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Hanging Placenta Trees of Bayung Gede, Bali

From the Bali “X-files.”

In the Balinese Village of Bayung Gede in Kintamani District near Bangli, the local residents have a time-honored tradition of suspending a newborn’s placenta from the trees standing in a nearby cemetery. ‘Ari Ari” is the Indonesian language equivalent of afterbirth or placenta, and the cemetery or “Setra” used for this cultural tradition is called the “Setra Ari Ari.”

This ritual, known as “Ari-Ari Mengantung” or “Hanging Placenta,” was recently honored by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education and Culture by being included in October 2020 among the Republic’s catalog of Intangible Cultural Heritage items (WBTB).

As suggested by its name, this unique local practice entails hanging the placenta of a newborn child encased in an empty coconut shell in the Kayu Bungkak trees found at the village cemetery.

As reported by NusaBali, the local belief is that hanging the placenta of a newborn in the graveyard imparts magical protection on the associated child from illness and other misfortunes.

The cemetery with hundreds of hanging coconuts is a regular stop for visitors to the Village of Bayung Gede and the surrounding areas.

The head of traditions and culture at the Bangli’s Tourism and Cultural Department, Putu Candra Rahadi, explained how the elevation of the “Hanging Placenta” tradition to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage items took place after a lengthy nomination and approval basis.

Following the “hanging placenta” tradition’s nomination by Bangli’s Tourism and Culture Department, a period of investigation, verification, and assessment followed. The final “hearing” before confirmation of WBTB status was held on 29 September 2020.

In granting the Intangible Cultural Heritage Designation on the Hanging Placenta Cemetery, the Indonesian Government seeks the support and commitment of the surrounding community to preserve and protect this sacred tradition.

From Bali Duscovery

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Kembali 2020: A Rebuild Bali Festival

The 2020 digitalized version of The Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF) – ‘Kembali 2020: A Rebuild Bali Festival (KEMBALI20) will take place “globally” from a virtual headquarter in Ubud, Bali, 29 October until 08 November 2020.

KEMBALI20 will host 100 storytellers and culinary figures who will digitally join intimate discussions and powerful performances from 29 October – 8 November from their respective locations worldwide.

Founded by Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati – an independent, not-for-profit foundation in Ubud, Bali – KEMBALI20 is an online celebration of literature, food, and culture. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati took the reluctant decision to transform its annual Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF) and Ubud Food Festival (UFF) by creating KEMBALI20 in a digital format as a way to continually support Indonesia’s creative and culinary industries during these challenging times.

From Oakland to Oxford, Singapore to Sydney, Denpasar to Dubai, the full lineup of speakers testifies to the Festival’s cultural diversity. Through international digital links and face-to-face conversations in Bali – panel discussions, music and arts performances, cooking demos, and workshops -speakers will share their stories and enticing recipes.

“Bringing together some of the world’s most powerful voices in a melting pot of artists, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, performers, chefs, and culinary experts, KEMBALI20 is a platform for meaningful exchange and cross-cultural dialogue,” commented KEMBALI20 Founder and Director Janet DeNeefe. “A place where artists and audiences alike can discuss shared inspirations, ideas, and concerns, our Festival transcends cultural and geographical borders to create a truly global community.”

Combining the best of two world-renowned international events – UWRF and UFF, KEMBALI20 will launch a “new era” hub for creativity, culture, food, literature, and ideas.

Along with the speakers’ lineup, the Festival sill also host an impressive list of main program sessions, workshops, and book launches. The Festival proudly welcomes Kevin Kwan, listed among Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2018 and author of the international bestselling Crazy Rich Asians trilogy. He will discuss his future projects, including his latest novel, an instant New York Times Bestseller – Sex and Vanity.

Participating in discussing her latest book, Everything Inside, which won The National Book Critics Circle Award for Best Fiction 2019, Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat will reflect on her work and life.

Joining the Festival’s extraordinary lineup is Barack Obama’s sister Maya SoetoroNg, the author of the highly-acclaimed children’s book Ladder to the Moon. She will discuss the significance of stories and arts for peacebuilding.

Also appearing on the Festival’s digital program is Richard Fidler, one of Australia’s most-loved voices and host of the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s most popular podcast, Conversations.

Presenting Indonesian literature to the world will be Eka Kurniawan, the first Indonesian writer nominated for a Man Booker International Award. His session is supported by Writing WA. He’ll appear alongside one of Indonesia’s best-loved authors Dee Lestari, who will be part of an “in conversation session” and a culinary event.

