Tumpeng, an Indonesian cone-shaped rice dish symbolizes gratitude to God, is complemented with various side dishes around it that represent life and the harmony of nature. The artsy pixelated Tumpeng on this issue’s cover has been used to mean gratitude, freedom, and happiness to embark on future traveling adventures, while reimagining aspects of our lifestyle.

This issue, we unlock more exciting destinations. Starting with Kathmandu, a frenzied city life comfortably coexists with the quiet of the surrounding hills, allowing Nepal’s essence to be experienced from two very distinct perspectives. Landwasser World of Switzerland is a getaway that also blends jaw-dropping scenery with hands-on adventures and an invitation to engage in activities, inspiring awe among the peaks and viaducts. We also visit Bali’s endless experiences, such as a morning spent with the dolphins at Lovina, and immersing in the sacred Balinese circle of life of Jungutan village in Karangasem.

In the busiest travel season of the year in July and August, here we feature ‘where to go’ recommendations for business or leisure with colleagues, family, and friends. We also include places where you can host events in an extensive choice of settings, from modern, intimate, and historical, to traditional. Options vary from the ASRI Space with multifunction space collections, Rumah Prapanca – a Residence by Hadiprana, Cikini 82, and Wisma Habibie & Ainun.

In the travel and hospitality industry, especially with digitalization reshaping and creating new opportunities and challenges, several individuals stand out as inspiring, driving innovation and shaping exceptional guest experiences. Two dynamic leaders have happily shared their insights and experience. First, we interview Pascal Caubo, Cluster General Manager of the InterContinental Bandung Dago Pakar & Hotel Indigo Bandung Dago Pakar, who has honed a strong leadership background with IHG group in Egypt and Vietnam, before bringing him to Indonesia in 2016. An inspiring female leader in the industry is Novi Samodro, General Manager of The Gaia Hotel Bandung. A seasoned hotelier with extensive experience in the luxury market of multinational and local hotel chains, Novi has held prominent roles at prestigious establishments, both local and multinational.

Sri Utami
Editor in Chief