New Zealand’s Enchanting Spring

Indonesian visitors have an even greater reason to visit New Zealand this year with the launch of the first ever partnership between Tourism New Zealand, Auckland Airport and Garuda Indonesia, offering special fares for travellers to embrace the enchanting spring experience which will start from September through November. Starting from IDR 14,500,000 return, the special fares to three cities in New Zealand will be on sale for three weeks from 31 August to 20 September 2016, and can be booked via website garuda-indonesia.com, contact centre +62 804 1 807 807, or Garuda Indonesia sales and ticketing offices.

Indonesian arrivals to New Zealand are steadily rising with a total number of 18,240 arrivals in July 2016, a 10% increase compared to July 2015. Holiday arrival growth has increased more significantly -up by 14% compared to the same period last year.

Steven Dixon, Regional Manager for South & South East Asia of Tourism New Zealand encourages Indonesians to discover New Zealand during the spring season: “We’ve seen excellent growth in Indonesian visitor arrivals and we’re pleased to be able to partner with Garuda Indonesia and Auckland Airport in realizing the dream of many Indonesians to visit New Zealand.”

“Spring is a splendid time to visit New Zealand. Our flora and forests are at their best with flowers in full bloom, and the days get warmer and longer with plenty of clear, settled days for exploring the outdoors.”

Benny S. Butarbutar, VP Corporate Communications of Garuda Indonesia agrees this partnership with Tourism New Zealand will provide an excellent opportunity for Indonesian travellers to explore New Zealand with the 5-Star airline.

“New Zealand has very strong appeal to our customers in Indonesia and we are pleased to be able to offer great fares and seamless connections from Jakarta via Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth to make accessing popular holiday destinations in the country even easier.

“Garuda Indonesia has been dubbed ‘The World’s Best Cabin Crew’ for three consecutive years since 2014 and ‘The Most Loved Airline in the World 2016’ by SkyTrax, an honour we are extremely proud of. We look forward to welcoming our prestigious customers on board to experience our new fleet, Inflight entertainment and connectivity, high-quality cuisine and the exemplary ‘Garuda Indonesia Experience’ service from our award-winning cabin crew.”

Garuda Indonesia has daily flight from Jakarta to New Zealand with varied connecting points; in cooperation with Air New Zealand, Qantas, and soon with LATAM to Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington.

The special airfare of IDR 14,500,000 from Jakarta to Auckland is available for booking start from 31 August until 20 September 2016 for travel period valid until 31 October 2016. For a unique spring experience, Tourism New Zealand has been compiled a list of recommended places to enjoy the season at its best.

Visit Middle-Earth in Waikato

Just south of Auckland lies the Hamilton-Waikato region; a land of lush pastures that was chosen to play The Shire in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. If you’re a Tolkien fan, drive east to Matamata and visit Hobbiton Movie Set, the amazing Hobbit-sized village created for the movies. For a magical underground experience, venture to Waitomo Caves, where the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites lit by the blue light of glow worms will take your breath away.

Treasure landscape, lifestyle in Waiheke Island

Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. In landscape, lifestyle and experience, Waiheke is a world away. Come for a visit and one will find beautiful galleries and craft boutiques in this homeland of artists. There are plenty of places to enjoy a good coffee or a taste of New Zealand's fresh Pacific Rim cuisine. The island also boasts more than a dozen high-qualityvineyards, many with relaxed restaurants onsite. Enjoy local wine while looking out over vine-covered valleys to the blue sea beyond. The white sandy beaches at Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi slope gently down into the Hauraki Gulf. They are perfect for swimming, kayaking, strolling along or having a picnic in the sun.

Shopping and Urban Culinary in Queen Street and K’Road

From luxe to bargain finds, and the best souvenir shops in town, Queen Street tops the list of shopoholics. Souvenir shops are concentrated towards the harbour end of the street or tucked away in arcades. Top international luxury labels are housed in its lower, harbour-end and on Customs St (just off it). All along Queen Street, Cobbled laneways take visitors to some of the city’s best fashion and lifestyle boutique stores. They are also home to flavour-filled cafes and restaurants. While in Karangahape Road or also known as K’Road, every shop, café and restaurant is different, but there’s a strong sense of community in this area, a favourite gathering place for artists, students, musicians and writers. High fashion sits comfortably next to retro, vintage and street-wear stores. Unique design shops offer everything from imported handmade jewellery to locally-made home furnishings, and music stores sell enviable vinyl collections and instruments.

To book your Spring Adventure, visit newzealand.com

Etihad Airways Launches Global Sale with up to 50 per cent off 45 Popular Destinations

Etihad Airways has kicked off its annual global sales campaign with great value Business and Economy Class fares to popular destinations worldwide.

Until 5 September 2016, the airline is offering 50 per cent off airfares to 45 cities in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas for travel until June 2017.

Many destinations served by airlines in the Etihad Airways Partners group – airberlin, Alitalia, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Etihad Regional, Jet Airways and NIKI – are included in the sale. With a combined network of over 400 destinations across six continents, the partner airlines offer travelers even greater choice.

Members of the airline’s loyalty program, Etihad Guest, will earn miles on all sale fares.

Daniel Barranger, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Etihad Airways, said: “We have continued to expand our global network this year and add further aircraft to the fleet, ensuring we have a high quality product throughout our aircraft and available to the millions of guests who choose to fly with us each year. By including our partner airlines in our new offer, we are providing access to a larger list of destinations and a combined fleet of over 700 aircraft, ensuring we can meet every guest’s personal requirements.”

For the comfort and enjoyment of its guests, Etihad Airways continues to invest in innovative products and services inflight and on the ground.

