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Rediscovering Bhutan: New Perspectives on the Last Buddhist Kingdom

Burhan Abe
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Rediscovering Bhutan: New Perspectives on the Last Buddhist Kingdom

Amankora reveals the heart of Bhutan with ever rarer and more awe-inspiring cultural experiences for 2023. Well-suited to those embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Amankora continues to tell the story of the Kingdom of Bhutan through unique, culturally enriching experiences across its five intimate lodges. 

New for 2023, several experiences reveal the very best of the Kingdom’s rugged Himalayan landscapes, discovering the once forgotten ramparts of its central and western valleys. Built in 1638 on a cliff at the confluence of two rivers, the defense fortress of Wangdue Dzong has finally been restored. A key experience until 2012, when an accidental flame sustained significant damage, the magnificent Wangdue Dzong is ready to welcome visitors once again to its grounds after a decade of rebuilding and careful restoration. 

Another piece of history restored; the Trans Bhutan Trail provides Amankora with further opportunity to discover the pristine nature that surrounds. Dating back to the 16th century, the 402-kilometre-long trading and pilgrimage route was abandoned in the 1960s following the construction of Bhutan’s first major roads. 

After 60 years, the trail has been reestablished, allowing the Bhutanese to walk in the steps of their ancestors, and those staying with Amankora to follow the ancient path with curated daily hikes and multi- day experiences, paired with stays in all the five lodges. 

Thimphu – Secrets of ancient incense and the arts 

Situated in the forested Thimphu Valley, home to Bhutan’s capital city, Amankora Thimphu is a 16-suite lodge tucked into the pine-scented woods of the Motithang area. Ideally placed for exploring Thimphu’s museums, traditional shops and numerous cultural sites, it also serves as a quiet retreat, completely removed from the city’s activities. 

New this year, learn more about the ancient art of incense from artisans at Nado Poi. Using a wide selection of rare, foraged or homegrown herbs, spices and ingredients from across the Himalayas, Nado Poi’s skilled local craftspeople create blends of sacred smoke, highly sought after by monastic bodies and temples all over the world. 

Stay For Good Programme 

Burhan Abe
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Stay For Good Programme 

Banyan Tree Group is thrilled to announce the launch of its Stay For Good programme, with the aim of providing travellers with authentic and immersive experiences that encourage a deeper connection with each destination while honouring the heritage and traditions and contribute to creating more opportunities for local communities. 

This multi-brand initiative takes travellers on a journey to some of the most unique and lesser-known destinations around the world. From the thousand-year-old traditions and crafts of Kyoto, Japan, to the colonial architecture and cultural traditions of Puebla, Mexico, the myriad of highlighted experiences will contain something for everyone. 

Some highlights include: 

  • Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape – Guests will visit the nearby Singaperang Village and follow a local farmer on a tour of his land, foraging for native fruits and edible plants such as winged beans, peppercorns and cemcem leaves. They will also taste raw honey from stingless bees, and round off the experience with traditional local delicacies hand-made by the farmer’s wife. 
  • Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto – Ever since the Jomon period, over 2,000 years ago, people in Japan have been covering their homes with thatched roofs (kayabuki) made of environmentally friendly grass-based materials. Guests will tour a traditional home with a thatched roof, and try making one of these roofs by tying susuki grass together under an expert’s guidance. 
  • Banyan Tree Puebla – Guests will head to the nearby rural village of San Jerónimo Tecuanipan to visit Casita de Barro, an establishment that explores simple, sustainable living and shares traditional farming methods with the local community. 

The full programme offers a wide range of activities and experiences carefully curated by our team, including exploring the bamboo forests of Anji in China, discovering the Nyonya heritage of Penang, and learning about the minority Muslim community of Krabi in Thailand. 

Adhiyanto Goen, Head of Communications of Banyan Tree Group, said: “We believe that travel should be about more than just a vacation. It should be an opportunity to explore new perspectives, gain fresh inspiration, and immerse oneself in the culture and heritage of the places we visit. Our Stay For Good programme offers just that – an opportunity to connect with local communities and contribute to the sustenance of their precious heritage.” 

