Be Part of The Change; Alaya Hotels & Resorts Collaborate to Support Local School and Groundbreaking Work in Disability and Employment

By alaya Uncategorized

Alaya Hotels & Resorts has proudly established a partnership with DNetwork to accept and mentor employees with disabilities. Following the previous visit from DNetwork on 29th January 2019, Alaya Hotels and Resorts was confirmed to accept two disability female employees who will be working as housekeeping staff at Alaya Resort Ubud on 1st July 2019.   

DNetwork is non-profit organization founded in 2013. It was primarily established to help source and develop opportunities and offer workplace solutions to a largely forgotten community of disabled people.  The collaboration between Alaya Hotels & Resorts and DNetwork supports disability and inclusion employment efforts through the establishment of public/private partnerships in local communities. As an employer consortium, Alaya is now committed to implementing or expanding programs to employ individuals with disabilities. An agreement has been made to share ownership of the cluster initiative, and be accountable for hiring goals, and regular communication to share best practices.

On the other hand, Alaya Hotels and Resorts also commit to be a part of the change to support local school community as a part of Alaya Goes to School and Alaya Cares. Alaya Resort Ubud got also recent visit from SMKN 1 Mas, Desa Mas, Ubud, Bali. The event started with a warm welcome being extended to everyone in attendance, followed by a speech and a short presentation about the Alaya Hotels & Resorts concept. A tour was then conducted as an introduction to Alaya Resort Ubud and its five-star facilities. In an effort to establish good relations within the workplace, prospective students were invited to coffee break alongside other staff members. This was an opportunity for direct engagement and the event proceeded with an informative question/answer session. 

The event started with an invitation from Indonesia Tourism Ministry addressed to selected group of Indonesian General Manager Association include Mrs. Dewi Mas, CHA. CHT, Alaya Hotels and Resorts’ General Manager to support vocational school development. As one of Indonesia Hotel Auditor, the program is initially inviting Mrs. Dewi Mas to support Local School community in sharing her knowledge about tourism and hospitality industry where she also involves Alaya Resort Ubud to participate in the program. Alaya Hotels & Resorts is now entrusted to serve as a role model of community partnership to coordinate services for job-seekers with non-disabilities and disabilities, with a single point of contact for employers. This also means functioning as a talent pool to connect among employers, public and private agencies, and schools to reach young adults with disabilities who are in transition from school to work.

“We support the government program to always support the local school and disabilities organization in develop the human resource as a part of my role as lecturer as well as hotel auditor. This has all come about under the banner of the Alaya Cares program to expand employment opportunities for individuals with non-disabilities and disabilities then accelerate the adoption of education inclusion initiatives. This alliance allows Alaya Hotels & Resorts and local school or non-profit disabilities organization to work together in new and innovative ways.” Said Mrs. Dewi Mas.

As a premier local brand, Alaya Hotels & Resorts will get on board by accepting more people and nurture talent to help develop future career prospects. There will be distinct a focus on inspiring other corporations to create sustainable hiring initiatives based on this ongoing collaboration. This sustainability program is an opportunity to express gratitude for all of the blessings bestowed by God Almighty. It also reinforces the resort’s commitment to Tri Hita Karana, a Balinese Hindu lifestyle philosophy that is all about maintaining a harmonious balance between mankind (Pawongan), the environment (Palemahan) and God Almighty (Parahyangan).

Home of Flavours at Manisan Bali ~ The Golden Age of Indonesian Archipelago Culinary

By alaya Uncategorized

Cocooned within a breezy Ubud rice field, Manisan Bali is a well-designed space that remains sensitive to the island’s rich cultural heritage. It provides the perfect setting to showcase the diverse and exotic flavours of the Indonesian archipelago in style. A picturesque pathway leads to a 350-year-old Javanese Joglo that also lends itself to wedding celebrations and private events. Manisan offers discerning guests an authentic dining experience featuring home-style dishes cooked with integrity with flavours from around the archipelago.

Currently, Manisan has launched a new menu curated by Indonesian Legendary Chef and President of Indonesia Chef Association, Mr Henry Alexie Bloem whom appointed as Culinary Advisor for Manisan, who has sourced the nation’s best recipes on his extensive travels. Partnering with the Resort Executive Chef, Ganesha, both Chefs bring more than 10 years of culinary experience from around the world to this new role.

