The Tao of a Vicarious Journey

Indonesia – Tugu

Tugu. A truly unique, magical and inspirational place. A place where time has stopped. Imagine the story of a wise and cultivated man with a passion for art and antiques that trace back to incredible times in Indonesia, China and the rest of Asia. Picture him searching for unique pieces in picturesque and off-the-beaten track locations where he and his family relentlessly look for unique pieces of antique art – these can be massive rests of temples for sacrifices of Java island, gigantic Garudas carrying Vishnus from Sumatra, incredible beautiful and delicate Burmese enlightened Buddhas, Bhutanese chests or an entire Chinese dinning room where up to 30 people will serve you a regal dinner even if it’s just for you as tradition explains.
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Now, imagine that this wise man’s collection grows so big that he decides to allocate part of it in unique living boutique hotel museums he himself designs to allow his guests to live with his pieces of art and experience how life must have been back then.
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Then, put this amazing setting in a spectacular landscape by the sea side, in a peaceful environment, with azure waters in front of a coral reef, inundated by coconut trees and a lust foliage. Finally, imagine a warm, hospitable, elegant personnel that strives to deliver to you an awe-inspiring experience.
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This is what Tugu is all about. A truly unique and distinctive mindset like nothing you may have experienced before. A place to remember and to come back, over and over again, no matter how far away may seem.
Tugu-Lombok-setting-spaTugu, in Indonesian language, means ‘monument’. Tugu is born out of one man’s love and passion for Indonesia’s romantic history. Tugu’s designed these beautiful boutique museum hotels to house his antiques and to share with the world the romantic stories and legends of ancient kingdoms of Indonesia. The Tugu mission is to bring back to life the art, soul and romance of Indonesia’s yesteryears. This fully Indonesian experience is achieved not only through the artful design and themed décor, but also from the various cultural experiences that can only be experienced at Tugu. From lavish feasts and banquets of kings from the 14th century Majapahit Kingdom with parades of soldiers, dancers, and offerings, to humble village dinners of Java and Bali with old ladies cooking in terracotta pots, wood-fire, and eating with bare hands.
 IMG_6916We felt incredibly connected to the Tugu family and they will live in our memories for years to come. Just go – do not read it and image it. Just pack your things and let yourself go.
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Pablo Picasso

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
Pablo Picasso

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