Search Results forbandung
Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung opens with 63 keys in Java, Indonesia
BWH Hotels, a global hospitality network comprising WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay® Hotels, expanded its network in Indonesia with the opening of Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung, a stylish new hotel in the vibrant city of Bandung, West Java. “Indonesia is one of our key strategic markets, so we are delighted to welcome Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung to our fast-growing portfolio in the country,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels. “Blessed with a cool climate and trendy café culture, Bandung blends the energy of a major city with a youthful, laid-back vibe. This makes it a desirable destination for local and international visitors, and I look forward to introducing all our international and domestic guests to this exceptional new hotel.” Perfect location for Bleisure Strategically located on Jalan Dr. Setiabudi, the hotel is surrounded by attractions, including Bandung city center (only 2km away), The Great Asia Africa cultural park (4.5km), the floating market (7.7km), and Tangkuban Perahu (22km), the active volcano and popular tourist area, providing complete convenience for business and leisure travellers alike. 24-hour room service Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung features 63 rooms & suites, all designed in a modern minimalist style and fully equipped with modern amenities – including whirlpool baths in the Junior Suites. Every morning can start with fresh coffee at the café, with its elegant outdoor terrace, or a fulfilling breakfast at the restaurant, which serves a diverse menu of local specialties, pan-Asian dishes and international cuisine throughout the day. 24-hour room service is also available. Five meeting rooms create options for corporate and social gatherings, and when travellers are not working or exploring the wonders of Bandung, they can work out at the fitness center.
BWH Hotels continues Indonesia expansion with the Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung
Global hospitality firm BWH Hotels continues its expansion in Indonesia as it opened the Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung in the vibrant heart of Bandung in West Java. Strategically located on Jalan Dr Setiabudi, the hotel is surrounded by attractions, including the city’s bustling centre which is just 2km away, The Great Asia Africa cultural park, the floating market, and the live volcanic crater of Tangkuban Perahu. That said, the hotel’s location provides complete convenience for both business and leisure travelers. According to BWH Hotels’ vice-president for APAC Olivier Berrivin: “Indonesia is one of our key strategic markets, so we are delighted to welcome Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung to our fast-growing portfolio in the country. Blessed with a cool climate and trendy café culture, Bandung blends the energy of a major city with a youthful, laid-back vibe. This makes it a desirable destination for local and international visitors, and I look forward to introducing all our international and domestic guests to this exceptional new hotel.” Stylish minimalism Best Western Setiabudhi Bandung features 63 rooms & suites, all designed in a modern minimalist style and fully equipped with modern amenities, including whirlpool baths in the Junior Suites. Every morning can start with fresh coffee at the café, with its elegant outdoor terrace, or a fulfilling breakfast at the restaurant, which serves a diverse menu of local specialties, pan-Asian dishes and international cuisine throughout the day. 24-hour room service is also available. Five meeting rooms create options for corporate and social gatherings, and when travelers are not working or exploring the wonders of Bandung, they can work out at the fitness center.
