Innholdsfortegnelse for October 2017 i epicure

The bar with no name Two and a half months ago in an undisclosed Bangkok location, an anonymous cocktail bar was launched with little fanfare, even though it was founded by a band of four eminent Asian bartenders: Colin Chia (of Nutmeg & Clove in Singapore), Hidetsugu ueno (of Bar High Five in Tokyo), Nick Wu (of East End in Taipei) and Ronnaporn ?Neung? Kanivichaporn (of Backstage Bar in Bangkok). To discover the speakeasy, follow its instagram hashtag clues and #findthelockerroom at #arena10 along #thonglor10. Once past the sliding entrance, you’ll be greeted by a dimly lit space with raw concretf East End in Taipei) and Ronnaporn ?Neung? Kanivichaporn (of Backstage Bar in Bangkok). To discover the speakeasy, follow its instagram hashtag clues and #findthelockerroom at #arena10 hers making sporadic…

The sharing and giving of mithai (sweets) traditionally signifies friendship and goodwill. One Michelin-starred The Song of India, known for their premium handcrafted mithai, has launched three limited edition flavours for Deepavali: gula melaka and saffron-infused feuilletine; black sesame, charcoal and extra virgin coconut oil; and pink guava with pistachios and almonds. Elegant gift boxes are available in various configurations ($45 to $125). From 17 to 22 October, the restaurant will offer a festive degustation menu ($79, vegetarian option available) with dishes such as Mangalorean gassi (tiger prawns in a coconut sauce) and Kashmiri nadru (young lotus root in a mint cashew sauce). 33 Scotts Road. Tel: 6836 0055 North indian restaurant Shahi Maharani will be hosting two lavish buffet banquets – a lunch ($35) on the eve and a…

Creating the menu at HAKU begins with the selection of tableware. That’s because the restaurant is conceived by chef Hideaki Matsuo of three Michelin-starred Kashiwaya in Osaka, who believes that plates are the clothes of food. He picks out exquisite handcrafted pieces, some belonging to centuries-old artisanal traditions such as kutani and tsuji hitachi, pairs each plate with a waka (a type of classical Japanese poem) then passes it on to executive chef Agustin Balbi – formerly of RyuGin in Tokyo – who invents a dish based on the inspiration provided by the plate and poem. The resulting creations at HAKU include Japanese tomatoes with barracuda and jamón ibérico de bellota, and Kagoshima A4 Wagyu tenderloin with eryngii mushrooms and baby turnips. if you can, sit at the bar by…

Whether it’s the blissful tropical island lifestyle, the natural hospitality of the locals, or the melting pot of art and culture, the paradise island of Bali is one of the world’s hottest travel destinations all year long. The Ministry of Tourism reported more than four million international tourists and seven million Indonesian nationals visited Bali in 2015. With tourism as its premier industry, Bali’s accommodation facilities include an abundance of quality hotels, ranging from the world’s most respected luxury brand chains to small boutique hotels. The Island of the Gods has been a hotspot for destination weddings for many years, and the number of romantic venues and accommodation options for couples and their guests just keep getting better. You can choose from clifftop venues overlooking the ocean like Karma Kandara,…

Located strategically in the hip Petitenget area, the 350-seater MÉTIS is known for its spacious and beautiful setting, seamless service and crowd-pleasing cuisine. Its modern French- Mediterranean culinary concept is the brainchild of chef Nicolas ‘Doudou’ Tourneville. Together with executive chef Dove Sudarsana, the duo devises fresh and sumptuous dishes such as the many incarnations of its popular foie gras selection. MÉTIS also recently introduced a more health-conscious slant to the menu, by adding dishes such as organic grass-fed Australian beef along with various vegetarian options for lunch and dinner. The private dining room in MÉTIS comes fully equipped with its own kitchen, bar, projector, and your choice of round or long tables. With the ability to host up to 100 guests, it is perfect for a mid-sized wedding party.…