Lima Perawatan  Unggulan di Ayana Spa

Burhan Abe
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Lima Perawatan  Unggulan di Ayana Spa

Dinobatkan sebagai spa hotel terbaik di Indonesia oleh Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, Ayana Spa menawarkan pilihan perawatan khas

Dengan tim profesional kesehatan yang berdedikasi dan beragam program spa, para tamu disambut di Ayana Spa untuk memelihara dan mencapai tujuan kesehatan mereka. Berikut adalah lima perawatan yang patut dicoba di Ayana Spa:

Perawatan Ocean Dreams selama 180 menit di Spa on the Rocks

Pengalaman spa yang luar biasa terkurasi pada perawatan yang ditawarkan secara ekslusif di Spa on the Rocks, di mana vila perawatan terletak di atas bebatuan megah yang menghadap ke Samudera Hindia yang memesona. Menawarkan hanya dua vila perawatan, Spa on the Rocks menyediakan ritual kesehatan khusus yang dirancang untuk meremajakan dan menyegarkan tubuh. 

Perawatan dimulai dengan body polish yang memurnikan menggunakan lulur yang dibuat secara ahli dari perpaduan harmonis antara garam laut dan tanah liat, membuat kulit segar dan cerah. Selanjutnya, pijatan yang mendetoksifikasi dilakukan untuk memancing kemampuan tubuh untuk membersihkan dan merevitalisasi.

Perawatan selanjutnya adalah facial mewah menggunakan produk La Mer, yang meningkatkan kilau alami dan mengembalikan pancaran kulit muka. 

Ritual Pijat Nakatsuji selama 120 menit

Pijat terapeutik dari atas kepala hingga ujung kaki ini menggunakan ‘Metode Nakatsuji’ yang dikembangkan oleh ahli osteopati dan anti-penuaan terkenal Jepang, Tadashi Nakatsuji, dan eksklusif untuk Ayana Spa.

Metode ini mendorong penyembuhan seluruh tubuh dan berfungsi untuk meredakan nyeri otot dan meningkatkan drainase limfatik, sementara pijat kepala, leher, dan bahu meredakan sakit kepala dan ketegangan. Untuk melengkapi ritual holistik ini, pijat wajah menggunakan minyak lembut yang kaya akan mineral untuk menutrisi kulit.

120 menit Seven Chakra Dhara

Terinspirasi oleh tradisi kesehatan global dan dibuat oleh para ahli internasional, Ayana Spa menawarkan ritual kesehatan eksklusif dengan sentuhan keanggunan Bali. Ritual mempesona ini dimulai dengan gerimis minyak aromatik pada titik-titik chakra dan seluruh tubuh.

Menggunakan tradisi Ayurveda, perawatan mewah ini menggabungkan pijat Abhyanga, aromaterapi, batu permata, dan penyembuhan suara chakra untuk memelihara dan menenangkan pikiran, tubuh, dan jiwa secara mendalam.

Invigorate Your Senses at Byrd Spa & Wellness, a Rejuvenation and Tranquility Haven

Burhan Abe
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Invigorate Your Senses at Byrd Spa & Wellness, a Rejuvenation and Tranquility Haven

Sanur now has a tranquillity and rejuvenation refuge. The comprehensive Byrd Spa & Wellness is housed within the prestigious Byrd House, a lifestyle club that includes a lounge, patisserie, and an amazing F&B program. The iconic bamboo building with clean lines and minimalist interiors is intended for guests to roost in luxury all day.

A sanctuary that personifies tranquility, Byrd Spa & Wellness combines high-end amenities, skillful therapists, and a peaceful ambiance to create an oasis of calm in the heart of Bali. The additional space of Byrd Spa & Wellness was already in the expansion plan to complete the lifestyle club. As a part of the renowned Byrd House, guests will now have the chance to indulge in a complete wellness experience that caters to their minds, body, and spirit.

The spa’s highlight is a healing Qi massage, a form of massage that uses the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine designed to improve the body’s energy flow, providing guests with an unparalleled experience of relaxation. The treatment uses acupressure techniques to access the body’s vital energy, known as Qi, and stimulate various points along the energy pathways, to release blockages and restore balance. 

