Bali Hotels Indonesia

Karma Kandara - Two Nights Follow your destiny, Your Karma

2011-09-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

Indonesia Hotel

Name:
Category:
City:
County:
Region:
Category (stars).:

Karma Kandara 3rd Anniversary Evening 22Rd April 2011

Whats the anniversary without the Party? Karma Kandara turns 3 years old and we are ready to celebrate the night away with mystical cusine and entertaintment of orient highligted by a spectacular 3000 + candle display on the beach

Start the evening amidst the moroccan decor and colored laterns in Temple Lounge for a one - hour coctail reception from 6pm. Enjoy the speciality cocktails from our mixologist and nibble on Moroccan spiced kebabs while watching live belly dancer bouncing to the sounds of special DJ's Haha aka The Dutch Touch. Have a tip on the Sheesha pipes as well. If you wish before the party moves to di Mare Restaurant with Katherine Ellis performing exclusive live and Karma arround the world cuisine from authentic Indonesian. Tahi to Mykonian style cuisine.

at 9pm, DJ Haha aka The Dutch Touch spinning mixes of pas and present during an entourage of beach shows including stilt walkers and a Fire Dance that is sure to light the late night.

Karma Karribean Beach Party Circa 1986 23Rd April2011

Starting from 12pm, Karma keeps it Rock stady with a liberal springkling of Mykonian style excess as es create a heady mix of Irie island vibes and Mediterraean magic a la the height of the eighties, plus authentic Greek flavours down at Nammos Beach Club all day long with staff donning traditional Greek tunics for the occasion

The Bash tha bashes all others....

Blast back to the 80's and party like you did in 1986 - or how you wished you had partied in 1986. Live Reggae Band 7pc. Bob Marley styled service staff, Goombay Smash cocktails, International DJ;s ste; Eric, Tony Montana and Andy Murphy. Authentic Caribbean food bites all seti in motion by Playboy Bunny cocktail waitresses and Chippendale body guards to ensure all your senses are stimulated - You're not at a aprty if you're not at this one!! Party starts at 7 pm exclusively at Nammos Beach Club Rp. 250.000 ++ inclusive of entrance fee and Rp.100.000 will be credited back to food & beverage bill normal price, triple the entertaintment!!

Source: Pro Motion Events
---------
karma kandara ,karma kandara bali ,karma kandara resort ,hotel karma kandara ,karma kandara hotel bali ,karma kandara beach ,karma kandara resort bali ,hotel karma kandara bali ,di mare karma kandara

The Patra Bali Resort & Villas,Luxury and Elegant at Tuban Bali Beach

2011-09-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

Indonesia Hotel

Name:
Category:
City:
County:
Region:
Category (stars).:

The Patra Bali Resort & Villas is a 5 star resort is located very close to the Ngurah Rai Airport. Only about five minutes from the airport to go to this resort. The Patra Bali Resort & Villas

comes with a touch of traditional Balinese interiors, complete with private balcony which provides panoramic exotic white sandy Tuban Beach. All unique resort property is provided for the convenience of guests.
The Patra Bali Resort & Villas with a total 22 villas equipped with private pool also offers luxury and privacy for families, couples and singles who want to really feel elegant and luxurious lifestyle. Guests can enjoy a beautiful sunset from the Heritage Lounge is surrounded by gardens of tropical flowers. Plus, serving food and cocktails are available throughout the day and canapes at sunset.
The hotel has recently won the Best Hotel & Service Excellence of the Year from the Ministry of Culture & Tourism of Indonesia and the International Business & Company Award also has 206 rooms and suites suitable for families, participating in conventions, and industry professionals.

For the type of resort there are 169 rooms with various choices of Presidential Suite, Executive Suite, Embassy Suite, Studio Suite, Deluxe Suite and Deluxe. Some world leaders have stayed here like Prince Charles, King of Iran Reza Pahlavi, the Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Kuan Yew, Prime Minister of Australia Gough Whitlam, and more.

For the needs of children, The Kid's Club is also available here which is equipped with a television room, educational games and sports activities, and the various exciting outdoor program.

As for private events, corporate seminars or large convention, available Patra Ballroom with a capacity of 700 seats in the theater or 400 for banquet seating. There are also three meeting rooms, VIP rooms.

For lovers of Japanese cuisine, try The Ten Ku Japanese Restaurant. Here are a menu mainstay, such as Sushi, Teppanyaki, Robatayaki, and private rooms with views of the sea. Guests can choose to dine on Japanese mats (tatami) or in a large dining table.

For you who love Italian cuisine The Renascimento Italian & Kebab Restaurant can be a choice. This restaurant offers fresh ingredients in the salad bar which is located in the middle of the restaurant, wood-fired pizza oven and grill kebabs are all prepared in an open kitchen that will add a unique dining experience you
--------------

patra bali ,patra bali resort ,the patra bali ,patra bali resort and villas ,patra bali resort & villas ,the patra bali resort ,patra bali resort and spa ,patra bali hotel ,the patra bali resort and villas ,the patra bali resort & villas ,patra bali tuban

Inna Grand Bali Beach, serve Bali Tranquility

2010-07-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

Not all areas in Bali as crowded and vibrant as Kuta. There is one corner of the island that provide opportunities for tranquility seekers. Sanur fit for those who want to vacation in an atmosphere of calm, but can still taste the "original flavor" of Bali.
One that can be obtained by those who choose to stay at Sanur beach is a treat that is clean, white sand, and can take a bath in a quiet beach. Even with beautiful beaches of Sanur has become the first beach area that stole the attention of the world hereinafter be one barometer of the development of tourism in Bali.

So before there is Kuta, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, Ubud, Bali's tourism zone is first tilled Sanur. No

exaggeration to say that this region is the root of Bali tourism.

In addition, one of the advantages of Sanur area is to help travelers minimize the time berliburnya. For example, there's no traffic jams. Clearly this is a "paradise" for its own originating from Jakarta for example. Time wasted due to congestion will not occur. Another advantage, Sanur area relatively close to tourist destinations such as Ubud, Tanah Lot, Pura Besakih, Stanger, Kintamani, and many other places than from Nusa Dua or Kuta.

INNA Grand Bali Beach, formerly known by the name Hotel Bali Beach, a five-star hotels and first International standard, which is located in the Sanur area, under the auspices of PT. Hotel Indonesia Natour.

With an area of 40 hectares with a total of 566 rooms this hotel has a large capacity. Another plus is that many hotels do not have a football pitch. Well, INNA Grand Bali Beach have. The hotel could certainly be the place where fun-calls with friends who love to exercise as well.

Not only the football field, the hotel also has four swimming pools, SPA, jakusi, fitness center, tennis courts, mini golf, beach and various sports activities such as snorkeling, scubadiving, and canoeing.

Talking about the beauty of Bali will not be never ending. If you want to enjoy one of the reasons why developing tourism in Bali, visit the Sanur area. This is where the embryo of Bali tourism.

Art Festival Tanah Lot, Tabanan mainstay

2010-07-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

Operating Agency Object Object Tanah Lot, Tabanan Tanah Lot makes activities Art Festival (TLAF) in 2010 as a means of tourism promotion activities

Agency Operations Manager Tanah Lot Tourism Object, I Made Sujana in Tabanan, Thursday (07/22/2010) says, Tanah Lot tourism object is a Hindu shrine, as well as local culture and art conservationist. "This proves that we participate and support government programs to preserve local culture," said Sujana.