These include the Flying Nanny, to assist parents with young children; the Economy Smart Seat with its unique fixed wing headrest; and Food and Beverage Managers in Business Class to offer expert food and wine matching advice.

On the ground, the airline has opened new Premium Lounges in Melbourne, New York and Los Angeles and a flagship First Class Lounge and Spa opened its doors in Abu Dhabi in May.

Global Sale offers from Indonesia

Destinations

(from JKT)       Economy Class Return (IDR)           Business Class Return (IDR)

Amsterdam        11,489,000                                     34,297,000

Abu Dhabi          12,870,000                                     31,832,000

Frankfurt             8,659,000                                     43,966,000

Geneva                9,834,000                                     31,574,000

London              10,481,000                                      37,809,000

Manchester        10,165,000                                      33,032,000

Milan                   9,127,000                                      34,368,000

New York           13,359,000                                      56,948,000

Paris                  11,055,000                                      39,410,000

Rome                 11,074,000                                      50,587,000

Business Class

About Etihad Aviation Group

Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) is a diversified global aviation and travel group comprising four business divisions – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Engineering, Hala Group and Airline Equity Partners. The group has minority investments in seven airlines: airberlin, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Alitalia, Jet Airways, Virgin Australia, and Swiss-based Darwin Airline, trading as Etihad Regional.

From its Abu Dhabi base, Etihad Airways flies to, or has announced plans to serve, 117 passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. The airline has a fleet of 122Airbus and Boeing aircraft, with 204 aircraft on firm order, including 71 Boeing 787s, 25Boeing 777Xs, 62 Airbus A350s and 10 Airbus A380s. For more information, please visit: www.etihad.com

G Hotel Gurney in Penang Unveils a New Facelift

168A Persiaran Gurney, 10250 Penang, Malaysia

Exterior

G Hotel Gurney has recently completed a RM35 million makeover unveiling a complete modern and fresh new look with chic lobby, contemporary rooms, latest amenities, trendy food and beverage outlets and sophisticated meeting rooms. The 312 room designer hotel further stamps its mark as the market leader, being an icon along the busy Gurney drive enclave, located in the shopping paradise in between two renowned shopping malls, Gurney Plaza and Gurney Paragon, and right next to the famous Gurney drive hawker eateries.

“Our convenient location is the perfect point of departure for discovering Penang’s numerous tourist attractions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and beaches.” says Mr Michael Hanratty, General Manager of G Hotel Gurney. “We look forward to welcoming corporate and leisure guests to the hotel so they may experience the new level of comfort and sophistication. The hotel is the ideal choice for travelers who enjoy top notch hospitality in a modern, stylish and contemporary settings.”

Taste Cafe

The famous award winning glass lobby has been furnished with Italian designer furniture such as Minotti and Porada while rooms feature United Kingdom’s Camerich lifestyle furnishings, Serta mattresses, 300 thread count linens, Herman Miller designer work chairs, 55 inch smart HD LED TVs, eco-friendly Appelles toiletries, free non-alcoholic minibar, 150Mbps free high speed WIFI in all rooms and throughout the hotel. 

TreeBar

The hotel also added an additional five function rooms named Conference I – V with natural daylight and Herman Miller designer work chairs, bringing a total of 9 meeting rooms with 2 ballrooms which are fully equipped with Bose sound systems, the largest LED screens in Penang, refined linens and unique mood lightings.  The ballrooms and the outdoor pool are the perfect venues for wedding couples to enhance their wedding events with new wedding packages and award winning hand painted show plates by Lin Hairong, to name a few.

Conference

The hotel’s restaurants and bars have also been revamped and reintroduced to guest. Taste, offering the freshest ingredients all day long with the first ever Lava Stone barbeque grill imported from Indonesia is a must try. Tree Bar the favourite amongst the happy hour goers, is the largest alfresco bar in Penang which sits perfectly under an 80-year-old ‘Albizia Saman’ rain tree. Alternatively, the pool bar has been enhanced with new comfortable lounge chairs, large umbrellas, retractable roof and full blooming frangipani trees with green surroundings, perfect for a great suntan with a large infinity pool for a relaxing dip.

Executive lounge comfort gives the affluent travelers a place to relax and be pampered. Available too are a state-of-the-art 24 hour gymnasium, G Cycle to pedal for sightseeing, spa and hair salon for all guest enjoyment. A cross usage and signing facilities are available to the sister hotel, G Hotel Kelawai, a buggy ride away which opens up another world of luxury with a rooftop swimming pool, three more food and beverages outlets, a fully equipped business center and another 24 hour gymnasium.

Duplex Bedroom

Penang has earned a reputation from Lonely Planet as Top 10 cities for Best in Travel 2016, Best Street Food by TIME Magazine, Top Ten Best Budget Travel Destinations 2016 by Forbes and 16 must-see destinations by Los Angeles Times. These coupled with a convenient location, 30 minutes’ drive to the Penang international airport and Penang Bridge makes G Hotel Gurney the ideal choice.

From simple gestures of a welcome ice cream to world class hospitality, G Hotel Gurney denotes a  5 star experience so chic, classy but yet inviting. With over 80 accolades, the hotel offers a calming retreat within an urban sprawl; be it for work or play. G Hotel Gurney prides itself on anticipating your every need with undivided attention. Only at the G Hotel, the place where modern and “experiences stylishly” lies within.

For  further details, visit www.ghotel.com.my or contact the hotel directly at +604 238 0000.

