Padma Journals

August 8, 2025 in Art & Culture

Indonesia’s Independence Day is more than a commemoration — it is a celebration of spirit, unity, and cultural identity. At Padma Hotels, Pesta Rakyat Padma 2025 invites guests to honour this national milestone with a two-day celebration filled with authentic experiences, joyful gatherings, and festive energy across our properties in Legian, Ubud, Semarang, and Karawang, as Bandung is currently undergoing a transformation projectHonour the spirit of independence with Padma Hotels this August.In 2025, the annual “Tujuh Belasan” celebration grows even more vibrant — expanding across all Padma properties with richer experiences and deeper cultural connections.Relive culinary heritage by the shores of Legian, discover your creative side in the hills of Ubud, join traditional games in vibrant Semarang, and explore cultural crafts in Karawang. Each destination brings its own festive charm.https://youtu.be/nJXCutYyX9c?si=sRS8fhtwpc8XwxhMFrom nostalgic flavours to traditional games and creative expression, here’s a look at the experiences waiting to be shared.Padma Resort LegianNestled by the shore, Padma Resort Legian invites you to savour two exclusive F&B experiences: an archipelago-spanning buffet dinner showcasing Indonesia’s finest regional flavours, and an indulgent tea service in partnership with Padurasa, offering a curated array of classic Indonesian bites. Don’t miss our light-hearted 'Basket Hanging' competition, where a basket is placed on your head, while you are tasked to hang it without using your hand, for plenty of laughter as guests around you make their most delightfully candid expressions.DAY 1TIMEPROGRAMMECATEGORYVENUESaturday16 August 20255.30PM - 9.30PMArchipelagoBuffet Dinner*-DONBIUDAY 2TIMEACTIVITYCATEGORYVENUESunday17 August 20252PM - 5PMTea Time by Padurasa*-Batavia LawnSunday17 August 20252PM - 5PMLeaf Stamping Tote BagAdult & KidsBatavia LawnSunday17 August 20253PM - 4PMBlow The CupTiup GelasChopstick-in-Bottle RaceSumpit Dalam BotolCracker Eating ChallengeMakan KerupukKidsAdultAdult & KidsBatavia LawnSunday17 August 20254PM - 5PMMarble-on-Spoon RaceBalap KelerengBasket Hanging CompetitionLomba Gantung KeranjangStep on the BalloonMenginjak BalonKidsAdultAdultBatavia Lawn*Additional charge may incurPadma Resort UbudSituated amid Payangan’s verdant forests, Padma Resort Ubud transforms its grounds into a vibrant arts-and-crafts bazaar. Discover Indonesian treasures, from hand-painted canvases and intricately crafted dolls to luxurious spa products, so you can carry the serenity of Ubud home with you. And for a playful twist, be sure to join our 'Twerk Pong' challenge, where fun meets friendly competition over the lawn.DAY 1TIMEACTIVITYCATEGORYVENUESunday17 August 20251PM - 1.15PMCracker Eating ChallengeMakan KerupukAdultPool LawnSunday17 August 20251.15PM - 1.30PMCracker Eating ChallengeMakan KerupukKidsPool LawnSunday17 August 20251.30PM - 1.50PMSack RaceBalap KarungAdultPool LawnSunday17 August 20251.50PM - 2.10PMMarble-on-Spoon RaceBalap KelerengKidsPool LawnSunday17 August 20252.10PM - 2.20PMPencil-in-Bottle RacePensil Dalam BotolAdultPool LawnSunday17 August 20252.20PM - 2.30PMPencil-in-Bottle RacePensil Dalam BotolKidsPool LawnSunday17 August 20252.30PM - 2.45PMTwerk PongJoget Ping PongAdultPool LawnPadma Hotel SemarangPerched in Semarang’s verdant hills, immerse in a Batik Workshop that reveals the art’s intricate beauty, every deliberate line, every wax-resist stroke weaving a story in vibrant colour. Then, drift into nostalgia with an Outdoor Movie Screening beneath the stars, alongside a curated selection of heritage games. It’s a journey through time-old traditions reimagined for modern-day delight.DAY 1TIMEACTIVITYCATEGORYVENUESaturday16 August 20253PM - 8PMCracker-Eating ChallengeLomba Makan KerupukSack RaceBalap KarungWooden Clog RelayLomba BakiakBalloon Popping GameLomba Pecah BalonOutdoor Movie ScreeningLayar TancapOpen for All AgesWaterparkDAY 2TIMEACTIVITYCATEGORYVENUESunday17 August 20258AM - 11AMMarble-on-Spoon RaceLomba Balap KelerengSack RaceBalap KarungPencil-in-the-Bottle GameLomba MemasukkanPensil ke BotolWater Gun ContestLomba Tembak AirBalloon Dance-OffLomba Joget BalonOpen for All AgesWaterparkResinda Hotel KarawangIn the midst of Karawang’s industrious landscape, unleash your creativity by colouring your own cardboard Wayang puppet, bringing the legendary characters of Indonesian puppet to life in vibrant hues. Then, settle in for an enchanting Wayang performance and wander artisan stalls showcasing local handcrafted treasures. Feeling competitive? Put your eye–teeth coordination to the test in our Chocolate Papaya Coin Hunt, where every coin stuck is a sweet surprise.DAY 1TIMEGAMESCATEGORYVENUESaturday16 August 20259AM - 9.30AMCracker Eating ChallengeMakan KerupukKidsEmerald GardenSaturday16 August 20259.30AM - 10AMPencil-in-the-Bottle GameMemasukkan Pensil ke BotolKidsEmerald GardenSaturday16 August 202510AM - 10.30AMTug of WarTarik TambangAdultEmerald GardenSaturday16 August 202510.30AM - 11AMWooden Clog RelayLomba BakiakAdultEmerald GardenDAY 2TIMEGAMESCATEGORYVENUESunday17 August 20259AM - 9.30AMCoin Hunt in Chocolate PapayaMengumpulkan Koin dari Pepaya CokelatKidsEmerald GardenSunday17 August 20259.30AM - 10AMMarble-on-Spoon RaceBalap KelerengKidsEmerald GardenSunday17 August 202510AM - 10.30AMSack RaceBalap KarungAdultEmerald GardenSunday17 August 202510.30AM - 11AMEggplant Push RelayLomba Sodok TerungAdultEmerald GardenThe event is exclusive for in-house guests only. Contact each property's guest service centre throughout your stay, available from 16 - 17 August 2025.