Therefore TLAF which will last for a week starting July 26 the upcoming display of classical arts such as dance and drum, presenting the best artists from the villages in the district of Tabanan.

Sujana sure, teams performing arts to have the opportunity it has to prepare himself thoroughly, including the digging of art-existing local arts to be staged in the presence of foreign and domestic tourists. "Artists that option as well be motivated to dig and then mengembangakan art existing in the region," said Sujana.

According to him, as well as media campaigns, TLAF also as a concept that is ideal for the development of culture-based tourism. "This activity as evidence, Tanah Lot is able to design an event that attracts package tourists," said Sujana.

During the events took place, a unique variety of art owned by local people who are so far rare and scarce grain will be attractive to tourists. "This is, as a concrete manifestation of Tanah Lot tourism awareness will be the work of his predecessor who was unique. And it can be inherited as a destination for tourists to visit Bali," he said.

Since a month ago, Sujana said, the official site of Tanah Lot, www.tanahlot funsclub.com, TLAF has become a topic of discussion. And not a few tourists who are ready to come utuk watching the big event.

Sujana added, tanahlot funsclub it's a tourist attraction already has a membership of more than 12 400 people worldwide. "The response was very positive funsclub members and even most of them eager to be able to come witness this annual event," he said.

Similarly, tourism components ranging from travel agencies in and outside the country have been asking a lot of art is scheduled performances.

Sujana said that such promotional activities is the potential to increase visits. The proof of tourist visit to the Tanah Lot During January-June 2010 increased by as many as 1,061,432 people or 17.99 percent over the same period the previous year which recorded 899 633 people.

Nikko Bali Resort and Spa - A LITTLE TECHNIQUE, A DASH OF PASSION AND A DROP OF TASTE

2010-07-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

When it comes to a world where technique plays a big part in one's career, you can only expect to have the best from someone with more than 20 years experience. But it is not always about the technique for Christopher John Patzold, it is so much more.

Chris attended the Box Hill College back in his homeland, Australia where he sort of fell into the world of cooking. "I cannot really remember how I started, my mom and I just sort of fell into the hospitality". He tried brick laying at first but then decided to start a dishwashing job before an apprenticeship was offered to him and took him to where he is today.

Arriving in Bali 10 years ago, Chris had the honor of being the opening team of the now famous dining venue in Bali, Kudeta. "It was magnificent, I've never seen so many rice fields before" he said when asked of his first impression of the island, "Now Bali has grown so much and it never cease to amaze me".

After Kudeta, Chris went to Jakarta to take charge of a Pan Asian fine dining restaurant before coming back to Bali and join the well-known Canggu Club for 2 years. He then worked at Sentosa Private Villas and Spa for nearly 3 years. There, he took charge of Blossom, a modern Australian (global) restaurant with Asian/Thai twist, the villas' in room dining, conference facilities and the catering.

Over the years he spent in Indonesia, especially in Bali, he is always inspired to help others achieve their dreams, "I've seen one or two of the people I worked with now gracing the cover of a magazine with a medal and a big smile on their face. They have really kicked on in the hospitality industry". Having gone through so many unique experiences on the island, he finds it difficult to leave. "Whenever the chance comes to leave, something always holds me back and another opportunity arises". For Chris, Bali is not just a work place; the island has now become a part of him, as he proudly says "Bali is my life".

Chris Patzold is now the Executive Chef of Nikko Bali Resort and Spa. He will be overseeing 4 restaurants and other outlets, including the resort's signature restaurant, The Shore.

Two sea turtle nests discovered on Nikko Bali Resort and Spa's beach

2010-07-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Nusa Dua, June 10th, 2010 - Sea turtles are one of the world's most bizarre creatures; it has the unique instinct to lay their eggs on the same beach where they hatched. Hunted for their meat, shells and, unfortunately, their eggs as well (considered delicacies for some), this species' population is quickly dwindling and facing extinction. With a very slim chance of surviving (0.01% from one nest) in the wild, world organizations and environmentalists have been taking actions to protect known nests to help increase sea turtle population around the world.

Located on the shore of the Indian Ocean, Nikko Bali Resort and Spa has been very lucky to be able to take part in helping this creature by protecting nests over the years. Recently the associates of Nikko Bali Resort and Spa found two nests just at the beach of The Shore Restaurant and Bar. Immediate actions were taken including erecting protective fences around the perimeter of the nests. It is now just a matter of time before these eggs hatch and gives birth to another generation of sea turtles that will once again roam the ocean. Expected to hatch early August, this will be an exciting moment for both guests and Nikko’s associates.

A single act to save a life, another STEP UP taken by Nikko Bali Resort and Spa.

Nikko Bali Resort and Spa for "Bali is My Life"

2010-07-18T18:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night, more than 200 guests filled the Graha Sawangan Ballroom of Nikko Bali Resort and Spa for "Bali is My Life" Charity Golf Tournament Dinner. The tournament - organized by Bali Hotels Association, Bali Golf and Country Club, Nikko Bali Resort and Spa, Now Bali and Rotary Club Nusa Dua - was held earlier in the same day with more than 100 pro and amateur golfers who played through 18 holes for charity.

The dinner was a continuation of Bali is My Life website and movie trailer launch (officially launched by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Jero Wacik the previous day). After a short welcome by the chairman of Bali Hotels Association, also the General Manager of Nikko Bali Resort and Spa, Jean-Charles Le Coz, all guests were awed by a grand feast of world’s cuisine, specially prepared by Nikko Bali's culinary team.

Jack Daniels, the master of ceremony of the evening, took the stage with a short opening speech, impressively in a fluent Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese as well. A short presentation of an interview with Allistair Speirs to explain about "Bali is My Life" along with the footage taken from the previous day launch event, officially began the Bali is My Life program of the evening. One of the highlights was the magnificent performance by Bali's own Ayu Laksmi who sang two ethnic inspired songs, an emotional water chant and a cheerful tune about Dewi Sri, Goddess of Prosperity. The celebration continued with the preview of the long awaited Bali is My Life movie that will soon launch sometimes in August 2010. Supported by Bali Hotels Association and its members, this movie will feature many sides of life in Bali, through its art, culinary, culture, leisure even spiritual aspects.

The night continued with the award presentation for all the golfers by Bali Golf and Country Club's General Manager, Bruce Jellard along with a lucky draw featuring many great prizes from golf shoes to a grand price of a return flight ticket to Shanghai and accommodation at the new Hotel Nikko Shanghai.

Bali Hotels Association’s "Bali is My Life" Charity Golf Tournament will give the proceedings of the event to Rotary Club Nusa Dua who will use this fund for their charity program for HIV/AIDS and cleft palate.

Nikko Bali Resort and Spa, Introducing a quality tennis service

2010-07-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

The modern game of tennis originated in United Kingdom in the late 19th century. As an Olympic sport, it is played at all levels of society at all ages; it literally can be played by anyone who can hold a racket, including people in wheelchairs. As a friendly sport, tennis has been growing in Asia, especially in Indonesia. With the likes of Yayuk Basuki, Wynne Prakusya and Angelique Widjaja, Indonesia has made its mark in the world's tennis tournaments and the players ranking.

