Jakarta’s most exclusive hotel offers a welcome fit for a king
OPENED TO HOST THE ANNUAL OPEC CONFERENCE IN 1997, THE DHARMAWANGSA HAS, IN JUST FIVE YEARS, CARVED OUT A REPUTATION FOR ELEGANCE AND QUALITY OF SERVICE AT THE CENTER OF INDONESIA'S CAPITAL

LUIS FERNANDES Managing Director of the Dharmawangsa Hotel

Indonesia’s tourism industry generated $13 billion in 2000 from foreign and domestic visitors combined. The sector is one of the key contributors to Indonesia’s foreign exchange coffers after oil and gas. The global downturn in the tourism industry last year, however, reduced Indonesia’s 2001 foreign exchange target to $5.3 billion and even this was not expected to be met. Predictions of a longer decline in travel-related industries have forced Indonesia to focus its 2002 tourism promotion efforts on regional markets in Australia and Asia. Mr. Luis Fernandes, managing director of The Dharmawangsa hotel in Jakarta, believes that Indonesia has suffered from some bad press recently that does not truly reflect the country’s internal situation. He states, “In the last few years, Indonesia has been unfairly battered by many negative press reports. I have been here for over four years and the fact is that it is very different when seen from within. The Indonesians are a warm and friendly people and Indonesia is an intriguing country with a great diversity of culture, scenery and resources. Also, from an industry point of view, I believe that Indonesia offers immense opportunities.”

DHARMAWANGSA HOTEL is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Jakarta.

The Dharmawangsa, named after an 11th century Hindu king, is one of the prestigious Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and is Jakarta’s most exclusive and elegant hotel. Instead of the large international-style dwellings that dominate Asia’s gateways, the Dharmawangsa is a unique 100-room boutique hotel that celebrates Indonesia’s shapes, colors, forms and history in each design and architectural element. True to the Rosewood philosophy of creating hotels that reflect the essence of their location, The Dharmawangsa draws upon influences from Indonesian art, history and culture; each wing is created with the design and color palette of a different region in the country. Indonesian influence is not only to be seen in the architecture, however, as The Dharmawangsa also seeks to maintain a balance of traditional Indonesian ways while accommodating those of the international traveler. For example, there is no front desk. Instead, to preserve the traditional Indonesian style of receiving guests, a simple reception space has been carved out. Not to worry, the hotel’s 24-hour butler service will immediately show you to your room (where you can register in private), unpack your cases and press your suits–all complimentary services. “Everything we do is delivered with a highly personalized approach. The minute you arrive, we already know who you are and you’ll be escorted directly to your room. Your personalized butler checks you in and immediately anticipates all your needs. We also have female butlers to cater to female executives who may feel more comfortable with a woman unpacking their personal items.”

The hotel, which was opened to host the annual OPEC conference in 1997, offers spacious rooms, each with its own private terrace, huge marble bathroom, three telephone lines, and data-post access. There are four restaurants, a traditional Indonesian spa, and a social club that enjoys the patronage of Jakarta’s elite.
Mr. Fernandes says that Jakarta itself is an up-and-coming city, promising much for the potential investor. “Jakarta has great potential as a tourist destination. As the capital city, it is the main point of entry and a central hub connecting all the major destinations throughout the country. As well, there are many things to do in and around the city. There are heritage tours, galleries, museums–the city has a long history. There are also numerous attractions nearby including the Krakatau volcano, the Thousand Islands, the Ujung Kulong National Reserve, tea plantations in the hills of Bogor, numerous pristine beaches. The list goes on and on.”