Through this new menu, Manisan tries to introduce to the guest that every region in Indonesia has its own characteristic in the processing and unique taste presentation for each local cuisine. Manisan offers discerning guests an authentic dining experience featuring home-style dishes cooked with integrity with flavours from around the archipelago. The rich cultural heritage of beautiful archipelago holds stories waiting to be told. At Manisan Bali, authenticity plays an inescapable part of Indonesia’s Golden Age of taste. From the carefully selected ingredients to the way it is served, the taste to the mouth is deliciously craving for yet another bite.

Guest may try an authentic Indonesia food from around archipelago such as Ikan Timbungan, Tongseng Kambing, Cumi Masak Pekalongan, Garang Asem and many more. One of Manisan signature dish, “Nasi Bira” is quite popular for group lunch or dinner. This is yellow rice infused with kemangi leaves accompanied by dry salted fish, cucumber and eggplant. It is served with tasting portions of spicy honey grilled prawns, seared tuna fish sambal matah, chicken betutu, minced chicken satay lilit, rice field escargot, vegetable urap and snake beans with two kinds of sambals and crackers.

The other Manisan Menu based on Chef recommendation is “Bebek Goreng”, an Ubudian Crispy Duck, one dish in particular that has truly put Bali on the global food map is Crispy Duck. Manisan culinary team is committed to sourcing the very best ducks that Ubud has to offer from reputable local breeders to ensure the authenticity of this popular delicacy. The duck itself is infused with a yellow Balinese spice paste and then deep fried until crispy. It is served with steamed rice and an assortment of different sambals for extra flavour.

Try also the traditional archipelago sweetness “Pisang Ijo” a pandanus banana crepes with coconut syrup and bubur sumsum, an Indonesian traditional sweet dessert. The dessert is mainly made of coconut milk and rice flour that are being cooked until thickened and then chilled. The bubur itself is a little bit salty, complement by the sweetness from Gula Jawa. 

Top 3 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest

By alaya Uncategorized

The Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Bali. It has been around for so long that experts believe that the site is in fact older than its home country, Indonesia. There are at least 115 species of different trees growing within the forest, some of which are significant in Balinese culture as being sacred or are used as materials used during religious rituals. Approximately 600 long-tailed monkeys also harmoniously reside within the protected confines of this forest sanctuary. Here are just some of the reasons to put the Ubud Monkey Forest on your list of places to visit during your next trip to Bali.

1. Playful Monkeys in a Tranquil Forest Environment

Many travellers visit the Ubud Monkey Forest to see the hundreds of playful monkeys. These creatures are the real stars of this age-old protected site. The best thing is being able to experience the monkeys’ behaviour and interactions in a totally natural setting. Monkeys can be seen swinging through the treetops, lounging on benches and taking care of their young. The monkeys interact with each other constantly in fun and fascinating ways.

2. Beautiful Forest with Ancient Temples

The monkeys are such a riot to watch that it’s easy to forget just how beautiful the forest really is. There are a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers all throughout the forest. The colours are lush and the fresh air is rejuvenating. The gigantic banyan trees and intricate vine systems are iconic, alluring, and a particular highlight of the forest. It also has three temples that date back to the 1300’s. These are active temples that the local people have been using for centuries. The long history of these beautiful temples is astounding and their continued use is inspiring. 

3. Easy Walking Distance from Alaya Resort Ubud

The Ubud Monkey Forest is located in Padang Tegal Village, just 5 minutes walks from Alaya Resort Ubud. Simply follow the signage for approximately 500 metres and you will soon find yourself at this famous Ubud destination. Please contact our concierge at experience.ubud@alayahotels.com for more information.

Alaya Hotels and Resorts’ General Manager Awarded as the Only Female Bali Leading Top Hospitality Leader

By alaya Uncategorized

In the recent Bali Tourism Awards 2019, Alaya Hotels & Resorts’ General Manager, Mrs. Dewi Mas, CHA, CHT, claimed a distinction that once again have elevated the personal’s leader reputation on the island. Mrs. Dewi Mas, in her capacity as General Manager for Alaya Hotels & Resorts, was recognised as a “Bali Leading Top Hospitality Leader”. This is the second award given to her as Bali Top Hospitality Leader in previous year 2018 and currently in 2019.