Nikko Bali Resort and Spa has always been supportive of the tennis community on the island by providing 3 lit-covered tennis courts to accommodate tournaments, charity events and even an academy for the next generation of tennis players here in Bali. With an international tennis tournament such as the annual Commonwealth Bank Tournament of Champions (November 4 - 7, 2010), Bali is known as an international tennis destination, either for a holiday or a tournament.

Recently, the resort appointed Pure Tennis (www.puretennis.asia), a company that provides tennis management program to resorts and clubs around Asia. This company provides quality tennis services to the resort such as consulting, coaching, tennis holiday and events. Pure Tennis will offer a variety of services and products, from Junior Tennis classes for children from the age of 4 to Pure Tennis Holiday, a special program they created for family groups or large groups to travel to the island to have an unforgettable tennis experience.

The company consists of international professionals with more than 15 years of experience that are qualified to develop the best suitable service for their clients. Pure Tennis in Bali will be lead by Alexandre Correia, the company director and the pioneer in this venture. The coaching team itself is composed by renowned international tennis professionals who have worked with top tennis players around the world. This company will surely bring international standard services and products to the tennis community in Bali.

Nikko Bali Resort and Spa will still continue to open its door to the local tennis community with the support of Pure Tennis, bringing this friendly sport another STEP UP

Aston Develop Two New favehotel Bali

2010-07-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Aston International won a contract to develop and manage two new premium brand hotels in Bali under the Aston Group for the two stars favehotel trendy brand.

The two latest favehotel will be in the center of Legian on Jalan Raya Legian and Seminyak Bali at Jalan Petitenget. Each hotel will provide 100 guest rooms are modern, comfortable and functional with a very competitive price. Guests will benefit from favehotel advantages, such as a superior bed, high speed internet access, LCD television, and an attractive interior design favehotel.

Favehotel is a brand new option, which was launched by Aston International, Indonesia's largest hotel group, is intended to offer the option of staying with an affordable price, new, exciting and contemporary two-star hotel for the traveler berbujet. Since its launch in July 2009, favehotel has been at the forefront for the hotel sector berbujet making it the industry standard in the hotel of choice with imaginative designs, with middle-class features that offer high quality bed and LCD television and theme are in contact with the environment.

Vice President of Sales and Marketing Aston International, Mr Norbert Vas said, "Two fave this will increase the number favehotel in Bali to three in addition to the Denpasar favehotel which is currently in soft opening phase. Two locations in Legian and Seminyak is the perfect location for favehotel which aims to provide the hotel with affordable prices coupled with attractive design than the other two star hotels. "

In addition to hotels in Bali, Aston Group is currently developing favehotel in Jakarta, Surabaya and Ambon, and Aston International effort to develop other projects in every province and district capital in Indonesia, Malaysia and surrounding area.

Aston entered the Indonesian market in the late 1990s and currently has a portfolio of 50 hotels, including hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, boutique villa resorts and suites, 25 of whom have been in operation and 25 hotels under construction until 2011.

Aston International manages five-star Grand Hotel Aston, Aston 4-star and 3 star Aston City Hotel, and two stars favehotels, but Aston International has also developed resorts with theme Luxury Villa and Royal Kamuela Kamuela and three star hotel with the lifestyle theme Quest hotels affordable.

Bright, Prospect Business Property in Bali

2010-07-13T22:57:00.001-07:00

Chief Real Estate Bali, Sukadana Wenda, said the property business in Bali is still very promising. "Starting from the middle to lower property up to foreign investment," he confirmed in Denpasar, Bali.
According to him, one indicator is by lowering interest rates several properties of villas, hotels, housing, until the property to Condo tel. It is said, one constraint is no legal umbrella of investment to foreign ownership of capital invested in the property world.

"Most of the foreign businessmen still spoke on behalf of local people to invest in the property world. And not a few who managed directly in foreign hands," he said.

Described, with direct management of local people but on behalf of Indonesia, would affect the state income tax in particular. "If there is already a legal umbrella that embraces the entry of foreign investors in the property world, certainly will be additional foreign exchange for the country. Because a lot of interest in the property world come from foreigners," said Sukadana told reporters.

Sukadana added, profits in the region of Southeast Asian countries have all had Indonesia property business law which is still in process of formation.

According to him, some areas in Indonesia feasible for use as a commercial pilot. As the area of Jakarta, Bali and Surabaya. Description is related to the third opportunity is seen as a very large area for future business property that can be done, development-threshold ed in other areas in Indonesia.

Bali in particular, continued Sukadana, tourism is one aspect of the assessment to be considered related to the implementation of a pilot area of the property business rules for foreign investors.

"The hotel and tourism service facilities in Bali would require the property to support the tourism ministry. Moreover, Bali is often scheduled as a meeting place at the international level," he said.

In all countries in Southeast Asia, he added, there is already a legal umbrella for foreign investors who want to invest in the property world. Meanwhile, in Indonesia there is still no legal umbrella and is still in the process of formation at the central level.

The same explanation also stated Vice Chairman of the Construction Employers Association of Indonesia (Aspekindo) Bali, Togar Situmorang. According to him, the absorption of architectural development in Bali is very high.

Togar Situmorang said, there is a domino effect that has been related to the image of Bali is world-renowned international tourism.

Small sample, Bali became one of the Congress of The International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI) held by 61 countries and regions took place in Nusa Dua, Bali. Its members consist of 120 professional real estate organizations representing 1.5 million professionals and 3300 real estate practitioners.

"Obviously, starting from the level of international business property entrepreneurs, governments, consultants, to broker a world-class experts in the property, saw Bali as a promising opportunity for the property business," he said.

Kuta Carnaval

2010-07-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

This event includes a special song competition and the theme song will describe the background of existing carnival. The purpose of this competition is to inform to the public more about Kuta carnival through their songs. Competition will be used as a medium for promoting and disseminating the event to the community.

Indonesian young kids with talent will follow this event, especially in Bali. The purpose of this competition is to provide a new experience for young musicians, in the technical and the ability to create songs. Participants submit an audition system that is in the form of a demo CD and performed on stage. At the opening ceremony, 1000 candles will be lit and songs will be sung by the winner.

Location of Kuta Carnival will be at Kuta beach - Bali. The festivities at the carnival on the last event was held as well as the release of turtles - turtles, the Festival of kites - kites, Bali art, cartoon exhibitions, film, festival Balinese cuisine, Sand Sculpture Competition, film screenings, DJ sessions, children's playground- children and many other entertainment activities. Come and enjoy a fun event, holiday, good food, beach activities and more in Kuta Beach, Bali.

Tommy Suharto Build Hotel in Bali & Sentul

2010-07-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hutomo Mandala Putra, or Tommy Suharto say that hospitality business has a very good prospect. Therefore, through the flag of PT Hotel Anom Solo Tama Facility overshadow Hotel Lorin Business Resort and Spa, Suharto's youngest son is building two star hotel in the area of Sentul and Bali.

Commissioners Hotel Anom Solo Tama Facility, Tommy said, after having two Lorin hotels in Solo and Belitung islands, the hotel is now going to grow two more in Bali and Sentul.

"In Sentul seems to be completed by April next year. While in Bali next year but do not know yet exactly when the moon," he said on the sidelines of the inauguration of new hotel rooms Lorin Business Resort & Spa Solo, Sunday, June 20, 2010.