Karma Kandara boasts a prime location atop a limestone cliff high above the Indian Ocean, with all 54 private pool villas positioned towards the stunning scenery. Apart from a spacious living, kitchen and dining area with sleek contemporary furnishings and curated traditional artworks, each villa takes after the design of a classical Balinese garden compound, with pavilions around a central pool courtyard. The resort’s amenities include a gymnasium, main infinity pool, library and meeting facilities, 24-hour reception and in-villa dining. Karma Beach Bali beach club – an alluring stretch of white sand and turquoise waters – is a snorkeller or kayaker‘s dream. Access this lagoon via a hill tram that goes 85m down the cliff and into a cosy beachfront venue with a bamboo pavilion, lounge chairs, bar, kitchen, and…

An exclusive boutique estate with just 23 villas in the heart of Seminyak, The Layar exudes contemporary luxury. Translated as ‘sail’ in Indonesian, the resort’s stunning designer villas feature dramatic roofs that sweep to the ground, evoking the rigging of traditional fishing boats. Each distinct villa is a private sanctuary with a spacious, open-plan design perfect for entertaining. Living areas flow seamlessly to private swimming pools, Jacuzzi decks and tropical gardens. The villa layouts offer a choice of one, two, three or four bedrooms to suit couples, families or groups of friends. Friendly Balinese staff will make you feel right at home as they help to book tours, happily share insights into the local culture and recommend places to visit. Opt for room service, private pool-side barbecues, or a meal…

When it comes to choosing a dream wedding venue, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort knows what couples need. The five-star property boasts perfectly manicured lawns and a stunning grand ballroom. You can personalise your big day either down by the beach with the Ocean de L’amour package, or within the hotel’s Gamelan Ballroom with the Magnifique Moment package. On top of a twonight stay at the Honeymoon Suite for Ocean de L’amour and the 1-bedroom Pool Villa for Magnifique Moment, both packages also include a Balinese massage at SoSpa and an aesthetic session at Vietura Artisan of Anti-Aging for the bride and groom, among other lovely benefits. Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort has a total of 12 meeting rooms and three scenic gardens adjacent to the ballroom foyer;…

Walk past the walls adorned with memorabilia and photos of icons in the music, fashion and arts world from the 50s to late 90s and it’s clear Hard Rock Hotel Bali is made for the young and fun at heart. Its signature rock and roll vibe is reflected throughout the hotel, including the Centerstage, which acts as a lobby, bar, a live rock venue, and a rock museum kitted with a million-dollar audio visual system. The hotel features 418 tribute rooms and suites that are designed to appeal to music enthusiasts. Retreat to the free-form swimming pool, enjoy wonderful body therapy treatments at the hotel’s Rock Spa, or opt for five metres of rock climbing within the premises. You can even try out your vocal skills at the Boom Box…

Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort is a boutique property that aims to balance contemporary trends with timeless traditions. With signature spa treatments, a personalised dining experience, and the resort’s own generous piece of shoreline boasting a spectacular view of the Indian Ocean, the resort is your private gateway to an unforgettable vacation. The resort’s main restaurant, Moonlite Kitchen and Bar, offers a menu of progressive Asian cuisine that marries culinary culture with creativity. The restaurant’s open-air deck lets you sip craft cocktails as you chill to the DJ’s tunes, gazing at wild waves dancing along to a romantic sunset. Head to Wild Orchid Restaurant and enjoy its casual, beach club vibe as you lounge on day beds overlooking the beach. Delicious Indonesian fare will keep your tummy satisfied. Weddings at Anantara…

If the idea of a glamping getaway or wedding with an outdoor theme excites you, Menjangan Dynasty Resort, Beach Glamping and Dive Centre is the place to be. The property boasts 16 hectares of land spread out across the peaceful peninsula and adjacent to blissful white, sandy beaches. Ecofriendly, tented boutique rooms and villas are what makes the resort stand out from the rest: choose from 24 Beach Camp Tents, 2 one-bedroom Cliff Tent Villas and 2 two-bedroom Cliff Tent Villas, all made of durable, high quality canvas. The air-conditioned interiors of the tents evoke the ambience of a classic safari club with the glass doors, natural materials and muted colours harmonised with blackened steel elements. Guests will be supported by an excellent service team of safari uniform-clad staff so…