Balinese born she is a seasoned hotelier with 20 years of experience in the industry. Having previously worked for reputable brands such as Hyatt, Four Seasons, The ONE Legian Hotel, and currently Alaya Hotels and Resorts in the capacity of General Manager, she brings a wealth of valuable expertise to her leadership by inspiring and develop people from Zero to Hero. Success in bringing Alaya Resort Ubud as 5 stars hotel brand, Mrs. Dewi Mas continues to strengthen her leadership in maintaining the guest satisfaction at Alaya Hotels and Resorts. During the two-year service at Alaya Hotels and Resorts, she he has successfully brought Alaya to achieve various kinds of awards such as 5 stars Hotel Brand for Alaya Resort Ubud, Bali Leading 5-Stars Local Brand by BTA, Tri Hita Karana Emerald Awards, Best Presentation and Service in Melapa Melapi Awards, Best PR Simpatik by THK Awards, Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, Loved by Guest by Hotels.com, Agoda Gold Circle Award, Regular Temple Visit Activity Award by NOW Bali and recently 5 Stars Surveillance Certification.

Mrs. Dewi Mas has a detailed understanding of luxury hotel operations along with a solid background in sales and marketing. As a Certified Hotel Trainer, Certified Hotel Administration and Certified Lead Hotel Auditor, she regularly lectures at a local hospitality college and is keen to share her knowledge with the island’s next generation of aspiring hoteliers. Passionate about service quality and Bali’s sustainable growth, she is expected to be a real asset to the Alaya brand as it continues to evolve with the conception of several exciting projects

For the fifth consecutive year, the annual Bali Tourism Awards (BTA) were held in collaboration with the Indonesian Travel & Tourism Awards Foundation (ITTA). It’s an Oscar of Indonesia Tourism Award for Excellence and Quality in Bali’s Travel and Tourism Industry. A gala ceremony hosted on 27th May 2019 at The Trans Resort Bali saw representatives from more than 120 tourism companies in Bali gather for an elegant evening of wining and dining. ITTA Foundation believes that the Bali serves as the largest revenue generator of the Tourism Industry in Indonesia, one of the fastest growing market with a presence on the brand of hospitality and travel the world. To appreciate the outstanding achievement of the industry for many years, BTA awarded as proof for industry players to maintain the quality of service is very high and no doubt. It was truly a celebration of Bali’s best where hotels, resorts and outstanding hospitality executives were rewarded.   

“I personally found this whole process to be professional and motivating in comparison to other initiatives. The Bali Tourism Award Foundation conducted an extremely thorough interview and assessment of my managerial career over the past 12 years. I am very fortunate to be the recipient of this prestigious award as Bali Leading Top Hospitality Leader. It also most encouraging that Alaya Hotels and Resorts was identified as an outstanding local property. I am confident that Alaya Hotels & Resorts will stand behind it commitment to provide the highest standards of service and continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences at both properties under its corporate banner.”      

Balinese Megibung to Celebrate Alaya CEO’s Birthday

By alaya Uncategorized

Mr. Jimmy Gunawan, CEO of Alaya Hotels & Resorts, recently celebrated his 40th birthday in true Balinese style on two separate occasions together with his beloved family and all staff members. The first event was held at Alaya Dedaun Kuta on 15th April 2019 and everyone was invited to enjoy a shared Megibung Lunch. The next party took placed at Alaya Resort Ubud on 18th April 2019 whereby staff members also got to take pleasure in an artistically arranged Megibung Lunch. According to Mr. Jimmy, both celebrations were the manifestation of his gratitude to God Almighty and an expression of deep gratitude to all employees for their continued dedication to the company.

For the Balinese, the spirit of togetherness can be witnessed particularly during religious ceremonies and social events. Megibung is one such activity that demonstrates a sense of community and togetherness. It is essentially a communal dining experience where people sit as a group on the ground and traditionally share food from a large plate or piece of banana leaf. This village custom, which originated in Karangasem regency, is not only about sharing food, it is also an opportunity to engage in light conversation and get to know each other better. The term Megibung derives from the Balinese word “gibung”, which means to “share with each other”. By hosting both Megibung Lunches for his birthday, Mr. Jimmy hopes that togetherness and family values are always interwoven within the Alaya work environment.