Swimming Pool

About G Hotel

Ultra chic and unmistakably stylish, G Hotel Gurney emerges as an urban icon in the hustling, busy Gurney Drive of Penang and boasts 312 tastefully designed rooms that offer you the best in quality during your stay. G Hotel Kelawai, on the other hand is where iconic design & cutting edge lifestyle set the stage for exclusive & extraordinary experiences. With 208 rooms, G Hotel Kelawai is uniquely inspired by innovative design to create energizing space for guest to play or work by day or mix & mingle by night.

Both hotels are located in a prominent location next to upscale shopping malls and renowned hawker eateries with UNESCO world heritage sites and beaches nearby. Enjoy complimentary internet broadband and Wi-Fi, non-alcoholic minibar, state-of-the-art gym and infinity pool usage while exploring Penang with our G Cycle. Cross usage & signing facilities are available between G Hotel Gurney & G Hotel Kelawai.

Westin Hotels & Resorts Debuts in Jakarta

Set to be the Highest Hotel in Indonesia with the Sky Lobby Situated on the 52nd Floor, The Westin Jakarta will bring the Brand’s Inspiring Well-Being Initiatives to the Country’s Capital

Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) announced the opening of The Westin Jakarta, marking the first Westin hotel in Jakarta August 26, 2016. Owned by PT Wahana Nusantara a part of Gama Corporation, the opening of the hotel is set to bring the Westin brand’s inspired and innovative wellness initiatives to the capital city of Indonesia.

“We are thrilled to debut the Westin brand to Indonesia’s capital,” said Vincent Ong, Senior Director, Brand Management, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Asia Pacific. “With the brand’s focus on the bringing the pillars of well-being to life and commitment to ensure our guests leave feeling than they first arrive, we are confident the opening of the hotel will resonate strongly with the local Jakarta community and guests visiting from around the world.”

Slated to be the highest hotel in Indonesia, The Westin Jakarta occupies floors 50 to 69 of the mixed- used Gama Tower, boasting 272 well-appointed guestrooms and suites with uninterrupted views of the city. Designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), one of the world’s leading hospitality interior design firms, the hotel’s interior design was inspired by natural, organic forms and textures that interpret the landscape and are translated throughout the hotel through dynamic patterns and materials. Illustrated through the chandeliers and artwork, the hotel’s contemporary design features contextual elements, including traditional Indonesian motifs and Ikat patterns in the metal screens.

“The Westin Jakarta will provide a restorative retreat in the heart of the bustling city with genuine service complemented with the Westin signature well-being offerings that will fuel and energize our guests’ every move,” Arun Kumar, General Manager, The Westin Jakarta, adds.

To amplify the guest experience, four unique dining venues serve a variety of culinary options alongside the brand’s nutrient-rich and delicious SuperFoodsRxTM menus. Seasonal Tastes, the all- day dining restaurant, presents buffet and a la carte options featuring local and international cuisine with 7 live cooking stations. Guests can also enjoy nutritious treats and a gourmet cup of coffee on the go Daily Treats. Set to be a game-changer for Jakarta dining scene is Henshin, perched on the top three floors of the building, the restaurant features Nikkei Cuisine with Japanese-Peruvian Flavors prepared by a specialty chef as well as a rooftop alfresco bar featuring Crafted at Westin TM program, the brand’s signature beverage program that features a fresh selection of expertly mixed cocktails infused with natural ingredients and local flavors.

 

With the brand’s mission to be a partner in their guests’ well-being, The Westin Jakarta features an idyllic spa as well as a Westin WORKOUT® fitness studio boasting state-of-the-art exercise equipment from world-class brands in an open, airy and well-designed space. The hotel will also offer Westin’s Gear Lending program in partnership with New Balance®, allowing guests to pack light and stay fit with New Balance shoes and clothing for guests to use during their stay.

The Westin Jakarta also features a banquet area perched on the top few levels of the hotel with a 200 guest capacity with breathtaking 360 degree sweeping views of Jakarta city. For events and weddings, the hotel offers 3,000 square meters of function rooms including the Java Ballroom on the Ground floor with a maximum capacity 1,500 guests.

For more information, please visit www.westin.com/jakarta.

About Westin Hotels & Resorts

Westin Hotels & Resorts, a leader in wellness and hospitality for more than a decade, lives its philosophy “For a Better You TM” through the Westin Well-being Movement’s six pillars: Feel Well, Work Well, Move Well, Eat Well, Sleep Well and Play Well. At more than 200 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories, guests can experience offerings that include the iconic Heavenly® Bed, Run WESTIN TM and Westin Gear Lending with New Balance®, delicious and nutritious Super Foods Rx TM, the innovative work space Tangent, Westin Weekend signature experiences, and Heavenly Bath and Heavenly Spa. Westin is proud to offer Starwood Preferred Guest®, the industry’s leading loyalty program. To learn more, visit starwoodhotels.com/westin.

The Westin Jakarta is situated strategically in Kuningan central business district, 45 minutes by car from the International Soekarno-Hatta Airport, an ideal location for business travelers. Guest can enjoy nearby shopping malls as well as the Jakarta iconic National Monument as a destination for tourists.

Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort Hosts Seminyak’s First Charity Fun Run

Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort is proud to host Seminyak’s first charity run event on 29 October 2016 – the 2016 “Sunset Run”.

The 3 kilometre route comprises relays along Seminyak Beach, refreshing runners with an ocean breeze and the sight of rolling waves. All proceeds raised will be donated to two non-profit organisations in Bali, the Suryani Institute for Mental Illness which is dedicated to improving the mental health system in Bali, and Yayasan Senyum Bali which helps people with craniofacial disabilities.