March 3, 2025 in Art & Culture

Indonesia is a country that embraces diversity, home to countless cultures across its 17,000+ islands and multiple faiths. True to the nation’s motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika which means "Unity in Diversity", Indonesia not only respects but celebrates these differences.While Bali, a world-renowned holiday destination, is predominantly Hindu and known for its vibrant ceremonies, other parts of Indonesia observe the holy month of Ramadan. During this time, Muslims fast for an entire month leading up to Eid al-Fitr, one of their most significant celebrations. Ramadan holds a special place not just for Muslims but for the entire nation, as it brings communities together in a shared spirit of respect, togetherness, and generosity.The essence of RamadanThroughout the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Muslims observe fasting and self-reflection. From dawn until sunset, they refrain from eating, drinking, and other indulgences to focus on spiritual growth and community bonding.During this month, especially in major cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and Semarang for example, the atmosphere shifts. Streets come alive with food stalls as people prepare for iftar (the evening meal to break the fast). Restaurants and hotels offer special Ramadan menus, and families gather to share meals. Even those who do not fast often join in, whether by participating in bukber (breaking fast together).Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, often begins with dates and waterThe spirit of togethernessOne of the most heartwarming aspects of Ramadan in Indonesia is the mutual respect across different religions and communities. Offices and schools adjust their schedules to accommodate fasting employees and students. Even in predominantly non-Muslim regions, the spirit of Ramadan is felt. Charitable activities, such as distributing free meals to those in need, are carried out by people of all backgrounds. Many people join these initiatives, seeing it as an opportunity to contribute to a month that embodies generosity and kindness.The joy of Eid al-FitrAs Ramadan draws to a close, anticipation builds for Eid al-Fitr, or Lebaran, as it is known in Indonesia. The night before the big day, communities come alive with Malam Takbiran parades, filling the streets with prayers and celebrations. In Semarang, the festivities take a unique turn with Dugderan, a vibrant festival featuring a lion-like creature called Warag Ngendhog, which is paraded through the city. You can even find artwork inspired by this tradition at Padma Hotel Semarang.An artwork by Angki Purbandono at Padma Hotel Semarang, inspired by Dugderan festivalLebaran also marks one of the largest annual migrations, as millions of people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with family. It’s the one time of year when even the busiest cities, like Jakarta, fall unusually quiet.Ramadan is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends to break the fast togetherThe classic dishes Open houses are a common tradition during Eid, where families and friends gather to enjoy classic homemade dishes. The feast typically includes ketupat (rice cakes in woven palm leaves), opor ayam (coconut chicken curry), and rendang (slow-cooked beef curry).No Eid is complete without the much-anticipated festive cookies, such as nastar (pineapple tarts), kaastengels (cheese biscuits), and putri salju (powdered sugar-coated shortbread). Once known as the treats lovingly made by grandmothers, these cookies are now a staple in Ramadan and Eid hampers, available in a variety of modern variations.The classic Indonesian cookies often found during Eid open housesRamadan in Indonesia is not just about religious devotion; it is about unity, kindness, and shared experiences. It is a time when the entire nation slows down to appreciate togetherness, and when small gestures of respect and generosity strengthen the bonds between people of different faiths. Whether you fast or not, the magic of Ramadan is something that everyone can feel - and that is what makes it so special.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkLipMYiA9g