One of the headliners for the Festival’s “culinary conversations” is Dr. Fenny Dwivany, a significant figure among Indonesian women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Her research into bananas with her team – The Banana Group, has broken barriers in female leadership in STEM.

Intrepid journalist Adam Leith Gollner, author of The Fruit Hunters, will take listeners on a fascinating expedition into discovering some of the earth’s most desired fruits in locations from the wild jungles of Borneo to the orchards of Florida.

For foodies everywhere, joining KEMBALI20 cooking demos and culinary events are Chris Salans, one of Bali’s top culinary ambassadors with his pioneering French cuisine-meets-Balinese flavors; Co-founder of Pengalaman Rasa and advocate for Northen Balinese cuisines Ayu Gayatri Kresna; and international food journalist James Oseland with his highly acclaimed cookbook Cradle of Flavor.

Details of the program are available via the Festival Website www.UbudWritersFestival.com.

While the workshops are donation-based, the Festival’s digital Book Launches are free and accessible to all on its website and YouTube channel.

KEMBALI20 is a free and donation-based Festival with over 70 sessions available in a digital format, both pre-recorded and live-streamed, and via limited on the ground sessions for local audiences.

Janet DeNeefe added: “We want to stimulate the island’s economy and tourism sector since Bali is Indonesia’s hardest-hit region, but safety is and always will be our first priority. Join us to celebrate Indonesian cultural heritage and contemporary culture while rekindling hope and inspiration in extraordinary new ways with KEMBALI.”

From BALI DISCOVERY

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Bali Limits Access to Parks & Attractions

In response to the sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in Bali, Governor Wayan Koster has limited visits to tourist attractions and public gathering points in Bali to help thwart the coronavirus’s spread and avoid the creation of new clusters of infection.

As reported by Detik.com, Bali’s Governor has not only limited visitations to tourism spots but also other areas where groups of citizens tend to congregate. As a result, several public parks in Bali’s capital of Denpasar have been closed. Among the parks now closed are Lapangan Renon and Lapangan Puputan.

“Yes, we have limited (visitors) to tourism areas and public gathering points because these places apparently are where new infection clusters start. All public facilities, such as Lapangan Renon and Puputan I have asked be temporarily closed,” commented Governor Koster on Tuesday, 15 September 2020.

The Governor confirmed that access and the number of visitors allowed on Bali’s beached would also be controlled until infection rates subside. Despite these restrictions, the Island remains open to domestic tourism.

On Tuesday, 15 September 2020, Bali’s Province added 68 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of infections to date to 7,380. Five new deaths linked to the coronavirus were recorded on that same date.

From Bali Discovery

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Domestic Hotels Score Best in Pandemic

Kompas.com and the Central Statistics Bureau (BPS) report that Indonesian hotel occupancies nationwide began to show subtle rejuvenation signs starting from August 2020.

The head of BPS, Suhariyanto, speaking at a virtual press conference broadcast on Youtube.com on Thursday, 01 October 2020, said: “Average hotel occupancies nationwide increased from 28.07% in July to 32.93% in August.”

The BPS Chief said the August figure demonstrates a month-to-month improvement in average occupancy.

August 2020’s average occupancy of 32.93% compares poorly with one year before – August 2019, when the corresponding figure was 53.52% Year-on-year, average occupancies at Indonesian hotels are down 21.21%.

Location, Location Location

The average occupancy rates of hotels across Indonesia are vastly different, depending on the location. Destinations that, before the pandemic, relied mostly on foreign arrivals continue to record very low occupancy rates. Meanwhile, hotels that generated business from domestic sources are in a modest business comeback and experiencing somewhat stronger occupancies.

Here’s a sampling of average occupancy rates for starred hotels nation wide in September 2020:

  • Bali 3.68%
  • Aceh 14.44%
  • Maluka Utara 16.40%
  • Riau 19.31%
  • Bangka Belitung 23.23%
  • NTB 27.05%
  • Sulawesi Tenggara 28.76%
  • Central Java 28.92%
  • Papua 28.97%
  • NTT 29.11%
  • North Sumatra 29.38%
  • West Sulawesi 30.86%
  • East Java 34.17%
  • Gorontalo 35.31%
  • Banten 36.05%
  • DKI Jakarta 36.18%
  • Central Kalimantan 37.29%
  • Jambi 37.81%
  • Papua Barat 38.76%
  • East Kalimantan 39.10%
  • West Sumatra 39.36%
  • Yogyakarta 39.86%
  • West Kalimantan 39.89%
  • North Sulawesi 40.05%
  • West Java 40.82%
  • Central Sulawesi 41.35%
  • Bengkulu 41.40%
  • South Sumatra 42.10%
  • Maluku 42.29%
  • North Kalimantan 44.35%
  • Lampung 48.71%
  • South Sulawesi 46.81%
  • South Kalimantan 45.80%