The 2016 Sunset Run is proudly sponsored by Minor Hotels, PER AQUUM Niyama, Banana Island Resort, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Anantara The Palm Dubai, Anantara Hoi An Resort, AVANI Quy Nhon, Tijili Seminyak, Celebrity Fitness, Coca Cola Amatil, Our Daily Dose, Siloam Hospital, Larasati Printing, Mandiri Bank, Mix Media, CityMagz, The Traveler, What’s Up Bali, Cosmopolitan, Fitness For Men, Indonesia Expat, Hello Bali, Hard Rock Radio Bali, Oz Radio Bali, Bali Advertiser, Bali & Beyond, I News TV, Tribun Bali, What’s New Bali, What’s New Jakarta, Bali Inspirasi and NOW! Bali.

Raffle prizes include luxury stays at Per AQUUM Maldives and Anantara resorts in South Asia Pacific, worth more than US$ 8,000.

It can be purchased at Yayasan Senyum Bali shops in Ubud, Oz Radio’s Bali office, ‘Our Daily Dose’ store in Seminyak Village and at Anantara Seminyak.

A special ‘Island Sunset Run’ suite package is also available at Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort for a luxury two night stay from 28 - 30 October 2016, including entrance to the 2016 Sunset Run for two persons, daily breakfast for two persons, return airport transfers and a relaxing 60-minute Anantara Signature Massage.

“The team at Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort looks forward to welcoming resort guests, tourists and locals who wish to join the 2016 Sunset Run. As the first ever charity fun run in Seminyak, we hope that the event will be a major success in raising awareness for people in need, as part of our ongoing commitment to improve the quality of our surrounding community’s life,” said Terence T. Lee, General Manager of Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort.

For more information, please call + 62 361737773, email: bali@anantara.com or visit bali.anantara.com.

Introducing InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza New Executive Chef Jocelyn Argaud

InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza is delighted to announce the recent appointment of Jocelyn Argaud as Executive Chef. He has come to Indonesia’s busy capital following several years as Executive Sous Chef at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan.

Passionate about food from an early age, Chef Jocelyn grew up watching his mother cook at home in his native Lyon, France. Upon leaving school, he started as a kitchen apprentice in a local restaurant and worked his way up through the culinary hierarchy.

Beetroot Gazpacho

During the formative years of his career, Chef Jocelyn had the privilege of working at several Michelin star-rated restaurants in Paris where he developed essential skills under the guidance of experts. His first overseas position was as a Sous Chef for a French restaurant in California, USA, marking the first of many exotic work destinations.

Tomato Tart

Chef Jocelyn relocated to St. Petersburg, Russia in 2006 to join an exclusive French restaurant that was famous for hosting VIP events. There he took on the position as Executive Sous Chef during the G8 Summit to cook for world leaders and high-ranking government dignitaries.

Main Course - Chicken

Another defining culinary role for Chef Jocelyn was working for the Royal Palace of Qatar. He was responsible for a team of 18 chefs in a French kitchen and handled prestigious celebrations, including a royal wedding. Chef Jocelyn later returned to the five-star hotel industry and joined Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 2011 with a two year stint in the Maldives.

Strawberry Shortcake

Chef Jocelyn has a solid background in classic French cuisine, but he is also well-versed in many different cooking styles. He takes inspiration from each place that he visits and likes the whole creative process of perfecting new dishes.

Now at InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza, Chef Jocelyn has taken charge of culinary services at the hotel. He will draw on his years of experience and meticulous eye for detail to review menus and bring a new lease of life to the hotel’s dining venues. He plans to introduce an exciting food concept that focuses on utilizing local produce and harnessing the talent around him.

The Jakarta Food Bloggers

In his spare time, Chef Jocelyn enjoys touring and watching rugby. A big fan of Asian cuisine, he is looking forward to immersing himself into Jakarta’s vibrant dining scene. He also hopes to explore areas beyond the city and sample traditional street food. “We are delighted to have Chef Jocelyn on board, especially as we are about to relaunch our renovated Grand Ballroom with an exciting new culinary concept. His energy and expertise in the kitchen is just what we need to take the hotel to the next level,” comments Hendrik Eising, General Manager of InterContinental Jakarta MidPlaza.

Wisatawan Millennial dan Munculnya ‘Travelling Class’

Mereka menghabiskan lebih banyak dan melakukan perjalanan ke tempat yang lebih jauh. Sekarang tidak hanya ada satu jenis wisatawan Indonesia – demokratisasi wisatawan internasional di Indonesia mengartikan bahwa merek-merek yang menargetkan wisatawan Indonesia harus cerdas dalam mengetahui jenis-jenis wisatawan yang ingin mereka targetkan, dan berpikir keras mengenai cara terbaik untuk melakukannya.

Indonesia merupakan negara ke-4 di dunia yang paling padat penduduknya, dan merupakan negara ekonomi terbesar di Asia Tenggara, berada di peringkat 10 pada peringkat dunia. Negara ini memiliki rata- rata pertumbuhan ekonomi lebih dari 5 persen dalam dekade terakhir. Jumlah rumah tangga di Indonesia yang menghasilkan 5.000 sampai 15.000 dolar Amerika dalam pendapatan disposabel tahunan diperkirakan akan bertambah dari 36 persen menjadi lebih dari 58 persen dari total populasi pada tahun 2020.