Additionally, the Qi massage boosts the immune system and the body’s natural ability to heal itself and helps to alleviate a range of physical and emotional issues. Each treatment will be carefully tailored to meet the needs of every guest.

Byrd Spa & Wellness also provides a variety of additional outstanding treatments, such as the therapeutic traditional Balinese massage, perfect to reduce tension and invigorate the body. In addition, the spa also offers Sun Skin Care, an after-sun soothing facial with fresh healing herbs, therapeutic enhancements, and spectrum therapeutics custom blend skincare. And for those seeking to improve their appearance and sense of style, the spa offers professional hair services and a salon

The Byrd Spa & Wellness was designed to be a sanctuary where visitors might start a transformative path of self-care and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a moment of tranquility amid a busy schedule, a pampering session to enhance your natural beauty, or a reviving treatment to restore energy, this exquisite spa is dedicated to enhancing the general well-being of its clients through a variety of holistic treatments. As general manager of Byrd House, Kharisma Wijaya expressed the expectation that all of the amenities will be appreciated by visitors.

Stay tuned for the next projects at Byrd House Lifestyle Club, which includes a yoga barn, and a boutique later this year.

Byrd House
  • Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur 80228, Bali, Indonesia
  • T. +62 361 288 407 F. +62 361 287 242
  • [email protected]
  • byrdhousebali.com

‘One Origin’ is Celebrated by Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape in Honor of Its One-Year Anniversary

Burhan Abe
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‘One Origin’ is Celebrated by Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape in Honor of Its One-Year Anniversary

With a five-day program of carefully created multi-sensory activities, Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape commemorated its first year of operation in June between June 10 and June 14, 2023. The ‘One Origin’ anniversary event offered both resort guests and non-resort guests the chance to rediscover the spirit of Buahan and its dedication to delivering extraordinary experience.

From exhilarating hikes to serene meditations, from captivating firefly treks to indulgent culinary adventures, the program was designed for guests to immerse in a deep sense of appreciation of nature, wellness, and connection, in a harmonious fusion of the element of the universe.

The program included a Hike to The Peak – a breathtaking trek through the lush forest guided by a local expert to the second- highest peak in Bali followed by a delectable breakfast with a stunning view of the sunrise and magnificent panoramas around.

Nocturnal Fireflies Journey and Lentera Bumi Dinner – a special moment to see mesmerizing fireflies at the firefly nursery, followed by a sensational plant-based dinner crafted from locally foraged ingredients. Wild & Wine – A creative collaboration dinner featuring Barton & Gustier Reserve collection: A culinary discovery, highlighting the ‘wild’ ingredients expertly paired with vegan-friendly wines from the Barton & Gustier Reserve collection, accompanied by the enchanting tunes of acoustic jazz music.

Yin Yoga and Crystal Sound Healing Meditation were curated for guests to experience profound tranquility through a harmonious blend of Yin Yoga and Crystal Sound Healing Meditation, guiding guests into a state of deep relaxation, healing, and rejuvenation.

Buahan elevated the journey with the Vintage Life Journey and Pop-Up Lunch for an immersion into the traditional way of local life with a trip on a vintage car and visit to the surrounding Balinese villages, Maharsi Markandeya’s first meditation place, and inspiring storytelling from a priest who introduced Hinduism in Bali.

The journey carried the explorations to the palm forest (Alas Jaka) where guests were invited to a local farm where fresh food for lunch was prepared by a local mom in her traditional kitchen to be enjoyed together with a cultural performance.

The highlight of the last day of the program was The One Origin Celebration – An unforgettable evening of celebration at The Botanist, to witness the enchanting sunset over Buahan Valley with delightful, handcrafted cocktails.

Continuing the special dinner our talented culinary team curated at the Open Kitchen while being mesmerised by the performance of Balawan and Batuan Ethnic Fusion, and a refreshing ice bath after-party at the pool to end the momentous celebration.

For more information and reservations, please visit buahanescape.com or contact our reservations team at [email protected].