Padma Hotel Bandung to undergo significant transformation
Padma Hotel Bandung in the highlands of Ciumbuleuit is temporarily closing its doors to prepare for a bold and unprecedented transformation. The iconic highland escape will put a halt to operations after over 16 years of welcoming guests but will be back brighter and better than ever. Nandang Suryana, corporate director of operations at the hotel’s parent company Padma Hotels, was quick to remark: "This is not merely a renovation, it is a reinvention. Padma Hotel Bandung has long been more than a destination. It is a place where stories unfold: morning walks in the mist, family reunions by the pool, the kind of everyday moments that stay with you. Our aim is to preserve the soul of the hotel while evolving every touchpoint to meet the desires of tomorrow's travelers." What will the refurbishment entail? The transformation will encompass a comprehensive expansion of guest rooms and suites, the introduction of fresh culinary experiences, enhanced wellness and recreational offerings, and architectural refinements that reflect both contemporary design and a deep reverence for the natural surroundings. A core focus of the project will also be sustainability, ensuring that the beauty of Ciumbuleuit remains untouched and celebrated. As Suryana explains: "This evolution is part of our broader commitment across Padma Hotels to deliver thoughtful luxury rooted in place, culture, and care. As one of our flagship properties, Padma Hotel Bandung will emerge not just with a new look, but with renewed purpose." Indeed, what guests may look forward to is a space that feels both familiar and surprising. In this revitalised space, returning guests will feel seen, new guests will feel our signature hospitality, and everyone gets the sensation of being home far away from home. Emotional attachment With regard to guest sentiment, Padma Hotels acknowledged the deep emotional ties that many have with the Bandung property. Suryana said: "We know how much this hotel means to our guests. That is exactly why this transformation is so important. We're not stepping away, we're stepping up." During the closure period, guests are encouraged to explore other Padma Hotels destinations across Indonesia. From the breezy beachfront lifestyle at Padma Resort Legian and the spiritual calm of Padma Resort Ubud, to the urban elegance of Padma Hotel Semarang and the industrial oasis of Resinda Hotel Karawang, the signature Padma experience remains accessible across diverse landscapes.
U Janevella Bandung brings “unique and cutting edge architectural design” to Indonesia
U Janevalla Bandung, the newest addition of the boutique luxury U Hotels & Resorts, is ready to open its doors on 15th March 2018. Designed in a rustic modern style, the hotel will offer 119 rooms and suites with luxury bedding and many other deluxe amenities of the U brand. Located in Bandung, Indonesia, the city lies in a river basin surrounded by volcanic mountains and has cooler temperatures year-round. Bandung is the capital of West Java and the third largest city by population and second largest metropolitan area in Indonesia, approximately 140 km south east of Jakarta. U Janevalla Bandung is located on Jalan Aceh Road close to Bandung Indah Plaza and all the main shopping areas. The hotel facilities feature the Wrap & Roll all-day-dining restaurant, a library, rooftop pool bar and a gym. For meetings and social events, the hotel also provides five fully equipped meeting rooms and one boardroom. With its unique and cutting edge architectural design combined with U’s personalized services, U Janevalla will bring something new and unique to this destination. U’s unique concept of service includes 24-hour use of room which will allow guests to enjoy their room for 24 hours from check-in as well as breakfast whenever/wherever during their stay, international and local calls at cost, pre-selected amenities such as pillows, teas and soap scents which guests can choose from our online U Choose programme and much more. Click here for more information and reservations.
How fam trips help travel agents and media promote cultural tourism globally
Jonker Street in Melaka, Malaysia is a visual extravagaza that also doubles as a destination for avid shoppers and food lovers Whenever the words familiarisation trips (colloquially shortened to “fam trips”) are mentioned, thoughts automatically seem to go to tour operators or travel agents who want to know enough about a location in order to pitch it to potential customers. However, in the context of the rising global penchant for cultural and even pop-cultural tourism, familiarisation tours aren’t just for agents, but they also help participants gain a better understanding of the location through its history, traditions, culture, and cuisine. In this feature, we point out several reasons why fam trips can be an integral part of tourism promotion, particularly in the context of cultural and heritage tourism. It is our hope that this article serves to guide the thinking of tourism boards and other organisations seeking to promote their home countries or specific locations to the world at large. The live Tangkuban Perahu crater in Bandung, Indonesia serves as a living ecology lesson that fascinates both local and foreign travellers First up, what exactly are familiarisation trips? In the process of doing the research for this feature, I’ve noticed that many experts skip defining the term, and I find this