Lorin Hotel Bali which is scheduled to have as many as 360 rooms, he said, lies in the area Pejatun or New Kuta Village. Where there is next to the hotel which is a place of recreation greenpark children and families.

"Lorin Hotel Bali is expected in 2013 will be a house or host APEC. It has reviewed the Ministry of Internal Affairs and from the central government," said Tommy.

Meanwhile, related to the construction of Hotel Lorin in Sentul, he said he would strongly support the development of automotive activity in Sentul Circuit, Bogor. Because, a lot of foreign drivers who have to live in Bogor and Jakarta. "Obviously, if the hotel was standing one day, they would prefer to live and stay near where his racing career," he said.

In addition, Tommy adds, this development will support the regional economy Bogor. In fact, later on that area would become an alternative route to the summit so that this alternative will be more areas become crowded

Translated from : http://bisnis.vivanews.com/news/read/158941-tommy-soeharto-bangun-hotel-di-bali---sentul

Jammed Bali looks for solutions

2010-05-25T05:09:00.000-07:00

The popularity of Bali Island has for years translated into road congestion due not only to the multiplication of tourist busses but also the lack of parking facilities, of proper public transport, and the undisciplined behavior of most local drivers who park their vehicles at their convenience. All of these elements make circulation in Bali a nightmare.

It takes regularly over an hour in the evening to ride along the 21 km separating the popular beach resort of Kuta to the famous temples of Tanah Lot. In fact, places such as Legian, Denpasar, Kuta, or Ubud are jammed most of the afternoon with traffic regularly coming to a complete standstill. Tourism figures have rocketed over the last decade, growing from 1.399 million in 1999 to 2.229 million last year, up by almost 60 percent, not to mention some three million domestic tourists.

Added to a local population of 3.5 million inhabitants, Bali Island has to support in the year the movements of almost ten million people. While tourism development has been limited to only three regencies due to a 1988 decree, most of the congestion is consequently concentrated where tourists are, from the airport/Nusa Dua area to Sanur, Kuta, and Legian.

But as usual, Indonesia's central government and provincial authorities have not been able to tackle the problem of growing congestion. So far, plans to improve the situation have only remained at the good-wish level.

Bali Governor I. Made Mangku Pastika came out over the last year with some plans to cope with the increasing congestion. Earlier this year, the governor mulled out the option of building overpass highways, following their endorsement by religious authorities. Until recently, religious leaders maintained that elevated highways, pedestrian bridges, or underground tunnels violate Balinese religious principles. In the past, these religious restrictions linked to petty bureaucracy, rebuked a group of Malaysian investors to build four toll roads, which would have connected Sanur and Nusa Dua, cutting traveling time from 45-60 minutes to less than 15 minutes, as well as Bali airport to Nusa Dua. The project was estimated to cost US$440 million.

With religious restrictions now being lifted, the governor expects to be able to start the first overpass projects by this year for an opening by 2011 and 2012. Priority development would still concern the airport area and Nusa Dua area, as well as Denpasar, the capital.

Another option is to develop a rail circle line, which would offer a reliable alternative for locals and tourists to move around the island. The system would stop at major tourism objects and would require less land use than highways. The proposal has also received the support from Bali Governor Pastika.
Meanwhile, the island must also tackle with the increasing congestion at Bali airport. Recently, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism Jero Wacik pleaded for a quick expansion of Ngurah Rai
International Airport. The process to a brand new international terminal has been delayed due to polemics on its design with Balinese authorities asking for a more Balinese identity. The Bali Airport project would double total capacity to 20 million passengers a year. The current terminal would be converted to the domestic airport, following the opening of the new 120,000 sqm international facility. The cost of investment is estimated at US$185 million. Authorities are also entertaining the option for a second airport on the northern part of the island.

By Luc Citrinot, eTN | May 12, 2010

Indonesian Tourism Chiefs Claim Bali Has Benefited From Thai Unrest

2010-05-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

The long-running political crisis in Thailand appears to have had a positive spin-off for Bali’s tourism industry, with more foreign tourists than usual visiting the island, the head of the Bali Tourism Office said on Sunday.

Ida Bagus Subhiksu said the number of foreign tourists visiting the island in the first quarter of the year had reached 551,186, up 18.49 percent compared to the same period last year.

“This is amazing because usually it does not go up this drastically,” he said.

Bali’s image as a secure holiday destination has still not fully recovered following the two terrorist bomb attacks on the island in 2002 and 2005, but tourist arrivals are on the upswing, Subhiksu said.

“Bali has risen again. Even Australians, who accounted for the most casualties [in the bombings], now account for the largest number of visitors to Bali, besides Chinese and Japanese,” he said.

Bali Tourism Board chairman Ida Bagus Ngurah Wijaya said the diversion of foreign tourists from Thailand to Bali had become noticeable early this year, with Australians making up the bulk of tourists opting for the Indonesian island instead of Thailand, followed by tourists from several European countries, particularly France and the Netherlands.

International tourist arrivals at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport increased steadily over the first three months of the year — from 199,887 arrivals in January to 213,456 in February and 217,253 in March.

“This is, of course, good news for Bali tourism,” said Muhammad Dimyati, a spokesman for PT Angkasa Pura, the operator of Ngurah Rai Airport.

The increase has also been good news for hotels, especially those in the main tourist areas of Kuta and Sanur.

“The [occupancy] rate at the moment is 91 percent. This is just amazing,” said Made Sumawati, public relations manager for Inna Kuta Beach Hotel, adding that last year the hotel only had a 68 percent occupancy rate.

He said most of the tourists were from Australia and were staying up to a week on the island on average.

Dimyati said with Bali’s popularity on the rebound, a number of foreign airlines were planning to start flying to the island in the near future.

“In June, Strategic Airlines will be ready to open a route to Bali, followed by Vietnam Airlines next year,” he said.

The worst political violence in Thailand in at least 18 years has been deterring travel to the country. At least 43 countries have warned their citizens against visiting parts of Thailand during the standoff in Bangkok that began in March.

Workers at Thailand’s Phuket resort area say the fighting may have been more damaging to tourism than the 2004 tsunami that wrecked its coastline. Tourism accounts for 70 percent of Phuket’s economy.

Additional reporting by Bloomberg

The Laguna, Nusa Dua, Bali makes Bali island greener by planting 2000 mangroves

2010-05-13T17:33:00.001-07:00

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali makes Bali Island greener by planting 2000 mangroves at Serangan Beach on Thursday, 29 April 2010. This Care for Community initiative involved more than 200 employees from various departments led by the General Manager, Mr David Cuddon, Executive Committee members, Department Heads and many staffs. All enthusiast participants departed from the resort at 14.00hours to Serangan Beach - Bali an hour's drive away.

Mangrove Plantation - Serangan Beach, Bali by The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali

Mangrove Plantation at Serangan Beach, Bali by The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali

The event was initiated by Human Resources Department and the mangrove planting this year is a continued effort to last year's mangrove planting. The 2000 mangrove planting activity also invited 50 students from SDN No 6 Benoa (elementary school), a mentoring school by the resort. The Students, Head Master and Teachers who participated on this planting activity were very excited.

It is an exceptional collaboration between the resort and the Students on how we care to our community.

