Lonely Planet Founder Tony Wheeler Lists Bali Among Destinations He Prefers to Avoid

tony wheeler lonely planet bali

The founder of the renowned travel guide Lonely Planet, Tony Wheeler, has shared a list of destinations he would prefer not to revisit, and Bali is among them. In a personal blog post entitled “I’m Not Going There Anymore”, published on Thursday, 24 April 2025, the 78-year-old travel writer explained his reasons for avoiding certain […]

Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers, Indonesian Team Trains in Bali

Indonesian Team Trains in Bali

The Indonesian national football team has arrived in Bali to begin its training camp in preparation for the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Training is taking place at the Bali United Training Center, Purnama Beach, Gianyar, from Monday, 26 May to Saturday, 31 May 2025. The training sessions are being led by […]

Bank Indonesia to Implement QRIS Payments in Japan Starting 17 August

QRIS Payments in japan

Bank Indonesia (BI) has announced that the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS Payments) will officially operate in Japan beginning 17 August 2025, aligning with the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence. Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia, Filianingsih Hendarta, confirmed that QRIS trials in Japan had been underway since 15 May 2025. The results have been […]

The Smashing Pumpkins Announce Jakarta Date for 2025 World Tour

Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins have officially confirmed Jakarta as part of their “Rock Invasion 2025” world tour. The legendary alternative rock band from the United States will take the stage in the Indonesian capital on 3 October 2025, marking their return after 15 years. The announcement was made via the band’s official Instagram account (@smashingpumpkins) on […]

Osteria GIA Surabaya Debuts Limited-Time Chef’s Menu Inspired by Childhood Memories

Social-Expat-osteria-gia-surabaya-debuts-limited-time-chefs-menu-inspired-by-childhood-memories

Surabaya, 21 May 2025 – Following its successful expansion from Jakarta to Surabaya, Osteria GIA, a lifestyle restaurant celebrated for its modern Italian atmosphere and authentic flavours introduces its first-ever seasonal menu at its Surabaya location: Chef Tommaso’s Famiglia Recipe. Available from 1 May to 30 June 2025, this limited-time culinary offering invites diners to […]

Museum MACAN Jakarta Presents Kei Imazu’s First Solo Exhibition in Indonesia

Museum MACAN Jakarta

In May 2025, Japanese artist Kei Imazu, based in Bandung, will present her first museum solo exhibition in Museum MACAN Jakarta, blending traditional techniques with digital technology to examine the interplay between history and futuristic visions. Titled The Sea is Barely Wrinkled, a reference to Italo Calvino’s 1983 novel Mr. Palomar, the exhibition uses the […]

Monopoly Bali Edition to Promote Culture and Sustainability

monopoli bali

A special Bali edition of the world-renowned Monopoly board game has been officially launched in Ubud Village, Gianyar Regency. The launch, initiated by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), is part of a wider effort to promote culture-based and sustainable tourism on the Island of the Gods. This initiative introduces players to Bali’s […]

Thai Lion Air Launches Direct Surabaya–Bangkok Route Starting 30 May 2025

thai lion air

Thai Lion Air is set to officially commence a direct flight service connecting Surabaya, Indonesia, and Bangkok, Thailand, starting 30 May 2025. The route will link Juanda International Airport (SUB) with Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), providing a faster and more efficient travel option for business and leisure travellers. Danang Mandala Prihantoro, Corporate Communications Strategic […]

Indonesia Reinstates Biometric Requirement for Visa Extensions

Indonesia Reinstates Biometric Requirement for Stay Permits Amid Immigration Amendments

Jakarta, 21 May 2025 — In response to the growing influx of foreigners entering Indonesia, the Directorate General of Immigration has announced a key regulatory amendment that reinstates biometric photo procedures as a mandatory requirement for visa extension services, effective from Wednesday, 21 May 2025. The South Jakarta Immigration Office will be the first to […]