October 31, 2024 in Art & Culture

October is synonymous with spookiness, as Halloween celebrations grow in popularity each year. While our traditions may not include jack-o'-lanterns, vampires, or tales of zombies, we do have folklores that serve as the backdrop for various places across our diverse country. In the spirit of Halloween, here are some of the most popular myths and legends that continue to captivate people's beliefs to this day.Happy Halloween!Tangkuban Perahu: A Volcano Born from a HeartbreakLocated in West Java, approximately 30 km from the capital city of Bandung, Tangkuban Perahu is a volcano famous for its shape, which resembles an overturned boat. Legend has it that there was once a princess named Dayang Sumbi. One day, she dropped her weaving tool and promised to marry anyone who could retrieve it. A young man named Sangkuriang found it, and they fell in love. Sangkuriang wanted to build a boat to take Dayang Sumbi away. However, she later discovered that Sangkuriang was her long-lost son. Refusing to marry him, she tricked him into not finishing the boat. In his anger, Sangkuriang kicked the incomplete boat, which then transformed into a mountain called Tangkuban Perahu, which literally translates to “overturned boat.”Tangkuban Perahu Mountain, BandungCursed by Disrespect: The Legend of Malin KundangIn Padang, West Sumatra, there is a beach called Air Manis, where you will find a statue of a young man kneeling on the ground with hands raised to his forehead. The legend tells of a poor boy named Malin Kundang who became wealthy after venturing out to sea. Upon returning to his village, he was ashamed of his mother and refused to acknowledge her. Heartbroken, his mother cursed him, and he was then turned to stone. While the truth of the story remains uncertain, the statue has become a popular tourist attraction and a powerful symbol of the consequences of disrespecting one’s parents.Malin Kundang Statue, PadangBenearth the Waves: Nyi Roro KidulTranslated as the Queen of the Southern Sea, Nyi Roro Kidul is believed to inhabit the Indian Ocean, particularly the southern waters of Java, Indonesia. According to legend, she resides in a magnificent underwater palace, where she governs the sea and its creatures. The colour green is sacred to her, and the Javanese people believe that wearing green near the Southern Sea is taboo, as it may attract her attention and bring bad luck. Although we cannot say for certain, visitors tend to obey this rule and avoid wearing green during their visits. This tradition reflects the deep respect for local beliefs and the spiritual significance attributed to the Queen of the Southern Sea.The Southern Sea of JavaThe Tale of Love and Betrayal: Roro JonggrangWhile Borobudur is the main wonder in Java, the Prambanan Temple is also an intriguing attraction, rich with its own story. A princess named Roro Jonggrang from the kingdom of Prambanan rejected a marriage proposal from the prince who defeated her father, Joko Songo. She challenged Joko Songo to build a thousand temples in one night, hoping he would fail. However, with magical help, Joko Songo nearly completed the task. In a desperate attempt to trick him, Roro Jonggrang made the roosters crow. In his anger at being deceived, Joko Songo turned her into a statue, which is said to be part of the Prambanan Temple today. Prambanan Temple, YogyakartaHaving explored these captivating tales, are you inspired to venture into the lesser-known corners of Indonesia and uncover its rich history? Each region holds its own unique stories, waiting to be discovered. So why not embark on an adventure and immerse yourself in the fascinating narratives that shape this beautiful archipelago? 