annoying because not everyone is clued in on what it means. So let me put it simply here: a familiarisation trip / fam trip is defined as a promotional activity on the part of a tourism board, airline, hospitality provider, or cruise firm wherein travel and tourism professionals are invited to tour a specific destination in order to boost the location’s image, expose it to a wider or more diverse market, and increase traffic into the area. Fam trips are, indeed, a great way to give participants first-hand experience of what a location has to offer, essentially immersing them directly into its culture, traditions, and attractions. Regardless of whether participants are travel agents and tour operators, travel media and influencers, or even tourism officials and diplomats, fam trips should be treated as a valuable platform for learning beyond mere familiarisation. Attendees at ITE HCMC 2025 were encouraged to try their hand at the age-old craft of silk painting in Ho Chih Minh City Broadening horizons through hands-on experience One of the more memorable attractions offered to media and influencers covering ITE HCMC 2025 was a series of on-site workshops teaching a variety of traditional crafts from silk painting to baking banh mi from scratch. Indeed, while fam trips serve as an expression of national pride for organisers, they can serve as a way of broadening personal horizons for participants. As a report from The Tourist Space puts it: “Those who are visiting can see the inspirational impact [such experiences] have, the excitement of returning home to share the news of what they have learned and how they visualise ways in which they could implement similar practices within their own destinations.” That said, fam trips offer an insight into a location’s history, intrinsic practices and traditions, and the trajectory of its socio-cultural as well as economic development. By doing so, participants get first-hand information on what strategies helped draw travellers into the area, what prompts them to stay and/or return, and how the community has benefitted from tourism over time. The tunnels and old camps in Cu Chi, a community to the northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, tell travellers the grim story of how the people survived throughout the war years Beyond the beauty of locations At the same time, fam trips aren’t just a way for countries to show off beauty spots, but they also serve as living lectures on their history, including the darker side of it. Case in point: Vietnam has never shied away from bringing fam tour groups into areas like the Cu Chi Tunnels on the northwestern outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City in order to learn how ordinary people fared throughout the Vietnam War. At Cu Chi, tour participants are led through jungle paths to the actual tunnels used throughout the war, the ones that led to bunkers that served as strongholds and safe houses for the locals, as well as those that were laid as traps against the enemy. Such tours are also offered outside of Asia, with visitors making their way to Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco and the Holocaust Memorials in Europe. These serve as a physical reminder of the savage impact that criminal activity and war have on nations, and serve as visual and psychological warnings to those in the present day of the consequences that these will have on society if they happen again. For diplomats taken on a fam tour to these locations, they serve as food for thought to help steer their thinking towards more peaceable relations with their global neighbours. For the media, on the other hand, it helps to create a more holistic view of a destination, allowing for a more objective tone when presenting it to the public. The Pier-2 Arts Centre in Kaohsiung's Asia New Bay Area is an industrial area that is now a hub for the city's creatives Before you go… Prior to taking part in a familiarisation trip, I find that it pays to be prepared for it well beforehand. In which case, here are several tips that could help you along: Do your research By this, I would like you to take a really good look at your destination: know its history and geography, get to know key attractions and how these have appealed to both local and foreign travellers; even go as far as what specialities are intrinsic to the area; Know the people Be sure you know who your point person for the fam trip, along with any relevant contacts you can get in touch with for vital information, interviews, or even emergencies; Know what to ask This is especially applicable to members of the media and influencers on such trips and is related to the first two points. Knowing the area and the key people involved will help you ask the right questions. This is particularly helpful if the fam trip is held in conjunction with or immediately after a key event such as a travel trade convention or a major exposition; Prepare yourself As in all cases, be sure to dress appropriately for the climate and culture of the area you’re visiting. Be sure to behave in a circumspect manner and be mindful of your surroundings. Likewise, be proactive and advise your host organisations of any physical conditions you may have which could impact the trip both for yourself and everyone else. While fam trips are work trips in a very technical sense, knowing the terrain so to speak will enable you to enjoy the experience and come away with a better understanding of the world around you.
