Luxury Group by Marriott International unveils Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025

Source: The Luxury Group by Marriott International. The Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025 is now live.

The Luxury Group by Marriott International will introduce the Luxury Wellbeing Series 2025 from August. According to the Group's latest luxury travel trends report – The Intentional Traveler, 90% of high-net-worth travellers cite wellness offerings as a key factor in their booking decisions.

In addition, wellness travellers are planning to spend more. Beyond just feeling good, there is a growing demand for immersive, holistic wellness journeys over passive pampering, and Asia is the top destination of choice for such experiences.

Spanning multiple cities in Asia, this wellness odyssey integrates the three pillars of wellness — sleep, nutrition, as well as physical and mental wellbeing — with the cultural tapestry and natural splendour of Bali, Maldives, and Goa. The participating properties will each offer a tailored wellness escapade.

"Beyond tranquil retreats, affluent travellers are seeking impeccable, personalised, exceptional wellness experiences," said Oriol Montal, Regional VP, Luxury, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International.

"As the Luxury Group aspires to predict and exceed travellers' ever-evolving expectations, the Luxury Wellbeing Series is more than just a wellness programme — it's a transformative expedition catering to global luxury travellers' growing desire for holistic enrichment."

Bali | Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Sleep: Delve into the traditional use of medicinal plants in the Balinese Medicinal Plants Workshop, exploring how local flora can enhance sleep quality and overall health with centuries-old recipes. Follow this with Yogic Sleep Therapy, a 60-minute session focused on achieving deep relaxation through controlled breathing, gentle yoga techniques, and calming delta wave music.

Nutrition: Explore Bali with the guided Foraging with the Adventure Car tour led by the hotel's Executive Sous Chef Eka Sunarya. This hands-on sensory excursion takes guests through lush greenery where they will taste freshly-picked wild herbs, aromatic spices and tropical fruits while gaining insights into their culinary and cultural significance. 

To further embrace the deep-rooted appreciation of nature in Balinese culture, make your own traditional drinks in the hour-long Balinese Herbal Drink Workshop using local ingredients that are believed to detoxify, energise and heal.

Physical and mental wellbeing: Dive into the depths of self-awareness with the Vipassana meditation sessions, an ancient practice designed to sharpen mindfulness and foster inner tranquility. By closely observing their breath, sensations, thoughts, and emotions, guests can easily regain mental clarity and emotional resilience. 

Guests can let their artistic side shine with the Mandala Art activity, which fosters self-expression and emotional release. 

Maldives | The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands 

At The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, wellness is a deeply personal journey, shaped by each guest's unique path to balance. Rooted in the resort's Deep Blue philosophy, which celebrates the ocean's healing rhythm and the science of the blue mind, the experience draws on the power of water to calm, centre, and inspire. 

From private consultations with the resort's Director of Spa and Wellness and Executive Chef upon arrival to bespoke treatments and personalised nutrition plans, every element is designed to dissolve stresses and restore inner peace.

Sleep: Taking place at the oceanfront bedrooms, the Balance of Stillness workshop will give guests an introduction to sleep cycles and creating their own sleep sanctuary with the curated sleep ritual kits to help establish a calming bedtime routine. Guests will enjoy a personalised turndown service featuring chakra tea and a sound card selected based on their initial wellness consultation.

Nutrition: A Taste of the Maldives cooking class offers guests a chance to delight in the flavours of the Maldives. They will prepare dishes using the day's fish catch alongside a vegetarian option and have a one-on-one session with the in-house wellness guru and the chef for tailored nutrition guidance. 

Following a comprehensive review of the guest's health history, lifestyle, and wellness goals, the professionals will provide guidance on a customised meal plan, portion control, mindful eating, and nutrient timing.

Physical and mental wellbeing: Set the tone with a Sunrise Floating Sound Healing Session, where sound vibrations gently align body and mind. Healing moments will be further elevated by B Strong, a powerful blend of strength training and conscious breathwork to improve resilience and clarity. 

A guided snorkelling trip and private coral regeneration experience further enrich this journey, deepening the connection between wellbeing and the healing power of the ocean.

India | The St Regis Goa Resort 

The newly-renovated St Regis Goa Resort is dedicated to the ancient practices of Ayurveda, designed to address and harmonise guests' overall health and wellbeing. The journey begins with a personalised consultation with a team of in-house wellness consultants to uncover underlying health imbalances, followed by customised treatments delivered by expert therapists.

Sleep: The Sleep Ritual harnesses the calming effects of Yoga Nidra alongside herbal tisanes to promote a deep, restorative sleep. This ritual is specifically crafted to help guests truly unwind.

Nutrition: Guests will indulge in a Dosha-Specific Farm-to-Table Lunch, aligned with individual Ayurvedic profiles using the freshest ingredients from local farms. A visit to the resort's Spice Garden further enriches this experience, offering insights into the healing properties of traditional herbs and spices integral to Ayurvedic cuisine.

Physical and mental wellbeing: The revitalising mornings begin with a therapeutic Sound Bath Session, using Himalayan singing bowls to realign the body's energies. This is further complemented by the Estuary Walk & Yoga, a reflective journey along the water's edge blending tranquil surroundings with the physical and mental discipline of yoga. 