Menurut Visa Global Travel Intention Survey 2015, perjalanan wisata ke luar negeri dari Indonesia meningkat sebesar 33 persen dan rata-rata anggaran perjalanan bagi wisatawan Indonesia meningkat sebesar 30 persen dari tahun 2013-2015. Pengeluaran untuk wisata meningkat dari 28,9 miliar dolar Amerika pada tahun 2010 menjadi 37,7 milyar dolar Amerika pada tahun 2014 (www.wttc.org), hal ini mencerminkan peningkatan kekayaan rata-rata masyarakat Indonesia secara keseluruhan.

Dengan semakin banyaknya wisatawan Indonesia yang ke luar negeri, terutama generasi muda, mengungkapkan pilihan mereka mencari pengalaman wisata yang unik, baru, otentik dan personal yaitu untuk membuat mereka berbeda dengan rekan-rekannya. Wistawan yang lahir tahun 80 dan 90an, atau biasa disebut wisatawan Millenilal ,mencari pengalaman yang lebih baru, termasuk wisata petualangan, eksplorasi ke kutub, dan perjalanan darat (road trips).

Berdasarkan data Singapore Tourism Board baru-baru ini, wisatawan Millennial Indonesia cenderung mengambil liburan secara mendadak (31 persen banding 19 persen untuk rata-rata wisatawan Millennial Asia).

Pilihan hotel merupakan faktor utama lainnya dalam membuat keputusan, dan wisatawan Indonesia mengharapkan tingkat kenyamanan penginapan yang setara dengan di rumah. Kondisi ruangan merupakan faktor utama, diikuti dengan pelayanan hotel, lokasi hotel, fasilitas berteknologi canggih, serta desain dan gaya hotel.

Toma Cafe, Madrid, Spain

Untuk hotel-hotel yang menargetkan wisatawan Indonesia, sangat penting untuk memahami berbagai jenis wisatawan Indonesia dan jenis wisatawan mana yang tepat dan sesuai dengan merek hotel dan proposisinya.

Bernardo Cabot Estarellas, Senior Vice President Meliá Hotels International untuk Asia Pasifik, meyakini bahwa semua penawaran produk dan pelayanan hotel harus berdasarkan pada pemahaman yang jelas mengenai perubahan harapan dan keinginan wisatawan masa kini, ia mengatakan, “Wisatawan masa kini berasal dari kelompok demografis yang berbeda-beda (Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, Millennial, Gen Z) dan juga segmen psikografis yang berbeda-beda. Ini berarti semakin tersegmentasi penawaran hotel, dan semakin banyak profil pelanggan yang dilayani, maka akan semakin baik.”

The Center for Hospitality Research (Pusat Penelitian Perhotelan) di Cornell University menemukan bahwa tamu yang merasa puas akan menghabiskan pendapatan tambahannya sebanyak 50% lebih banyak dari daripada mereka yang merasa hanya puas saja, dan menghabiskan 75% lebih banyak dibanding tamu yang merasa tidak puas. Selain itu, mereka yang memiliki pengalaman berkesan cenderung mengunjungi hotel yang sama berulang kali.

Mr. Cabot menambahkan bahwa ini adalah mengenai merek untuk segmen yang tepat. “Untuk masing- masing segmen demografis dan psikografis ini, Meliá Hotels International memiliki merek yang sesuai dengan pengalaman yang mereka cari. Berkat strategi merek kami, hotel kami tidak hanya berbeda dengan yang lainnya, tetapi juga melayani profil pelanggan yang berbeda-beda. Dengan demikian, kami mendapatkan loyalitas dari para pelanggan kami. Dan memenuhi harapan dari para tamu adalah hal yang paling penting.”

Valencia, Spain

 Peningkatan Konektivitas

Globalisasi dan teknologi menghilangkan jarak, dan rute perjalanan pun digambar kembali. Rute dan destinasi baru akan terus membuat perjalanan internasional menjadi lebih mudah dan lebih nyaman bagi para pelancong baru. Lebih dari itu, moda transportasi yang semakin canggih, pilihan akomodasi yang beragam, destinasi wisata yang tidak biasa, kecilnya biaya, dan pilihan wisata lainnya menyebar melalui akses internet yang cepat dan banyakanya perangkat mobile di seluruh dunia. Dengan perubahan preferensi ini, para wisatawan Millennial dapat mengakses dan berbagi pengalaman dengan lebih mudah.

Church, Valencia, Spain

Wisatawan Millennial Indonesia contohnya, mereka sering terpengaruh oleh pengalaman orang lain, dan ini terjadi di seluruh secara jaringan sosial offline dan online, begitu juga forum-forum online dan situs-situs review. Sebuah studi yang dilakukan oleh AS Commercial Service (USCS) menemukan bahwa generasi muda Indonesia terhubung dengan baik melalui media sosial – Indonesia merupakan negara dengan pengguna facebook terbesar ke-4 dan Jakarta baru saja melampaui Tokyo sebagai kota nomor satu pengguna Twitter.

Menurut hasil studi Singapore Tourism Board, wisatawan Millennial Indonesia mengandalkan informasi dari mulut ke mulut mengenai tujuan wisata mereka, dan wisatawan ini berbagi pengalaman wisatanya pada media sosial mereka.

Untuk merangkul wisatawan Millennial Indonesia, Meliá Hotels International secara aktif terlibat di Facebook, di mana Meliá Hotels International secara khusus menargetkan wisatawan Indonesia. Melalui platform media sosial ini, masyarakat Indonesia dapat berbagi pengalaman yang mereka dapatkan di hotel- hotel yang dikelola Meliá Hotels International di seluruh dunia, menciptakan buzz dan antusiasme untuk properti-propeti mewah ini. Hingga hari ini di tahun 2016 ini, Facebook Meliá Hotels International telah menghasilkan lebih dari lebih dari 8 juta views dan melibatkan lebih dari 1 juta konsumen di Indonesia, tentu saja hal ini meningkatkan brand awareness perusahaan secara efektif di negara ini.

