Sabang. From Iboih, you can reach Pulau Rubiah, a densely forested island 100 m offshore that is surrounded by spectacular coral reefs known as the Sea Garden.

8. Gili Islands, Lombok

 The gilis, which consist of Gili Air, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Meno have long been a favourite for daytrippers of all diving and snorkeling levels. Not only beautiful corals, anemones, and the beautiful fishes such as the clown fish that life among them, you can also find turtles and even manta rays. All the dive spots are within a short boat ride from Gili Air and Gili Trawangan.

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Where to Party this New Year’s Eve in Jakarta

The year is coming to an end, and what better way to celebrate than to party the night out? There will be tons of places that will host a new year countdown, but we pick some of the most glamorous places to celebrate the new beginning in Jakarta:

1. Party with The Groove at Century Park Hotel

Step into the dance floor with the fabulous New Year’s Eve 2016 celebration with THE GROOVE performing live in the main lobby hotel with a numerous classic disco to modern pop hits. For a complete package, stay for the night with a special rate, starting from Rp IDR 1,650,000,-Nett/Room/Night which includes Buffet Breakfast for two, New year’s eve Dinner Buffet and New Year’s Eve Lobby Party with “The Groove”. Click here for more info.

2. Raffles Jakarta New Year Countdown

Chef Daniel Patterson and his culinary team prepare a special New Year’s feast for you and your loved ones. Welcome the New Year in abundance with our special buffet array featuring divine flavors and ingredients such as lobster, caviar, oyster and wagyu beef. IDR 750,000++ per person Inclusive buffet dinner, welcome cocktail, and free flow of ice tea and chilled juices, IDR 1,250,000++ per person additional free flow of beer and wine. Click here for more info.

3. New Year Celebration at Dharmawangsa Jakarta

Celebrate and create cherished memories of New Year in an enchanting stay at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta. This program includes special offers on New Year’s Eve Dinner and New Year’s Brunch, complimentary early check in at 11 AM & late check out until 3 PM and in-room internet access. Rate starts from USD 252++ For further information, contact Reservation at (62-21) 725 8181 ext. 6315.

4. Splurge at Keraton at The Plaza’s Bengawan

Spend the final day of 2015 at Bengawan and indulge in the most elaborate dinner buffet with seafood station, caviar, oysters, Alaskan king crab and live action station grill with foie gras, Kobe beef and accompanied by live entertainment. The buffet starts from 7pm to 11pm at IDR 995,000++ per adult with inclusive of an endless flow of non-alcoholic beverages, IDR 1,500,000+++ per person for an endless flow of alcoholic beverages, excluding Champagne (Champagne selection is available on request). For further information or table reservation, please contact: +62 21 5030 2993 or emailbengawan.keratonattheplaza@luxurycollection.com

6. Glamorous Night at JW Marriott

Glamorous, sparkling, and enchanting! Experience an extravagance New Year’s celebration this year.  Come to JW Marriott hotel Jakarta for the unforgettable countdown to 2016. Celebrate the biggest end year celebration with lavish culinary offerings from JW Marriott’s award-winning restaurants: Rp. 998,000++ per person for New Year’s Eve dinner buffet and Rp. 498,000++ per person for brunch at Sailendra Restaurant.  For more information and reservation, please call (021) 5798 8888

7. Pasar Malam Party at Kempinski Jakarta

The fun starts here at our Pasar Malam Party with a DJ, a magician, a marching band, jugglers, clowns, balloon artists, carnival food stalls, photo booths, dancers, games and fortune tellers to predict your luck in 2016. The admission fee for the party is IDR 375,000+++/person including your first drink. Hotel guests and diners from Signatures Restaurant or Paulaner Bräuhaus can join for free.

The party starts on 22:00. Witness Jakarta’s biggest countdown at the Bundaran HI from the comfort of our ballroom with live streaming on a big screen. For a breathtaking view of Jakarta, head to the hotel’s Sky Pool Bar to enjoy a special New Year’s Eve party overlooking Jakarta skyline, from 19:00 until you see the sun rise in 2016!