Following the initial consultation upon arrival, The St Regis Spa offers on a series of bespoke Ayurvedic treatments designed to address guests' specific health concerns and promote a profound sense of peace and wellbeing.

Luxury hotel opens in Nuanu Creative City, Bali

Oshom Bali, a boutique hotel in Nuanu Creative City, has officially opened. Located on a black sand beach in Pantai Nyanyi, Tabanan regency, the hotel is near Tanah Lot temple (10 minutes), dining and shopping at Pererenan and Canggu (15-20 minutes), and artistic Ubud (50 minutes)

"Oshom is a future-forward arts-meets-hospitality concept that offers a barefoot luxury vibe, while creating space for effortless creativity, mindfulness, and sparkly moments," said Daisy Angus, Visionary Founder & Creator of Oshom. 

"We’ve created a holistic lifestyle resort for the soul. With expansive horizons, guests can completely unwind and relax in moments of curated indulgence and beauty; Oshom is a space where meaningful connections are found and remembered." 

The 18-key retreat enjoys direct beach access, with 11 ocean suites and 7 treehouse hideaways. The former overlook the Indian Ocean, whilst the hideaways are in a mangrove forest on the river. The Artist’s Suite hosts an indoor-outdoor bar, private meditation dome, and tropical outdoor shower, while the Indigo Dreams Suite has a jacuzzi, an alfresco massage room, a spa-inspired bathroom, and a private terrace.

Gatherings can be held at the 65-seat cliffside restaurant-lounge. A weekly rotating menu celebrates seasonal ingredients and the day's catch. Guests can also unwind or work at the 24-hour Library.

Breathable, non-toxic materials, rewilded native flora, and elevated walkways are part of Oshom’s approach to preserving the ecosystem. Hand-drawn furniture, reclaimed teakwood, and volcanic sand walls create a rich, textured aesthetic. Bamboo “nests” by architect Pablo Luna provide spaces for a quiet retreat. The saltwater pool, lined with local Sukabumi stone, matches the handmade lava tiles decorating the pool bar. Bespoke artwork from Balinese artists transforms the interiors - while disco balls can be found in the walk-in wardrobes. 

Oshom is part of a visionary 44-hectare creative city, Nuanu, dedicated to art, culture, and conscious living. Guests have access to transformative experiences, from the Lumiere Wellness Complex to Luna Beach Club, and Bali's first multimedia park. Seventy percent of its land is dedicated as green space. 

Source: OShom. Ocean views by the pool.

Oshom Bali is now welcoming reservations for its accommodations, dining experiences, and programming. The opening offer includes:

-  Daily a la carte breakfast

- Daily afternoon tea service from 4-5 PM at the oceanfront restaurant

- A signature sunset cocktail per guest

- Daily wellness and cultural experiences at Oshom

- A guided Nuanu Creative City Tour

- Unlimited access to the Luna Beach Club throughout the stay 

For more information or to book a stay, visit https://m.oshombali.com/home

Exquisite evenings with Shane Osborn at The St Regis Bali Resort

January 2025 marks a season of exceptional dining at Kayuputi, The St. Regis Bali Resort's premier beachfront destination. Guests are invited to indulge in two unforgettable evenings celebrating global culinary innovation.

The event features the visionary creations of Chef Shane Osborn, the first Australian chef to earn two Michelin stars and a star on Netflix's The Final Table in 2018. Chef Osborn, chef-owner of The Arcane Collective, Hong Kong, will serve a six-course dinner in Kayuputi’s elegant beachfront dining room.

Dates: 31 January or 1 February 2025
Time: 6 pm onwards
IDR1,850,000 net per person (food only) 

For reservations, email stregisbar.bali@stregis.com or call +62 361 8478 111.

New menu at The Beach Grill, The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

The Beach Grill, a beachfront restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, has launched new dishes to elevate the beachfront dining experience for guests. 

The Beach Grill is where premium meats, fresh seafood, and local flavours come together. The new menu incorporates fresh, locally-sourced vegetables, herbs, and spices to enhance the flavor and authenticity of each dish. 

The restaurant uses the JOSPER Grill Oven, renowned for imparting a smoky elegance to high-quality meats and premium-grade seafood. All the grilled items will be served with classic or innovative sauces to enhance the dishes.

Menu highlights include scallops and lobster linguine, complementing more traditional offerings like Angus or Wagyu steaks. Vegetarian options include the Bedugul organic mesclun salad and mushroom risotto.

Source: The Beach Grill. Rack of lamb.

The location yields panoramic views of Sawangan Beach and features tables for couples, a lawn, a pavilion area with sofas, cocktails, and a separate bar.

"We are excited to introduce our new menu which reflects our commitment - strive to serve the exceptional quality of our dishes to create an extraordinary dining to our guests. The team which is led by Chef I Gede Angga Suarthama or Chef Angga, Chef De Cuisine of The Beach Grill, has worked tirelessly to source the best ingredients and create amazing dishes that also celebrate local Bali resources," said Chef Raymond Siek, Director of Culinary at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.  

