With the festive season just around the corner, why not make the places you stay just as memorable as the experiences along the way?
Indonesia’s architectural heritage tells a story woven through time, from intricately crafted traditional houses to magnificent ancient landmarks shaped by nature, culture and centuries of history. Exploring these historical landmarks offers a deeper appreciation of the architecture, craftsmanship and traditions of the past.
Today, this rich legacy finds new expression in contemporary design, where tradition meets modern sensibilities to create spaces that celebrate local heritage while embracing sustainability.
In this edition, we explore how thoughtful design is transforming the way we travel, connecting us with our surroundings not just through local experiences, but through the places we stay.
We hope these featured tours, experiences and properties provide inspiration for the upcoming festive season.
Get inspired - Featured tours & experiences
East Bali’s Historical Landmarks
Full day
- Explore the stunning water palaces of Taman Ujung and Tirta Gangga
- Admire the distinctive architecture of Karangasem Palace
- Discover the traditions of an ancient village in east Bali
Ideal clients type: FITs, couples, groups and families that love history and beautiful classic architecture.
Temple and Terraces
of Bali
Full day
- Admire the incredible rock shrines of Pura Gunung Kawi
- Bathe in the sacred springs of Pura Tirta Empul
- Take a scenic walk through terraced rice fields
Ideal clients type: FIT’s, couples, groups and families that love history and ancient architecture.
Malang Cultural
and Architectural Heritage
Full day
- Uncover Malang’s distinctive architectural styles
- Explore the rich heritage of Kajoetangan Village
- Visit the historical Hindu-Buddhist Singosari and Jago Temples
Ideal clients type: FITs, couples and families interested in colonial architecture, local encounters and ancient history.
Tracing Java's
Architectural Legacies
7 days / 6 nights
- Discover Java’s diverse architectural styles
- Explore the structural design and symbolism of historic temples
- Learn about contrasting mosque architecture
- Experience Java’s rich cultural diversity
- Savour local cuisine along the way
Ideal clients type: FITs, couples and families that love history, beautiful architecture and local encounters.
Featured properties
Garrya Bianti
Yogyakarta
Garrya Bianti is the first 5-star boutique luxury resort of Banyan Tree Group in Java and Indonesia. The resort features an intimate collection of just 24 minimalist boutique villas. Units range from Pool View and Sunset View to River View villas, which are equipped with their own private pools that allow for a peaceful retreat for the mind and body.
Ideal clients type: FITs and honeymooners
Plataran Borobudur Resort and Spa
Borobudur
A luxury eco-resort in the Menoreh Hills of Magelang, located just five minutes from the 9th-century Borobudur Temple. The villas are based on traditional Indonesian construction, though they also incorporate modern design elements for a refined and relaxing stay.
Ideal clients type: FITs, honeymooners and families.
Destination news
Anantara Uluwatu rebrands as Svanata Uluwatu Bali Resort
The Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort is no longer operating under the Anantara name, introducing a new identity to a resort that has long been part of Uluwatu’s luxury hotel landscape. The clifftop property in Pecatu has transitioned into a new independent brand, Svanata Uluwatu Bali Resort, effective since 1 September 2026.
Svanata Uluwatu offers 73 suites, pool villas and penthouses to ensure privacy and romance. Slow down, unwind and take in the stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
The resort also offers a variety of dining experiences, such as the 360 Rooftop Restaurant, which offers panoramic ocean backdrops, and Botol Biru Bar & Grill, positioned right at the cliff’s edge and specialising in charcoal-grilled seafood and casual sunset dining.
Upcoming festivities & festivals
- Pemuteran Bay Festival, Bali (6-8 Nov): An eco-tourism celebration that highlights Pemuteran Village’s strong commitment to environmental conservation and cultural preservation. The festival offers a diverse range of engaging activities, including live music performances, local culinary showcases, yoga sessions, talk shows and hands-on coral reef conservation workshops.
- Borobudur Marathon, Magelang, Central Java (15 Nov): Set for Sunday, November 15 at the Lumbini Park Complex, this international road running event takes participants through the scenic rural landscapes and cultural vistas surrounding Central Java’s iconic 9th-century Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than just a marathon, the race celebrates local Javanese hospitality, traditional arts and vibrant community support, serving as a major driver for regional sports tourism by boosting local homestays, culinary vendors and small businesses (UMKM).
Travel Advisory: Travellers should avoid the Borobudur and Magelang areas during mid-November (12-18 Nov) due to significant event-related disruptions. Expect road closures, heavy traffic, packed transit hubs and scarce accommodation, with peak delays lasting from early morning through midday.
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