8. Party With All Seasons Jakarta Thamrin

Unwind at a room in All Seasons Jakarta Thamrin which is located at the main Sudirman road, where Jakarta’s biggest new year celebration is going to take place, while enjoying a colorful fireworks and fascinating new year’s eve dinner at SKYLOFT Restaurant & Lounge. The New Year’s Colourful Package for 2 nights starts from IDR 1.574.000,- ++/night which include breakfast, new year’s eve buffet, and a chance to win round trip ticket to EUROPE with KUWAIT Airways. Click here for more info.

9. The Sultan’s Glow in The Dark New Year’s Eve Party

Room Package starts from IDR 1.999.888,- Nett Per room per night including breakfast & New Year’s Eve Dinner party for 3 (Two) persons. New Year’s Eve Dinner at Lagoon Cafe & Lagoon Lounge  IDR 399.888,- Nett/Person. Click here for more info.

10. Intercontinental Jakarta Midplaza New Year’s Eve Dinner

Indulge in a social evening of fine food and entertainment as InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza’s bid farewell to yet another year with “Dine Around The World” concept spread across Rasa & Scusa. Spend the evening moving between Rasa and Scusa for the biggest ever buffet or culinary delights. Guest would be satisfied with fresh seafood on ice, carved meats and an array of different dishes from all over the world. Priced at just Rp.588.000++ per person to dine at both venues inclusive of non alcoholic drinks (soft drinks & juices). A generous 20% discount will be extended to bookings confirmed before 28th December 2015.

11. Pump Back To The 90s New Year Eve At Hard Rock Cafe Jakarta

Hard Rock Cafe Jakarta celebrates the end of 2015 with a nostalgic event presenting internationally known homeband and DJ with theme “Pump Back to the 90s” on Thursday, 31 December 2015 starting from 9pm until closing. The celebration will feature Hard Rock cafe’s homeband Jogadanz and a classic DJ performing 90s greatest mash-up hits and top 40 music.  So dress in style just like in the 90s and join the fiesta as the countdown rolls and let go 2015 to welcome the next year with an awesome New Year Eve celebration. Reservation:  021-5797-3055 or email customer.care@hardrockcafe-jakarta.com, click here for more info.

12.Unlock the New Year at La Brasserie Restaurant, Le Meridien Jakarta

For those looking for a location to celebrate New Year’s Eve party with a huge buffet selection with a unique-fun festivity in central Jakarta, you should come to La Brasserie restaurant. The New Year Eve Dinner is available at IDR 649.000++ per person including one glass of sparkling wine or cocktail and IDR 999,000++ per person including free flow of selected wine, selected Le Meridien sparkling cocktails and local beer. Don’t miss a chance to win the Grand Prize 1 economy class return ticket to the historical city of Rome, Italy on Turkish Airlines. Click here for more info.

13. The Park Lane Jakarta Glitz & Glam New Year’s Eve

Spend your New Year’s Eve with us Rp.1.000.000,++/night in a Grand Deluxe room or Rp.1.500.000,++/night inclusive of Gala Buffet dinner in Café One for 2 persons included, early check in at 10am & late check out at 4pm, midnight countdown at Riva by the Pool to welcome the New Year! A complimentary glass of Sparkling wine on arrival followed by our 4-course signature tasting menu to celebrate the coming New Year. Rp.550.000++/person or Rp.500.000++/person for early bird until December 27 & ‘Club Riva’ Members.

For Reservations please call  828 2000 ext. 2113 for restaurants and 2042 for rooms.

14. A Star Wars New Year Party at Mercure Jakarta Simatupang

For those still with the Star Wars fever, here is the right party for you. Starting with a splendid dinner buffet at Biztro Graffiti that will feature Brazilian ‘Churrasco’ or barbecue cooked on ‘Churrasqueira’ or furnace without grill, but use large skewers over the embers instead. Price starts from Rp. 500,000++ per person including New Year party favors and free flow of house pouring, soft drinks or juices. After enjoying New Year eve buffet, head to the Karumba Rooftop Rum Bar to join Star Wars icons such as Darth Vader, Princess Leia, StormTropper and more as you drink and dance straight into 2016 in rooftop style. Music starts at 8 PM with live performance from all girls band – The Baileys and the DJ will be spinning all night long at KARUMBA Rooftop Rum Bar (free entry to KARUMBA for every order made on New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner in Biztro Graffiti). Click here for more info.