The Laguna Cycling Club lead by the award winning Executive Chef I Made Putra and its members also provided a full support towards this community event. Members of this cycling club rode their bike from the resort to the Serangan Beach, which is about 30 kilometres away from Nusa Dua area. The cycling club is also promoted the initiative bike to works to the participants of mangroves planting.

This environment activity initiated by The Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali is one of the Starwood Care agendas, Care for Community. Every year, The Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali organises several Care for Community activities of various scale and programs inline with the Starwood Care programs. The mangrove planting activity is also reflects to the well-known Hindu's Balinese life of concept, Tri Hita Karana.

One of the Tri Hita Karana pillars are; Palemahan which is highlighting a harmonious life between the people with its surrounding community and Pawongan, which is related to the harmonious relations between human to human.

With the successful of community activities conducted by the resort continuously, The Laguna Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali has recently received a tourism award - Tri Hita Karana, Gold Medal. The Annual Awards nomination was participated by almost 120 resorts, hotels and tourist attractions in Bali and organised by Bali Travel News magazine. The awards presented recognises accommodation operators and tourist attractions in Bali in their business, which embodies high levels of professionalism while at the same time embracing the spiritual and community values of Balinese culture.

eTravelblackboard

Hotel upgrades rejuvenate Bali

2010-05-13T17:28:00.001-07:00

The island's business events properties improve offerings

Nusa Dua Beach Hotel is to begin a room upgrade this year and is currently offering meeting packages for US$45 per person. The hotel has an abundance of outdoor beachside space ideal for off-site events and gala dinners under the stars. The hotel also features an amphitheatre that can host up to 900 people for standing cocktails.

BIG PROJECT
The 494-room Melia Bali has begun its US$12 million Lagoon Access Suites project, which will finish in the third quarter of 2010 and will deliver Bali's highest number of lagoon-side suites when completed. The suites will be 43 sqm and all will have private patio access to the resort's lagoon.

Recent business events groups to use the hotel include Toyota with 85 people and a group of 130 for L'Oreal. The hotel also recently opened a complimentary arrival and departure lounge located at ground level.

The 342-room Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali will begin a year-long renovation of all its rooms on May 1. The US$8 million project will deliver new tropical-themed rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds, iPod docks and modern AV facilities.

The refurbishment will be carried out in three stages. The adjoining Bali International Convention Centre will remain untouched. Its largest space is 1,960 sqm.

DELUXE ROOMS

The 537-room Ayodya Resort Bali is also upgrading its 330 deluxe rooms. The project will be finished in stages until the end of 2010. Daihatsu Japan recently took a 24-person incentive to the property while Nokia hosted a team event for 36 people.

The 648-room Grand Hyatt Bali recently hosted a 600-person event for the Asian Development Bank (see Case Study, page 23 June 2009 CEI Asia) and a group of 500 from the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophtalmology. Hotel highlights include two grand ballrooms, 25 meeting rooms and a private beach that can hold up to 1,500 people.

Conrad Bali is also in the Nusa Dua area and features four distinct wings that offer seclusion for MICE groups. There are seven hectares of manicured gardens and 360 guestrooms with the entry level being 45 sqm. The ballroom also seats 540 guests.

cei.asia

Bali airport renovation rejected by governor

2010-05-13T05:28:00.000-07:00

Kompas.com reports that Bali's governor, Made Mangku Pastika, has rejected renovation plans advanced by Bali's airport managers, calling instead for a more Balinese design concept with greater emphasis on public as opposed to commercial spaces.

With renovations scheduled to commence before the end of 2009, I.B. Parsa, a spokesperson for the Bali government, said the provincial government and the governor's office would not give its supporting recommendation if the proposed renovations are only used to expand commercial space. "It would be better if Angkasa Pura (the airport managers) repaired the messy public areas at the airport," said Parsa.

Bali's international airport is being designed to handle 11 million domestic and international passengers, an increase from its current estimated carrying capacity of 9 million. Parsa pointed to poor security at the airport, sluggish visa and immigration handling and passenger boarding problems while asking why the airport authority seemed more intent on creating a commercial mall than on improving overall systems and airport infrastructure.

In response, the general manager of PT Angkasa Pura I at Bali's airport, Heru Legowo, confirmed the governor's objections, asking for several months to present a new set of renovation blueprints. At the same time, he said it would not be possible to meet the government's demand for more Balinese-styled architecture at the airport, promising only to endeavor to create a Balinese atmosphere to welcome arriving passengers.

Bali's airport occupies a tract of land measuring around 300 hectares. Of that area, 73,776 square meters is utilized for the passenger terminal and 1,200 square meters for parking lots.

turbonews.com

Tourism authorities to fix visa on arrival service at Bali airport

2010-05-13T05:26:00.001-07:00

Tourism authorities have asked immigration officers at Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to improve their visa on arrival service following complaints from foreign visitors.

"The problem with the immigration division at Ngurah Rai International Airport, especially its visa on arrival service, looks like a severe disease," Bali Tourism Agency head Ida Bagus Kade Subhiksu told kompas.com on Wednesday.

He added that foreign tourists had to line up for hours in a heavily crowded booth to obtain their visas on arrival.

"Once I received a report saying that a tourist went mad because of the inconvenient service at the immigration booth," Subhiksu said.

The Bali administration has been urging the central government to fix the matter, but the trouble has remained unaddressed, he added.

Source: www.pax.travel

Jammed Bali looks for solutions

2010-05-13T05:24:00.001-07:00

It takes regularly over an hour in the evening to ride along the 21 km separating the popular beach resort of Kuta to the famous temples of Tanah Lot. In fact, places such as Legian, Denpasar, Kuta, or Ubud are jammed most of the afternoon with traffic regularly coming to a complete standstill. Tourism figures have rocketed over the last decade, growing from 1.399 million in 1999 to 2.229 million last year, up by almost 60 percent, not to mention some three million domestic tourists.

Added to a local population of 3.5 million inhabitants, Bali Island has to support in the year the movements of almost ten million people. While tourism development has been limited to only three regencies due to a 1988 decree, most of the congestion is consequently concentrated where tourists are, from the airport/Nusa Dua area to Sanur, Kuta, and Legian.

But as usual, Indonesia's central government and provincial authorities have not been able to tackle the problem of growing congestion. So far, plans to improve the situation have only remained at the good-wish level.

Bali Governor I. Made Mangku Pastika came out over the last year with some plans to cope with the increasing congestion. Earlier this year, the governor mulled out the option of building overpass highways, following their endorsement by religious authorities. Until recently, religious leaders maintained that elevated highways, pedestrian bridges, or underground tunnels violate Balinese religious principles. In the past, these religious restrictions linked to petty bureaucracy, rebuked a group of Malaysian investors to build four toll roads, which would have connected Sanur and Nusa Dua, cutting traveling time from 45-60 minutes to less than 15 minutes, as well as Bali airport to Nusa Dua. The project was estimated to cost US$440 million.

With religious restrictions now being lifted, the governor expects to be able to start the first overpass projects by this year for an opening by 2011 and 2012. Priority development would still concern the airport area and Nusa Dua area, as well as Denpasar, the capital.

Another option is to develop a rail circle line, which would offer a reliable alternative for locals and tourists to move around the island. The system would stop at major tourism objects and would require less land use than highways. The proposal has also received the support from Bali Governor Pastika.

