Indonesian model, actress and TV presenter Olla Ramlan has a new perspective on life after years in the spotlight Febiolla Ramlan, popularly known as Olla Ramlan, has capitalised on her striking good looks to become an iconic model and entertainer — her face has appeared on a wide range of magazine covers and figured in advertising campaigns for a host of products in Indonesia. The catwalk veteran has been the ambassador for products ranging from the Kozui Slimming Suit and Geela … [Read more...]
Stunning Samosir
Once ruled by kings for nearly 400 years, this ancient island at the centre of the world’s largest volcanic lake is a wonderland of nature and culture Words: Aulia R. Sungkar Photography: Suwandi Chandra Jetstar Asia Magazine, February 2014 A four-hour drive from Medan to Parapat, a small town on the Uluan peninsula, followed by a 45-minute ferry ride, takes me to Samosir Island, a wedge-shaped landmass roughly the size of Singapore at the centre of Lake Toba. It’s a tiring … [Read more...]
J-Walking
Jakarta is getting merrier with more F&B and entertainment establishments to keep you up all night 7pm: Arguably the busiest eatery in town, Kitchenette lets you experience the concept of ‘dining inside a kitchen’. Cosy, comfy and casual, this new F&B establishment offers French and Italian fare served fresh directly from the kitchen into a social space. Plaza Indonesia Extension 1st Floor, Jl. M.H. Thamrin Kav. 28-30, tel:+6221 2992 3580 9pm: Just walk to the adjacent building, … [Read more...]
MEDAN: 1 Holiday 3 Ways
Words: Aulia R. Sungkar Photography: Suwandi Chandra Jetstar Asia Magazine, June 2013 Enthusiasts of art-deco architecture, foodies and nature lovers will find the charms of Indonesia’s third largest city well worth exploring FOR HISTORY BUFFS Alongside the modern infrastructure that Medan is building to propel the city forward, you can still find traces of Dutch colonial history. Stay: Emerald Garden Hotel is truly an old hotel with a new look. Nestling on Yos Sudarso … [Read more...]
Gamelan: is it game over?
Can this traditional Indonesian musical ensemble continue to mark the rhythms of human life? Words: Aulia R. Sungkar Photography: M.I. Mappasenge Jetstar Asia Magazine, June 2013 NEW PASSION Despite fears that the popularity of gamelan is fading in Indonesia, Kenthus notices that this Javanese ensemble has attracted more and more foreigners, such as those from the US, Australia and Japan. But will this be enough to keep it going? Only time will tell. Literally meaning … [Read more...]
Six Degrees -Jakarta-
Indonesia’s capital is transforming itself into a more creative megapolis. Six locals tell us who's making a difference Words: Aulia R. Sungkar Photography: M.I. Mappasenge Jetstar Asia Magazine, January 2013 Fergie Tan Occupation: Creative director Business: Brown Fox Studio “Plaza Senayan marries creativity and lifestyle” The younger generation in Jakarta is looking forward to seeing Indonesia’s capital become a more modern and forward-thinking city. This is where Fergie … [Read more...]
TOUCH BY NATURE
The hill town of Batu offers so much to see and do that what started as a weekend playground for the locals and tourists has gained fame across Indonesia A cool mountain breeze greets my arrival in Malang after a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Surabaya, the coastal capital of East Java. The apple orchards that dot the city have given Malang the moniker, the "City of Apples". With the presence of historical buildings through the city, Malang truly creates a sense of Europe. I feast my eyes … [Read more...]
A DAY ON THE J-TOWN
Kids will love the sun, sand and sea that isAncol DreamlandBeneath the city's hustle and bustle, Jakarta offers the colourful charm of feasts and fun 8am: Start your day with the sumptuous breakfast buffet served in a stylish setting at your sanctuary, Novotel Mangga Dua Square (Jl. Gunung Sahari Raya No. 1, tel: +62 (21) 6231 2800). 9.30am: Head to the Ocean Ecopark for a quick rejuvenation — it's the latest attraction added to Ancol Dreamland, the city's largest recreation complex. Don't … [Read more...]
The Accidental Heartthrob
Indonesian actor and model Nicholas Saputra is back on the silver screen with more of his travel stories. At first glance, Nicholas Saputra (“Nico” to his friends) seems to be an introvert with his perpetual serious expression. However, once he warms up to people, I realise that the 27-year-old actor is a fun and amiable person. He’s come to the interview and photoshoot at the all-suite Kemang Icon by Alila straight from Yogyakarta. Of mixed German and Javanese parentage, Nico adores … [Read more...]
Edible Elegance
Jakarta’s latest fine-dining restaurants are serving up the world’s cuisine on a plate to those hungry for new experiences. The capital city of Indonesia offers many culinary adventures with distinct settings that separate the city’s crème de la crème from the rest of the crowd. From authentic French and Italian fare to traditional Middle Eastern meals and delectable Chinese and Japanese cuisine, the presence of new high-end restaurants on Jakarta’s busy restaurant scene has injected much … [Read more...]