15. Circus Fantasia with Krisdayanti & Regina Ivanova at Hotel Borobudur

Dance to the sounds of the music performance by one of the biggest Indonesian Divas, Krisdayanti, the talented Regina Ivanova  and enjoy the remarkable party at midnight with a toast! Package starts at IDR 7.150.000++/ 2 persons. For details, click here or call +6221 384 2112

 

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Trusted Money Changers in Jakarta

There are so many options for exchanging money in Jakarta, but which ones are the safest and offer the most competitive rates? Exchanging money in the bank or international chains is the safest, but rates can be steep. Here are some of good money changer with good rates in Jakarta:

1. VIP (Valuta Inti Prima)

Jl. Menteng Raya No. 23
Central Jakarta
Phone: 021-31907777, 021-3904444
Website: www.vip.co.id

2. PT. Ayumas Agung (TGA Bookstore Building)

Jl. Kwitang 37-38
Central Jakarta 10420
Phone; (021)3103374, 3103375, 3144025

3. Dolarindo

Jl. Boulevard Raya
Kelapa Gading Barat Kelapa Gading
Phone: +62 21 4532261
Website: www.dolarindo.com

4. Dua Sisi

Plaza Senayan Mall, Jl. Asia Afrika No.8
Gelora Senayan, South Jakarta
Phone: 021-5725408, 021-5725321, 021-57973821
Website: http://ift.tt/1ZkcfoQ

5. PT. International Valas

Jl. Puri Indah Raya, Blok I No.11
North Jakarta
Phone:021- 581 8555 (direct)

6. Ritz Money Changer

Jl. Gunung Sahari Raya No. 44 A-B
Central Jakarta 10720
Phone: (021) 6599999

7. Niki Palasarta Jaya

Jl. Mampang Prapatan Raya No. 17-C, South Jakarta 12790

Phone: (021) 7982346, (021) 7982347

8. Dwikarsa Usahatama Valasindo

Jl. Panglima Polim Raya No. 125-D
South Jakarta 12160
Phone: (021) 7267740, (021) 7267741, (021) 7201943

9. Mitra Sumber Valutamas

Jl. Pintu Besar Selatan No. 38-40 A
West Jakarta
Telp.(021) 6905904, (021) 6905905

Don’t forget to check rates online to quickly find the current rates at:
fx-rate.net
bi.go.id (Indonesia’s Central Bank)
BCA Rate

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New Chilean Wines Seek to Conquer Indonesia

Chile’s Trade Office in Jakarta hosted a wine pairing dinner for almost 60 people, including importers, media representatives and sommeliers, to introduce Chilean wine and show how it can pair perfectly with local cuisine.

The event took place in the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Jakarta with the hotel’s chef, Gerald Genson in charge of preparing a six course meal to pair with wines from the three Chilean wineries: Casas Patronales, Aresti Winery and Matetic Winery, which are all interested in entering the Indonesian market.

This is the second event that Chile has held in Jakarta this year to continue promoting its food and drink products. The first, in late August, was Flavours of Chile, the name given by Chile’s Export Promotion Bureau, ProChile, to a tool that included meetings between Chilean and Indonesian businesspeople and a trade and investment seminar.

Eduardo Ruiz Asmussen, Ambassador of Chile to Indonesia

Juan Enrique Moya, Director of the Economic Department of Chile in Jakarta

These events form part of the international promotional campaign Foods from Chile, which highlights the multi-faceted qualities of Chilean food products. The campaign highlights use the concept of “origin” to emphasize five characteristics of Chile’s food industry: quality, innocuity, traceability, international guarantee and natural flavour. “We are using this initiative to bring Chilean food products closer to the local cuisine of each of the countries where there are activities relating to Chile and its food products,” explained Juan Enrique Moya, Chile’s Trade and Agricultural Attaché in Jakarta.