Meanwhile, the island must also tackle with the increasing congestion at Bali airport. Recently, Indonesia's Minister of Tourism Jero Wacik pleaded for a quick expansion of Ngurah Rai International Airport. The process to a brand new international terminal has been delayed due to polemics on its design with Balinese authorities asking for a more Balinese identity. The Bali Airport project would double total capacity to 20 million passengers a year.

The current terminal would be converted to the domestic airport, following the opening of the new 120,000 sqm international facility. The cost of investment is estimated at US$185 million. Authorities are also entertaining the option for a second airport on the northern part of the island

eturbonews.com

World Expo: Putting Indonesia on the map

2010-05-11T22:44:00.001-07:00

The Indonesian Pavilion attracted 20,000 visitors at the opening day on May 1.

If Phileas Fogg and Passepartout need 80 days to travel the globe in Verne's classic Around the World in 80 Days to win £20,270 (US$30,000), we need less than that and less traveling once we are inside the World Expo 2010 Shanghai, China.

Located on a 5.28-square-kilometer plot of land, the 53rd expo features dozens of pavilions from 189 participating countries – after three countries withdrew from the event at the last minute – as well as 50 international organizations.

China has crafted its name in world history for its success in hosting the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. This time, Shanghai – with a 19.2 million population – aims to create another success by hosting the five-year expo dubbed the third biggest event in the world after the Olympics and the soccer World Cup. The municipality has prepared to welcome a targeted 70 million visitors during the six-month long event.

Visitors were willing to queue for four hours – especially at favorite pavilions such as China, Japan, Saudi Arabia, England and Germany – amid the heat. The organizers reported that about 200,000 people flocked to the expo site for the opening on May 1.

That day, about 20,000 visitors flocked to the Indonesian pavilion.

The pavilion – a 2,400-square-meter building that stands on 4,000-square-meters of land – featured information about the country's rich natural resources and cultural heritage along the 700-meter ramp that allows visitors to enjoy the displays.

Balinese dance and gamelan entertained the visitors.

"It's been good to perform here," said Ni Wayan Windrati, a fifth grader from Ubud, Bali, who performed the dance to welcome Coordinating Economic Minister Hatta Rajasa, Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu and Indonesian Ambassador to China Imron Cotan during the opening ceremony. Wayan practiced for nearly two months before the performance day.

The building is mostly made from bamboo. Architect Budi Lim said he wanted to create a design that represented Indonesia. "I didn't want to use traditional architecture. I realize that everyone respects nature and this is shown in the architecture. Our nation lives in harmony with nature," he said.

Budi also used bamboo because he believes it may be "the timber of the future".

Visitors take a closer look at the resin-made relief of Borobudur Temple.

Compared to other countries' pavilions, which mostly have four walls, the Indonesian pavilion is open with good air circulation. Entering the pavilion, visitors can easily spot a giant waterfall – measuring 40x17 meters – that features a map along a wall. The waterfall also serves to cool the air temperature.

"We will be able to determine if this cooling method works over the course of summer. There are some air-conditioners that have also been installed inside the pavilion to anticipate Shanghai's heat as the temperature can reach 39 degrees Celsius during the summer," Budi said.

Mari explained that the pavilion was divided into three zones: The bio zone features the country's abundant natural resources, the diverse zone showcases equipment used by traditional society in agriculture and the city section includes food and beverages.

She said that in line with the expo theme of "Better City, Better Life", Indonesia defined "better life" as harmony among different groups with their innate cultural heritage, while constantly moving forward in democracy and modernity. "We are showcasing our democracy and the progress that we have made in political, economic and cultural aspects in the past years."

Inside the Indonesian pavilion, visitors can sign on at a computer screen to cast their votes for the Komodo dragon to be named among the new seven wonders of nature. Such an effort has helped the Komodo to stay in the top 14 at the website http://www.new7wonders.com. The Komodo, which can grow up to 3 meters in length, is an endangered species living in the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Flores and Gili Motang in East Nusa Tenggara.

In another part of the pavilion, visitors can see resin-made reliefs of the world's largest Buddhist temple Borobudur and touch the Buddha's hand inside a replica of a stupa, a temple, located in Muntilan, Central Java. The world heritage site – as declared by UNESCO back in the 1980s – has been among the most favorite destination for tourists.

The pavilion also showcases numerous batik clothes as well as musical instruments such as Sasando of East Nusa Tenggara that is made from a split leaf of the Lontar palm, and becak (pedicab).

While other pavilions offer traditional cuisine, the Indonesian pavilion had yet to open its Enak (delicious) Restaurant, which minister Mari said would highlight Indonesia's delicacies such as fried rice, fried noodles and sate.

"The menu was selected by President Bambang Yudhoyono," she said. "Our nasi goreng [fried rice] is different from other country's because it's the only one that uses sweet soy sauce."

It was unfortunate the Enak Restaurant was not prepared to welcome the guests during The Jakarta Post's visit last week. The coffee corner, slated to serve the famous Toraja coffee, was not operating either.

The government spent US$10 million to build the pavilion and said it hoped to earn Rp 1 trillion (US$108.7 million) in transactions from trade, tourism and investment sectors. However, deputy chief of the Expo Coordination Bureau, Zhu Yonglei, said that only five hallmark venues would be stored inside the Expo site, including the Expo Axis and the China Pavilion.

Mari hoped the Indonesian pavilion would be named among the five most beautiful although it is competing against other favorites including Japan, Saudi Arabia and European countries' pavilions. It is the second pavilion ever built by the government during its participation at the world expo. The opportunity has been seen by the government as "a massive PR event" to show how Indonesia has moved away from decades of autocratic rule and is becoming a beacon of democracy, emerging as one of the most resilient economies in Asia.

Mari said Indonesia, which has had the third largest economic growth after China and India, was like a charming girl. "This expo is to help people become more familiar with Indonesia before they eventually build a bilateral trade relation and invest in our country," she added.

The World Expo has brought the world closer to visitors and helped them learn about most countries' cultures as well as build interaction among them.

— Photos by Primastuti Handayani

Source: Jakartapost

Ten affordable places to stay in Ubud

2010-05-11T21:24:00.001-07:00

Bali's cultural capital is enjoying a moment in the spotlight, having recently been voted Asia's best city destination. Here's our pick of the best-value homestays and hotels

Bali is on the up again, but the hot address is no longer the luxury villas and nightclubs of Seminyak beach, but the cultural capital Ubud, right in the centre of the island. The place has been buzzing since Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem based themselves here last year to film Eat, Pray, Love, and then the fickle readers of American Conde Nast Traveler decided to vote Ubud as Asia's Best City Destination 2010. Despite all this hype (and a host of ultra-expensive luxury hotels lining the nearby Sayan valley), there are still some very reasonably-priced places to stay in Ubud, from traditional homestay B&Bs with Balinese artists to small local hotels with beautiful pools, tropical gardens, family temples and romantic rooms.