October 21, 2024 in Art & Culture

Padma Resort Legian, the premier property of Padma Hotels, has been a cherished second home for many returning guests since the 1990s. Beyond its welcoming atmosphere, with homey rooms, beautifully maintained gardens, and the warmth of genuine Indonesian hospitality that makes guests feel like part of the Padma family, the resort is adorned with an artistic touch. From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted by carefully curated artworks that enhance the resort’s charm. If you have visited Padma Resort Legian multiple times, you have likely noticed some of the statues featured in this article. But how many of you know the fascinating stories behind them? Let’s dive in and discover more.Dewa Dewi (Rama and Shinta)Translating to "God and Goddess," this statue represents a pair that greets you upon entering the lobby. This statue portrays Rama and Shinta from The Ramayana epic. After being exiled from Ayodhya due to his stepmother's manipulations, Rama, accompanied by Shinta and his brother Lakshmana, faces various challenges in the forest, including the demoness Surpanakha. When Shinta is abducted by the demon king Ravana, Rama teams up with the monkey king Sugriva and his ally Hanuman to rescue her. After defeating Ravana and reclaiming Shinta, Rama returns to Ayodhya, is crowned king, but later banishes her due to accusations of infidelity. Ultimately, he reunites with Shinta and accepts their twin sons, Lava and Kusha, before ascending to heaven.Happy WavesStepping into the lobby, you will see the Happy Waves statue in the middle, created by Balinese artist I Nyoman Nuarta, renowned for his modern art and the iconic Garuda Wisnu Kencana in Uluwatu. He is also the proud owner of NuArt Sculpture Park, an art complex in Bandung, West Java.Crafted from brass and copper in 2002, this art symbolises life's constant evolution, reflecting the changes experienced by individuals and societies in harmony with nature's laws. It serves as a reminder to embrace happiness amid life's transformations, encouraging us to welcome experiences with open arms to achieve true joy. Additionally, the sculpture provides a warm greeting to guests at Padma Resort Legian.Kecak Dance The Kecak dance originated in the 1930s in Bali, created by a German artist Walter Spies and Balinese dancer Wayan Limbak. Initially performed as part of the Ramayana story, the dance draws inspiration from the Sanghyang Trance dance, where dancers enter a trance-like state while chanting. The performance features up to 100 men seated in a circle, chanting “cak” to provide a rhythmic musical backdrop.Over the years, Kecak has evolved with unique interpretations, but its core structure remains unchanged. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Balinese culture, often performed at temples and cultural events.Barong DanceThis iconic statue at the Lagoon Pool tells a story of Barong Dance - a battle between Barong and Rangda. Barong is a lion-like character representing the good, while Rangda is a demon queen embodying evil. The dance features intricate choreography and acrobatics, accompanied by traditional Balinese music. Believed to have originated in the 9th century, the Barong dance is closely linked to Hinduism. Today, the dance can be seen across the island as a tourist attraction and remains integral to religious and cultural ceremonies, symbolising the essence of Balinese culture and one of Indonesia’s most iconic dances.These are just four of the many artistic wonders to discover at Padma Resort Legian. Which piece of art would you like us to feature next? Share your thoughts in the comments section, and stay tuned to Padma Journals as we explore other Padma Hotels destinations and unveil their artistic treasures.