What does your dream wedding venue looks like? Gorgeous beach views and lush greenery? Then look no further than The Legian Bali. Weddings at The Legian Bali are fully customisable, with a choice of location at either the perfectly manicured lawns of The Garden, the magnificent Sundeck, or the secluded The Beach House. Couples can also tap into their additional in-house services such as floral arrangements, makeup and hair styling, photography and video, and entertainment options. Planning your special day from the ground up requires exhaustive preparation but The Legian Bali offers a range of wedding packages for those who like to leave it to the experts. Go for the popular Garden Wedding, which includes wedding essentials such as decorations, seating and a three-piece Balinese Gamelan Orchestra. Or choose the…

Few things can be more romantic than sharing your commitment to each other in the presence of friends and family with a tropical landscape and mesmerising Indian Ocean as the backdrop. The beach, the sand and the sunset over the ocean all make for a blissful setting to remember your wedding by. Located at bustling Kuta, The ANVAYA Beach Resort Bali is the ideal venue for soon-to-wed couples, those who want to renew their vows, as well as honeymooners. With 495 guestrooms, suites and villas, there’s more than enough room to accommodate your wedding guests. For your nuptials, The ANVAYA Beach Resort offers several venues to choose from: the romance of the beach, or the glamour of a full grand ballroom wedding. Whether you want to celebrate with a small…

1855 The Bottle Shop #01-643 Suntec City Mall, Tower 4 Tel: 6735 1855 Asiatique Collections 14A Dempsey Road Tel: 6471 3146 Chanel #01-59/#B1-135 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Tel: 6645 1950 Christofle #02-11/12 The Shopping Gallery Hilton Tel: 6733 7257 Dior #01-22/#02-13 ION Orchard Tel: 6509 8828 edit lifestyle Tudor Court 137-139 Tanglin Road Tel: 6836 5686 Fuluxe #05-06 Aljunied Industrial Complex, 625 Aljunied Road Tel: 8346 4545 Grapevine Cafe Bar & Restaurant 787A Upper Serangoon Road Tel: 6280 5026 Hai Choo Wines & Spirits #06-119 Entreprise Hub, 48 Toh Guan Road East Tel: 6515 6538/9 Hermès #01-02A Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Road Tel: 6738 9807 KAL Wine Source Asia Ground level, 45 Niven Road Tel: 6298 9672 Louis Vuitton #01-23 ION Orchard Tel: 6788 3888 Strange and Deranged…

Just as Australia and New Zealand have been arguing over who created the pavlova, the jury is still out on where steak frites was born – since both Belgium and France stake their claims as the inventor. Whatever the answer, this seemingly easy bistro staple is not easy to get right, including the accompanying sauce or herbed butter. Historically, rump steak was the cut of choice, but entrecôte (also known as ribeye) and sirloin are more frequently used today. Likewise, the traditional creamy béarnaise sauce (made with clarified butter emulsified with egg yolks and herbs) is increasingly being replaced with lighter renditions. For the reviews, we ordered our steaks the way they should be: medium rare. BAR-ROQUE BAR & GRILL Helmed by Alsatian chef Stephane istel, Bar-Roque Bar & Grill…

Contrary to popular belief (and animated blockbuster films), Madagascar isn’t just famous for vanilla beans and lemurs. One of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Madagascar boasts a vast number of endemic animal species. As of 2014, the world’s fourth largest island country was recorded as having 241 mammal species, approximately 300 species of birds, at least 266 species of amphibians, over 260 species of reptiles, and a vibrant freshwater ecosystem that includes 101 known endemic freshwater fishes. However, the country’s most iconic creatures are of course lemurs (there are over 100 species) and chameleons (Madagascar is home to two-thirds of the world’s chameleons). So what does Madagascar’s impressive biodiversity have to do with Time + Tide Miavana, a 14-villa luxury eco-lodge that opened on Nosy Ankao – the largest of…

