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If there is a single defining characteristic of Indonesia it is its diversity. Indeed the national motto is 'unity in diversity' which is really something of a necessity when a nation is comprised of many 1000s of islands, playing host to 180 million people. The population of Indonesia is comprised of over 300 different ethnic groups, speaking some 200 different languages and yet all this diversity of language, culture and traditions seems to blend effortlessly to present a country with an enormous appeal for visitors. The luxury hotels Indonesia has reflect that diversity too but all may be defined by their world class hotel standing.
It may go without saying that the environments of Indonesia are similarly diverse. The capital city, Jakarta is one of the most populous cities in the world and brings all the different cultural aspects of the nation together. Traditional Indonesian architecture, art, commerce, and lifestyles combine with all the contemporary features found in any major world city; the skyscrapers, modern business districts, and shopping outlets. A great many luxury hotels Indonesia possesses are located within Jakarta.
Away from the big cities, Indonesia has a wealth of important and beautiful natural environments. The islands are grouped into a series of distinct areas. Java is home to the capital city and also many of the most important cultural aspects of the country, such as ancient temples and traditional dance and arts. One of the most beautiful natural areas of the country are the islands of Sumatra, with mountains, lakes and stunning volcanoes forming a major part of the appeal for visitors.
Further Indonesian regions include Nusa Tenggara, renowned for its biodiversity, Sulawesi, for the ancient prehistoric sites and natural wonders, and Kalimantan; the largest of the regions and comprised primarily of jungle, tropical rain forest, rivers and swamps. The 'Spice Islands' of Malaku are one of the least populated areas of Indonesia and are located west of Irian Jaya, containing much of Indonesia's rain forests but also snow-capped mountains and wonderful beaches.
When it comes to beaches however, one island of Indonesia takes most of the plaudits and that is Bali. A popular tourist destination since the 1930s, Bali really found its niche for the surfers of the 60s and anyone who loves beach life ever since. The relatively small size of the island and wealth of natural and cultural attractions makes Bali the most popular Indonesian destination by far and when it comes to the luxury hotels Indonesia has, Bali has more than most and has some of the best resort hotels in the world.
Luxury hotels anywhere will have a high minimum standard of guest services and amenities and this is certainly true in Indonesia. Guests staying at luxury hotels will be met with a courteous and attentive service at all times, often from arrival at the airport and transport service to the hotel. Upon arrival at the hotel, guests will find stylish, high quality surrounds and a host of luxury features in the guest rooms such as air conditioning, and state of the art telecommunications and entertainment media. Soft furnishings and bedding will be of the very highest quality and spacious rooms and bathrooms will be equipped with all modern conveniences, stylish finishes and often original art and ethnic touches and flourishes.
Often it is technology which is the key feature for many travellers, especially those guests who have business to conduct within the hotel and surrounding area. Many hotels, particularly those in the major cities such as Jakarta will be business oriented and have a raft of facilities and services for corporate guests. These may include business centres with internet ready workstations, copy, print and fax equipment and courier, secretarial and translation services. Some hotels, particularly the most modern ones will generally also have a selection of meeting and conference spaces.
For others it will be the leisure services and facilities which provide the major appeal of a luxury hotel. Concierge and room services will be on hand to attend to guests' requirements, whether to make full use of the hotel services or to plan events, tours and excursions in the surrounding area. The facilities within the hotel itself will depend on the location and style of the property. Almost always there will be at least one swimming pool and often a fully equipped fitness suite. There will also likely be a spa facility, a feature of Indonesia which has a long cultural history.
Luxury resort hotels are generally found within the beach front locations in areas such as Bali, and these will have an all inclusive aspect of leisure provision. There will certainly be swimming pools and an extensive selection of spa treatments and procedures, and also hotel boutiques, beauty and hair salons. Entertainment options for families will be available and often children's clubs which host a selection of family and child centres activities. Sporting options may include tennis, squash and golf and hotels situated on the beach will additionally have a range of water sports and beach activities on offer. There will certainly be some excellent opportunities and environments for dining.
Increasingly, the luxury hotels Indonesia has are ecologically sensitive to the natural environments in which they are situated. Often structured in such a way to incorporate Indonesian architectural styles and incorporating tropical gardens and cultural aspects of Indonesian life and art, these hotels offer luxury accommodation and are situated for convenient access to some of the natural wonders of the island.
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