"The Beach Grill offers a relaxed dining experience where guests can savour fresh, succulent grills and premium seafood while enjoying soft breezes from the Indian Ocean. Our talented culinary team has crafted a sumptuous selection that blends local flavors with innovative techniques," said Go Kondo, GM of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.

Marriott Bonvoy points can be earned or redeemed at dining outlets of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali. 

Details

 The Beach Grill

• Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan Lot III
• Sawangan, Nusa Dua, Bali
• Indonesia 80361

The Beach Grill opens daily, from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm for lunch and dinner. 

Make reservations at https://www.thebeachgrillbali.com, or email rc.dpssw.restaurant.reservation@ritzcarlton.com.

Elite Havens introduces three new properties in Bali

Source: Elite Havens. Elite Havens adds three villas to their Bali Collection.

Elite Havens, Asia's luxury villa rental and management company, has added three properties to their Bali portfolio:

Sol Y Mar - Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Located on Nunggalan Beach, Sol y Mar is a four-bedroom villa with a private pool.  

Villa Dhanika - Badung, Bali, Indonesia 

Villa Dhanika is set in Balinese rice fields. This five-bedroom sanctuary features an Olympic-size swimming pool and an outdoor jacuzzi. Pantai Batu Bolong is just steps away.  

Villa Bie - Badung, Bali, Indonesia 

Located within the Six Senses Residence in Uluwatu, Villa Bie is a seven-bedroom contemporary villa. Fully managed and recently completed, Villa Bie features a gym, spa, and karaoke room. Spread across multiple levels, there are spacious living and dining areas, a private pool, and ocean views. Ample parking is available.

"These three new additions to our Bali collection exemplify the beauty and luxury that Elite Havens is known for," said Vitalis Alexander, GM of Elite Havens Indonesia. 

"Each villa offers a unique experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Bali. We are thrilled to welcome Sol Y Mar, Villa Dhanika, and Villa Bie to our portfolio and look forward to providing our guests with unforgettable memories." 

Hashtags:  #luxuryvillas, #luxurytravel, #balivilla

OXO Living introduces real estate concierge service in Bali

Bali's boutique property developer and management services provider, OXO Living, has launched Asia's inaugural real estate concierge service. Designed as the perfect companion for those looking to purchase*, sell, rent or develop exceptional designer homes in Bali's most desirable addresses, OXO Living's Real Estate Concierge provides clients with expert assistance, time-saving and risk-reducing solutions as well as the key to personalised services for all things real estate in Indonesia.

According to OXO Living, traditional property agents end their services when the purchasing process is completed, whereas their Real Estate Concierge does not. Each property in OXO Living's portfolio meets the team's stringent standards in architecture, interior design, engineering and construction in alignment with OXO Living's brand ethos of Effortless Living. The real estate opportunities presented to clients are chosen to match their lifestyle and investment objectives, the company said.

Property rental and transactions in Bali are known to be a challenging undertaking since most publicly available information tends to be outdated or unreliable. Through close-knit relationships forged with homeowners and partners over the years, complemented by OXO Living's expert market knowledge, the Real Estate Concierge will relieve clients from complex, time-consuming struggles that come with navigating Bali's property landscape, OXO Living said. In addition, the team provides access to the island's off-market properties.

Aside from off-market rental options, the concierge also allows for the short and long-term rental of OXO portfolio in Bali. These include luxury jungle residences in Buwit, Tabanan, family lofts with scenic views in Canggu plus townhouses and studio units in Berawa. A local OXO Rental Manager is available to facilitate move-in, transport, travel and international owners' visa arrangements.

OXO Living also offers the expertise and resources to style, renovate and extend homes to match their owners' lifestyle needs and taste.

“With this innovative Real Estate Concierge service, we can provide buyers and sellers the best of both worlds,” said Johannes Weissenbaeck, founder and CEO of OXO Living.

“The buyer benefits from exclusive access and deep understanding of Bali's luxury property market, while the seller can leverage on our discreet and professional concierge service in ensuring that the architectural significance of his home remains well-appreciated by its next owner.”

“There are only very few things that money cannot buy – health and time. Just like how you can entrust your health to the very best medical specialists, you can also save precious time by entrusting OXO Real Estate Concierge for all things real estate here in Indonesia,” said OXO Living partner Michael Luible.

*There are various regulations governing the ownership of property by non-Indonesians, as OXO Living explains in a blog post.

Mulia promotions for RAPTURE – Mulia Summer Party

Source: Mulia Bali via TravMedia Asia. RAPTURE logo.

The inaugural RAPTURE – Mulia Summer Party, to be held 1 September 2018, is expected to be a magnet for party enthusiasts around the world.

Fergie, Mark Ronson, Liam Payne and Sébastien Izambard from Il Divo are slated to attend.

Mulia Bali has also launched a limited time offer that includes the resort as well as RAPTURE. The 5+1 offer, valid only for July, allows groups of six to pay for five.

Details:

This event runs from 12 noon until 8 pm, and is only open for guests aged 18 and above.