“I’ve bought my own place in Gracetown right by the beach,” Vanya Cullen tells me over tea at Anti:dote, prior to sitting on a wine tasting panel in Singapore. if she has more time, she would like to spend it on making art and music, and enjoying the tranquility of her home by the indian Ocean, but she’s in too much demand to sit still, even in her 34th year of wine-making at Cullen Wines. A family story Fifty years after the first vines were successfully pioneered in Margaret River in 1967, the iconic West Australian wine region has more than earned its place in the lexicon of fine wine. Cullen Wines in Wilyabrup was the fourth winery to be established in 1971, after Vasse Felix (1967), Moss Wood (1969)…

SINGAPORE Matter of Taste Singapore 2017 (21 October) is back for its fourth edition, with 200 wines that are rated at least 90 Robert parker points. The free-and-easy walkabout format allows you to sip at your own pace. The separately ticketed Grand Finale Dinner brings together winemakers and punters. a-matter-of-taste.com Austrian Wine Week (13 to 19 November) is presented by the folks behind Vinothek Leopold, gathering red, white, rosé, sparkling and dessert wines from Austria. The highlight is the Swiss Club’s fivecourse paired dinner, during which Austrian winemakers will be present. leopold.sg Whisky live Singapore (25 to 26 November) sees an interesting twist in its format for its eighth year. The experience will be held across a few venues, including TheatreWorks and an outdoor street where a cocktail and food…

At the rural beachfront area of southeast Bali lies a sprawling sanctuary walled off in the north by rice fields and thriving sweet corn, papaya, banana, tobacco and coconut plantations; and in the south by volcanic coastlines and views of surf breaks. This sanctuary, The Royal Purnama, has welcomed guests since April 2015. The Royal Purnama offers 49 one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and four-bedroom villas and suites, all with private pools or balcony Jacuzzi tubs, and colourful décor enhanced with fine Balinese ceramics and local textiles and mood lighting for a good night’s sleep. The boutique art retreat is located beside the glittering black crystal sands of Pantai Purnama (Full Moon Beach), just 15km from Sanur and 16km from Ubud. Its mission: to provide exceptional hospitality and support local Balinese culture and…

Located at the centre of Sanur beach’s white sandy stretch, Maya Sanur Resort & Spa is designed as a tranquil oasis amid a hugely popular tourist destination. The hotel offers 103 rooms and suites; couples can opt for any of the 23 Deluxe Lagoon Access Rooms that give direct access to the adultsonly 158m lagoon-style swimming pool. If you are in the mood for a selfcontained and relaxed getaway, Maya Sanur Resort & Spa also offers a number of F&B options to keep you satisfied so you don’t have to step out of the resort. At Reef, the resort’s elegant beachfront restaurant, you will be treated to a tantalising selection of freshly caught fish, locally sourced shellfish and imported beef. All-day dining Graze restaurant indulges with locally sourced coffees; freshly…

The inspiration of Ayodya Resort Bali is the classic romantic epic of Ramayana, a 24,000-verse of ancient poetry that tells the story of star-crossed lovers, Rama and Shinta. The property retells the beautiful tale every night through dance-drama performances with Balinese temples serving as the backdrop for some of the island’s best performing troupes. The property features 537 rooms and is set across 11.5 hectares of majestic gardens and small rivers that flow naturally to a private beachfront, reviving the image of a Balinese water palace from a different time. Guests can experience Ayodya Resort Bali’s beautiful natural surroundings through a number of leisure activities. Enjoy a traditional dance lesson held at the resort’s main open-air theatre, bask in the sun by one of the four pools lined with cushy…