From Bali Discovery

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Ubud Christmas Bazaar, 12-13 Dec. 2020

A fun-filled Christmas Family Bazaar will be held in Ubud on Saturday and Sunday, 12-13 December 2020 at the luxurious The Mansion Bali from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Local groups and businesses will be offering fashion, food and drink, shopping, handicrafts, and specialty food items, and the music of the season from the spacious Grand Bamboo Atrium of what is arguably Bali’s most opulent residence. Stalls are available for rent to vendors and will be configured to conform with COVID-19 health protocols.

The stalls will showcase stylish fashion wear, exclusive jewellery, seasonal gifts and delicious food and refreshments. In the extensive gardens, the Christmas Family Bazaar will feature games and crafts for children and their parents.

The event is in aide of the Bali Children Foundation (BCF) a foundation that has been helping disadvantaged students in Bali to complete school since 2002. Assisting over 8,000 children, BCFactively paves the way from education to employment.

For stall booking inquiries please Email The Mansion Bali  info@themansionbali.com or Email Bali Children Foundation info@balichildrenfoundation.org

Christmas Family Bazaar

In Aid of Bali Children Foundation

Saturday and Sunday, 12-13 December 2020

– 10:00 am until 5:00 pm

The Mansion Bali

Jalan Penestenan, Sayan, Ubud, Bali

Credits to Bali Discovery

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Bali to Reinvigorate the Creative Sector

NusaBali quotes Bali’s Deputy-Governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati (Cok Ace), who says Bali loses Rp. 9.7 trillion every month in tourism revenues because of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Meanwhile, Bank Indonesia projects that the Economy of Bali will shrink 10.98% in Q3 2020 due to the continuing loss of income from the tourism sector.

The Deputy-Governor’s comments were made during an online webinar held on World Tourism Day on Saturday, 03 October 2020.

The Deputy-Governor said that Bali’s Provincial Government is actively maximizing the steps to mitigate health concerns, the economic impact, and the social-political fallout from this unprecedented global health crisis. Cok Ace commented on how Bali had earned a unique place in the world’s tourism industry due to the outstanding quality of its esteemed culture and the many awards the Island has earned from international admirers.

“Even though the COVID-19 pandemic afflicts the Island, Bali remains the favorite tourism destination for international travelers,” said the Deputy-Governor.

Assessing the coronavirus’s impact to date, Cok Ace said that the Balinese economy suffered a negative growth of -1.14% in Q1 2020, declining a further -10.98% in Q2 2020. Bali’s economic retreat is due to the sudden suspension of the Island’s dominant tourism industry. Through the end of May 2020, foreign arrivals to Bali nose-dived by 99.97%. Adding: “Bali loses Rp. 9.7 trillion every month from its tourism sector along.”

Citing data from the Provincial Manpower and Mineral Resources Department, Cok Ace said as of 15 May 2020, a total of 71,313 workers employed in Bali have been sent home while another 2,570 were formally terminated from their employment.

The Promise of the Creative Economy

Reviewing the economic fallout in more detail, the Deputy Governor said: “The Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy records that the creative industry contributed around Rp. 989 trillion to the 2017 national GDP or around 7.28 % of the total product. The contribution of this sector has continued to increase, growing in 2017 by 5.07% percent. In addition, the creative industry generates 17.7 million jobs or about 14.61 percent of the national labor pool. “

The Deputy-Governor, who has an extensive background in the tourism industry, has said the average wage of someone working in the creative industry sector is Rp. 2.23 million per month. Cok Ace sees almost limitless potential for Bali to develop its creative industry, building on the Island’s well-deserved reputation for art and culture.

Nationally the composition of the economic sub-sector for creative industries is lead by culinary enterprises (41.47%), fashion (17.68%), and handicrafts (14.99%).

Looking ahead, the Deputy-Governor sees Bali’s potential in the creative economy sub-sectors reflected in the Island’s past glories and global reputation. “For example, Ubud has received an award from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN WTO) as a Global Gastronomy Destination in 2019. Famous for its artistic masterpieces such as painting and traditional dance, Ubud also has local culinary potential,” said Cok Ace.

