Alila Hotels and Resorts Named ‘Hotel Group Of The Year’ at ULTRA Awards 2017
The boutique hotel group, Alila Hotels and Resorts, has been awarded ‘Hotel Group of the Year’ at The Telegraph’s ULTRA awards in London. The ULTRA awards ceremony took place at The Savoy, London, on Monday 22nd May. It was a celebration of the best hotels, airlines, tour operators and cruise companies across the globe. Collecting the award from HRH Princess… Continue »
Bali Fashion Trend 2018: Weaving a...
The traditional and the contemporary sashayed as a unity on the runway of Bali Fashion Trend 2018 (BFT) Continue »
Peruvian Food Promotion With Guest...
Bella Cucina restaurant at InterContinental Bali Resort was proud to host a series of well-attended gastronomic wine-pairing dinners and cooking classes in May, showcasing the outstanding creations of guest chef Eduardo Enrique Montes Traverso, from Peru. Chef Eduardo began his culinary career in 2007. By 2012, he had worked his way up through the ranks to open the celebrated Chef… Continue »
Michelin-Starred Wonders Wine...
On Saturday, 17 June 2017, Arwana restaurant at The Laguna Resort & Spa lures culinary and wine enthusiasts to savor a uniquely Balinese-inspired French cuisine, whilst savouring the atmosphere of this ocean front restaurant. The evening comprises of of a six-course degustation menu complete with wine pairing. The distinctive gastronomic affair will be meticulously prepared by Michelin-star Chef Florian Muller… Continue »
Wakalandcruise Introduces Two New...
WakaLandCruise is introducing two new adventures by Land Rover or Land Cruiser, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty as well as cultural and traditional aspects of Bali. One trip day trip offers guests the chance to explore Kintamani – the area surround Gunung Batur Volcano and Lake Batur, situated within a 25 thousand year old caldera. The iconic views… Continue »
The St. Regis Bali Resort Announces New...
The St. Regis Bali Resort proudly welcomes Nico Alexander Braunwalder as Hotel Manager. Prior to his appointment at The St. Regis Bali Resort, Nico joined Marriott International in 2015 as Director of Food & Beverage at The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka in Japan. Nico’s affinity for Asian culture and hospitality has established him on the continent for nine years, working in leadership… Continue »
Champagne And Caviar Dreams Dinner...
Embark on a spectacular culinary journey on Friday, 9 June 2017 featuring world renowned Champagne pioneer, Duval- Leroy and France’s leading caviar producer, The Sturia caviar, at the St Regis Bali Resort, Nusa Dua. This bespoke culinary event entices culinary connoisseurs with a remarkable six-courses of culinary creations handcrafted by Executive Chef Agung Gede and expertly paired with Duval-Leroy Champagne… Continue »
Ayana Resort
AYANA Resort and Spa is offering special packages during Lebaran – one of Indonesia’s most celebrated holidays – for stays from June 20 – July 14 2017. Starting from only US$170++, packages give guests VIP treatment and access to the resort’s 18 restaurants, 12 swimming pools and two spas. During Lebaran, guests will be spoilt with a delicious daily breakfast… Continue »
Ji Terrace by the Sea
Ji Terrace by the Sea takes you on a journey to the heart of Indonesia, Japan, India, and Thailand with contemporary and playful Japanese & Asian inspired dishes and a 180 degrees undisturbed view over the sparkling Indian Ocean and Canggu Beach. The food served at Ji Terrace by the Sea is going to be a modern interpretation of ancient… Continue »
Sofitel Nusa Dua Ramadan
Embark on a story of 1001 nights at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua! Discover the Ramadhan festive atmosphere at Kwee Zeen Restaurant from IDR 390,000++ per person and delight your taste buds with a unique Ta’Jil corner during Iftar. Book for 10 and pay for 8. Also enjoy your favourite shisha flavours or a tantalizing mezze platter of 9 types of… Continue »
Arturro Summer Party and more at Alila...
Arturro Summer Party, one of the highlights of the Bali high season, is back again at Alila Seminyak on August 18. The event was a major success last year showing Arturro’s latest collection in the main ballroom of the famed Seminyak resort. Arturro has also just opened a new store in the W Bali too. Also at the Alila Seminyak… Continue »
What’s New at El Kabron
El Kabron restaurant and cliff club overlooking Bingin beach down Uluwatu way has been going from strength to strength over the past years and has now reached a standard to which few can come close. Right from the front entrance guests are made to feel special and treated with the utmost attention, and this flows through to every level of… Continue »
The Boxer
Leather swimsuit, bra, and leather arm bands By Patricia Bos Earrings By Les Biches Leather swimsuit, bra, and leather arm bands By Patricia Bos Earrings By Les Biches Leather bra By Patricia Bos Earrings By Les Biches Socks By Hustler Thai boxing shorts – Stylist’s own Shoes Circus By Sam Edelman @ M Resort Leather tank and leather arm bands… Continue »
Bali Fashion Trend 2018: Weaving a...