Agoda Unveils Asia’s Most Scenic Train Journeys
Sagano Romantic Train with beautiful foliage in autumn in Kyoto, Japan Digital travel platform Agoda has released a curated list of Asia's most impressive train journeys, offering travellers a unique and authentic way to experience the continent's landscapes. These rail adventures turn transit into an attraction, offering a front-row seat to remote vistas that are often inaccessible by road or air. In keeping with the global trend of slow travel, train travel encourages passengers to unwind, be present, and enjoy the moment. Trains are also one of the most sustainable modes of transportation, providing a way to explore responsibly while minimizing environmental impact. Ideal for all kinds of travelers, these routes offer romantic escapes for couples, captivating views for photographers, and engaging experiences for families. Here's Agoda's list of train journeys in Asia that are not to be missed: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India): Nicknamed the "Toy Train", this railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that travels between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, offering awe-inspiring views of the Eastern Himalayas. The train journeys through tea gardens and misty mountains, with a key stop at Ghum, the highest railway station in India. Its vintage steam engine adds a charming touch to the experience. Sagano Romantic Train (Japan): Running from Arashiyama to Kameoka, the Sagano Romantic Train lives up to its name, offering a picturesque 25-minute journey through Kyoto's lush forests and mountain valleys. The open-air carriages provide an immersive experience, with the sounds of the Hozugawa River below and unobstructed views of the vibrant seasonal foliage that paints the landscape. It's an ideal option for those seeking a memorable rail experience without a major time commitment. Argo Wilis Train (Indonesia): Traveling between Surabaya and Bandung, this train glides past the diverse beauty of West Java, from volcanic peaks and dense forests to sprawling tea plantations and terraced rice fields. The journey is a visual feast, best experienced from the panoramic carriage where vast windows provide an uninterrupted view of the scenery. Here, comfort is guaranteed, with reclinable seats, footrests, and air-conditioning ensuring passengers can relax in style throughout the ride. Eastern & Oriental Express (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand): This luxury cruise train offers a glamorous journey of indulgence between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. As lush rainforests pass by outside, passengers can enjoy elegant design, gourmet dining, and world-class service. Beyond the beautifully appointed carriages, the train also boasts exclusive amenities like the dedicated Dior Spa wellness cabin and stylish Piano Bar for evening cocktails. Alishan Forest Railway (Taiwan): Transformed from its industrial past, this heritage railway now offers a scenic ascent from Chiayi to Alishan, winding through misty forests and dramatic mountain passes. Passengers can disembark at key stops to explore the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The highlight is a spectacular sunrise view from the summit, seen over a rolling sea of clouds. The train's vintage wooden carriages add to its old-world appeal, making for a truly unforgettable travel experience. Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, said: "There's something special about seeing the world by train. Railway travel perfectly blends nostalgic charm with modern comfort and innovation. It's a reminder that the journey can be just as spectacular as the destination. Agoda is proud to help travellers discover these stunning journeys with our great deals, making it easier than ever to explore Asia's beautiful landscapes by rail." For travellers keen to embark on their own train adventures in Asia, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app to start planning.