Special RAPTURE room packages are available on the official website for stays at the three official hotels: The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas and are inclusive of daily breakfast and passes to the party.

For more information and ticket reservations, call +62 361 301 7777.

Explore:

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post introducing RAPTURE

Hashtags: #MuliaRapture #GetRaptured

Cleanse and detox on July and August weekends at the REVĪVŌ in Bali

Source: REVĪVŌ. Cleanse and detox retreats will be held every weekend in July and August.

Luxury wellness resort REVĪVŌ in Bali, Indonesia has launched cleanse and detox weekend retreats every weekend for the months of July and August.

With the option of attending for either one or two days for the retreats, the cleanse and detox programme begins at 10am every Saturday, starting with a cold-pressed juice followed by a yoga, Pilates or meditation class. After the session, guests will be served a kombucha (flavoured fermented tea) and detox lunch at NŪTRIŌ restaurant – with the aim of introducing alkaline-forming plant foods into the diet, while reducing the intake of acidic, toxin-rich foods.

Throughout the programme, guests will have unlimited access to the main pool, two hydro Vichy shower beds, hot and chill plunge pools, infrared saunas, jacuzzi, steam rooms and a saltwater floating pool. There will also be the option to enjoy an hour long lymphatic drainage massage at REMISSIŌ spa for an additional cost of US$30. The massage uses very light pressure and long, gentle, rhythmic strokes to enhance blood circulation throughout the body. 

The programme concludes at 6pm and starts again at 10am the next day for those signed up for the two-day retreat. All guests will receive complimentary transfers to and from Seminyak for added convenience (or airport transfers if flying in internationally), and for those looking to have the full REVĪVŌ experience, the Garden Suite at the resort is available at a special nightly rate of US$350.
 

REVĪVŌ offers 16 Balinese-style suites, including two four-bedroom villas.  

 

Details:

The Cleanse & Detox retreat is available in the following packages: 

 

•   One-day Cleanse & Detox – US$45; US$75 with an additional massage

 

•   Two-day Cleanse & Detox – US$80; US$140 with two additional massages 

 

All prices are subject to 10% government tax and 11% service charge

#GetRaptured with Mulia Bali

Source: Mulia Bali via TravMedia Asia. RAPTURE logo.

Beachfront hotel Mulia Bali is calling party enthusiasts to get ready for RAPTURE – Mulia Summer Party, by its iconic Courtyard Pool and white-sand beach. The 1 September event is to be held every year as Mulia Bali's signature event and is expected to set the bar for daytime lifestyle parties on the island.

The party to close summer is to feature famous singers and international DJs, dancers and Mulia's decor.

Details:

Held rain, hail or shine, the party is limited to 1,500 people and will open from 12 noon until 8pm, after which guests are welcome to enjoy the night at Mulia's Sky Bar or ZJ's. Private cabanas are available for a more intimate pool experience. Guests must be aged 18 and above.

An accommodation package inclusive of three to seven nights' stay and passes to the party are available at the three official RAPTURE hotels; The Mulia, Mulia Resort and Mulia Villas.

Call +62 361 301 7777 with questions.

Learn about the neighbourhoods around Hotel Indigo in new Neighbourhood 15 campaign

Source: Hotel Indigo. Learn about the neighbourhoods around Hotel Indigo in
new Neighbourhood 15 campaign.

Hotel Indigo has launched its new Neighbourhood 15 brand campaign, which casts a spotlight on the neighbourhood of each property, defined as the area within a 15-minute radius of the hotel's doorstep. By featuring local neighbourhood stars, the campaign celebrates the inspiring and rich neighbourhood stories that have been integral to each hotel's personality and the intricate relationship the hotel shares with the local community.

As part of the campaign, Hotel Indigo has launched a 2-minute video featuring the new Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, the first Hotel Indigo hotel in a resort location. Viewers are also introduced to various neighbours in the Seminyak neighbourhood, including:

Surf School Bali – four minutes out, pros and newbies alike can look forward to an unforgettable surfing experience on Seminyak's pristine beaches as they're led by a seasoned local surfer, Dedik.
Divine Earth – seven minutes out, fuel up on natural good food at this raw vegan restaurant that also boasts its own 30-seat cinema.
Bali Barber – eight minutes out, Bali's original traditional Western barbershop's professional crew promises to deliver on any style needs.

From October, a series of behind-the-scenes videos with the neighbours will feature inspiring commentary on the vibrant local neighbourhood. Insights uncovered from these personal stories and memories complement material on the Hotel Indigo content hub, serving as a repository of information for travellers to create their personal travel itineraries.

From October fans can also participate in a social media competition, which will ask fans to spot various items hidden within the main film in order to win IHG Rewards Club points, which can be redeemed for a number of different travel and merchandise options.

Lara Hernandez, Chief Commercial Officer, IHG, AMEA said: “Our neighbourhood forms the base of each Hotel Indigo DNA. In all our Hotel Indigo locations in this region, we are surrounded by colourful neighbourhoods that are full of vibrant and inspiring stories, and we wanted to really bring these to life with our new campaign. It is also a great platform that allows us the opportunity to contribute positively to the community, by supporting and giving back to our neighbours.”