Pada tahun 2016, Meliá Hotels International merayakan hari jadinya yang ke-60. Dalam enam dekade ini, perusahaan hotel asal Spanyol ini telah tumbuh dari perusahaan kecil hingga menjadi perusahaan multinasional dengan hampir 100.000 kamar di 43 negara – karena Meliá Hotels International memahami berbagai jenis wisatawan dan pergeseran industri. Dengan memberikan pengalaman tak terlupakan kepada setiap tamu yang tidak dapat mereka temukan di tempat lain, para tamu Meliá Hotels International – khususnya generasi Millennial – telah menjadi brand ambassador bagi Meliá Hotels International.

Panduan Makanan Halal Terbaru dari Tourism New Zealand

Tourism New Zealand memperkenalkan panduan wisata kuliner terbaru yang disiapkan untuk  memenuhi kebutuhan wisatawan Muslim Indonesia selama mereka berkunjung ke Selandia Baru

Panduan yang dikembangkan dengan dukungan Direktorat Muslim Kiwi dan Federasi Asosiasi Islam Selandia Baru (FIANZ) ini, menyediakan informasi pariwisata secara umum, dilengkapi daftar restoran dan kafe dengan sertifikasi hala, juga berbagai restoran yang menawarkan hidangan vegetarian atau masakan vegan.

Manager Regional Asia Tenggara dan Asia Selatan, Tourism New Zealand, Steven Dixon, mengatakan, “Panduan ini ditujukan untuk memberikan pengalaman yang berkesan kapada wisatawan Muslim saat berkunjung ke Selandia Baru sekaligus memastikan mereka akan memperoleh pengalaman terbaik dalam menikmati kuliner berkualitas tinggi yang ada di negara ini.

“Pilihan makanan Selandia Baru tidak hanya sebatas fish and chips dan barbeque – para ahli kuliner kami telah mengembangkan berbagai sajian khas Pacific Rim yang istimewa. Kami menyadari pentingnya kemudahan akses informasi tentang pilihan bersantap yang dapat dinikmati oleh wisatawan Muslim dan panduan ini menunjukkan komitmen kami untuk lebih meningkatkan posisi Selandia Baru sebagai tujuan wisata yang ramah bagi wisatawan Muslim.”

“Kami berterima kasih atas dukungan dan bimbingan yang kami terima dari FIANZ dan juga Direktorat Muslim Kiwi. Mereka telah membantu kami untuk menyediakan daftar lengkap mengenai tempat-tempat bersertifikat halal yang kami yakin akan berguna bagi para pengunjung Muslim."

Hazim Arafeh, Ketua dari Federasi Asosiasi Islam Selandia Baru, mengatakan bahwa organisasinya sangat senang bisa berkolaborasi dengan Tourism New Zealand dan Direktorat Muslim Kiwi dalam menghasilkan panduan yang bermanfaat bagi wistawan Muslim. “Panduan Makanan Halal lebih memberikan kepastian kepada wisatawan Muslim dan akan menjadi sumber tepercaya bagi wisatawan dan pebisnis Muslim yang berkunjung ke Selandia Baru.”

Panduan Makanan Halal Tourism New Zealand, kunjungi dan dapat diunduh di SINI.

Paket Kemerdekaan Allium Tangerang Hotel

Nasi Lemang

17 Agustus merupakan momen yang paling bersejarah bagi Indonesia di mana serangkaian acara diselenggarakan oleh warga Indonesia untuk memeriahkan Kemerdekaan RI mulai dari upacara kemerdekaan, dekorasi merah putih hingga aneka perlombaan yang menarik dan acara meriah lainnya.

Begitu pula dengan Allium Tangerang Hotel turut serta memperingati HUT RI yang ke-71. Dengan tema “Tribute to the Heroes”, Allium Tangerang Hotel menawarkan promo kamar tipe Deluxe dengan harga Rp 710.000 net/malam sudah termasuk sarapan prasmanan, menu pilihan makan siang atau makan malam untuk 2 (dua) orang, WiFi dan antar jemput bandara.

Nasi Bakar Ayam

Nenden Lintang Sari, Marketing Communications, “Kami juga memiliki Paket Traditional A La Carte. Cukup mengeluarkan Rp 71.000 net/orang, pengunjung Paris-Lyon Café sudah bisa menikmati makanan resto hotel bintang 4 dengan 3 paket menu pilihan yaitu nasi bakar ayam, nasi bakar jamur dan nasi lemang”

Promo cooking class for moms & kids dengan harga Rp 170.000 net/pasangan ibu & anak juga merupakan tawaran yang menarik bagi pengungjung hotel.

Nasi Bakar Jamur

Hotel Allium Tangerang, produkUpscale Hotel Collection pertama dari Samali Hotels & Resorts. Struktur bangunan yang miring merupakan salah satu karakteristik dari Hotel Allium Tangerang, dan juga menjadi salah satu bangunan yang unik di kota Tangerang. Memilikikamar dan suite yang dirancang dengan mengadopsi tema industrial yang berada disekitar hotel. Hasilnya adalah campuran dari akomodasi gaya urban dengan sentuhan kehangatan dan pelayanan yang ramah dengan desain modern dan dilengkapi dengan fasilitas yang lengkap. Paris-Lyon Café terletak di area lobi hotel.