The traditional and the contemporary sashayed as a unity on the runway of Bali Fashion Trend 2018 (BFT) Continue »
Very Mary – The Label
Everything started when two wild girls with a zest for adventure and passion for fashion relocated to the Island of the Gods. The surreal beauty of Bali and the need for preserving it gave them an inspired idea to recycle clothes. Continue »
Erika Peña Designs
Hailing from Puerto Rico, creative force Peña first started making her own clothes and sandals. Her recognizable, innovative pieces resonated and quickly became a big hit. She relocated to the fashion mecca NYC, where she honed her skills at prestigious Parsons School of Design Continue »
Endless Summer Berawa
Raluca in hammock: Striped Tee Shirt: Bali Boat Shed, Bathing Suit: Seabellas by Indah Huberman, Sunglasses: Shevoke Photographer: Photografio Stylist: Marion Max for Balistarz Model: Meg Lindsay Raluca Elena Cohjocaru, Olga Novikova for Balistarz. Byron Michael. Makeup Artist: Rosario Belmonte for Balistarz Location: Berawa Beach. Paradise Surf Bar, Hidden Beach Bar, Red Rasta Bar, Barstarz Gym Bathing Suit: Seabellas by… Continue »
Tradition Meets Innovation in Bali...
FRV Bali’s Sahiri Loing speaks with Dwi Iskandar from Bali Fashion Trend about this weekend’s fashion event at TS Suites. Sunny Bali is indeed the perfect locale for a spring/summer-themed fashion event such as the upcoming Bali Fashion Trend 2018. Hosted by the Indonesian Fashion Council, the runway of Bali Fashion Trend 2018 will display the finest work from 40… Continue »
The Living Doll
Photography : Rommy K @rkw_ Model : Felix Spr and Kristina @kris_air Clothing : FRANKSLAND @thefranksland Art Direction : Franklin Firdaus @franksland Sunglasses : Eighty6 Sunglasses @eighty6sunnies Bikini : Annoukis Swimwear @aanoukisswimwer Make Up : Fransis Lim – +628113886070 Hair : Christophe C @christophe.c_hairsalon Beauty Products : Sensatia Botanicals @sensatia_botanicals Floaties : Bali Floaties @balifloaties Car : Exotic Rides Bali… Continue »
Get Tropical With “The Offering“...
The Offering is a multi label boutique nestled in a popular vibrant district of Canggu, Bali. It stocks the best international products, manufactured locally. Written by: VERONIKA K. Light and fashion fills the space of the Offering Boutique. A one stop destination for all your shopping needs. The unique concept showcases everything from ready to wear items to active wear… Continue »
Magali Pascal
French Bohemian Spirit Meets Tropical Bali vibes Written by: VERONIKA K. Paris born fashion designer Magali Pascal started her eponymous label over a decade ago. With an unmistakable French sense for style, her brand organically developed a strong identity with easily recognizable sophisticated signature pieces. Influenced by the chic streets of Paris and inspired by free-spirited tropical Bali vibes, the… Continue »
La Dolce Vita
It is truly a sweet life when Da Maria and Seminyak’s finest designers come together. White blouse and printed skirt Earrings: M Resort, Shoes: Lily Jean Belt Aslhey Isham, Bracelets: Farah Khan Sunglasses: Sailors Falls Finery Polka dot bikini: Sailors Falls Finery Jacket: Narlaka Shoes, Sunglasses: M Resort Red and white poppy dress: Ashley Isham Hat: M Resort Sequin Dress:… Continue »
Teppanyaki KO Fashion
KO appeals to the eyes as well as the palate, combining a subtle infusion of Balinese architecture and Japanese aesthetics. Authentic Japanese cuisine and play aided by Photografio. Jewelry by SESHA / Kimono by Velvet Morning Studio / Body Suit by Patricia Bos Leather Bra & Shoulder Piece by Patricia Bos / Skirt & Shoes by Velvet Morning Studio Beaded… Continue »
Sancerre, the label
Written by: VERONIKA K. Inspired by island living, Sancerre the label brings the spirit of bohemian wanderlust into your everyday lifestyle. The creative force behind the concept first designed a wildly successful jewelry line inspired by central France. From there, the brand has since developed into the unique fashion name known for its signature prints and designs. Sancerre pursues artisan… Continue »
Summer Solstice
blooming flowers brave and bold colourful outfits from Laluna Website: www.lalunabali.com Instagram: @lalunabali sales@lalunabali.com Shops: Kuta Square Blok C9/10 Kuta Bali 80361 +62 361 752 718 Jalan Kayu Aya No 28 Oberoi Seminyak Bali 80361 +62 361 737 653 Continue »