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I Fashion Festival The Colors Of Asia At Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, Jakarta

I Fashion Festival The Colors Of Asia At Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, Jakarta – 16 December 2015

 

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Year End Communities Gathering at Wilshire Senopati, Jakarta

Year End Communities Gathering at Wilshire Senopati, Jakarta – 18 December 2015

 

 

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Party Supply Stores in Jakarta

Planning a party but can’t find that perfect streamers and balloons? Here are a list of party decoration suppliers you can try:

1. Woohoo Party

Online store based in Jakarta selling decorations, tablewares, party favors & games, baked goods & costumes.
www.woohoo-party.com
Facebook: woohoopartysupplies

2. Papaloon Balloon

Supplies a good range of balloon in every size and design, party decorations, etc.
Instagram: papaloon_baloon
Email: papaloon2014@gmail.com
Line: papaloonballoon

3. Deity House

Phone: 0818-074-70-074
www.deityhouse.com

4.  Pinatas (by Pak Rohmani)

Pak Rohmani can make different kinds of pinatas according to your design, or pick from the readily available ones in his shop. Cash only

Jl. Kemang Timur V/34 Kemang
Tel/Fax: 021 719 8953

5. Party Gaga

One of the biggest online stores for party supplies in Jakarta. Plenty options of paper honeycombs, streamers, and lanterns.
Instagram: partygaga.id
www.partygaga.com

6. Birthday Girl: Birthday Boy

Wide selection of balloons, decorations and table wares bearing up to date characters.
Jl. Kemang Selatan I No. 6, South Jakarta
Phone: +62 21 719 3485
Photo source: Chuza Living

7. Char & Coll

Pinatas, gifts, cakes, personalize goodie bags

http://ift.tt/1gdpKmI

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Artotel Thamrin – Jakarta Is The Winner For Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel, 2015 /2016

Jakarta, December 14th 2015. Today ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta’s proudly announce its new achievement as Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel 2015/2016 by Indonesia Travel and Tourism Award.

Indonesia Travel and Tourism Award is a prestigious award given to all participants in travel and tourism industry, held annually by ITTA Foundation and ITTA Organizing Team. This year, ITTA 2015 was held in a very special place, dated on the 14th of December 2015 to continuously giving outstanding achievement to its 53 chosen winners. All the winners come from various range of work place, from Hotels, Resorts, Villas, Travel Agent until Travel Industries Stakeholders. Throughout various ways of selections, both online voting and a group panel discussion, this time ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta took home an award of Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel category period 2015/2016 for the second time. Last year in ITTA 2014, ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta took home the same award of Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel period 2014/2015.

 

‘’Taking home this award is means a lot to us, it showed that the hardworking of our team has been proven in delivering our vision and mision, which is to be the leading lifestyle hotel in Indonesia ’’ Said Mr. Daniel Sunu as General Manager of ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta whom attended the awarding night of Indonesia Travel and Tourism Award 2015.

 

Aside Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel 2015/2016 from ITTA awards, ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta has been given some awards for its journey, such as Best Hotel Design Award 2014 from Style and Decor Magazine and Indonesia Leading Lifestyle Hotel 2014/2015

“THIS WORLD IS BUT A CANVAS TO OUR IMAGINATION”

 

About ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta

 

ARTOTEL is a play on the words “ART” and “Hotel”. “ART” refers to the contemporary art- inspired design of the lobby, public areas and hotel rooms. These designs are created by local artists as part of ARTOTEL’s efforts to directly support and promote Indonesian contemporary art.

ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta has 107 Studios (rooms), 1 Restaurant & Bar under the brand ROCA (Restaurant of Contemporary ART), 2 meeting rooms with capacity for 10 – 200 pax, Rotation Art Space, and BART.

 

About ARTOTEL Indonesia

 

ARTOTEL Indonesia is a Hotel Management Company that focuses on hotels with ART inspired DESIGN, led by business professionals with has experience in property, hotel industry, as well as design & branding. ARTOTEL Indonesia currently has 2 (two) properties in operation since 2012, namely ARTOTEL Surabaya and ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta. Going forward, ARTOTEL Indonesia will expand to other cities such as ARTOTEL Sanur – Bali (by February, 2016), ARTOTEL Beach Club – Bali (2016), ARTOTEL Bandung (2017), ARTOTEL Semarang (2017).

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