The three Hotel Indigo hotels in Southeast Asia will also be among the first under the IHG brand to incorporate the use of an online chatbot through the Facebook Messenger mobile application. Dubbed the Hotel Indigo Neighbourhood Host, it will be launched in late 2017 to provide guests with destination specific information and recommendations such as dining suggestions, itinerary planning and places of interest within the neighbourhood, among others, all within 15 minutes form the hotel.

Interested?

Watch the video introducing Neighbourhood 15

Hashtags: #Neighbourhood15, #StaySurprised

Ulu Cliffhouse offers clifftop beach club playground from September

Source: Ulu Cliffhouse.

Ulu Cliffhouse, the ‘clifftop playground’ curated by a community of creative talent, is primed to redefine the beach club* concept in Bali, Indonesia when it launches in September 2017.

Commanding panoramic views, the 50,000ft² clifftop oasis will offer a design-led space with a 25-metre infinity pool, an onsite spa, a boutique store, private beach access and food and drink options – from its terraced restaurant to a cliffside bar.

“We can’t wait to unveil Ulu Cliffhouse to the community, with the aim of upending the traditional beach club offering in Bali," said Jacques Dejardin, MD, Out & Out Hospitality, listing Ulu Cliffhouse's own recording studio, a live music programme and a cliffside bar among the facilities that guests can enjoy. 

Dejardin is backed by Ulu Cliffhouse’s on-the-ground team - including GM Marcus Boyle; Consultant Executive Chef Diego Muñoz; Group Beverage Director Albie Barratt; and Music Director Neil McLellan. All have extensive experience in managing renowned food and beverage and hospitality concepts around the world. 

*A beach club offers a club setting - entertainment, relaxation, dining - by the beach in exchange for a membership fee which allows members to enjoy the facilities, either by subscription, or for the duration of the visit. Some clubs have integrated this fee into the cost of facility usage, while others may charge for entry privileges as a separate fee that is paid in addition to the cost of enjoying the facilities.

Take your pick of MICE packages in Southeast Asia

Three travel companies and properties, Chōsen, The Slate and Samujana, have put together productivity programmes for businesses and workgroups that offer a choice of environments to get the best out of a team.

For adventure junkies

Source: Chosen website. A view of Bali.

Chōsen offer experiences that are ideal for teams seeking new adventures and challenges:

•  Jump off of cliffs, go canyoning, surfing, or try a cooking class
• Check into their estate in Bali or other locations including in New Zealand
• Olympic athletes, life coaches and nutritional therapists are some of the experts available to teach and guide guests throughout the week
• Healthy menus created by a private chef

Chōsen experiences are premium adventure and wellness holidays, adventure getaways, and fitness programmes edited into seven-day packages. Derived from the Japanese characters 挑戦, (sho-zen: to challenge), Chōsen combines physical, social, intellectual and emotional elements in each package. 

Chōsen has been available for select participants since 2013 and can now be experienced by curious and open-minded adventure enthusiasts in new destinations across the world. The locations include a luxury Balinese villa and a stunning mountainside location in Queenstown, New Zealand. 

 

“We have carefully researched, curated and finetuned every aspect of the Chōsen experience; from the adventure activities, nutrition and workouts, to yoga, mindfulness and even the selection process of participants.  The programme aims to challenge, change and rejuvenate each individual by pushing their boundaries both physically and mentally,” says Chōsen co-founder, John Stanton. According to Chōsen, all participants strive for excellence personally or professionally, looking to unlock their full potential or realise it once again. 

 

For wellness aficionados

The Slate, Phuket in Thailand offers a venue for meetings and inspiring incentives:

•  Dishes prepared by The Slate’s in-house nutritionist focus on the benefits of superfoods to increase productivity
•  Daily team activities like group jogs, yoga and archery

Source: The Slate. In the grounds of the hotel.

Relaunched in August 2016, the Bill Bensley-designed hotel has opened its doors for corporate meetings and incentive offerings for the modern, health-conscious business executive.

The Slate has a specially curated wellness-focused meetings and incentives package to ensure the body, mind and soul are at their optimum for collaborative meetings, creative brainstorming, and team building.

Daily menus are created by The Slate’s in-house nutritionist to include meals and snacks that are not only nourishing but encourage energy and productivity. A variety of team-bonding activities such as group yoga classes, cooking classes, and archery lessons can also be included within the experience.

A short drive from Phuket Airport, the property features multiple pools, an array of restaurants and bars, a fitness studio, tennis courts, on-site dive centre, the Coqoon Spa, conference facilities and Thai cooking classes. Core features of the three night MICE wellness package include:

• Three nights accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Three healthful and energising meals daily designed by The Slate’s head nutritionist
• One daily snack that features super foods for the brain: walnuts, green tea, acai, spinach, beets, etc.
• One daily energising cold-pressed juice
• One active team building activity

The three-day itinerary can be tailored to suit the needs of individual
requirements. Rooms start from US $200 per night, inclusive of core itinerary inclusions. A minimum of 10 rooms must be booked.