Ayana Launches New Kubu Beach Club Exclusive to In-House Guests
Recently opened in June, with beachfront dining available in August, AYANA takes guests back to a more rustic time in Bali’s legendary holiday lifestyle, with the launch of Kubu Beach Club’s 1960s heritage Bali vibe. Located on one of Bali’s last remaining hidden white sand beach coves, and accessible only through AYANA’s 90-hectare estate, Kubu Beach Club’s supreme setting showcases… Continue »
KILN, it’s getting hot in Petitenget
Kiln is a new bar/restaurant at the beach end of Jalan Petitenget. The spot already has a high pedigree, previously being the very popular Petitenget Café, but now after an extensive renovation it is back new, refreshed and with an exciting drink and dining concept. Text: DAVID TRAUTS Photos: DASHA ALMAZOVA The main dining area and bar The design has… Continue »
Seafood at Seasalt
After a gala opening last week, with all the A-listing Bali folk in attendance, FRV Bali had the chance to try the new Seasalt restaurant at Alila Seminyak straight out of the blocks. Seasalt Signature White Snapper Written by: DAVID TRAUTS It was a quiet Tuesday evening when we walked in and sat at the new bar in the seaside-residential… Continue »
Berawa Kitchen
A new community-style food court eating concept has landed in Canggu and added even more color into this ever-evolving surfing village neighborhood. It is just as fun as it is delicious. Continue »
Orbit at Luna2
Since opening in 2013, the award-winning Orbit restaurant at Luna2 Studiotel has been impressing globetrotting gastronauts with its funky and futuristic design and innovative menu that takes classic European dishes and infuses them with finesse and fun. Now with a fourth Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence under their belt and superstar Head Chef Alanna Agnew behind the helm, the restaurant… Continue »
The Chef’s Table takes dining to a...
If you are looking for a new and exciting dining experience you shouldn’t pass the Chef’s Table at Alila Seminyak. Continue »
Char Char – Gueridon Style
Location: SEMINYAK – BALI Written by: DAVID TRAUTS Char Char Bar & Grill is well known for its excellent open air, second-floor dining and its terrace steps overlooking the main street, however, there is something new at the Eats Street restaurant and it’s only available on the ground floor. It’s an entirely different dining experience – Gueridon style. The Gueridon… Continue »
Attarine
Location: Jakarta – INDONESIA Written by: Denverino Dante Food Space The communal dining area of Attarine. Spice HQ New dining establishments are mushrooming all over Jakarta. However only a handful can match an exciting concept with stellar food & beverage execution. One company that seems to have hit the right notes in the F&B sphere is the PTT Family- an… Continue »
El Merkat & The New Uluwatu
El Merkat is a new restaurant on the Bukit and is set to make the Uluwatu area all the more livable. FRV finds out why. El Merkat is a new restaurant/café on the Uluwatu Road just before the Pecatu Indah/Dreamland turnoff. It has plenty of pedigree as it is the new food outlet from the El Kabron group. El Kabron… Continue »
Not just any Chinese, Happy Chappy
Location: SEMINYAK – BALI Written by: DAVID TRAUTS Happy Chappy is quite a phenomenon. Opening just over a year ago under the direction of Australian-born restaurateur David Kearns, the Chinese restaurant has not only made the boss happy but also its legion of fans around Bali too. So much happiness in fact that there are now three more Happy Chappys… Continue »
Dining at the new Dava at Ayana.
Location: BALI – Indonesia Text: DAVID TRAUTS Top quality premium steaks are now on the menu at Bali’s latest upmarket grill, Dava Steak & Seafood Restaurant at the Ayana Resort and Spa Bali. Dava Interior Dava, which was Ayana’s signature fine-dining restaurant since opening in 2004, has now had a mild facelift with new furniture and staff outfits, and they… Continue »
Bali Cafes
Location: BALI – INDONESIA Words & Photos: VERONIKA K. Let your tastebuds discover eateries where you’ll find all the great comfort foods, but can easily take your fussy vegan friend as well. Here is FRV’s healthy-ish hit list of new cafes on the Bali block. Gypsy Bali There are cafes and then there is Gypsy Café. The special concept here… Continue »
Bali’s Best Spots for Sweet Delights.