Allium Tangerang Hotel

Jalan Benteng Betawi No. 88, Tangerang 15148

T +62 21 2920 5555, F +62 21 2920 3333
alliumtangerang.samalihotels.com

#BebasMerdekaDiBestWestern

Ikut memeriahkan perayaan Hari Ulang Tahun (HUT) Kemerdekaan Republik Indonesia ke-71, Best Western hotel di seluruh Indonesia berkreasi dengan paket menu ‘Merah Putih’ seharga Rp 71 ribu dan menyelenggarakan kontes menulis yang bertemakan #BebasMerdekaDiBestWestern.

Upacara memperingati kemerdekaan juga akan dilaksanakan di Best Western hotel pada 17 Agustus 2016 sebagai bentuk penghormatan atas jasa-jasa para pejuang kemerdekaan. Best Western hotel juga akan memeriahkan perayaan ini dengan lomba-lomba yang diikuti oleh karyawan hotel serta bagi tamu yang mau ikut berpartisipasi.

Menu paket ‘Merah Putih’ dikreasikan secara berbeda oleh masing-masing chef hotel. Beragam variasi paket menu Rp 71 ribu dapat ditemukan di hotel Best Western di Indonesia selama bulan Agustus 2016. Untuk anggota Best Western Rewards, paket menu ‘Merah Putih’ ini diberikan secara gratis bagi mereka yang menginap di Best Western hotel di bulan Agustus.

Ikuti juga dan menangkan hadiah dari Best Western hotel, dengan cara mengabadikan momen bebas merdeka di Best Western hotel dan upload di sosial media Instagram dengan hastag ‪#‎BebasMerdekaDiBestWestern. Lalu ceritakan serta kirimkan pengalaman selama menginap di Best Western Hotel. Periode kontes menulis ini berlangsung selama bulan Agustus 2016 dan pemenang akan diumumkan di sosial media Best Western Indonesia pada tanggal 1 September 2016.

Pemenang kontes menulis ‪#‎BebasMerdekaDiBestWestern berhak atas voucher menginap di 2 hotel Best Western di Indonesia dan hasil tulisan akan dipublikasikan di blog.bestwesternindonesia.com. Untuk hasil tulisan yang terpilih juga akan mendapat kesempatan dipublikasikan di blog milik Best Western hotel tersebut.

Tentang Best Western Hotels & Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts yang berkantor pusat di Phoenix, Arizona, merupakan suatu brand hotel swasta dengan jaringan global yang terdiri lebih dari 4.100 hotel independen dioperasikan di lebih dari 100 negara dan teritori di seluruh dunia. Kami menawarkan tujuh produk hotel yang disesuaikan dengan kebutuhan developer dan tamu di setiap market.

Indonesia Culinary Journey - Flavors of the Archipelago

Exquisite Culinary Collaboration of Seven Marriott’s Hotels in Indonesia Celebrating RI 71st Independence Day

Yuyu Palem Telenggis Mepes

Welcoming Indonesia’s 71st Independence Day, Marriott International proudly presents the first ever Indonesia Culinary Journey - Flavors of the Archipelago. From 15 August - 6 September 2016, Chefs from JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta, The Mayflower, Jakarta - Marriott Executive Apartments, JW Marriott Hotel Medan, JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya, Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak, Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Nusa Dua, The Stones, Legian, Bali – A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel, will join forces and bring a special gastronomic collaboration to celebrate the country’s culinary heritage. One chef from each hotel will visit all seven hotels to feature all seven dishes in the restaurants for guests to enjoy.

“As one of the biggest international hotel chain in Indonesia and with such numbers of hotels across the country, we would like to dedicate an event to celebrate the Indonesia 71st Independence Day. An event to promote Indonesia through its rich culinary highlighting the local talents Marriott hotels has in Indonesia,” said Karan Berry, General Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta.

Gulai Daging Masak Tempoyak

Inspired by the true concept of a classic seven course, each hotel will prepare one course of this grand menu to represent their hotel during the promotion. At the preliminary stage to this enticing roadshow, internal competitions were held at each hotel in search of the most authentic and unique Indonesian dish. The seven chefs along with the winning dishes will then join the culinary journey to represent their hotels across Indonesia. 

Just in time to mark the Indonesia’s 71st anniversary of independence, the roadshow is launched at JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta on Monday, August 15, by the Minister of Tourism Bapak Arief Yahya, along with the General Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta, Mr. Karan Berry and Vice President Corporate Communications of Citilink Indonesia, Bapak Benny S. Butarbutar. The event begins with singing the national anthem Indonesia Raya and continued with traditional West Sulawesi dance performance, tari Patuddu by Dinas Pemuda Olahraga dan Pariwisata Provinsi Sulawesi Barat. The ceremony marks the beginning of Indonesia Culinary Journey – Flavors of Archipelago, where the seventh winning chefs will serve their dishes at Sailendra Restaurant from 15-17 August 2016. With priced of IDR 400,000net per person, this offer is available for lunch and dinner. 

Chef Deni Purwanto

On August 16, 2016, to the Sailendra guests who dine and dressed with Indonesian traditional clothes such as batik or kebaya can join the Instagram contest by visiting the JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta Instagram page (@jwmarriottjkt), can get a chance to win a weekend stay and dining voucher at JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta. On August 17, 2016, JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta will be having "Spirit To Serve" initiative by inviting 10 children from Emmanuel Foundation to do some interesting activities along the Chefs.

In addition to the culinary offer, JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta Indonesia supported by SME Indonesia and Dewan Kerajinan Nasional present traditional arts and crafts bazaar, located around the hotel lobby area, from Monday-Wednesday, 15-17 August 2016, from 10.00 until 18:00 Hrs.