For culture seekers

Rejuvenate at Samujana’s luxury villa estate in Koh Samui, Thailand:

o Intersperse meetings and workshops with Muay Thai boxing classes, morning beach yoga sessions, a private exploration of Koh Samui's coves and beaches
o Reward the team with a Thai spa treatment, scenic golf experiences, or a day trip to neighbouring islands on a luxury yacht
o Immerse in Thai culture with an Amazing Race-style competition around the island while solving clues for prizes

Source: Samujana. View of a villa.

Surrounded by sea, sky and infinity swimming pools, Koh Samui’s hilltop location, Samujana has launched three new Executive Retreat offerings to meet the goals of any company trip.

Be it a boardroom, banquet, or cocktail party setting, Samujana boasts a mix of 25 luxury villas and outdoor spaces that can host up to 400 guests. The villas can accommodate 40 to 120 guests while the outdoor lawns can accommodate up to 400 guests for a sit-down dinner. All the lawns feature views of the sea and can be configured to fit stages or other unique spaces.

Itineraries can be created that will not only meet business objectives but also foster team bonding and lasting memories. Team-building activities can include racing around Koh Samui in teams, solving a series of clues and instructions that will lead them to a final prize, or a private cooking class. Activities to challenge employees to step out of their comfort zone to achieve new goals include Muay Thai boxing classes, morning yoga and pilates sessions as well as a pop-up circus school.

Incentives can include pampering spa treatments, a golf day, or day trips by luxury speed boat to visit the islands of Ang Tong National Park, an group of 42 islands in the Central Gulf Coast of Southern Thailand.

Samujana amenities include private villa hosts, local and international cuisine from top, private chefs, an all-weather tennis court (floodlit) and access to nearby water sports. VIP transportation can be provided to all of the hot spots on the island, including the famous walking street at Fishermans Village.

Beauty and relaxation programmes can be experienced in the privacy of the villa, while exclusive charters can be made with a choice of various sailing and motorboats to water-ski, picnic on hidden beaches, snorkel, sightsee or just for pure sailing pleasure.

posted from Bloggeroid

Tough Mudder Bali to be held in Jimbaran Hijau

Source: Tough Mudder Bali. Event poster.

The ultimate test of physical strength, teamwork stamina and mental grit will debut in Asia on 1 October, 2016 at Jimbaran Hijau (Bali International Park), an integrated development in South Bali.

Founded in 2010 and known as “probably the toughest event on the planet”, Tough Mudder is the obstacle course that challenges participants to work as a team and overcome both physical and mental obstacles as a team while taking part in an extreme endurance event.

The 16km course for Tough Mudder Bali will feature obstacles that emphasise teamwork and camaraderie and test physical and mental strength. “We’re thrilled to bring the Tough Mudder experience to Southeast Asia for the first time with our debut event in Bali,” said Will Dean, CEO & Founder, Tough Mudder.

“Since the beginning, Tough Mudder has always been about creating life-changing experiences, and as a company we are committed to bringing that experience to thousands of new Mudders. We look forward to bringing Tough Mudder to such an iconic location in 2016, as well as expanding the company’s footprint into Asia through our partnership with Seroja.

Source: Tough Mudder Bali. Tough Mudder Bali will take place in Jimbaran Hijau.

Jimbaran Hijau, 30 minutes from Nusa Dua and 45 minutes from Seminyak/Legian, is situated among forests, flatlands and cliffs, offering a truly unique Tough Mudder experience.

Interested?

Watch the associated video

Register for Tough Mudder Bali is now. Tickets can be purchased for October 1 or 2.

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the launch of the Bali event

Hashtags: #ToughMudderBali, #TMBali

Asia's first Tough Mudder to be in Bali, Indonesia

Source: Tough Mudder Indonesia. Chairi Ibrahim, Project Manager, Seroja Partners (left), Gandrasta Bangko, Business Director, Mesa Race (middle) and Ridzki Syahputera, Partner, Seroja Partners (right) at the launch of Tough Mudder Indonesia. 

Tough Mudder Indonesia has officially been launched. With 2.5 million participants in more than 200 events in six countries worldwide, Tough Mudder – said to be the world’s most recognised endurance series and called Probably the Toughest Event on the Planet, – will debut in Asia on 1 and 2 October 2016 in Bali, Indonesia.

To bring the event to the Indonesian market, Tough Mudder has partnered with market entry specialist Seroja Partners, an advisory practice based in Jakarta, Indonesia. Mesa Race, race planning & management company in Indonesia, will help Seroja Partners to build obstacles at the Tough Mudder Indonesia arena.

Bali, Indonesia has been chosen to take part in the global event series due to its vibrant culture and the growing demand for health and fitness events in the tropics. “Indonesia is a strategic intersection between Asia and Australia. As a popular tourist destination, we are confident an inaugural event in Bali will attract both local and international participants and spectators,” said Ridzki Syahputera, a Partner at Seroja Partners.

“The number of sports enthusiasts in Indonesia has grown vastly and we see this as an opportunity to introduce Tough Mudder to the market. We are incredibly excited to bring the premier adventure challenge series in the world to Indonesia for the first time.”