Bemoaning the current dilemma face by Bali, Cok Ace claims the COVID-19 Pandemic has decreased sales and employment in the handicraft sector by as much as 98%.

To help businesses and individuals sustain themselves over the ongoing crisis, the Provincial Government of Bai has initiated numerous programs extending personal and business support to the creative community.

Credits to Bali Discovery

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Admission Fee Planned for Bali’s Kuta Beach

As reported by Beritabali.com and Metrobali.com, the Regency of Badung’s Representative Council (DPRD-Badung) is lending its support to a proposal put forth by the Traditional Village of Kuta to levy an admission or access fee to the public wishing to use Bali’s iconic Kuta Beachfront.

The admission fee, known locally as a “retribution,” will purportedly be used to maintain and upgrade the entire beach area. The proposal to reap revenues from Kuta Beach visitors was first put forth by DPRD-Badung Commission III member, Nyoman Graha Wicaksana, who met with the press on Monday, 28 September 2020.

“I support the initial idea that came from a community gathering held in the Kuta Traditional Village, “said Wicaksana – a politician from the PDI Party for Struggle. “The imposition of this levy,” he continued, “has been implemented at many other coastal tourism objects.” He alluded to Pandawa Beach, Melasti Beach, and other beaches in Bali.

Wicaksana said the fees collected would keep the beach area clean and add modern facilities for beachside vendors.

He also insisted that if introduced in an orderly fashion, the admission fee should not deter the number of visitors visiting Kuta Beach.

Given the continuing pandemic, Wicaksana said there is little chance that the proposed retribution system would come into effect anytime soon. Adding: “Not in the near future, especially now, that there is still the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Accordingly, Wicaksana called for a careful study to determine the amount to be charged, and when, exactly, the fee should be introduced. He also said that any decision to go forward with an admission charge system cannot be taken unilaterally by the Traditional Village of Kuta and must include the legislators for the Regency of Badung in the decision-making process.

Credits to Bali Discovery

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Gilimanuk Toll Road Work to Begin Q4 2021

Finance.detik.com reports that the next phase to connect Denpasar and Gilimanuk with a toll road is ready for the bidding process. Bali’s second toll road will cover 95.51 kilometers between the Bali’s western port of Gilimanuk and Mengwi on the outskirts of the Island’s capital of Denpasar.

The Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) estimates the roadway will cost Rp. 19.3 trillion to complete.

Like the first toll road in Bali that now connects Sanur-Bali’s Airport-Nusa Dua, the new toll road includes plans for a separate lane reserved exclusively for the use of motorcycles. This feature was confirmed by Eka Pria Anas of the Indonesian Toll Road Authority (BPJT) at a meeting on Wednesday, 30 September 2020.

The bidding process will be based on a private sector cooperation scheme with the Government (KPBU).

Four Interesting Facts on the Proposed Mengwi-Gilimanuk Toll Road

1. Only Two Sections of the Toll Road will Allow Motorcycle Access 

Eka told the meeting held on 30 September 2020 that the toll road would be divided into three sections. Section One will be a 54-kilometers long connection between Gilimanuk and Perkutatan. Section Two will be 23.6-kilometers long connecting Perkutatan and Soka. Section Three will have a length of 21.8 kilometers between Soka and Mengwi. Only Section Two and Three will have specially designated lanes for two-wheeled motorcycles.

As the longest segment of the three sections, section one is planned to be closed to motorcycle traffic.

Planners consider the 54-kilometer road segment as being “too long” for motorcycles. These planners have, however, indicated their readiness to reconsider creating a lane for motorcycles on the Gilimanuk-Perkutatan stretch of road.

2. Phased Introduction to Operations

The construction of the toll road is planned to take place over two phases. The first phase will encompass Sections Two and Three of the roadway and will commence construction in 2021. The first phase (KM 54-96) will be completed in 2022 and open for traffic. The second phase of construction will be for Section One will begin in 2022 and is targeted to be open for operations in 2024.

3. The Additional Cost of Land Acquisition

While the cost of the toll road is estimated at Rp. 19.3 trillion. The initial construction cost of the toll road is put at Rp. 14.2 trillion. Land acquisition costs are estimated to require Rp. 1.026 trillion.