Location: BALI – INDONESIA Words: Zia Aussum It’s been said that a party without cake is just a meeting. By that logic, travel to Bali without sampling the cake (and pie and cookies and cream puffs) and you might as well have stayed home. Sugary baked treats may not be what comes to mind when you think of vacationing on… Continue »
Inspirational Villa on Koh Yao Noi
Dream of exotic adventures and romantic retreats in Thailand and enjoy a stunning luxury villa resort on a small island called Koh Yao. Noi. Written by: Frédéric Petit The expansive villa can sleep many guests This is a place of warmth and authentic Southeast Asian culture. Koh Yao Noi is an hour’s journey from both Krabi and Phuket international airports…. Continue »
Stunning Villa of Praslin
World renowned for its flora and fauna, beautiful turquoise sea and heavenly beaches, the reputation of The Seychelles is second to none. And among the hundreds of islands that form the archipelago, “Praslin” is the most famous. Written by: Frédéric Petit The beautiful pool deck With the ocean in clear sight and the landscape looking like an oil painting, this… Continue »
Five of Bali’s Most Majestic Villas
Imagine waking up in the “Morning of the Earth” to gaze out of your own bedroom window at a magnificent vista of coconut palms and vibrant green rice fields against a backdrop of distant volcanoes. Words & Photos: Rachel Love Consider the pleasure of taking a refreshing swim in your private pool before enjoying a leisurely breakfast cooked by your… Continue »
Experience the French Chateau way of...
Only a short hour’s drive from Paris, on hunting land previously owned by the Kings of France, the Domaine covers nearly two thousand hectares of meadows and forests dotted with ponds and lakes. Written by: DAVID TRAUTS The exterior of the chateau. The large reception rooms, billiards room, library, dining room and bar positioned side by side open out onto… Continue »
Unique luxurious private and exclusive...
Are you searching for a refined, hidden and exclusive location in one of the most exquisite areas of Paris? You wouldn’t find anything better than this truly amazing mansion, or Hôtel Particulier as the French would say, which is a former aristocratic or noble person’s residence. Continue »
Fiji Luxury and Tropical Style
This property is definitely one of the most luxurious, exclusive and private villas in the whole of Fiji. The nearby beach. You’ll be embraced by the magical world in which you find yourself; pampered like royalty by a staff of ten in an awe-inspiring tropical setting. Sitting on three acres of land and perched high above the South Pacific, with… Continue »
Luxury or Super-Luxury Living?
Life always has its surprises, and often they are quite pleasant. Text by: Andrew Forster Photos by: Christopher leggett The clean lines of The Aquila and the view on arrival. Living and working in Southeast Asia for over a decade now has allowed me to explore this amazing region in considerable depth. On my travels, I constantly find myself inexplicably… Continue »
A Charming Amed Hideaway.
Location: BALI – INDONESIA Written by: RACHEL LOVE It used to be known as the “Lost Coast”, while others have described it as “Paradise Found” – a string of sleepy fishing villages, collectively known as Amed, on Bali’s most easterly point, with a rollercoaster road hugging a dramatic coastline of steep headlands and bays, volcanic-sand beaches and coral reefs. Before… Continue »
Zen Hideaway A one-of-a-kind house
Location: BALI – INDONESIA Written by: RACHEL LOVE ‘Wabi-sabi’ is the quintessential Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection and profundity in nature. It is the beauty and charm of things impermanent, incomplete, and unconventional. The two-storey house is open to the elements The teakwood upper floor is reminiscent of a treehouse. ‘Wabi’ refers to peace, harmony, and balance, and… Continue »
Villa Spectrum
Villa Spectrum is a stylish accommodation just out of town which is for sale for anything from one night to 25 years. Continue »
Antique Enjoyment
Sitting alongside a gently flowing river in the seaside village of Pererenan in south Bali, Villa Kavaya is a large, elegant, four-bedroom colonial-style villa worthy of the very best holidays. Continue »
The Chalina Estate, A Regal Retreat