Jambuluwuk Oceano Seminyak Hotel is the latest addition to Jambuluwuk Hotels & Resorts, one of the most prestigious Indonesian hotel chains. Located in Petitenget, Bali, the hotel houses 138 rooms adorned with Indonesian heritage elements, creating a good balance between tradition and modern sophistication. Wed in style within the property when you opt for their special wedding package with services that include private use of Oceano Sky Lounge at The Rooftop for two hours, blessing from a priest or a celebrant, authentic Balinese or elegant international decorations and a hand bouquet along with a boutonniere, makeup and hair do, and a dedicated wedding photographer, among other amenities. The package also includes an intimate stay in the Junior Suite for two nights, a romantic dinner, and a spa treatment for the…

Wine-making may be a tall order in Bali due to its challenging viticulture and climate, but one company has been producing quality vino since 1994 – Hatten Wines. After more than 20 years in the business of wine production, Hatten Wines has given back to the oenophile community by opening the epicenter of wine culture in Sanur, Bali, built in collaboration with German luxury home appliances Gaggenau, high-end glassmakers Schott Zwiesel and elegant cabinetry makers Toto Kitchen. The three-storey building is designed to resemble a warehouse. Oversized windows and bricks make up a large part of the interiors, which are lit by hanging industrial lights and steel beams. The ground floor houses a wine classroom with a capacity of 30 and a lifestyle boutique that offers accessories such as customised…

Many travellers usually pick a strategically located hotel as their base to explore surrounding attractions. At the Elephant Safari Park & Lodge Bali, the attraction shares the same home as you. Bali’s only dedicated elephant rescue sanctuary is integrated with 27 stylish accommodations to coexist with the majestic creatures’ natural forest habitat. Guests are encouraged to interact with these rescued gentle giants at every turn. Step onto the back of a majestic Sumatran elephant from your private lodge and explore the property, the elephant park, or the adjacent forest reserve for a safari day. Take a magical moonlit safari elephant ride through the forest before having your personal elephant chauffeur escort you to the Palm Grove for a romantic candlelit dinner and a special after-dinner talent show. Guests can engage…

Known as a stalwart of Bali’s dining scene, Mozaic has been pleasing many palates since it opened in 2001. Located in Ubud, the award-winning restaurant is helmed by owner and executive chef Chris Salans, whose carefully constructed degustation menus are a treat for the senses. The Lounge at Mozaic serves signature cocktails and an Asian influenced tapas menu. After a recent revamp, The Lounge now features bigger, more comfortable furniture, unique art objects, and more space between seating areas. The ceiling in the dining room has been redone to mimic the night sky, while terracotta pendant lights illuminate the outdoor garden. There’s something to entice everyone to visit Mozaic, whether it’s an artful French dinner for two, or a cooking class. With a romantic garden setting and beautifully plated dishes,…

Ubud, a hotspot for art collectors and literati, provides a great backdrop for beautiful unions. Less than a mile away from Central Ubud lies a culturally-inspired property called Desa Visesa Ubud. Spread across almost 6.5 hectares of natural landscape owned by the Ubud Royal family, the resort – with 66 Pool Villas and 40 Suite Rooms – was conceived as an extension of the nearby palace. Surrounded by eye-catching terraced rice fields and overlooking a tropical rainforest, Desa Visesa Ubud is the perfect base for cultural discovery and much-needed quiet time among couples. From the 35 sq m Centre Stage, which can fit an intimate celebration of 20, to the 484 sq m Tamansari for an extravagant wedding of 350 guests, Desa Visesa Ubud offers a choice of gorgeous venues…

Located just a five-minute drive from the centre of Ubud, Wapa di Ume Resort & Spa is a rustic resort that blends harmoniously into its scenic surroundings. All 33 spacious rooms and villas – from the Lanai Rooms to the cosy villas with private pools – are designed to be an extension of the natural contours of the earth. The accommodations are scattered down the hillside and overlooks the expansive rice paddy fields and rainforest. Each unit exudes traditional Balinese beauty and are constructed using local stones, folk-weave fabrics, cane bamboo and weathered wood, imparting a real back-to-nature aesthetic. Around the resort, you are surrounded by facets of nature: dressed slate, tiles, smooth unpainted wood and natural bamboo, among other materials. With swaying palm trees and the tranquil sounds of…