Eka explained: “What must be noted because this is an initiative project, the cost of the land acquisition must be funded or financed by the winner of the bidding process. The current cost (of land) is estimated at around Rp. 1 trillion and could prove to be even more, as land costs tend to escalate.

4. The Proposed Toll Road Could Carry 50,000 Vehicles Each Day

Under the terms of the bid tender, the concession period for the operation of Gilimanuk-Mengwi Toll Road is 45-years. Once completed, planners estimate around 50,000 vehicles will use the road each day, 21,000 of which will be four-wheeled vehicles.

Bidding Process

It is hoped that the project’s bidding process will be completed by June 2021 and that constructions can begin in Q4 2021.

Once the entire toll road covering a distance of 95.51-kilometers is completed in 2024, the roadway will form part of a national east-west highway system. The Bali toll road would connect the western ferry port of Gilimanuk with Bali’s capital of Denpasar, linking these two points in a drive of under two hours over a distance that can now take four hours or more to travel.

From Bali Discovery

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COVID-19 Verification Process Accelerated

The Provincial Tourism Office for Bali is accelerating efforts to verify starred hotels on the Island are undertaking official verification and certification, ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures (SOP) and conformance with protocols on cleanliness, health, safety, and the environment (CHSE).

NusaBali reports that from some 500 hotels classified as 3, 4, and 5-star properties, 131 have already undergone the verification process. This leaves 369 hotels awaiting verification.

The head of the Provincial Tourism Office, I Putu Astawa, said on Friday, 25 September 2020, that his office, working in close cooperation with special verification teams, is intensifying and accelerating the review process.

Astawa said the verification team comprises 35 assessors assembled from tourism practitioners who have volunteered their time without pay to facilitate the critical certification process.

CHSE Certification

Astawa explained that the five-hundred 3, 4, and 5-star hotels being reviewed by the Province are located across the Island’s entire length and breadth. This list does not include watersports operators and transportation providers that remain the Province’s responsibility to review. The list of hotels and tourist attractions to be reviewed totals 644 businesses.

Astawa outlined that the verification process is detailed work requiring time to audit a hotel or object and the additional time needed to travel from one location to the next. To speed the verification process, Astawa asked hotels and tourism operators who have yet to undergo a review to make all possible preparations to speed the process.

The Provincial Tourism Chief underlined the importance of the CHSE review to build trust with the traveling public that a holiday visit to Bali can be undertaken safely. Most importantly, said Astawa, the verification process and stringent adherence to CHSE protocols would prevent Bali’s tourism sector from becoming a cluster for new infections.

From Bali Discovery

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Gram of Grass = 8 Years in a Bali Gulag?

A Russian national, Evgenii Voronkin (30), has heard State Prosecutor I Nyoman Triarta Kurniawan demand eight years in prison at his online trial underway in Denpasar for possession of the modest quantity of 1.19 grams of marijuana.

According to RadarBali, Voronkin claims the small amount of cannabis was purchased from a man, identified only as Ivan, for Rp. 700,000 or approximately US$42.

Prosecutor Triarta has asked the panel of judges to impose a penalty of eight years in prison and Rp. 1 billion fine for Voronkin’s violation of the National Anti-narcotic Law.

Represented by the Paradi Law Office, the Russian’s lawyer said he would present a written defense before the Court and asked to be allotted the time needed to prepare their pleadings.

Police arrested Voronkin on Sunday, 12 April 2020, on Jalan Kayu Ayu in Seminyak in possession of a “dub sack” containing 1.19 grams of marijuana that he reportedly tried to throw away as he was approached by police while sitting on the side of the road.

From Bali Discovery

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Ogoh-Ogoh Event Nets Middling Support

1 of 122 traditional villages found in the Badung Regency of Bali have created an entry for the island-wide Ogoh-Ogoh contest sponsored by the Province of Bali on 31 October 2020.

Ogoh-Ogoh are papiermâché effigies borne on the shoulder of the young men from different village banjars in Bali who, in the weeks leading up to the Festival, are constructing the parade floats in their respective villages.

The final judging of entries from all Bali areas will be performed by a panel of judges assembled by the Provincial government.

The head of the Cultural Department (Disbud) for the Regency of Badung, Eka Sudarwitha, confirmed that judges had selected the regional winners from Badung. Speaking on Tuesday, 22 September 2020, “There are now several traditional villages who will follow the competition at a provincial level. The local judging took place several days ago.”

Sudiwartha said 71 of 122 traditional villages in the Badung Regency chose not to enter the contest, citing the COVID-19 pandemic and their failure to store and maintain the ogoh-ogoh prepared during Nyepi festivities in March 2020.