Hidden away in Pererenan, near Canggu, is a majestic property known as the Chalina Estate. Here, on 5,300 square metres of land, a palatial villa with a 30-metre swimming pool as its centrepiece offers accommodation for up to 26 guests in seven luxurious bedrooms and a bunk room. The villa rests in an expansive garden bordering the gentle Pangi River,… Continue »
Casa Del Balangan
Bali Uluwatu Ask any travelling surfer in the world to list their all time favourite waves and spots on Bali’s Bukit peninsula will make the top ten every time, with names like Padang Padang, Dreamland, Uluwatu and Balangan flowing off their tongues like sea spray in an off-shore breeze. It’s at that very Balangan Beach that stands Casa de Balangan,… Continue »
Sustainability and Bali
Behind Raybans many an eye has shed a tear at the sheer beauty of the Balinese rice terraces; the rice bowl and cradle of the subak. Text: Duncan Murray Kirk A footpath through Bali paradise It could be said that a one thousand year old sustainability model is one of Bali’s most inspiring gifts to the world. The subak is… Continue »
America Wild West Roadtrip
A wedding in cowboy country, a 2500-mile American road trip and an upgrade to a Mustang Convertible Written by: RACHEL LOVE The lonely road through Black Rock Desert It’s not every day that you get invited to a wedding in far north east Oregon, but when it’s the wedding of your favourite niece then of course you’re going to accept… Continue »
Not Far Away – South West WA
FRV takes a trip directly south of Bali and discovers a scenic, natural, clean and organized part of Australia. Aravina Estate near Yalinguy Written by: DAVID TRAUTS A trip to Western Australia’s south west from Bali is as easy as 1, 2, 3. There are around ten flights a day to Perth, which takes just over three hours from Denpasar…. Continue »
East Coast Adventures
Set well away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism, Bali’s eastern regency of Karangasem is an exotic, royal Balinese kingdom of forests and mighty mountains, emerald rice terraces, mystical water palaces, pretty beaches, and not-to-be-missed, spectacular diving and snorkelling experiences. FRV Bali takes a closer look. Written by: RACHEL LOVE Mt Agung framed by Pura Agung Lempuyang Tara… Continue »
What’s pampering in Canggu?
There is always something new and exciting happening in the ever-evolving hip (-ster) playground of Bali. Intrepid reporter Vero scoured the area to find the latest biggest hits and what not to miss when it comes to the body pampering department. Words & Photos: VERONIKA K. The Sofia Spa ADDRESS: Jl. Pantai Berawa 77, Canggu PHONE: +62 813-3874-8401 OPEN: Daily:… Continue »
48 hours in Bangkok
I’ve been to Thailand many times now yet I still love that touch down arrival moment in Bangkok and just feel excited about what’s out there. Not in that familiar way but in the sense of about what is new this time. And this time I am very interested in what’s new as Sarong Group is about to launch a… Continue »
The Journey Is The Destination: Ten...
The therapeutic experience of walking a country can reveal its truly off-beat hidden gems, from ancient historical rituals to spectacular, untouched landscapes. Walk Japan, the pioneering operator of walking tours in Japan, provides meticulously planned and expertly led tours that fully immerse visitors in Japanese society, culture and history. Here’s 10 reasons to choose walking as a way to explore the varied wonders of Japan: Continue »
Home At The Cove Alamanda Palm Cove,...
A celestial stretch of beach snakes its way through the Queensland holiday enclave of Palm Cove and continues lazily to both the north and south. Written by: Emma Westwood Noshing at Nu Nu. Award-winning dining on-site at Alamanda. A smattering of people lie on the sand, and even less stroll by. The tide laps delicately at the shoreline, with the… Continue »
Tranquility at Turtle Bay
Jo Frearson takes us to a secluded bay in the Philippine archipelago to discover an island paradise teaming with turtles, crystal clear waters and jaw-dropping sunsets. Written by: JO FREARSON Lazy days. Secret Paradise is the perfect place to unwind. Often the most beautiful destinations are the remote ones, off the beaten path and away from the well-trodden tourist trail…. Continue »
Escape to Paradise – Best of The...