It wasn’t too long ago when a fine dining experience came with the ubiquitous starched linen and white porcelain set. These days, in place of matching sterling silver cutlery and plates are small-batch handmade ceramic pieces favoured by chefs looking to serve their dishes on unique ware. Parallel with the growth of the farm-to-table movement, a yearning to experience the tactile and to present food in a more aesthetic fashion, an increasing number of restaurants and hotels in Bali are collaborating with ceramic artisans to create their own tableware set. Naturally, these vessels tell a personal story of craftsmanship and the people who shaped them with their own hands. It is no longer enough to serve a tangle of angel hair pasta aglio e olio on a mass produced, impersonal…

epicure is available at the following: Onboard Singapore Airlines (SIA) as an inflight magazine Airport Lounges/Airline Offices Air France KLM British Airways Cathay Pacific Airways CIAS DNATA CIP Lounge Emirates SATS Premier Clubs SIA KrisFlyer Gold Lounges SIA Silver Kris Lounges Skyview Lounge Thai Airways Deluxe Rooms & Business Centres of Hotels & Resorts in SINGAPORE Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa Amara Singapore Capella Singapore Carlton City Hotel Singapore Carlton Hotel Singapore Concorde Hotel Singapore Conrad Centennial Singapore Fairmont Singapore Four Seasons Hotel Singapore Furama City Centre, Singapore Furama RiverFront, Singapore Goodwood Park Hotel Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Grand Hyatt Singapore Hilton Singapore Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre Holiday Inn Atrium Hotel Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong Hotel Jen InterContinental Singapore Klapsons, The Boutique Hotel Le Meridien…

Beyond prime ribs in its 18th year, lawry’s Singapore has introduced fresh menu items to complement its classic uSDA roast prime ribs. Executive chef Sherwin Sim injects a modern Asian flair into the Miso Cod with Roasted King Oyster Mushroom ($68), topped with soymarinated ikura. Oven-Roasted Spring Chicken ($63) is marinated in citrus and herbal brine for 48 hours, needing no further seasoning with its earthy notes. For starters, an Appetiser Sampler ($39) offers a textural trio of pan-seared foie gras with thyme jelly, traditional lump crab cake, and jalapeño beef bruschetta. Of note is a sommelier wine pairing ($54 for three glasses) that includes the Lawry’s private Label Chardonnay from Napa Valley. #04-01/31 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road. Tel: 6836 3333 EAT WELL WITH COMO if you have yet…

A magnificent skyline. A waterfront backdrop. The Fullerton Heritage precinct is a world-class destination that commands unrivalled views of Marina Bay and the Singapore River. Adding vibrancy to the heritage area is an impressive array of F&B hotspots to pamper diners’ palates. Cosmopolites can wine, dine and party the night away at Monti, which offers modern Italian cuisine, craft cocktails and live music by resident DJs. Enjoy the Monti-Rita, an Italian take on the classic margarita, and Mr. Monti, a white rum-based highball with grapefruit tonic. Come October, treat the little ones to a Children’s Day Brunch at Monti. The indulgent feasting comes with complimentary exclusive boat rides around the bay, a complimentary movie screening and a dessert-laden kid’s corner at the buffet. Visit thefullertonheritage.com for more information. Alternatively, head…

FOOD: 6.5/10 SERVICE: 6.5/10 AMBIENCE: 7.5/10 AVERAGE DINNER BILL FOR TWO: $200 WITH DRINKS MUST-TRIES: LAMB RUMP WITH BLACK PEPPER SAUCE, FRIED SQUID AND THE CALAMANSI CURD DESSERT 31 Keong Saik Street. Tel: 6221 6883 Two years on, chef Andrew Walsh has carved out a niche for himself at Cure, creating innovative dishes inspired by his irish upbringing and stints at top tables in ireland, New york and the u.K. So it came as a surprise to industry watchers when he unveiled an Asian-inspired bar and grill as his second concept – Butcher Boy, helmed by chef Nicole philipson (also head of research and development for Walsh’s Cure Concepts). The vibes of this Keong Saik establishment, just a few doors down from its sister restaurant, reminded me of Cure in…