From Bali Diiscovery

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BALI RANKED THE TOP DESTINATION IN ASIA & 4TH IN THE WORLD

Tripadvisor has  announced that Bali has won the Top Traveler’s Choice Destination In Asia and is ranked number 4 in the world.  Tripadvisor made the announcement after comparing the reviews from the 25 most rated tourists destination in 2019.

Tripadvisor Brand Ambassador Vice President, Neela Pal said that the list was compiled to help travelers choose their holiday destination. “The excitement of knowing how much people love a certain destination before even arriving makes it that much more exciting.”
Indonesia Tourism Minister, Wishnutama said he was feeling grateful after the announcement. He believes that The Island of God’s got lots of unique things to offer including a tropical landscape and amazing culture. “I hope this will help Bali to thrive again in our near future”, Wishnutama added.
Bali received a record breaking 6.2 million international visitors in 2019 with Australians being the largest market of over 1.23 million visitors.

Prior to the pandemic Bali was on pace for another record year and growth in tourism before the island closed its borders due to COVID-19.

From thebalisun.com

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27 Sept -Gala Tribute to French Cuisine

Chef-owner Chris Salans of Bali’s renowned Mozaic Group has recently been awarded the Ordre du Mérite Agricole (Order of Agricultural Merit) by the French government. The reward was bestowed by His Excellency M. Olivier Chambard, the French Ambassador to Indonesia, in a formal ceremony held at the Ambassador’s Residence in Jakarta on Monday, 07 September 2020.

Awarded for exceptional service in agriculture and gastronomy, the Order of Agricultural Merit was first awarded in 1883 was second in importance in the French Order Precedence to only the Légion d’honneur (Legion of Honor). Chef Salans now holds the rank of “knight” or “chevalier” within the Order, a rank shared with a multitude of other notables that include Jacques Chirac, Thomas Edison, Louis Pasteur, Jacques Pépin, and Paul Prudhomme. Since its inception 132 years ago, some 340,000 recipients have been inducted into the Order with an estimated 23,000 members are alive at any given time. 

This is the second award granted by the French Government to Chris Salans in as many years. In 2019, he was inducted as a Maître Cuisiniers de France to recognize his pioneering international cuisine employing French techniques with Indonesian flavors.

Commenting on his most recent award, Chris Salans said: “I am proud to receive this title by the French government to represent French gastronomy in Indonesia and promote French-Indonesian relations. I hope that this shines a light on Bali and Indonesia as a world-class culinary destination because we all need it in these difficult times.”

The Mozaic Group Operation in Bali includes the Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique, Spice by Chris Salans, and Dine@Home Bali.

Gala Tribute to French Cuisine

To celebrate his good fortune and acknowledge the country that gave him his culinary education, Chris Salans has decided to present a “Gala Tribute to French Cuisine” at the Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique in Ubud on Sunday, 27 September 2020.

The Gala Tribute will see Chef Salans teaming up with French pastry chef Vincent Nigita, of Vincent Nigita Patisserie in Berawa, Bali, to prepare a special tasting menu of classical French dishes.

The two chefs will be cooking with imported French delicacies that include Fines de Claire Oysters, Brittany Lobster, Duck Foie Gras, Venison, and Valrhona Chocolate. To round out what promises to be a memorable gastronomic evening,  Mozaic’s Wine Manager, Jean-Francois Moch, will present, as an additional option, an all-French pairing of fine wines to complement each course.

The event will be held at Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique in Ubud on Sunday, 27 September 2020, with reservations from 6:00 pm until 9.30 pm.

To ensure the safety of both guests and service staff and permit physical distancing optimization, participation for the evening will be limited to a maximum of 60 guests.