1. Puri Saren Agung

This is where Ubud's long tradition of homestays all began, right in the Royal Palace of the King of Ubud, more than 80 years ago, when Bali first started to attract bohemian artists from around the world. It is still going strong today, though prices have gone up. To rent one of the seven traditional stone bungalows in the sumptuous royal courtyard is still quite an experience, and every night this magical palace comes alive with the sound of Gamelan music as Balinese dances are performed just across the wall from this unique B&B.
• Jalan Raya, Ubud, +62 361 975057. Double room with breakfast from £40

2. Fibra Inn

The Fibra first opened 30 years ago, when Monkey Forest Road was not much more than a dirt track, and today it is still difficult to find a more friendly place to stay in Ubud. A rambling compound of traditional Balinese houses, the gardens are a riot of exotic flowers and tropical vegetation, while the swimming pool is small but utterly romantic. Owned by one of the island's most famous dancers, Sri, guests can can see her perform every Friday in the artist's hamlet of Peliatan, while on Sundays there are concerts of her own all-woman Gamelan orchestra. At the back of the hotel is an excellent spa.
• Monkey Forest Road, +62 361 975451, email: bagusfibra@yahoo.com. Double room with breakfast from £30

3. Jati Home Stay

Parallel to the busy Monkey Forest Road, Hanoman Street is a lot quieter, and both sides are lined with budget homestay accommodation, hidden away inside traditional Balinese walled compounds. Fortunately Jati's homestay is well signposted as you weave left and right through a labyrinth of family temples, houses filled with noisy kids, artists studios, and an assortment of animals wandering around. Dewa Nyoman Jati is a well-known artist himself, and he opened his B&B 20 years ago to allow him to paint and also build up an important collection of works by contemporary Ubud artists, which is on show in his gallery. The accommodation is basic but comfortable.
• Hanoman Street, +62 361 977701. jatihs.com. Double room with breakfast from £12

4. Oka Wati Hotel

Oka Wati is a feisty Balinese lady, one of the pioneers of Ubud's homestays. When she first started taking guests in, her house was all alone in the middle of padi fields, and over the years, she has built up a comfortable nine-room hotel with swimming pool and restaurant. Once you've traversed the maze of narrow lanes that lead to the hotel, the location is perfect for exploring the centre of Ubud. Breakfast is copious, and in her restaurant Oka Wati still makes delicious gado-gado salad, a classic dish that strangely seems to be disappearing from restaurants here. She also serves the best Brem rice wine.
• Off Monkey Forest Road, +62 361 973386, okawatihotel.com. Double room with breakfast from £35

5. Warsi's House

Warsi has a tiny boutique specialising in Balinese textiles, right opposite Ubud's soccer pitch. You have to make your way through a chaotic passage filled with junk before coming out in an idyllic oasis where her four bungalows sit next to a holy temple and lotus-filled pond, looking out over a dreamy landscape of rice fields and coconut trees. Don't expect luxuries like a swimming pool or aircon, but the breakfast of banana pancakes is delicious, while Warsi and her nephew Nyoman are always on hand to spoil their guests.
• Monkey Forest Road, +62 361 975311. Double room with breakfast from £20

6. Rona

Located right at the entrance to Ubud, a walk down Tebesaya Road is like stepping back 10 or 15 years, when this was still a sleepy village. Rona is owned by an eccentric local known as Mr Chicken, who has turned traditional Balinese bungalows into a funky cafe, bookshop and hotel, decorated in very un-Balinese purple. Although there is an inviting pool, the rooms don't have aircon, though a fan is adequate considering the low-cost rates.
• 23 Tebesaya Road, +361 97322. Double room with breakfast from £18

7. Putu Putera Homestay

It is difficult to know just how much longer there will still be authentic homestays such as Putu Putera in Ubud, where for a minimal fee, guests can share the house of a local artisan, experience family life in a traditional compound, and learn directly from the craftman himself about the skills in painting, wood carving, stone masonry, dance or music that Ubud is so famous for. The owner here has converted the top floor of his house into five no-frills B&B rooms. His wife prepares breakfast, while guests are welcome to accompany him to his workshop where he creates wood and stone ornaments for gardens.
• 30 Tebesaya Road, +62 361 973204. Double room with breakfast from £6

8. Tiing Gading Bungalows

With no namesign, this is not the easiest place to find, but guests are rewarded by discovering a tranquil hideaway surrounded by thick bamboo groves, tall palm trees and a small river. The pool is to-die-for, and with a spa and restaurant it is easy to just relax here rather than going into Ubud in the evening. There are just 10 rooms, with aircon inside and cool terraces to sit out in the evening and enjoy an ice-cold Bintang beer.
• Tebesaya Road, +62 361 973228, vacationsinbali.com. Double room with breakfast from £30

9. Ubud Inn

A host of chic boutique hotels have opened up on Ubud's main drag, Monkey Forest Road, but the trademark "tropical Bali" design is all pretty similar, and prices can be surprisingly expensive. The Ubud Inn was one of the first places to offer more luxurious accommodation, and although this may not be the hippest place to stay, it is difficult to find better value. There is a huge swimming pool, surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, bar, restaurant and spa, free Wi-Fi, while the spacious rooms come with a four-poster bed complete with mosquito nets.
• Monkey Forest Road, +62 361 975071, ubudinn.com. Double room with breakfast from £38.

10. Family Guest House

In the quiet artist's hamlet of Peliatan, this friendly homestay lives up to its name as the rambling compound is a great place for families to base themselves. The bungalows are simple and basic, but with large verandahs, and visitors are free to wander round the family temple and sumptuously decorated pavilions - just don't expect to find a swimming pool at this price. There is free WiFi, though, a copious breakfast famed for its brown bread, and just outside on the street is a fun "mini-bar", perfect for a late-night drink before going to bed.
• Jalan Sukma 39, +62 361 974054, email: familyhouse@telkom.net. Double Room with breakfast from £20.
• All photographs by John Brunton.
Source: Guardian.co,uk

Amandari Screens Heritage Films Of Classic Bali

2010-05-11T21:20:00.001-07:00

Amandari will host a viewing of heritage films of Bali in conjunction with the French Cinémathèque of Dance and the Swedish Dance Museum. The films focus on the theme of dance, with rarely-seen screenings of Rolf de Maré, a Swede who compiled outstanding footage of dance from Indonesia in the 1930s.

Films will be screened in Kedewatan's village wantilan, or open-air meeting place, adjacent to Amandari. Each evening's showcase will feature two films with an intermission in between.

The first film to be screened on July 1 is "Goona Goona," (also known as "The Kris"), from 1932, which runs 65 minutes. It was directed by Armand Denis and Andre Roosevelt.

This film, when it was shown in New York in the 1930s, became a huge success and put Bali on the international map. The term "goona-goona" became the equivalent of "that old black magic" of the popular song title (by Frank Sinatra). Released in 1932, its American title was "Love Powder." Amidst reams of expedition footage, the producers endeavored to contrive a dramatic plotline involving the romance between a Balinese prince and a servant girl. Our hero finally wins the heroine's love with the help of a magic potion concocted by the local witch doctor.

A parallel will be drawn between Bali and Harlem in the '30s. While the Bali film was sweeping New Yorkers away, the Nicholas Brothers, child dancers from Harlem, were the stars of the Cotton Club. Both Bali and Harlem nightclub life inspired the artist Miguel Covarrubias. This screening will be combined with a 45-minute montage of the Nicholas Brothers' most sublimely virtuoso moments.

On July 2, Amandari will screen a film of Rolf de Maré's 1938 expedition to Nias, Sulawesi, Sunda, Java and Bali preceded by a short montage of photographs of deMaré presented by Erik Naslund. This runs 90 minutes.