Archipelago introduces electric vehicle charging to Indonesian hospitality scene
Indonesian hotel operator Archipelago is now the first major hotel group in the country to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across its entire hotel portfolio. This milestone symbolises a major step forward in sustainable hospitality and green mobility for Indonesia. This initiative began with the installation of charging stations at ten hotels, serving as a tangible contribution to environmental preservation and a clear symbol of automotive technological advancement in various regions of Indonesia. Archipelago chief executive John Flood declared: “This isn’t just a convenience for our guests: it’s a commitment to Indonesia’s sustainable future. We’re proud to support the government’s push for electric vehicle adoption by offering nationwide charging access at our hotels.” Flood added that, by investing in EV infrastructure now, Archipelago is playing its part when it comes to building a more responsible tourism landscape for the future. He said: “This is just one of many actions we’re taking to ensure that sustainability is more than a statement. It’s embedded in how we operate, grow, and serve our guests.” Combining convenience and sustainability From Jakarta to Bali, Yogyakarta to Medan, Archipelago’s guests may now charge their electric vehicles at dozens of participating hotels, making road travel across Indonesia more convenient, connected, and climate-friendly. The EV charging rollout is part of Archipelago’s broader ESG strategy and builds on other key initiatives already in place across its brands, including: Energy-efficient building retrofits and LED conversions; Plastic reduction and refillable amenity programs; Food waste minimization and local sourcing; and Water-saving technologies and practices. Given how Indonesia is rapidly expanding its EV infrastructure, Archipelago is proud to play a leadership role in supporting that vision within the tourism sector. The chargers which are compatible with most EV models are available at flagship properties such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Denpasar, and many more across Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Bali. Archipelago hotels already offering the amenity are as follows: Aston Cirebon Hotel & Convention Center fave hotel Pamanukan fave hotel Nagoya Aston Batam Hotel & Residence Aston Madiun Hotel & Convention Center fave hotel Madiun Aston Cilegon Boutique Hotel Aston Serang Hotel & Convention Center Aston Pasteur Bandung Aston Anyer Beach Hotel The Alana Hotel & Conference Centerx Sentul City fave hotel Cimanuk, Garut Harper Purwakarta Hotel Neo Tendean Hotel Neo+ Kebayoran Harper Wahid Hasyim - Medan Aston Gresik Hotel & Conference Center Harper Kupang Guests and members of the public near the hotels who own electric vehicles can now enjoy the convenience of charging their vehicles directly within the hotel premises. This facility is available 24 hours a day and is designed to provide maximum comfort without disrupting guests’ travel routines or activities.
China grants Indonesians visa-free entry for up to ten days
China now grants Indonesian citizens a visa-free transit stay of up to days, expanding the number of countries eligible for the policy to 55. The visa-free transit arrangement was announced on Thursday, 12th June. Under the new ruling, Indonesian travellers are allowed to enter China through any of 60 designated ports without a visa, provided they hold valid international travel documents and connecting tickets with confirmed dates and seats to a third country or region. Eligible travellers can stay in designated areas for up to 10 days. Those allowed entry under the policy may do so for the purpose of tourism, business, family, and exchange-related visits. A necessary move An administration official said the expansion of the visa-free transit policy is an important step toward enhancing China's exchanges and cooperation with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). At the same time, it is also expected to help facilitate trade and investment between China and Indonesia, and strengthen the good momentum in bilateral ties. China is Indonesia's largest trading partner. Indonesia, the fourth most populous country in the world, is Southeast Asia's biggest economy. The Chinese Foreign Ministry reported that bilateral trade reached US$147.8 billion last year, a 6.1 percent increase year-on-year. Investment and infrastructure cooperation between the two countries has also thrived, with landmark projects including the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Corridor. It is expected that this new visa-free policy, alongside initiatives such as scholarships and youth exchange programs, will open the gate for the emerging middle class, students and young people in Indonesia to gain a better understanding of China.
Agoda signs new understanding with Indonesian Ministry of Tourism