Saint-louis House by The Whisky Trust is the newest luxury venue in town, specialising in only Champagne and whisky served in customised crystal drinkware. Sip on Cristal 2000, Krug 2004, and Dom pérignon in magnums, as well as ultra prestige drams like yamazaki 50 years Old, Royal Lochnagar Selected Reserve and discontinued Glen Ord 30 year Old, while surrounded by priceless handmade crystal chandeliers from the renowned European glassware producer. #05-02 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. Tel: 8809 0048 SCRIBES AT WORK Two-month-old The Writing Club is an intimate space for genuine whisky geeks. Delve deep into the differences between a (estimated) 1970s bottling of The Glenlivet 12 Years Old and its modern day iteration, or a fine collection of Ardbegs. #02-10 Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road. Tel: 9362 8626…

“I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be a chef today,” reveals 35-yearold chef Takayama Taro, chef de cuisine (Japanese) of Triple Three Restaurant at Mandarin Orchard Singapore. “I always aspired to be a lawyer, but my hopes for becoming a full-fledged attorney were dashed when I was unable to pass the bar exam, despite having an undergraduate law degree,” Taro lets on. An administrative job at a medical company, however, did not feed his creative side. One day, as he leisurely flipped through a magazine, an image of a chef preparing sashimi caught his eye. “It was such a beautiful picture; I just couldn’t take my eyes off it. I was amazed that such a simple image could capture my attention for more than two hours,”…

When it comes to selecting Seminyak as the prime location for your wedding, Alila Seminyak Bali springs to mind. With a strategic location and meticulously designed landscape, the luxury resort offers ample gorgeous spots to make the wedding of your dreams come true. In the romantic Temple Garden, set up the altar by an ancient temple for solemn wedding vows. If you prefer a party-style, outdoor wedding, the Beach Bar pool offers a great setting overlooking the ocean. For an extravagant and more private ceremony, make use of the luxurious penthouse, a truly spectacular venue with a lofty outdoor terrace that provides exceptional views Alila Seminyak Bali’s wedding packages are kept flexible and come with a professional wedding planning team to help you personalise every detail of your big day.…

Drawing inspiration from Ubud’s serene countryside, Kamandalu Ubud is a secluded and romantic property that caters to discerning travellers’ need for privacy and quiet rejuvenation. The property is a tranquil haven set among green rice terraces and traditional Balinese art hubs. The private villas of Kamandalu Ubud come with views of either terraced rice paddies or plunging valleys. Individually designed, each villa features a spacious bedroom complete with modern amenities. The lavish three-bedroom Presidential Villa, surrounded by a large private swimming pool facing the dramatic Ubud valley, provides ultimate indulgence like no other. At Petulu Restaurant, you’ll discover authentic Indonesian cuisine from multiple regions of the archipelago, while Aira Cafe offers an open-air venue overlooking the swimming pool. Outdoorsy couples can opt for a romantic picnic lunch amid lush rice…

One glance at Rumah Luwih and you will be taken by the beauty of this beachfront luxury resort, which is immaculately styled after a classic colonial Indonesian mansion. Rumah Luwih’s unique spin on a Dutch colonial estate makes its destination stand out from the crowd. Add great white halls with grand staircases, pure white marble floors, pillars around the lobby, walls adorned with classical artworks in some areas and antique-inspired wall lamps in others, and it’s hard not to be impressed by its glorious interiors. Ceilings are decorated with chandeliers of various designs and furniture around the hotel is dominated by polished teak, a commodity traded widely during the colonial era. The accommodations at Rumah Luwih present a clean union of old and new, with spacious Dutch-style rooms that come…