Founded in the US in 2010, Tough Mudder is a 16km to 20km obstacle course run designed by the British Special Forces to test physical strength, stamina and mental grit. With no winners or clocks to race against, the challenge emphasises teamwork, camaraderie and the satisfaction of accomplishing something new.

Interested?

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Balinese sarong secrets revealed via the Sarong Concierge programme, Ritz-Carlton Bali

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali has unveiled a Sarong Concierge programme, further complementing its immersive Balinese experiences for guests. Led by Tresna Dewi, the resort’s Sarong Concierge, this half-day journey invites guests to discover the different kinds of Balinese textiles and learn about the creation process.

Admired for their beauty and pure artistry, textiles or 'kamen' in the Balinese language is a length of colorful fabric wrapped and tied around the body, often worn by men and women in Southeast Asia and the Arab peninsula. Sarongs are reflective of the historical traditions of Bali and are worn for many different types of occasions.

Tresna, a highly-respected member of the local community, will showcase four kinds of fabric that are mainly used as sarongs in Bali. This will include seeing samples of textiles and learn about the distinct characteristics of each sarong. Tresna will also lead the guests to an artisan workshop in Gianyar regency – renowned for arts and crafts – to see the behind-the-scenes production process of 'endek', the capital’s official cloth, from the threading to spinning and dyeing, and then weaving. Tresna will also demonstrate the etiquette of wearing a Balinese sarong and walking elegantly in it royal-style, among other activities.

“The most interesting element of the sarong creation is the production of the textiles,” says Tresna . "I’m always fascinated to see the process of spinning thread one by one to follow the pattern, before it continues with the weaving process. I look forward to inviting guests into our culture by providing insight of this traditional Balinese style and how it integrates into the daily life in Bali.”

Interested?

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the opening of the Katamama boutique hotel in Bali

Hashtag: #RCMemories

Katamama to welcome guests in April

Source: Katamama. A rooftop suite at dusk.

Katamama, a 58-suite boutique hotel located on one of the last parcels of land in Seminyak, Bali’s most prestigious oceanfront district, is opening at the end of March 2016.

Katamama embodies “handcrafted hospitality”, with every facet of the hotel personally designed and created by Indonesia’s finest craftsmen. The hotel is the creation of PTT Family, whose award-winning restaurants and bars in Indonesia and Singapore include the Potato Head Beach Club in Bali, a 20-villa estate renowned for its cutting-edge environmental design, and a leading contemporary Indonesian art gallery.

Contemporary design elements pay reference to the Balinese lifestyle and lush green gardens reflect the natural beauty of the island. Renowned Indonesian architect and long-time PTT Family collaborator Andra Matin has designed Katamama, with interiors a partnership between the owners and the Singapore-based design company Takenouchi Webb. The hotel will be finished with Indonesian materials such as Balinese bricks, teak, hand-made tiles from Java and terrazzo made on site.

Katamama's suites will be filled with curated artwork and collectibles, many of them originally part of the owner’s personal collection. All suites boast outdoor spaces, whether balconies, secluded gardens or individual pools. The two-storey Rooftop Suites measure 268 sq m, and offer internal access to a rooftop garden complete with ocean views, a spa bath and rain shower as well as dining, lounge and bar areas. The crowning glory of the hotel will be The Katamama Suite, housing two bedrooms and a private rooftop garden.

According to the TripAdvisor November 2015 Holiday Value Report, which revealed the top 10 most popular international destinations for Singapore travellers in the first quarter of 2016 along with the average one-week costs for hotels, airfare and meals, Bali is the most popular destination for Singapore travellers looking for a beach getaway. This is followed closely by Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Osaka, Kyoto and Seoul for those who prefer city breaks. Boracay and Langkawi are also popular, coming in ninth and tenth in the top ten list.

Janice Lee Fang, TripAdvisor’s Communications Director, Asia Pacific said at the time: “Travellers can compare prices and book great deals on TripAdvisor, and if they are flexible with their dates they can save even more money by visiting during the least expensive week*, which for Bali is 28th March."

Interested?

Katamama is at JL. Petitenget 51B, Seminyak, Bali, 80361, Indonesia. Call +62 361 302 9999 with enquiries

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa

*Average costs to visit the top travel destinations are representative of a one-week trip including a seven-night hotel stay, average national roundtrip airfare and three restaurant meals per day. All hotel and airfare prices were based on trips departing and returning between 1 January and 31 March 2016. Rates were correct as of 5 November 2015 and are converted from US dollars to Singapore dollars using xe.com on 18 November 2015. 

W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak marks fifth anniversary with month-long celebration

Source: W Retreat & Spa Bali website.

W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak is turning five on March 5, 2016. In W style, the resort will mark the occasion with the month-long FIVE ON FIVE anniversary party with five different highlights:

WOOBAR will feature Paletas Wey popsicles created for the occasion by the Bali-based provider of Mexican-style frozen confectionery, while W THE STORE will offer an exclusive, limited edition line of Wanitas (woman) décor in conjunction with local artist K8 that is a modern interpretation of the traditional Balinese woman. 