Europe and North Africa Reawakening

Burhan Abe
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Europe and North Africa Reawakening

With the arrival of spring with its warmer climes and the vibrant bloom of flora and fauna, Aman’s properties across Europe and North Africa are poised to welcome guests once again for the season. Promising moments of renewal, each Aman sanctuary, from the verdant pine forests of Turkey to the rose-hued desert of Morocco, has crafted new cultural and culinary experiences for all ages, meticulously designed to enthrall and create lasting memories. 

In addition, new wellness offerings and initiatives unveiled this year harness the restorative powers of Aman’s serene natural settings enabling complete rejuvenation.

Amanzoe, Greece

Set on a peaceful Peloponnese hillside overlooking the Aegean Sea, Amanzoe is a modern-day Acropolis, surrounded by fragrant gardens and olive groves. Reopened on 1 April 2023, the resort offers a range of new experiences this season.

Those visiting Amanzoe early in the season can discover the culinary philosophy of renowned three-Michelin starred chef, Norbert Niederkofler with two exclusive dining experiences. On 30 April, Chef Norbert will collaborate with Amanzoe’s Executive Chef Melemenis to create a five-course ‘Four Hands’ menu with optional wine pairing.

Experience this one-off dinner as part of a two-night Culinary Discovery stay complete with accommodation in a Pool Pavilion and one spa treatment per person. On 1 May, Chef Norbert will further showcase his very own ‘Cook the Mountain’ food philosophy with a special meal of shared dishes featuring the region’s exceptional natural bounty.

Several other new dining experiences take full advantage of the Peloponnese sunshine this season. The Beach Club is now open for dinner three nights a week, with a pop-up Arva menu of rustic Italian dishes available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

A new alfresco lounge area beside the resort’s hilltop swimming pool features Nama’s exquisite Japanese cuisine with sunset cocktails in a more relaxed setting.

This is in addition to a garden-inspired Bostani Breakfast providing homecooked traditional favourites, such as spanakopita – a spinach and cheese pie – served within Amanzoe’s sun-dappled olive groves and cooked in the outdoor wood-oven, alongside freshly-picked fruits and seasonal marmalades.

Lobo & Juno

Burhan Abe
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Lobo & Juno

Ketika Lobo dan Juno Bertemu untuk Menikmati Hidangan Lezat, Musik Meriah, serta Koktail dan Wine Paripurna

Bistro baru hadir di Jakarta. Mengedepankan konsep eksklusif dan menawarkan hidangan dan koktail dari berbagai belahan dunia dipadu hiburan meriah setiap hari.

Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan mempersembahkan Lobo & Juno, sebuah destinasi makan berkonsep menarik yang dirancang untuk menjadi destinasi kuliner andalan. Bertempat di lobi hotel, Lobo & Juno adalah sebuah bistro yang akan membawa tamu kepada sebuah perjalanan kuliner yang unik dari Timur hingga Barat, dengan menu-menu memikat yang dibuat secara mendetail.

Cerita Lobo & Juno berpusat pada kedua karakter utamanya, yakni sebuah pasangan dengan karakter personal yang bertolak belakang, namun disatukan oleh kecintaan mereka terhadap dunia kuliner dan travel. Lobo adalah seorang penjelajah dunia yang tumbuh dan dibesarkan oleh budaya-budaya yang ditemuinya.

Lounge

Dia berasal dari keluarga yang beruntung di mana orang tuanya kerap mengajaknya bepergian keliling dunia mulai dari belahan utara Thailand, Tuscany, New Delhi, hingga Paris. Terpapar oleh kehidupan dunia sejak kecil, Lobo selalu menanti-nanti petualangan dia selanjutnya dan tak sabar untuk membagikan ceritanya.

Sedangkan Juno adalah seorang gadis kota yang populer, seorang pencetak tren yang mencintai musik dan desain. Dia memiliki hobi menghadiri festival musik hingga ke ujung dunia sembari mengeksplorasi kelezatan makanan lokal serta belajar mengenai budayanya. Sebagai style enthusiast, dia menyukai furnitur dan menghargai desain yang tak lekang waktu dengan kualitas yang istimewa.