During his birthday speech, Mr. Jimmy explained that Alaya means home and that he intends to honour this definition by creating a real home in every aspect for everyone. He is passionate about the happiness of all staff members and he has gone to great lengths to ensure that Alaya feels like a second home. This is deeply rooted in the belief that a content team will provide excellent service that comes from the heart and this in turn stimulates guest satisfaction.

Top Three Must-See Temples in Ubud, Bali

By alaya Uncategorized

These must-see temples in Ubud offer a glimpse into Bali’s historic legacy with ancient reliefs and classical examples of architecture. They also serve as cool retreats or brief stopovers during your leisurely walks through town. Some are easily accessible and located amongst Ubud’s central landmarks, while others around the neighbouring villages of Tampaksiring are hidden within mountain valleys, adding a bit of mystery to your adventures in this cultural heartland of Bali.

1. Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) is a historic site of interest that dates back to the 9^th century. The actual entrance to the cave is an ornately carved demon’s mouth. Inside are some fragmentary lingam and yoni statues, as well as a statue of Ganesha (the elephant-headed god in Hinduism). Large carved guards stand around pools near the entrance, and a little path leads to a waterfall, rice fields and some Buddhist stupa fragments. Goa Gajah is located at Bedulu village, Gianyar Ubud, which is only a 15-minute drive from Alaya Resort Ubud.

2. Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul is an important temple complex and holy mountain spring, located in the village of Manukaya in central Bali. The site serves as a legendary setting of a traditional tale about good versus evil. It is also a national cultural heritage site. Tirta Empul, meaning ‘holy water spring’ is actually the name of a water source located within the temple. The spring feeds various purification baths, pools and fish ponds surrounding the outer perimeter, which all flow to the Tukad Pakerisan River. Various sites throughout the region and many other archaeological relics relate to local myths and legends. Another nearby and prominent site on top of a hill is the presidential palace, Istana Tampaksiring, built during the years of the nation’s first president.

3. Gunung Kawi

Gunung Kawi Temple complex, locally referred to as Pura Gunung Kawi, is one of Bali’s most unique archaeological sites, comprising a collection of ancient shrine reliefs carved into the face of a rock cliff. It’s a popular stopover on itineraries through the central uplands of the Gianyar regency. The temple complex is easily located, only a few hundred meters east from the Jalan Raya Tampaksiring main route. Small stone caves that actually serve as meditation sites complement the shrines, where Buddhist monks used to sit and contemplate. Indeed, Balinese history has shown that the two religions coexisted in harmony. Across the river and beside the first rock shrine complex is the functional temple courtyard that the locals essentially refer to as Pura Gunung Kawi.

Photo credit by guide.baligolive.com.

Chef Ganesha Pideksha Heats Up the Kitchen at Manisan and Petani Restaurant

By alaya Uncategorized

Manisan and Petani Restaurant are pleased to announce the recent appointment of Ganesha Pideksha as Executive Chef. Driven by his passion for Western cuisine, Chef Ganesha is expected to inject innovation and energy into both dining venues at Alaya Resort Ubud.

Chef Ganesha brings nearly 10 years of culinary experience from around the world to this new role. Originally from Jakarta, he has held senior positions at several star-rated hotels and restaurants around Indonesia as well as international destinations such as Dubai and Doha. Throughout his career, Chef Ganesha has always exhibited an intuitive determination in his pursuit for culinary excellence. With a personal cooking style defined by his desire to preserve the original flavours of fresh ingredients with artfully presented plates, Chef Ganesha also likes to blend Western and Indonesian cultural influences.  

On his appointment, Chef Ganesha will be responsible for both Manisan and Petani restaurant at Alaya Resort Ubud. Cocooned within a breezy Ubud rice field, Manisan Bali is a well-designed space that remains sensitive to the island’s rich cultural heritage. It provides the perfect setting to showcase the diverse and exotic flavours of the Indonesian archipelago in style. A picturesque pathway leads to a 350-year-old Javanese Joglo that also lends itself to wedding celebrations and private events. Manisan offers discerning guests an authentic dining experience featuring home-style dishes cooked with integrity with flavours from around the archipelago. An artisan afternoon tea and a Chefs Table serving a tasting menu are just some of the highlights of this signature venue. While Petani serves the culinary needs of in-house guests and passers-by with a delightful menu of flavoursome fare. This smart dining venue presents its own take on East meets West cuisine. Petani celebrates the diversity of Asian food with a menu driven by farm-fresh ingredients and in-season delicacies.