The film will be shown in two parts with musical accompaniment by two or four musicians. Sequences are silent and show dances from what was then the West Indies. The trip was "curated" by Claire Holt who delegated the choice of dancers in Bali to Walter Spies. This unique document seldom travels and will probably never be shown again in Indonesia for technical reasons; the films are now too fragile. The evening will be presented by Erik Naslund, director of the Dansmuseet of Stockholm, Sweden and author of a biography of Rolf de Maré.

Rolf de Maré (1888 – 1964) was a Swedish art collector and leader of the Ballets Suédois in Paris from 1920–1925. In 1933, Rolf de Maré founded "Les Archives Internationales de la Danse" (AID) in Paris – the world's first museum and research institute for dance. The Archive became a famous centre for studies in dance and visitors came from all over the world to see exhibitions or to study in its vast library. After the War, de Maré donated his collections from the Swedish Ballet in Paris and the fruits of his expedition of exploration to Indonesia in 1938 – the first to have been undertaken with the purpose of documenting dance – to Stockholm to form the Dance Museum, which he opened in 1953.

The final day of the programme sees the screening of "Island of Bali — La Isla de Bali," from 1930, which runs 60 minutes and was directed by Miguel Covarrubias. This screening will be preceded by a documentary on the life and works of Miguel Covarrubias, the Mexican caricaturist, author and painter. This film is an edited compilation of footage taken by his wife, Rose Covarrubias, in 1930 and 1937. It covers every aspect of Balinese life following the chapters of the famous book "Island of Bali" which was a best-seller in the United States before the War.

source: eglobaltravelnews

Celebrating Galungan in Bali, Balinese slaughter thousands of pigs

2010-05-10T22:30:00.001-07:00

Balinese people do a mass slaughter thousands of pigs on the day PENAMPAHAN Galungan, a day before the Galungan holy day, Tuesday (11 / 5) morning.

"Thousands of pigs slaughtered at the same time it has been prepared since six months ago, so the needs of pigs in large numbers can be met from the local area, no longer bring in pigs from outside Bali, as in previous years," said Head of Bali Provincial Animal Husbandry Putu Sumantra .

He said the joint venture undertaken pig slaughter. One male weighing 100 kilograms divided by the 15-20 family. Even people who belong to cut off a pig. Most of the meat is given to immediate family.

Communities in Hamlet Ole, Dauh Puri Village Marga, Tabanan regency, around 45 km southwest of Denpasar to cut the pig in the morning, before sunrise, so cutting it is completed. Each family received six to seven kilograms of pork were next with their family members are processed in a variety of Balinese food menu.

"There are processed into lawar and bebalung to eat today and tomorrow and processed in the order that can last a few days ahead," said Pan Anga, 45, one local resident. He says, a pig with a weight of 100 kg of one resident purchased a joint venture with 15 people with equal division.

Meanwhile, urban communities, especially in Denpasar, only a small portion of pork cuts in the household. They are mostly bought in the form of pork that is clean ready to be processed in the traditional markets, with prices up to Rp40.000/kg Rp35.000.

Balinese society, both in cities and rural areas, on the day of Galungan PENAMPAHAN keep doing ngelawar tradition and making various kinds of Balinese cuisine. According to Putu Sumantra, Bali ahead of Galungan has a stock of more than 283 000 pigs with an average weight over 100 kg / head.

In one family automatically after the existing division of tasks have finished processing the meat and then enjoy it together. The men make bamboo decoration Penjor ie mounted on the front door of each household. Meanwhile, a housewife, including her daughter's child prepare a series of special occasions (offerings) that will be offered at the temple or sacred place of the family (merajan) on Galungan holy day which falls on Wednesday (12 / 5).

For three consecutive days, 11-13 May 2010, offices of government agencies and private companies in Bali holiday (facultative). Similarly, the teaching and learning process for all levels of education in Bali is also a holiday during the week. (Ant/OL-04)

Galungan in Bali, Janur Vendors and Flower Harvest

2010-05-10T22:25:00.001-07:00

A day before the celebration of the holiday Galungan, Hindus in Bali was busy with preparations to welcome the day of victory over adarma or good darma against crime. Among them is to buy equipment such as flowers and prayers on special occasions.

Market traders in Badung Denpasar did not want to miss this opportunity by selling flowers and on special occasions. In addition to equipment dealers, traders also sprung up a surprise that deliberately selling flowers and coconut into the holiday every Galungan. Due to high demand for more profitable because they were also price rises.

"If the price of coconut and flowers are usually sold seven thousand to eight thousand, per bundle, on the eve of this holiday rising to 12 thousand to 16 thousand, per bundle," said Ketut Suwarya one coconut traders in Pasar Badung, Denpasar. "Supply for Galungan and Kuningan holidays are still safe," he added.

Like previous years, residents of Denpasar and surrounding areas flock to Badung market for the purposes of Galungan and Kuningan from morning till evening began later.

Translate from Kompas.com

Garuda Plans to Cover Gap After JAL Cuts Bali Routes

2010-05-10T22:20:00.001-07:00

National flag carrier PT Garuda Indonesia announced on Monday that it was ready to fill the void after ailing Japan Airlines canceled its routes to Bali this year.

Kiyoshi Tanaka, a JAL representative in Bali, said on Monday that the bankrupt airline's massive restructuring had prompted it to cut less-profitable routes, including to Bali, which have already showed a decrease in passenger numbers. He said JAL's daily Tokyo-Denpasar and Osaka-Denpasar would be eliminated by Oct. 1, leaving Garuda the only carrier flying between Japan and the resort island.

Pujobroto, Garuda's corporate secretary, said on Monday after JAL's announcement that the Indonesian carrier would raise its Osaka-Denpasar flights from four times a week to five starting in November. Garuda also provides once-daily Denpasar-Tokyo service and three Denpasar-Nagoya flights per week.

"The flights from Denpasar to Japan will use Airbus 330-300 aircraft," Pujobroto said.

Amid a massive restructuring, Japan Airlines has decided to trim unprofitable routes, including to Bali. The planned cancellation will leave Garuda the only carrier flying from Japan to the resort island of Bali. (EPA Photo)

Pujobroto also added that Garuda was planning daily Jakarta-Tokyo service in September.

JAL, Asia's biggest carrier, declared bankruptcy in January under $6 billion of debt. Poor management and out-of-control costs, as well as unprofitable routes, were all factors leading to one of Japan's biggest corporate busts.

Its troubles were also compounded by the global financial downturn, which decimated travel demand for its extensive international flight network.

According to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the number of visitors from Japan to Bali dropped 22 percent to 65,059 in the first quarter from the year-earlier period.

JAL currently has two daily routes to Bali, Tokyo-Denpasar and JAL 715 Osaka-Denpasar.

Heru Legowo, general manager of PT Angkasa Pura I Ngurah Rai, regretted JAL's decision to stop the service, which it has flown for 10 years. He said the cancellation made little sense because the 400 passangers arrived on each flight as well as cargo, not to mention the fees JAL paid to the airport management firm.

"With the route closing, we will lose income of Rp 150 million [$16,500] a day," Heru said.

Ida Bagus Ngurah Wijaya, chairman of Bali's Tourism Board, said the closure would also cause tourist numbers to drop. Japan accounts for the third-largest number of visitors after Australia and China.

Ronn Nomura, sales and marketing officer of Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bali, said the impact had already begun to be felt.

"With the closure, we expect to lose 50 percent of our guests," he said.

TheJakartaGlobe