Hidangan Mediterania Klasik ala Restoran Scusa di Ayana Segara Bali

Burhan Abe
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Hidangan Mediterania Klasik ala Restoran Scusa di Ayana Segara Bali

Restoran baru di Ayana Segara Bali ini menghadirkan perjalanan kuliner ke kawasan Mediterania

Bergabung dalam daftar restoran unik dan luar biasa di dalam resor terintegrasi terbesar di Bali, Ayana Estate mengumumkan dibukanya Scusa, restoran Mediterania pertamanya, di hotel Ayana Segara Bali yang baru saja dibuka. 

Destinasi kuliner terbaru Ayana ini membawa para tamu dalam perjalanan kuliner melalui kekayaan tekstur, rasa, dan aroma dari pulau dan lautan di kawasan menawan ini, melalui menu yang menonjolkan masakan otentik Mediterania yang dibuat dengan bahan-bahan lokal segar. Sebagai destinasi bersantap ke-26 di area seluas 90 hektar, Scusa adalah restoran unggulan terbaru Ayana, selain Rock Bar yang telah mendunia.

Dipimpin oleh Chef de Cuisine Umberto Sbardella, yang telah memimpin program kuliner di hotel-hotel mewah di UEA dan di Italia, negara asalnya, menu Scusa menampilkan hidangan Mediterania klasik yang terkenal di wilayah tersebut. 

Dari daging panggang yang lezat dan makanan laut yang lembut, hingga pasta, sup, dan salad, setiap hidangan merayakan kelezatan bahan-bahan segar di setiap gigitannya. Pengetahuan Sbardella yang kaya akan masakan Mediterania ditunjukan dalam menunya, yang memadukan hidangan autentik dengan cita rasa lokal segar dan rempah-rempah dari Ayana Farm untuk pengalaman bersantap yang benar-benar unik di Bali. 

Menu-menu khas yang patut dicoba antara lain adalah stuffed calamari with sauce vierge and confit tomato, mackerel in carpione with garden vegetables and citrus mayo, dan favorit pribadi Chef, pappardelle with lamb ragout with pecorino fondue and sage.

Untuk melengkapi masakan dengan cita rasa Mediterania, Scusa juga menawarkan daftar wine lengkap yang menonjolkan wine merah dan putih terbaik dari Mediterania serta wine eksklusif dari kebun anggur di seluruh Italia dan Spanyol. 

Scusa juga menawarkan koktail yang dibuat oleh mixologist lokal yang menggabungkan cita rasa Bali dengan sentuhan ‘Pang Cang Kene’ pada koktail klasik yang disempurnakan dengan perisa mangga, markisa, sirsak, dan rempah-rempah dari Bali. 

Journey Through Java with Aman

Burhan Abe
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Journey Through Java with Aman

The cultural heartland of Indonesia, Java is studded with ancient treasures engulfed by pea-green paddy fields and rain forests lined with pristine white beaches. The capital of Jakarta buzzes with modern dynamism while elsewhere, overlooking the UNESCO-protected site of the Borobudur temple, Amanjiwo awaits, named ‘Peaceful Soul’ for the serenity, privacy and beauty of its setting.

Experience the many facets of the island – from city to sanctuary – with our Aman journey; a train voyage through Java to Amanjiwo in partnership with luxury rail operators, PT Kereta Api Pariwisata on selected dates throughout 2023.

With dedicated carriages adorned in the Aman style the journey is designed to offer timeless elegance in the utmost comfort. Taking guests across Java, the once-in-a-lifetime experience begins in Jakarta Gambir station, where the bustle of the vibrant city soon becomes a distant memory. After a warm Javanese welcome into the station’s exclusive lounge, embark on a panoramic seven-hour journey through Central Java where temples turn to tree-lined hillsides, with a new story appearing around every corner.

Travel in style, with an exquisite Aman breakfast and lunch served on board, surrounded by the opulence of one’s private carriage. Learn along the way, accompanied by Amanjiwo’s resident anthropologist, Patrick Vanhoebrouck, who shares the region’s historic and cultural highlights. Sip on a crisp glass of champagne with afternoon tea before reaching Yogyakarta Tugu station feeling refreshed, where a 60-minute private transfer to Amanjiwo awaits.