Rawon Iga

The culinary journey will then continue to JW Marriott Hotel Medan from August 23 – 25. Next destination will be JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya, from August 27 – 29. The final course of the journey will take place in the island of Gods starting from Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak from August 30 – 31, Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Nusa Dua from September 2 – 3, and finally The Stones, Legian, Bali – A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel from September 5 – 6. 

Rawon Iga

Chosen by a group of food experts and local chefs, the seven featured dishes have been picked to showcase the true authentic flavor of Indonesia across the Marriott hotels in the country. The featured salad dish is Spicy Gado-Gado Torti Roll, a special creation by Chef Andi Setiawan of The Mayflower, Jakarta – Marriott Executive Apartments. The dish is a refined transformation of one of Jakarta’s signature dishes and his grandmother’s recipe of Gado-Gado; it’s Gado-Gado in one bite. 

Chef Zulfikar Valuanda

Continuing to the soup component of the offering, diners may enjoy another classic Indonesian dish originated from East Java, Rawon Iga (Beef ribs black soup). Adding a more contemporary twist to the dishes, Chef Vaulanda of JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya will assure that these would be one of the diners’ favorite. 

Inspired by Andaliman, which is the one of the spices that represents Medan, Chef Broto of JW Marriott Hotel Medan will bring Ikan Gerapu masak arsik khas Toba (Crispy grouper fish in Toba Arsik style). The unique flavor of Andaliman mixed with traditional spices would complement the fish perfectly. The dish offers an original taste of Bataknese/North Sumatrans cuisine.

Spicy Gado-gado Tortil Roll

Inspired by his love for Durian, Chef Deni Purwanto of JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta will bring his mother’s recipe Gulai Daging Masak Tempoyak (Sweet and sour beef and fermented durian curry), a dish that he always enjoy eating as a kid. Tempoyak is a condiment made from fermented durian, commonly used in the western part of Sumatra including his mother’s hometown, Jambi. 

Ready to represent the exotic flavors of Bali, Chef I Nengah Mingguana of Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak will bring his creation of Ayam Kuah Becundang (Stewed Chicken Kampong “Rooster” Soup). This came from traditional recipe in Bali from many generations before him. Balinese people usually use chicken kampong “Rooster” meat and cook it as soup. It takes around 60 minutes to make the meat tender, juicy and ready to serve. 

Rounding up the main course component, Chef I Made Dewa Suardi Yasa of The Stones, Legian, Bali – A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel will bring his grandmother’s Yuyu Palem Telengis Mepes Nasi Oran Jagung (Mixed Steamed white rice and Sweet Corn), Lawar Kelungah (Young Coconut and Soft Shell Crab Salad), Sambal Sere Tabiya (Chili with Shrimp Paste). The dish came from his grandmother and it is very famous at Yeh Embang, one of village in Negara, West of Bali, where his grandmother used to live.

Chef Andi Setiawan

As the sweet end of the meal, Chef I.B. Oka Yudha Pratama of Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Nusa Dua will prepare Abug with Burnt Coconut Ice Puter and Caramelized Banana. Abug is one of the many traditional Indonesian cakes that originated from Karangasem regency in Bali originally made from steamed sticky “ketan” rice flour, grated coconut and sugar or sometimes palm sugar. This dish usually served with coffee or tea during friends or relatives’ visit. Chef Oka creates a modern look to the chewy-crumbly texture snack to make it popular among the younger generation.

In addition to the food promotion taking place at the hotels, the chefs will involve in various activities such as a special gathering with the local media and bloggers as well as involve in Spirit to Serve (Marriott International’s social responsibility and community engagement activity) with the local organization. “Through this roadshow, we aim to not only promote the uniqueness of the Indonesian cuisine, but also to give back and contribute to the surrounding community,” added Marie Browne, Marriott International - Area Director of Operations for Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and South Korea.

Ice Cream

Marriott is proud to partner with Citilink Indonesia as the travel partner for this exciting journey across Indonesia. "Citilink Indonesia is very proud to support the implementation of Indonesia Culinary Journey – Flavors of Archipelago in order to promote Indonesia's tourism sector," said Benny S. Butarbutar, Vice President Corporate Communications Citilink Indonesia.

The Indonesia Culinary Journey – Flavors of Archipelago is presented by Sailendra Restaurant in collaboration with Wonderful Indonesia. Media partner; Koran Jakarta, TravelText, Tempo Media Group, What’s New Jakarta, 90.4 Cosmopolitan FM and 95.1 KIS FM. Supported by Dinas Pemuda Olahraga dan Pariwisata Provinsi Sulawesi Barat, SME Indonesia, Dewan Kerajinan Nasional dan Hi+ Media.

7 Winning Chefs

For more information, please contact the following:

JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta

Telephone: +62 (21) 5798 8888

E-mail: marlene.danusutedjo@marriott.com

The Mayflower, Jakarta - Marriott Executive Apartments

Telephone: +62 (21) 5789 7888

E-mail: michael.halim@execapartments.com

JW Marriott Hotel Medan

Telephone: +62 (61) 455 3333

E-mail: herpeiriati.peri@marriott.com

JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya

Telephone: +62 (31) 545 8888

E-mail: mhrs.subjw.marcomm@marriotthotels.com

Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak

Telephone: +62 (361) 8499 600 

E-mail: tri.widiyastuti@courtyard.com

The Stones, Legian, Bali – A Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel 

Telephone: +62 (361) 300 5888

E-mail: tressabel.hutasoit@marriotthotels.com

Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Nusa Dua

Telephone: +62 (361) 300 3888

E-mail: Pong.Choi@courtyard.com