The remote archipelago is as vast as it is diverse. Picking the crème de la crème out of over seven thousand idyllic islands can get even the most intrepid adventurer overwhelmed! You can totally pull off the Robinson Crusoe here, as most of the islands are still relatively unexplored, or you can dive into the madness of the capital Manila…. Continue »
Magical Mystery Tour
Humour, quirkiness and a serious obsession with the Internet and Smartphones is not what you’d would expect in Druk Yül, Land of the Thunder Dragon and possibly, the “last Shangri-La on earth.” But that’s what Katie Truman found in bucket loads in Bhutan, along with plenty more enlightening surprises… Text by: KATIE TRUMAN Photos by: SAMANTHA COOMBER Awesome Tiger’s Nest… Continue »
A Flamboyant Seduction
“Birds of paradise glisten like seldom glimpsed denizens of an Asiatic harem, who are clad in gold of many hues and dipped in the purple of dawn.” ––Thomas Forrest, 1784. Text by: RACHEL LOVE Hand-painted images of the birds decorate walls in the local village. No other bird family is as beautiful or as rich in diversity of plumage and… Continue »
Shades Of Green At Jatiluwih
“This is the craziest shade of green I’ve ever seen. If J.Crew named this colour they’d call it something like ‘neon avocado’ or ‘Java lime’ and even then, the name would never adequately capture the incredible fluorescent quality of this green.” Continue »
Luxury escape in the Southwest of France
How would you like to discover some of the wonders of southwest France? Especially destinations such as Bassin d’Arcachon, Cap Ferret, Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion, among other authentic and charming places. You will also have the pleasure to see and stay in some extraordinary luxury villas dedicated to relaxing and pleasant moments in this wonderful region. Written by: Frédéric Petit Bassin… Continue »
Lagoon Life
Hurawalhi, the newest adults-only resort to open in the Indian Ocean playground of the Maldives, combines tropical elegance with world-class service and an enviable locale, discovers Nick Walton. Text: NICK WALTON Photos: Hurawalhi Maldives Resort The aerial view of Hurawalhi No matter how many times I travel to the Maldives, I’m always mesmerized, by the colour of the coral seas,… Continue »
The Anam Signals Bold New Move On...
Luxurious Colonial-Inspired Resort To Unveil Unprecedented Collection of Venues Continue »
Experience the French Chateau way of...
Only a short hour’s drive from Paris, on hunting land previously owned by the Kings of France, the Domaine covers nearly two thousand hectares of meadows and forests dotted with ponds and lakes. Written by: DAVID TRAUTS The exterior of the chateau. The large reception rooms, billiards room, library, dining room and bar positioned side by side open out onto… Continue »
Unique luxurious private and exclusive...
Are you searching for a refined, hidden and exclusive location in one of the most exquisite areas of Paris? You wouldn’t find anything better than this truly amazing mansion, or Hôtel Particulier as the French would say, which is a former aristocratic or noble person’s residence. Continue »
A Holiday within a Holiday at AVANI...
With the falling ringgit, a visit to Malaysia is a must, especially for longer staying guests. Written by: Stephen Ng Laze by the pool, try some water sports or pamper yourself at AVANI Spa. Flying in via Penang International Airport, or even Singapore, travelling to the city of Kuala Lumpur is easy via electric train or double decker coaches. And,… Continue »
The Tented Beachside Luxury Of...
In September last year, the manifestation of an eco-friendly, tented, boutique retreat began luring visitors to Bali’s far northwest corner, firmly pegging itself as a destination not only for divers and outdoor enthusiasts, but also for those wishing to experience ‘glamping’ at a whole new level of luxury. In fact, when you encounter the magic of this place, it’s quite… Continue »
The Relaxing Karma Reef on Gili Meno
On FRV’s second trip to Gili Meno in a year, I’m pleased to announce nothing much has changed. Text: DAVID TRAUTS Glamping on the beach. Complete with all modern amenities. The island is still very clean, little populated and tranquil as any place you could find. This trip we booked into Karma Reef; a barefoot, sand between your toes style… Continue »
Eco-Friendly Sensation
Location: Belitung island – Indonesia Words & Photos: G. LOPEZ The Arumdalu Private Resort on Belitung Island is sure to become one of the world’s premier Eco-friendly luxury resorts, so FRV’s G. Lopez took some time to soak it in and became entranced by its amazing splendour. Grand entrance The gates to Arumdalu. Seven years ago, Pak Agus Supramono and… Continue »
More than a resort holiday, the Sofitel...