Perfectly placed for further exploration of the region, the Ed Tuttle-designed resort offers panoramic views of the Kedu Plain and Mount Merapi on the horizon. Reclaimed from the jungle in the 19th century, Amanjiwo’s 36 thatched-roofed suites lie in two perfect crescents below the central rotunda – most with individual swimming pools opening onto private, tranquil gardens.

The resort’s restaurant, bar and terraces all foster serenity, overlooking a ring of volcano es, while stone steps descend in tiers to a magnificent swimming pool. Dedicated to holistic wellness, Amanjiwo offers a spa menu informed by traditional Javanese healing, while a fully equipped gym suite, tennis court and private yoga sessions help guests to find peace from within.

With three-nights to experience this inspiring location, guests are able to fully-immerse themselves in Amanjiwo’s sacred roots, continuing their journey through Java. Just two-kilometres away, the temple of Borobudur – a 9th-century marvel with 504 Iife-size Buddha statues – reveals ancient secrets, while trekking through the lush surrounding Iandscapes to local villages unearths an entirely new way of life.

30 Tahun Taman Air Waterbom Bali

Burhan Abe
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30 Tahun Taman Air Waterbom Bali

Taman air paling berkelanjutan di Asia ini mengumumkan proyek perluasan berdesain arsitektur yang akan dibuka 2023 

Waterbom Bali yang terpilih menjadi taman air #1 di Asia oleh TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Awards 2022, memulai pembangunan tahap satu perluasan taman yang masif, yang akan dibuka tahun 2023 bersamaan dengan perayaan hari jadi yang ke-30.

Perluasan Waterbom akan menambah 1,3 hektar kesenangan ke taman, dengan keberlanjutan sebagai intinya. Temukan kolam renang laguna tropis baru dan bar dalam kolam, kursi berjemur di dalam air, gazebo di tepi kolam, restoran-restoran baru, menara seluncur berliku dengan platform berpenopang, dan tentunya beberapa seluncuran baru. 

Awalnya, rencana mengenalkan seluncuran dan area kolam renang baru dijadwalkan di tahun 2020, namun tertunda karena pandemi. Lahan kosong di sebelah taman kemudian diubah menjadi area pertanian dan taman oleh tim, agar menghasilkan sayuran dan buah-buahan dengan harga sangat murah bagi 300 staf yang dipertahankan selama taman tutup akibat pandemi. Sejak perbatasan Bali dibuka kembali di bulan April 2022, dan taman kembali dipenuhi wisatawan, Waterbom kini siap berkembang secara organik di lokasi mereka di Kuta, dan memperluas area kesenangan dan petualangan air ramah lingkungan hingga 5 hektar. 

Dengan visi kolektif dari pendiri, CEO dan tim manajemen Waterbom yang bekerja sama dengan Conchita Blanco dari Blanco Studio, titik fokus dari ruang baru ini adalah menara setinggi 20 meter yang didesain secara berkelanjutan, sebuah monumen impresif yang menampilkan platform pemandangan berpenopang agar para tamu dapat menikmati pemandangan taman dan area kolam renang baru dari ketinggian. 

“Menara yang saya desain bertautan di antara seluncuran dan melewati pepohonan sebagai satu kesatuan. Saya ingin menciptakan kesan kontinuitas dengan mendesain sebuah pengalaman bergerak melingkar, seperti saat berada di dalam seluncuran air. Kami ingin perjalanan para tamu ke atas menara menjadi pendakian sensoris melewati alam, sambil melingkar mengelilingi seluncuran,” ujar Conchita Blanco, Arsitek, Blanco Studio. 

Empat seluncuran baru akan menjadi pusat perhatian, dengan sensasi dan pengalaman baru, begitu pula gazebo bambu buatan lokal di sisi kolam, dan lokasi berkumpul bersama teman-teman atau keluarga di dalam area dan menikmati taman. 

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