What can fun-loving couples do to make their once-in-a-lifetime event unique? W Bali - Seminyak’s WED YOUR WAY campaign has just what you need to jazz up your nuptials. Drawing from the hip hotel brand’s signature lifestyle programming and flair with fashion, music and design, the beachfront hotel offers a bevy of exciting activities that you can add on to your destination wedding. Overcome pre-wedding jitters with the Set the Stage programme of a stag night and hens/bridal party. Trust W Insider to plan the itinerary, whether it’s front row seats at Woobar or a thrilling night on the town. You can also luxuriate in manicures and rubdowns at AWAY Spa, which has recently launched Escape Cabana, their new spa cabana experience with a bespoke wellness menu of meditation, spiritual…

Enjoy complete tranquility in the beachfront oasis that is Grand Hyatt Bali, a luxury property in Nusa Dua. The five-star resort was conceived as a Balinese water palace, with lakes, landscaped gardens, and pools surrounding low-rise Balinese-style buildings. Guests can choose from a total of 636 accommodations (including the prestigious Presidential Suite), which are segmented into four quaint villages. A stay at the individual villas with private pools grants access to the self-contained Grand Club Village; the open-air lounge is open to guests staying at Grand Club rooms or above and is where they can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, all-day tea and coffee, and evening cocktails. Supporting its versatile MICE offerings is Grand Hyatt Bali’s innovative F&B arm. The culinary team has executed out-of-thebox concepts, including placing donuts on trees…

Located near the popular Legian beach, Sol House Bali Legian is a party-focused, contemporary resort offering a variety of stylish rooms and suites. In the Big House room, you’ll experience the hotel’s clean, modern design and understated furnishings, plus a private balcony for some much-needed R&R. Check into the Party Suite and enjoy complimentary VIP Party Bracelets that give you access to exclusive promotions. Enjoy a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, the complimentary welcome mini bar, and 24-hour cocktail service from the comfort of your own party pad. When in doubt, Sol House’s Xtra House Party Advisor is at your disposal for everything related to hosting social events in and around the hotel. Thanks to its strategic location and a number of versatile spaces to choose from, any event…

Situated on sacred land once dubbed the Valley of the Kings, where generations of Balinese royalty used to retreat to, Viceroy Bali is wellknown among international travellers as a secret tropical hideaway. The luxurious villas of Viceroy Bali promise complete privacy, beautiful views of Ubud’s river valleys as well as pools and spacious marble bathrooms. For a truly elevated experience, you want to go with the resort’s Viceroy Villa, a two-bedroom, 400 sq m beauty with a 15m pool, garden, high-thatched roofs and central living area. Should you choose to host a private gathering in your villa, the resort’s CasCades Restaurant can create a personalised menu for you and your guests. CasCades delivers a high quality dining experience to write home about. It infuses Japanese, Thai, Indonesian and Balinese culinary…

Nestled deep within an untouched river valley and overlooking the enchanting bamboo forests of Payangan in Ubud, Padma Resort Ubud is an expansive destination resort located north of Bali’s celebrated cultural centre. With 149 luxuriously appointed rooms within the 11-hectare grounds, the resort provides a secluded sanctuary with stunning views from every room and suite, along with an 89m infinity swimming pool and world-class dining venues. Guests get a good view of the bamboo forest and majestic rice terraces from The Puhu Restaurant & Lounge on the top floor of the resort as they tuck into an international spread of Indonesian, Asian and European fare. Relax at The Pool Café & Bar by the infinity swimming pool and enjoy dishes brimming with organic produce from the Ubud hinterlands of Bedugul…

An exotic boutique property, Alaya Resort Ubud was built with a keen sensitivity to its surrounding environment, its elegant architecture made possible by a number of Bali’s most respected and talented designers. The rooms come with a calming, panoramic view of the lush tropical forest and rice terraces in varying colours of green and gold depending on the season. The signature Alaya Suites are the epitome of island luxury. The well-designed living space, which is adorned with original artworks by local artists, extends seamlessly to a spacious terrace. A luxurious bathroom with a customised stone bathtub completes the spa-like indulgence. The resort’s main restaurant Manisan Bali serves authentic Indonesian cuisine and also hosts a number of cultural shows such as Kecak & Fire Night, Barong & Keris Night, and a…