Alaya Resort Ubud Accepts its First Two Awards for 2019

By alaya Uncategorized

The first awards of the year for Alaya Hotels & Resorts have just been received. These accolades serve as a timely reminder that a local brand has the ability to excel alongside international hospitality corporations. In the month of February 2019, Alaya Resort Ubud proudly accepted two awards from NOW Bali Magazine and Hotels.com.

The first award from NOW Bali came as a complete surprise. It was part of the magazine’s conservation program in appreciation for Alaya Resort Ubud’s commitment to following the Tri Hita Karana concept. This recognition was presented to the company for celebrating Balinese values by conducting regular temple visits and fulfilling its religious responsibilities. It also reinforces an ongoing obligation to Tri Hita Karana, a Balinese Hindu lifestyle philosophy that is all about maintaining a harmonious balance between mankind, the environment and God Almighty.

Under the Alaya Hotels & Resorts banner, Alaya Resort Ubud strives to implement the principles of Tri Hita Karana to all areas of business. The property is dedicated to adhering to local cultural and spiritual beliefs, as well as trying to make a difference to those less fortunate who do not directly benefit from the island’s tourism sector.

At the same time, Alaya Resort Ubud proudly accepted a ‘Loved by Guests’ award for delivering exceptional customer service throughout 2018. The ‘Loved by Guests’ awards are based on verified guest reviews at Hotels.com. Alaya Resort Ubud successfully achieved 9,2 as its annual score compiled from reviews by travellers who had actually stayed at and experienced the property. This annual endeavour recognizes elite service and high scoring peer-to-peer customer reviews from all Hotels.com reviews, as well as excellence in pricing and availability.

Alaya Hotels & Resorts Collaborate to Support Groundbreaking Work in Disability and Employment

By alaya Uncategorized

Alaya Hotels & Resorts has proudly established a partnership with DNetwork to accept and mentor employees with disabilities. This was confirmed during an official visit to Alaya Resort Ubud by DNetwork’s project manager, Mrs. Nanin together with 36 disabled participants from Pradnyagama School and SLB N 2 Sidakarya on Tuesday, 29^th January 2019.   The event started with a warm welcome being extended to everyone in attendance, followed by a speech and a short presentation about the Alaya Hotels & Resorts concept. A tour was then conducted as an introduction to Alaya Resort Ubud and its five-star facilities. In an effort to establish good relations within the workplace, prospective employees with varying disabilities were invited to enjoy lunch alongside other staff members. This was an opportunity for direct engagement and the event proceeded with an informative question/answer session.  DNetwork is non-profit organization founded in 2013. It was primarily established to help source and develop opportunities and offer workplace solutions to a largely forgotten community of disabled people.

The collaboration between Alaya Hotels & Resorts and DNetwork supports disability and inclusion employment efforts through the establishment of public/private partnerships in local communities. As an employer consortium, Alaya is now committed to implementing or expanding programs to employ individuals with disabilities. An agreement has been made to share ownership of the cluster initiative, and be accountable for hiring goals, and regular communication to share best practices.

Alaya Hotels & Resorts is now entrusted to serve as a role model of community partnership to coordinate services for job-seekers with disabilities, with a single point of contact for employers. This also means functioning as a talent pool to connect among employers, public and private agencies, and schools to reach young adults with disabilities who are in transition from school to work.

This has all come about under the banner of the Alaya Cares program to expand employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and accelerate the adoption of disability inclusion initiatives. This alliance allows Alaya Hotels & Resorts and DNetwork to work together in new and innovative ways.

As a premier local brand, Alaya Hotels & Resorts will get on board by accepting more people with disabilities and nurture talent to help develop future career prospects. There will be distinct a focus on inspiring other corporations to create sustainable hiring initiatives based on this ongoing collaboration. This sustainability program is an opportunity to express gratitude for all of the blessings bestowed by God Almighty. It also reinforces the resort’s commitment to Tri Hita Karana, a Balinese Hindu lifestyle philosophy that is all about maintaining a harmonious balance between mankind (Pawongan), the environment (Palemahan) and God Almighty (Parahyangan).