Global online travel agency (OTA) Agoda formally renewed its understanding with the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism on Monday, 12th May. The signing of this new agreement took place during the first-ever Agoda Academy workshop in the northern province of Bandung. The renewed understanding expands the partnership between the two parties with the aim of raising the number of international and domestic visitors to Indonesia. At the same time, Agoda's world class technology will help improve decision making related to Indonesia’s vision of Tourism 4.0 which seeks to encourage the greater use of digital technologies and innovative approaches within the tourism industry. With access to Agoda's vast network of accommodations, flights, and activities, alongside its expertise in travel technology, the Ministry of Tourism is poised to leverage solutions that help ensure tourism in Indonesia can flourish amidst a rapidly digitizing world. Together, the Ministry and Agoda aim to foster robust, responsible growth across all regions of the market. Chief secretary Bayu Aji of the Ministry of Tourism expressed enthusiasm for the extended collaboration. Aji declared: "We are delighted to expand our partnership with Agoda, as it not only strengthens Indonesia's standing as a vibrant and more sustainable tourism destination, but will also help equip our workforce in the tourism sector for the future through initiatives such as the Agoda Academy Workshop." What the new understanding entails In the previous MOU between Agoda and the Ministry of Tourism, the former launched several campaigns co-branded with the Ministry's Wonderful Indonesia initiative and promoted more sustainable tourism practices. The initiative included collaborations with influencers like Anya Geraldine, amplifications of tourist destinations, and support for the Ministry of Tourism's goals for tourism growth. Now, the refreshed collaboration outlines a range of joint initiatives over the next three years including targeted marketing campaigns, the promotion of more sustainable tourism practices and developing digital skills for Indonesia's young tourism professionals. Under this partnership, Agoda hosted the first Agoda Academy workshop to provide workshops to the students at Bandung Tourism Polytechnic. The half-day workshop offered students a glimpse into Agoda's work culture and operational case studies, providing a practical perspective for those interested in acquiring digital tourism skills Agoda senior country director Gede Gunawan and his team presented insights from their experiences, highlighting digital trends and career pathways within the sector. Gunawan said: "I am pleased to deepen our collaboration with the Tourism Ministry beyond marketing initiatives. As a committed partner in Indonesia's tourism industry, Agoda is dedicated to sharing world-class expertise and insights to nurture the next generation of tourism professionals in Indonesia. By renewing our collaboration, we're also excited to support the Ministry's vision on Tourism 4.0 with Agoda's expertise in digital solutions. This partnership reinforces our shared commitment to seeing Indonesia thrive as a destination while enabling local communities to benefit from the many opportunities tourism generates around local economies." A truly diverse destination Home to iconic destinations such as Bali, Yogyakarta, and Komodo National Park, Indonesia offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, trek in lush rainforests, or dive into vibrant underwater ecosystems. Beyond nature, Indonesia's vibrant art, festivals, and culinary offerings, from traditional markets to fine cuisine, promise enriching, immersive experiences for global travelers seeking unforgettable journeys.
Wardhana: Indonesian tourism could serve as economic defence vs US tariffs
Indonesian tourism minister Widyanti Putri Wardhana has pointed out how the country’s tourism industry could serve as a buffer against the adverse impact of the reciprocal tariffs being imposed by the United States. Wardhana explained that, as tourism is classified as a service industry, it is not subject to these tariffs; as such it will continue to generate foreign exchange for Indonesia. In a statement issued on Sunday, 6th April, the minister declared: "Indonesia is able to optimise the great potential of the tourism sector as a major source of foreign exchange that is free from trade barriers.” The statement was made as a response to concerns that barriers against Indonesian exports to the US could drive the weakening of its rupiah against the dollar. According to the minister, the tourism sector, classified as a service industry, is not subject to such tariffs and continues to generate foreign exchange. Wardhana subsequently asked stakeholders in the tourism sector to pay attention to three main strategies in the face of global trade dynamics. Points to consider According to Wardhana, the first thing that comes to mind is that tourism may serve as a balancing service export given that Indonesia has very high inherent tourism potential. She did, however, point out that the distribution of 13.9 million foreign tourists in Indonesia remains concentrated in specific destinations like Bali, Bandung, Jakarta, and Surabaya, and other destinations within the country need to be amply promoted. Second, the minister invited tourism businesses throughout Indonesia’s diverse regions to take advantage of opportunities from changing global dynamics. This is a necessary step towards pushing Indonesia as a world tourist destination. Wardhana said: "The readiness of destinations, tourism products, tourism businesses, labour, and directed promotion needs to be pursued in an integrated manner, and supported by the government's promotional and developmental efforts.” It takes a village Furthermore, Indonesia's vast tourism potential should not strictly be limited to certain destinations but ought to begin at the village level. In which case, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism remains committed to developing tourism villages and encouraging tourism-based economic activities throughout Indonesia. As Wardhana puts it: "This step aims to distribute economic benefits evenly and reduce dependence on the manufacturing export sector affected by tariffs. We also invite tourism businesses to strive for attractive quality tourism experiences.”
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