At the W LOUNGE the resort is introducing FIT BAR, a fruit market style stall/corner that offers a wide variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices, made to order from fresh, local and organic quality ingredients. Visitors to the STARFISH BLOO and FIRE restaurants can enjoy special five-course menus. 

Last but not least, the 24-hour AWAY SPA will offer the FIVE ON FIVE spa offer for the month of March, featuring diamond dust for skin exfoliation, a 60-minute massage and a 24K gold wrap.

Interested?

The W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak is at Jl. Petitenget Kerobokan, Seminyak Denpasar, Bali 80361, Indonesia. Call +62 361 473 8106 / +62 361 300 0106

The FIVE ON FIVE party on 5 March 2016 will be held from 5pm to 4am, with DJ and music producer Alex Metric (OWSLA/UK) at the WOOBAR. Entry is free.

An exclusive W Bali x Paletas Wey menu will be available at the WOOBAR from March 5 from 6pm

Hashtag: #WFIVEONFIVE 

Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa to open January 1, 2016

Source: Radisson.

Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa opens its doors on January 1, 2016. The former Ramada Resort Benoa Bali resort was part of a multiple-property deal that Carlson Rezidor signed in October 2015.

“We invite guests to enjoy the unique World of Radisson service concepts and hallmarks, including a 100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee and the Yes I Can! service philosophy,” said Thomas Hagemann, VP, Future Openings and Special Projects, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.

Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa is located at the tip of the Tanjung Benoa peninsula, a haven for watersports. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Nusa Dua and a 40-minute drive from the airport via the Bali Mandara Toll Road. Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa offers 182 rooms, including one- and two-bedroom villas, as well as deluxe rooms with balconies.

While Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa features traditional Balinese décor, it also offers high-speed Internet access and a variety of business and meetings solutions. With meetings spaces such as a 280 sq m ballroom that can accommodate up to 300 people, Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa is an ideal venue for conferences and corporate gatherings. Food and beverage options at the hotel include Tanjung Terrace which serves international cuisine; TAO, a beachfront restaurant that serves Asian dishes and Benoa Bistro and Snack Bar in the lobby area. 

InterContinental Bali Resort hosts The Spirit of Bali cultural buffet dinner on Saturdays

Source: InterContinental Bali Resort website. The Taman Gita Terrace in the daytime.

Every Saturday evening, the InterContinental Bali Resort offers the opportunity to enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine at The Spirit of Bali cultural dinner, accompanied by Okokan, Tektekan and Calonarang dance performances. These culturally-inspired performances are all part of InterContinental Bali’s ongoing commitment to preserve and showcase the island’s cultural heritage and actively support local communities and their artistic legacies.

The buffet dinner will feature traditional hot and cold Balinese classics every Saturday evening from 7pm at Intercontinental Bali Resort’s Taman Gita Terrace. Balinese food is a blend of fresh ingredients, intricate flavours and aromatic spices. Many of the distinctive tastes and cooking styles were inspired by the early Chinese, Indian, Arabic and Dutch traders and settlers. There are no artificial flavourings or additives, and colourings are obtained only from natural plant sources such as red hibiscus flowers and green pandan leaves. 

The foundation of an authentic Balinese meal is rice. Sauces are created with coconut milk and the fundamental coriander, pepper and garlic. Curries rely on freshly ground spices; common seasonings include ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and tamarind. Balinese bumbu is a basic spice paste that varies from village to village. Created from shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, galangal, pepper, coriander, candlenuts, chillies and lemongrass, together with salted and fermented shrimp, it is used to enliven and add depth to dishes. Hot fresh chilli can be found in fiery accompanying sauces known as sambals, and peanuts are typically present as a garnish, or ground into a paste to form a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

Some of Bali’s most distinctive and popular dishes include bebek betutu, duck stuffed with spices, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in a coconut-husk-fuelled earth-oven; satay, small kebabs of fish, chicken or beef, barbequed in the traditional style on hot coals and served on a bamboo stick with peanut sauce; and pepes ikan, fragrant, spiced local fish, baked in banana leaf packages.

The Spirit of Bali experience is priced at Rp520,000++ upwards per person.

Interested?

Book a table.

Lulu Yasmine is coming to Singapore's shopthemag.com

Source: shopthemag.com. Bali brand Lulu Yasmine, known for its use of delicate fabrics like lace, silk and chiffon, will be available to Singapore shoppers through fashion retailer SHOPTHEMAG in May 2015. Corinne Ng, Director, SHOPTHEMAG, explained that a test Lulu Yasmine collection had done very well last season. "Climate-wise, Bali is similar to Singapore, so the collections are relevant for Singaporean women. Plus, Singaporean women generally like comfort and relaxed styles, so this brand suits them to a tee,” she said. Lulu Yasmine's Creative Designer, Luiza Chang, has a Brazilian mother and a British-Chinese father. Chang was brought up in Europe as a child and has lived in Asia for over 15 years. Lulu Yasmine reflects Chang's diverse cultural background – every collection boasts a strong nomadic theme and a spirit of adventure.