Gala Tribute to French Cuisine with Vincent Nigita  & Chris Salans

Sunday, 27th September 2020

6:00 pm – 9:30 pm at Mozaic Restaurant Ubud

Amuse Bouches

Champagne, Taittinger Nocturne Sec, Reims

Cassolette de Fruits de Mers aux Herbes

Scallop, Yabby, Squid and King Crab Ravioli in a Fresh Herb Broth

Sémillon Sauvignon Blanc, Château Clarendelle by Haut-Brion, Bordeaux

Cabillaud au Pistou

Confied Atlantic Black Cod, Braised Fennel, Tomato Basil Pistou

Marsanne, Saint-Péray, Maison Nicolas Perrin, Rhône

 Homard Forestiere

Butter Poached Brittany Lobster, Girolles Mushroom and Asparagus

Chardonnay, Viré-Clessé, Domaine Chanson, Bourgogne

Foie Gras aux Lentilles du Puy

Seared Foie Gras, Lentil Emulsion, Caramelized Onions, Bacon Lardons

Pinot Noir, Santenay “Clos de Malte”, Louis Jadot, Bourgogne

 Porc aux Pruneaux

Slow Cooked Iberico Pork Pluma, Prunes and Armagnac

Carignan, Grenache & Syrah, La Ciaude, Gros & Tollot, Minervois

Filet de Biche Rôti aux Choux

Roasted Venison Loin, Wilted Cabbage, Orange and Juniper Berry

Mourvedre, Grenache Syrah, Gigondas, Lavau, Rhône

Chariot de Fromages

Cheese Trolley and Condiments

Sauvignon Blanc, Pouilly Fumé, Grand Fumé, Fournier, Loire

La Poire

Vanilla and Pear Jelly, Pear and Smoked Tea Espuma, Almond Ice Cream

Le Mille-Feuille

Caramelized Puff Pastry, Vanilla Napoleon Cream, Salted Caramel, Vanilla and Lemon Sorbet, Candy Lemon Zest, Vanilla Emulsion

Sémillon Sauvignon Blanc, Sauternes Réserve du Ciron, Calvet, Bordeaux

Petits Fours du Chef

Rp 1.250.000++/Person (7-Course Food Only)

Rp. 1.600.000++/Person (9-Course Food Only)

The Items Marked ● Form Part Of The 9-Course Menu Only

Optional All-French Wine Pairings

Rp. 990,000 ++/Person for 7-Course Wine Pairing

Rp. 1,250,000++/Person for 9-Course Wine Pairing

Wines can also be Selected from Mozaic’s Regular Wine List

Bookings and Reservations

Mozaic’s 6-hand Michelin Dinner held in August sold out well in advance of that event. Reservations for 27 September are available on a first-reserved basis to the Gala Tribute to French Cuisine.

Bookings can be made by calling Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique at +62-(0)361-975768 or by visiting the Mozaic Restaurant Gastronomique Website

Chef Vincent Nigita

Originally from Lyon-the culinary capital of France, after completing his education to become a chef pâtissier, Chef Vincent Nigita honed his culinary skills working in locations around the world. A passion for art and pastry have inspired Nigta to create enchanted desserts – masterpieces where flawless technique, passion, precision, and incomparable taste all meet.

His professional journey has allowed Chef Nigita to work alongside respected chefs like Eric Briffart (Meilleurs Ouvriers de France-M.O.F.), Christian Le Squer (3 Michelin Stars), and Pierre Gagnaire (3 Michelin Stars).

In 2016, Nigita left a prestigious position as the pastry chef at the Four Seasons Hotel in Paris to travel the globe to discover unique flavors and ingredients at each stop along the way on a personal grand world tour.

During that journey, a stop in Bali caused Chef Vincent Nigita to pause, unpack his bags, and set up shop. He fell in love with Bali for its rich culture, art, and abundance of natural resources. It is also in Bali where he now shares his exceptional skill and continues his tasteful sojourn at Vincent Nigita Patisserie.

Posted in Bali Food & Restaurant, Bali News, Business, Destination Bali, Events, ServicesComments Off on 27 Sept -Gala Tribute to French Cuisine

St. Regis Nets Forbes Travel Guide Star

The St Regis Bali Resort has been named to Forbes Travel Guide’s 2021 Star Awards. The new award series from Forbes Travel Guide will showcase The St. Regus Bali with other five-star honorees on ForbesTravelGuide.com.

Those named to the award are positioned as representing outstanding, often iconic resorts, with virtually flawless service and exceptional facilities.

Named to this stellar category of outstanding global hotels and resorts, The St. Regis Bali Resort was selected because of its bespoke service, prime location, luxurious rooms and amenities, exquisite food, and beverage offerings. The Bali property’s overall value is reflected in a total score of 91.62 out of 100.

In revealing that The St. Regis Bali Resort is among its 2021 award recipients, Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) has offered a sneak peek at the winners from its upcoming 2021 Annual Star Awards.

The early winners for 2021 were selected from hotels inspected before COVID-19 closures. The complete list of 2021 winners will be formally announced in February 2021.