These resort villas no doubt were a response to the ever increasing demand for private villas on the island of Bali, and to combine the exclusivity of a private villa with the facilities of a Bali beach resort is nothing less than brilliant. Like the hotel, the villas were designed by internationally-acclaimed interior design firm Wilson Associates. Continue »
COMO The Treasury
Jo Frearson takes us inside COMO The Treasury and the revitalised State Buildings to reveal a stunning transformation in the heart of Perth’s CBD. Continue »
New Executive Suite at Gran Mahakam
The style of Hotel Gran Mahakam is distinctive. The attention to detail, the distinctly European architecture and the beautifully appointed rooms are what anyone that has stayed there remembers so well at this South Jakarta hotel. Continue »
Welcoming Four Seasons Jakarta
Text: ERZA S.T. Text: & Photos: FOUR SEASONS JAKARTA & RAMADHAN It was only one and half years ago when Jakarta gave its fondest farewell to the Four Seasons hotel after over 21 years of great service and hospitality. Now the brand is back in a new property built by some of the world’s best interior, lighting, and landscape designers…. Continue »
Martin Tarnoczy
After almost 14 years of living in Bali, KU DE TA is still one of my favourite stops to visit for a glass (or two) of wine, good food and incredible sunset views. In this edition of FRV we interview the man responsible for the wines of this iconic venue. Text: Herman Von Bernardi Martin Tarnoczy decantes another fine wine… Continue »
FOOD: Mother’s Day Sunday Brunch
This Sunday May 14 is Mother’s Day and what better way to enjoy a special day with your mother than a luxurious Sunday Brunch, a Sunday roast or maybe evening Mother’s Day dinner for something different. Here are some of the best options on the island. Sofitel Nusa Dua’s famous Sunday Brunch at Cut Catch Cucina restaurant is turning it… Continue »
The Sanguine Sausage
Love it or loathe it, black pudding has finally claimed its rightful place at gourmet tables, as well as being the new buzz in healthy eating … Written by: RACHEL LOVE Black pudding is a type of sausage, except unlike normal sausages, it is made with blood, usually from a pig. Now, if that makes you squeamish, it’s worth remembering… Continue »
Viña Ventisquero: wines from Chile’s...
Following an invitation from Viña Ventisquero to visit the most important wine regions in their country, myself (in representation of Dimatique wine importer and distributor) and a small group of our best customers in Bali travelled to Chile in February. Text: Herman Von Bernardi Our host and guests from Bali enjoying a taste of Ventisquero’s wines. We headed off for… Continue »
Specialty Coffee
Bali and quality coffee have had a long prosperous relationship for quite some time now, but did you know that a 4th specialty coffee wave just hit the black gold loving island? Words & Photos: VERONIKA K. Expat Coffee Roasters ADDRESS: Jl. Kaya Cendana 3 INSTA: @expatroasters OPEN: Every Day 7am-5pm WEB: www.expatroasters.com A specialty coffee producer driven by a… Continue »
Champagne and Bordeaux. a visit to...
Herman Von Bernhardi has the opportunity to visit two of the most famous French wine growing regions and lives to tell the tale. Arrival at Bollinger The group from Jakarta and Bali. Coming from a wine producing country like Chile and working for a wine supplier in Indonesia for many years, I have had the opportunity to visit many wine… Continue »
Devonshire Clotted Cream
Text: RACHEL LOVE A few years ago, when I was feeling a tad nostalgic for my homeland, a friend surprised me with a ‘Devonshire Cream Tea’ at a random roadside cafe. Hands up if you’ve ever had one: crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth scones – still warm from the oven, old-fashioned strawberry jam just like Grandma used to make with whole strawberries, and… Continue »
Spicing Things Up in Bali
Almost everyone coming to Bali for a holiday has the local food on their mind, and the thing that most defines the cuisines of the archipelago are spices. Balinese and Indonesian cuisine is distinguished by the many freshly ground and blended spices that enliven and add depth to so many dishes. Essential to Balinese cuisine is ‘bumbu,’ a basic spice… Continue »
Bali cafes
Text & Photos veronika k New wave of health oriented Cafes brings fresh, flavoursome and creative dishes to Bali. Café Cinta There are cafes popping up like mushrooms on the Berawa Stretch, but Café Cinta sets itself apart by serving not only attractive, flavourful, made-from-scratch food, but also has unparalleled views! Nothing beats a quiet, relaxing morning sipping on Cinta’s… Continue »
Milk & Madu Married Nalu Bowls
Bali Seminyak Canggu The super-popular brunch spot of all the Berawa-ites and tourists alike has just teamed up with Bali’s first smoothie bowl shack, Nalu Bowls. Nalu means ‘wave’ in Hawaiian and they certainly swept through this island like a tsunami! In less than a year, these epic smoothie bowls have become a household name, and the more locations you… Continue »
La Madame The Modern Peranakan Style
Text ERZA S.T. Photo: M. Ramadhan Back at the end of 15th century when mainland Chinese decided to move to the Southeast Asian region, they not only brought their culture and tradition but also created a new subculture known as Peranakan. Coming from the word ‘anak’ (or child, and meaning descendant), this subculture existed all the way from Cambodia and… Continue »
Best Brunch Cafes
INDONESIA Bali Text & Photos Veronika k Bali Fit Canggu Cafe Tucked away near Echo Beach, this inspiring health cafe combined with a full-blown training centre provides all that you need to stay fit and nourished in the Canggu community. Bali Fit Cafe offers ‘out of this world’ smoothies in a real coco shell; so make sure to fire… Continue »
Sri Lankan Gastronomic Sensations
SRI LANKA Banjaran Hotsprings Text: ERZA S.T. Photos: MINISTRY OF CRAB Being one of the world’s most favoured destinations to visit for the last few years, Sri Lanka has really shown the world that the country has got it all; from culture to tradition, natural beauty and of course, delicious food! During my recent visit last December, I was overwhelmed… Continue »
Bali Chocolate Factory Robert Formsten
Robert Formsten. A man with a sweet tooth and a taste for chocolate. For quite a while you have been eating scrumptious chocolates from different precious outlets, but there is a humble man behind this party for the palate, making a showing without anyone knowing. S.B. Begin at the beginning. R.F. Robert Formsten, age, sixty five, from Australia, married and… Continue »
Grenache
Text: Herman von Bernhardi Grenache is an unlikely hero in the world of grapes, until recently ignored in many of the new world wine producing countries. Among many great wines, it is the grape essentially responsible for two of the world’s more notable reds, Chateauneuf-du-Pape from France, and Priorat from Spain. I personally fell in love with this grape variety… Continue »
Malbec wines: from Argentina to the...