In selecting what they consider the world’s best – professional inspectors travel the world to assess hotels, restaurants, and spas based on 900 objective standards that form their coveted annual Star Ratings.

Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors check into a hotel, posing as ordinary guests and paying their own way. Then they test up to exacting standards, including whether an associate greets them within 30 seconds of arrival, if clothing left around a room is folded neatly or wrapped and placed within close view after turndown service, and whether the associates demonstrated exceptional design. The ratings tabulate 75 percent of a hotel’s score based on its service, while the facility’s quality determines the remaining 25 percent.

The St. Regis Bali Resort is a suite and villa-only resort boasting 123 beautifully appointed accommodations set on the white sand beach of Nusa Dua. Its signature St. Regis Butler Service promises bespoke service with personalized touches.

From Bali Discovery

Posted in Bali Adventure, Bali Airport, Bali News, Bali Temple, Bali Travel, BALI Travel Advisory, Bali Travel Direct, Bali Travel Directory, Planning A Trip, SightseeingComments Off on St. Regis Nets Forbes Travel Guide Star

47 Foreign Visitors to Bali in July 2020

July is traditionally one of the busiest months of the year in Bali in terms of foreign tourist arrivals. But, in July 2020, during the global pandemic, it was a different story entirely.

Foreign tourist arrivals for July 2020 counted by Bali Immigration totaled 47 people. As reported byBeritabali.com and based on data from the Bali Statistic Agency (BPS-Bali), foreign arrivals in Bali one year ago in July 2019 totaled 604,323 foreign visitors – declining more than 99% month-on-month in July 2020.

June 2020 arrivals were equally disappointing, recording only 32 foreign visitors.

BPS-Bali reports hotels in Bali in July 2020 recorded an average occupancy of 2.57%. In July 2019, the average occupancy recorded by BPS was 61.71%.

Due to the lack of visitors, many hotels have closed their doors and suspended operations until more guests, from domestic or foreign sources, begin to materialize.

From Bali Discovery

Posted in Bali Adventure, Bali Airport, Bali Travel, BALI Travel Advisory, Bali Travel Direct, Bali Travel Directory, Business, Planning A TripComments Off on 47 Foreign Visitors to Bali in July 2020

Indonesian Tourists ‘Rarin’ to Travel

As Tempo.co reported, the Director of Marketing for Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and the Creative Economy, Vinsensius Jemadu, says that 76% of Indonesian travelers enthusiastically wish to visit in the other islands of their archipelago in the coming 12-months.

“Our data shows, 8 out of 10 domestic tourists are preparing for a holiday,” Vinsensius said when speaking in Batam, Riau, on Wednesday, 02 September 2020. Accordingly, he urges tourism operators in the Riau Islands to prepare to welcome domestic tourists as Indonesia adapts to the “new era” of operating during a pandemic.

In the era of the “new normal,” Vinsensius explained that the Indonesian government is now more focused on expanding the number of domestic tourists undertaking a holiday. This is in keeping with a hashtag campaign #diIndonesiasaja (Just in Indonesia) to encourage families, couples, and civil servants to take domestic holidays. The government hopes that domestic tourism will revive the National tourism industry that has been devasted by COVID-19.

Vinsensius said the Ministry’s view is that most domestic tourists seek nature tourism, cultural tourism, culinary experience, business travel, family reunions, and adventure tourism. Adding: “COVID-19 has changed tourists’ behavior, But one thing that has not changed is a spirit to develop the tourism sector.”

Speaking at the same event, the head of the culture and tourism department for the City of Batam, Ardiwinaata, said it could not be known when the COVID-19 pandemic will end. However, at this time, the most important task is to restore the national tourism industry while suppressing new infections from the coronavirus. “All parties must follow health protocols which included wearing masks, maintaining physical distancing, and washing hands with soap and running water,” Adiwinata explained.

From Bali Discovery

Posted in Bali Adventure, Bali Airport, Bali News, Bali Travel, BALI Travel Advisory, Bali Travel Direct, Bali Travel Directory, Destination Bali, SightseeingComments Off on Indonesian Tourists ‘Rarin’ to Travel

Welcome to Bali

Bali Tourism Board

Welcome to the the Bali Tourism Board, the voice of Bali's tourism industry! As one of the prime tourist destinations of the world, the extraordinarily unique island of Bali virtually ensures a great holiday for backpackers and VIPs alike! From hostels to award-winning world-class resorts, Bali has it all! Come and experience Bali's one-of-a-kind culture and the natural hospitality of her people.