When most wine enthusiasts think of malbec, only one country comes to mind – Argentina. Malbec is Argentina’s flagship grape variety, however, like many other grape varieties it originally came from France, where it is still produced today and is known as cot. France may be the place of origin of malbec, but Argentina is now home to nearly 70%… Continue »
A pinch of salt
Many of the world’s top chefs, including the likes of Jamie Oliver and Anthony Bourdain are all in agreement when it comes to the best salt; it’s called Maldon. The pyramid–shaped flakes, have been hand harvested on the southeast coast of England for over 130 years in massive drying sheds, sell for ten times the price of regular salt, yet… Continue »
Stig Torvund / Hayden Filer Double...
Bali where the creative mind meets, too much and not enough is an understanding to what these guys are bringing to the planet. S.B. Begin the begin. S.T. Stig Torvund, forty seven years old, from Norway and have been living in Bali with my wife Trudi for four years. H.F. Hayden Filer, married to Kellie, three kids, four, seven and… Continue »
New Man on the Bukit Cliff
Paolo Bressani Doldi is the new GM at El Kabron Restaurant & Cliff Club on the Bukit, South Bali. The restaurant is famed for glorious sunsets and great Spanish dining and Bressani Doldi has been brought in to make the show even bigger and better. As the sun moves to the west Paolo chats with FRV about what’s next at… Continue »
Piero Timpano geeking it in Bali
Because we have a strong background of thinking out of the box, we get to be creative in problem solving. What about what, Gecko style, the ins and outs. S.B.What’s it all about? P.T. My name is Piero Timpano, a very traditional British name. I’m 39 years old, working in IT now for just over 23 years. I started very… Continue »
Diana Rosa a voice with a difference
To be or not to be, that is the question. Well, wam bam, thank you mam, Diana surprised the hell out of us, and if there ever was a winner, this gal is it! S.B. Show time. D.R. Diana Rosa, I’m 34 years old. Omg, I can’t believe I said that. Born and raised in Jakarta and I’ve been living… Continue »
Whats new on Batu Belig
Text: & Photos: Veronika k. BALI BALANCE This charming store offers an impressive all-natural cosmetic range made from our No.1 favorite island produce – coconut. Get all naturally balanced with high quality products that are not only beneficial to your skin, but also have an irresistible tropical scent. Bali Balance uses only all-natural ingredients. Their signature product – raw coconut… Continue »
Pulih
Text: Ve Handojo Photos: Ve Handojo & Atreyu Moniaga Atreyu Moniaga’s Journey of Recovery A young visual artist is holding his solo exhibition in Jakarta, and Ve Handojo got the chance to join the chilling creative process. Our car departed from Jakarta to Curug Nangka – a waterfall in deep Bogor – at two in the morning. The two-hour drive… Continue »
Finding balance at Klub & Spa...
Text: ERZA S.T. For many years, the Klub & Spa Borobudur has been known as one of the most prestigious private health clubs in the city. It is the place where many Jakartans go to preserve their youth and pamper their tired bodies, and recently this renowned health club and spa has moved to a new building with a modern… Continue »
New Spa & Shopping Hot Spots
Text: Veronika K 1. SEMINYAK The island’s hip playground with its swanky boutiques, posh cafes and spa galore. 1.1 SPRING SPA Seminyak Village Mall www.springspa.com The well-established New Zealand spa brand known for their unparalleled treatments and sleek, modern interior, has opened another Bali branch. Located on the amazing rooftop terrace at the newly opened Seminyak Village Mall, Spring offers… Continue »
